Milwaukee Heated Hoodie

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time outdoors during the colder months, I was quite intrigued by the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie, model 2380. With its promise of warmth without the bulk, it seemed like the perfect solution for those chilly days when a full coat feels too restrictive. After putting it through its paces, I have some thoughts to share.

Design and Comfort

The Milwaukee Heated Hoodie is crafted with a durable cotton/polyester blend exterior and a waffle weave thermal lining. The material feels sturdy yet soft to the touch, providing a comfortable fit. The hoodie is available in a range of colors, but I opted for the classic black, which pairs well with most outfits and workwear.

One of the first things I noticed was the fit. I'm 6 feet tall with an athletic build, and I found that the large size fit me well, though it was a bit snug around the tummy. The sleeves, however, were a perfect length, providing full coverage without riding up. The rib-knit cuffs are a nice touch, keeping the sleeves in place and preventing cold air from sneaking in. The hood itself is designed to fit comfortably under a hard hat, which is a thoughtful feature for those who work in construction or similar fields.

Heating Elements and Performance

The hoodie features carbon fiber heating elements located in the chest and back areas. These elements are powered by an M12™ REDLITHIUM™ rechargeable battery, which fits into a zippered pocket near the left kidney. The hoodie has three heat settings—high, medium, and low—controlled by a button on the left chest. The button lights up in red to indicate the heat level, which is a convenient way to check the setting at a glance.

I found the heating elements to be quite effective, especially in the chest area. The warmth is noticeable within seconds of turning it on, and it provides a comforting heat that makes a significant difference in cold weather. The back heating element is less noticeable when standing but becomes more effective when sitting or leaning against something. This makes it ideal for activities like ice fishing or watching outdoor sports.

However, the battery life is something to consider. On the highest setting, the battery lasts around 2.5 hours, which is sufficient for short outdoor activities but may require a backup battery for longer durations. On the lowest setting, it can last up to 6 hours, making it more suitable for extended use.

Practicality and Usability

One of the standout features of this hoodie is its machine-washable design. You can simply remove the battery and wash it like any other garment, which adds to its practicality. However, I would recommend air-drying it to prolong the life of the heating elements.

The hoodie comes with two large outer pockets and an integrated device pocket on the right side, which is perfect for holding a phone or other small items. The battery pocket is well-placed and doesn't interfere with movement, although it can be a bit bulky when sitting in a chair with a backrest.

Durability and Quality

Milwaukee is known for its durable tools, and this hoodie is no exception. The stitching and overall construction feel robust, capable of withstanding regular wear and tear. However, there are some areas where the quality could be improved. The zipper, for instance, feels less sturdy than I would expect from a Milwaukee product and sometimes requires extra effort to zip up or down.

Fit and Sizing

One aspect where the hoodie falls short is in its sizing. Many users, myself included, have found that the sizes run smaller than expected. If you plan to wear additional layers underneath, I would recommend going a size up. This snug fit can be especially problematic for those with broader shoulders or longer arms, as the sleeves and torso length might not provide adequate coverage.

Overall Impression

The Milwaukee Heated Hoodie offers a blend of comfort, warmth, and practicality that makes it a valuable addition to any cold-weather wardrobe. Its heating elements are effective, and the construction is generally robust. The ability to machine wash the hoodie is a significant plus, and the thoughtful design features like the rib-knit cuffs and hard hat-compatible hood add to its appeal.

That said, there are areas where improvements could be made. The fit and sizing issues are a notable drawback, and the battery life on the highest setting may require you to carry an extra battery for extended use. Additionally, the quality of the zipper could be better, and the heating elements in the back could be more effective when standing.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie? Yes, but with some reservations. If you're someone who spends a lot of time outdoors in the cold and values mobility and comfort, this hoodie is a solid choice. However, be mindful of the sizing and consider going a size up if you plan to layer underneath. Also, be prepared to invest in an extra battery if you need extended heating periods.

Overall, the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie delivers on its promise of providing warmth without bulk, making it a valuable tool for anyone facing the cold weather head-on.