Milwaukee M12 Heated Jacket (Jacket Only)

The Milwaukee M12 Heated Jacket offers a compelling solution for those who need to stay warm in cold environments without resorting to bulky layers. At first glance, it promises excellent wind and water resistance coupled with carbon fiber heating elements, all wrapped in a stylish, softshell construction. Having put this jacket through its paces, I can share my comprehensive experience with it, highlighting both its strengths and shortcomings.

Design and Material Quality

The first thing that stood out to me was the jacket's overall build quality. The outer material is a blend of polyester and spandex, which gives it a durable yet flexible feel. The fabric is both windproof and water-resistant, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The inner material, a thermal knit fleece, provides decent insulation even when the heating elements are turned off. The jacket feels solid, and the zippers, although plastic, are robust and perform well under regular use.

A significant design feature is the adjustable heat settings, which offer three levels: High, Medium, and Low. These settings can be toggled through a controller integrated into the jacket, powered by Milwaukee's M12 battery system. The jacket also features a USB port for charging devices, adding some extra utility that can be quite handy.

Heating Performance

The heating elements are strategically placed in the core zone (right chest, left chest, back) and pocket zone (lower pockets). Initially, the warmth provided by these elements is noticeable but not overwhelming. On high, the jacket gets warm fairly quickly, but it's not the kind of heat you'd expect from an electric blanket. It’s more subtle, designed to take the edge off the cold rather than toasting you up.

One downside I noticed is the battery life. With the M12 REDLITHIUM 2.0 Compact Battery, the jacket lasts about 3.25 hours on high, 4.5 hours on medium, and up to 8 hours on low. If you plan to be outside for extended periods, you'll need spare batteries. The battery pocket, located at the back, is somewhat inconvenient. If the pocket is unzipped, the battery can easily fall out during activities that involve bending or movement, which is a design flaw that needs addressing.

Fit and Comfort

Fit is another critical aspect, and the M12 Heated Jacket has some quirks here. The sleeves are notably long, which might be an issue for some users. While the torso has a generous fit, accommodating multiple layers underneath, the arms feel like they belong to a larger size. I found myself constantly adjusting the Velcro cuffs to keep the sleeves from covering my hands.

The overall fit also tends to be on the larger side, likely to accommodate layering. However, this means that if you prefer a snug fit, you might need to size down. This can be a bit of a gamble, especially when ordering online, as sizing inconsistencies can be frustrating.

Practicality and Features

One of the standout practical features is the USB port for charging devices. This is a useful addition for those who need to keep their phones or other gadgets charged while on the go. The jacket also includes multiple pockets, both inside and outside, which are convenient for storing personal items.

The washing and drying aspect is a pleasant surprise; the jacket is both washer and dryer safe. This is a significant advantage as it allows for easy maintenance without compromising the heating elements or the battery connection.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the jacket is not without its faults. The placement of the heating elements could be more effective. The heat zones in the chest and back are noticeable, but the pockets' heating elements are less so. For someone who spends a lot of time with their hands in their pockets, this could be a letdown. Additionally, the jacket could benefit from more heating zones, especially in the lower back and shoulders, to provide a more comprehensive warming experience.

Another issue is the battery storage. The current design allows the battery to move around too freely, which can be annoying and impractical. A more secure battery pocket or a different placement could solve this problem.

Durability and Warranty

Milwaukee offers a one-year warranty on this jacket, which is standard but not particularly generous. Given the price point and the reputation of Milwaukee tools, I expected a more extended warranty period. However, the jacket itself feels durable and well-constructed, so I anticipate it lasting well beyond the warranty period with proper care.

Conclusion and Recommendation

So, would I recommend the Milwaukee M12 Heated Jacket? The answer is a qualified yes. If you're looking for a heated jacket that provides decent warmth, is made from high-quality materials, and offers useful features like a USB charging port, this jacket is a solid choice. However, be prepared for some fit issues, potential battery inconveniences, and slightly less effective heating zones.

For those who work outdoors or spend a lot of time in cold environments and need a reliable, weather-resistant jacket, the Milwaukee M12 Heated Jacket can be a valuable addition to your winter gear. Just make sure to have extra batteries on hand and consider the fit carefully before purchasing. If Milwaukee can address some of the design flaws in future iterations, this jacket could go from good to truly great.