Milwaukee M12 Heated Vest (Vest Only)

As someone who spends a significant amount of time working outdoors, I am always on the lookout for gear that can help me stay warm and comfortable, especially during the colder months. That's why I was particularly excited to try out the M12 Heated Vest from Milwaukee. Known for their high-quality tools, Milwaukee has ventured into heated clothing, promising to deliver the same level of performance and durability. Here’s my in-depth experience with this heated vest.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the M12 Heated Vest makes a solid one. The vest is constructed from 900 Denier Ripstop Polyester, making it both tough and durable. This material ensures that the vest can withstand the rigors of daily use, whether you're on a construction site or simply taking a brisk walk in the park. The vest also features a thermal fleece lining, which adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort.

One of the standout features is its wind and water resistance. I tested the vest on a particularly windy day, and it did a commendable job of keeping the chill at bay. The water resistance also came in handy during a light drizzle, although I wouldn't rely on it in a heavy downpour.

The vest includes two outer pockets that are riveted and reinforced, adding to its overall durability. However, I did find the pockets to be a bit of a mixed bag. While they are sturdy, they are secured with buttons rather than zippers. This design choice makes me a bit wary about storing valuable items like my phone or wallet, especially in wet conditions.

Heating Performance

The M12 Heated Vest is equipped with carbon fiber heating elements strategically placed in the chest and back areas. The vest offers three heat settings—High, Medium, and Low—allowing you to adjust the warmth to your preference. I found the vest to heat up quickly, particularly on the High setting. This is a significant advantage when you need immediate warmth.

However, the heating performance isn't without its quirks. On the High setting, the vest provides about 2.5 hours of warmth with a fully charged M12 REDLITHIUM Compact Battery. On Medium, you get around 3.5 hours, and on Low, it stretches to about 6 hours. While these runtimes are decent, they may not be sufficient for those who spend extended periods outdoors. Carrying additional batteries is a practical solution but adds to the overall cost and bulk.

One area where the vest falls short is in the heating intensity. While it does provide a noticeable amount of warmth, it doesn't quite match the heat output of some other heated clothing I've tried. This is particularly evident on the Low setting, where the warmth is rather subtle. For those who need significant heat, especially in extremely cold conditions, this vest might not be the ultimate solution.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is a critical factor when it comes to clothing, and the M12 Heated Vest scores well in this department. The thermal fleece lining is soft and comfortable against the skin. The vest is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to wear over extended periods.

However, the fit can be a bit tricky. I initially ordered my usual size, but found it to be somewhat oversized. After exchanging it for a size smaller, the fit was much better. If you're between sizes, I would recommend opting for the smaller size for a snug fit, which is essential for maximizing the heating efficiency.

Another point worth mentioning is the length of the vest. It’s slightly longer than traditional vests, which can be a bit cumbersome when sitting down. This extra length might be beneficial for taller individuals, but for those on the shorter side, it could be a minor inconvenience.

Battery and Power Source

The vest comes with an M12 Battery Holder, which is compatible with Milwaukee's M12 battery system. While the battery holder is functional, it lacks some of the features found in newer Milwaukee adapters, such as a USB port for charging other devices or a battery life indicator. This omission is a bit disappointing, especially considering that these features are standard in Milwaukee's heated jackets.

The battery itself is somewhat bulky, and storing it in the pocket can be a bit uncomfortable. However, the fact that it is compatible with other Milwaukee tools is a significant advantage, as it allows you to use the same batteries across multiple devices.

Practical Use

In practical use, the M12 Heated Vest performs admirably in a variety of settings. Whether you're working outdoors, going for a hike, or simply running errands in cold weather, the vest provides a reliable source of warmth. Its stylish design also means it can be worn in casual settings without looking out of place.

However, it’s not without its limitations. The heating performance, while decent, could be more robust. The lack of advanced features in the battery holder is another drawback. Additionally, the fit and length might not be ideal for everyone.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the M12 Heated Vest from Milwaukee is a well-made, durable, and stylish piece of heated clothing. It offers good, but not exceptional, heating performance and is comfortable to wear. The vest is particularly well-suited for those who already own Milwaukee tools and batteries, as it integrates seamlessly with the M12 system.

Would I recommend the M12 Heated Vest? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re looking for a reliable and durable heated vest that can handle moderate cold and you already have Milwaukee batteries, this vest is a solid choice. However, if you need intense heat for extremely cold conditions or if the lack of advanced battery features is a deal-breaker for you, you might want to explore other options. Overall, the M12 Heated Vest is a valuable addition to Milwaukee's lineup of heated gear, offering a good balance of warmth, durability, and style.