Milwaukee Heated Ripstop Vest Kit

Winter can be a challenging season, especially for those of us who spend extended periods outdoors. Whether it's for work, hunting, or just enjoying the great outdoors, staying warm is crucial. The Milwaukee Heated Ripstop Vest (Model 2173) piqued my interest as a potential solution for cold-weather comfort, and I decided to put it to the test.

First Impressions

Out of the box, the vest immediately impressed me with its build quality. Milwaukee is known for its durable tools, and this vest is no exception. The outer material is made from 900 Denier Polyester Ripstop, reinforced with 600 Denier Polyester in high-wear zones. This gives it a rugged feel without compromising on flexibility. The vest is insulated, wind and water-resistant, which is a huge plus for anyone who faces unpredictable weather conditions.

Comfort and Fit

The vest fits comfortably over a T-shirt and under a jacket, making it versatile for different layers of clothing. I'm 6'3" and often struggle to find vests that fit well, but this one offered a good fit without being too tight or too loose. The vest has two outer pockets, which are handy for storing small items, although I did wish for heated pockets for those extra cold days.

Heating Performance

The heating elements are powered by a 12V Lithium-Ion battery, and the vest offers three heat settings: high, medium, and low. The battery life varies depending on the setting, with a runtime of about 6 hours on low, 3.5 hours on medium, and 2.5 hours on high using the standard M12™ REDLITHIUM Compact Battery. I found that upgrading to a 4.0 AH battery nearly doubled the battery life, which is especially useful for longer outings.

The vest heats up quickly, and the heat is evenly distributed across the core body areas. On the highest setting, it can get quite warm, which is ideal for extremely cold conditions. However, it's essential to layer it correctly. Wearing it directly against the skin can make you sweat, which is counterproductive in cold weather. I found the best results when wearing a base layer, the vest, and then a medium-weight jacket on top.

Practical Use

I've used this vest in various settings, from walking my dog late at night to working on outdoor projects and even hunting. In all scenarios, the vest delivered consistent warmth, making cold-weather activities much more bearable. One of the standout features for me is how it maintains a steady heat output right up until the battery is depleted. This is crucial for long hours in the cold, as the last thing you want is fluctuating heat levels.

Design Considerations

While the vest scores high on performance, there are a few design aspects that could use improvement. The battery is stored in a pocket located in the small of the back. This can be uncomfortable, especially if you're wearing a backpack or leaning against something. The battery pack is "L" shaped, which makes it more cumbersome than a cylindrical design would. Milwaukee could easily rectify this by redesigning the battery to be more ergonomic.

Another minor gripe is the lack of additional features like heated pockets or a cell phone charger, which are available in the heated jacket versions. While not a deal-breaker, these features would add extra convenience and justify the investment further.

Durability

Durability is where this vest truly shines. I've worn it during outdoor projects that involved a lot of physical activity, and it held up remarkably well. The Ripstop fabric lives up to its name, resisting tears and abrasions even in rough conditions. The vest also retains its shape and functionality after multiple washes, which is a testament to its build quality.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is always a concern with heated clothing, but this vest manages to balance performance and longevity quite well. The standard battery provides a reasonable amount of warmth for several hours, but for extended use, carrying extra batteries or opting for higher capacity ones is advisable. Charging the battery is straightforward and quick, taking less than two hours to reach full capacity whether you're at home or on the go with a vehicle charger.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee Heated Ripstop Vest is a robust and effective piece of gear for anyone who needs to stay warm in cold conditions. Its durable construction, efficient heating elements, and reasonable battery life make it a valuable addition to any cold-weather wardrobe. The few drawbacks, such as the battery placement and the lack of heated pockets, are minor compared to the overall benefits.

Would I recommend this vest? Absolutely. It offers a reliable solution to staying warm without the bulk of multiple layers. Whether you're working outdoors, hunting, or just braving the winter chill, this vest will keep you comfortable and focused on the task at hand. It's an investment in comfort and durability that pays off, especially for those who can't afford to be slowed down by the cold.