Milwaukee M12 Heated Ripstop Vest

Experiencing cold weather can be quite a challenge, especially when you need to stay outside for extended periods. As someone who spends a fair amount of time outdoors, I've always been on the lookout for gear that can keep me warm without restricting my movement. This quest led me to the Milwaukee M12 Heated Ripstop Vest, model 2172. My initial skepticism about a heated vest quickly turned into admiration as I put this vest through its paces in various conditions.

The M12 Heated Vest is built with a durable Ripstop fabric and features carbon fiber heating elements strategically placed across the core zones—right chest, left chest, and back. The vest is wind and water-resistant, making it suitable for various outdoor activities, from construction work to hunting and hiking. The outer material is a combination of 900 Denier Polyester Ripstop and 600 Denier Polyester, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Inside, the vest is lined with thermal knit fleece, providing an additional layer of warmth and comfort.

One of the standout features of this vest is its adjustable heat settings. With three levels—high, medium, and low—you can tailor the warmth to your needs. I found that the high setting is perfect for those frigid mornings when the temperature dips below freezing. The medium and low settings are great for maintaining a comfortable warmth throughout the day. The vest is powered by Milwaukee's M12 REDLITHIUM battery system, which is conveniently placed in a pocket at the small of your back. While the battery placement is functional, I did find it a bit uncomfortable when leaning back or wearing a backpack. However, this minor inconvenience is easily outweighed by the vest's overall performance.

In terms of battery life, the vest performs admirably. Using the standard 2.0 Ah battery, you can expect around 2.5 hours of heat on the high setting, 3.5 hours on medium, and up to 6 hours on low. For extended use, I opted for the 4.0 Ah battery, which nearly doubles the runtime, making it ideal for long days outdoors. The battery charges relatively quickly, taking less than two hours to reach full capacity, whether using a standard 120V outlet or a 12V vehicle charger.

The vest's design is both functional and stylish. It fits well over a T-shirt and under a jacket, allowing for easy layering. I particularly appreciated the high-wear zone reinforcement, which adds durability to areas that typically experience the most stress. The vest also features two outer pockets, which are useful for storing small items like gloves or a phone. However, it does not include heated pockets or a cell phone charger, which are features available in some of Milwaukee's heated jackets. While these omissions aren't deal-breakers, they are worth noting if you're considering the vest for specific needs.

One of the most significant benefits of the M12 Heated Vest is its versatility. Whether you're working on a construction site, hunting, hiking, or simply walking your dog on a cold winter night, the vest provides consistent warmth without the bulk of a heavy coat. I found it particularly useful during hunting trips, where it allowed me to stay warm and focused without the need for multiple layers. The vest's heat settings are easy to access, and the control button on the lapel is intuitive to use, even with gloves on.

Despite its many strengths, the vest does have a few areas for improvement. As mentioned earlier, the battery placement can be uncomfortable, especially when sitting or leaning back. Additionally, the vest could benefit from more size options. As someone who is taller, I found the vest's length to be adequate, but others might prefer a longer or shorter fit depending on their body type.

Another consideration is the vest's ability to retain heat when the battery is not in use. While the thermal knit fleece lining does provide some insulation, the vest is most effective when the heating elements are active. If you're planning to spend an entire day outdoors in extremely cold conditions, it's advisable to carry extra batteries or opt for a higher-capacity battery to ensure continuous warmth.

Overall, the Milwaukee M12 Heated Ripstop Vest is an excellent addition to any cold-weather wardrobe. Its combination of durable materials, adjustable heat settings, and versatile design make it a reliable choice for a wide range of outdoor activities. The vest's ability to provide consistent warmth without adding bulk is a significant advantage, allowing for greater mobility and comfort.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Milwaukee M12 Heated Ripstop Vest to anyone looking for a practical and effective solution to staying warm in cold weather. Its durable construction, adjustable heat settings, and compatibility with Milwaukee's M12 battery system make it a valuable investment for both outdoor enthusiasts and professionals. While there are a few minor areas for improvement, the vest's overall performance and versatility far outweigh these concerns. Whether you're braving the elements on a job site or enjoying a winter hike, the M12 Heated Vest is sure to keep you warm and comfortable.