DeWalt Heated Quilted Soft Shell Jacket

The DeWalt Heated Quilted Soft Shell Jacket (model DCHJ075B-S) is a game-changer for anyone who spends long hours in cold environments. As someone who often finds themselves working outdoors, I was keen to see if this jacket could live up to its promises of warmth, comfort, and durability. After putting it through its paces, I have to say, it largely delivers on its claims.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this jacket is its sturdy construction. The channel-quilted polyester outer shell feels robust and well-made, offering a good balance between flexibility and protection. The polyfil insulation and polyester fleece liner work together to retain warmth effectively. One of the standout features is its wind and water resistance, which makes it suitable for various weather conditions. I wore it during a light drizzle, and it held up well, keeping me dry and comfortable.

The jacket also features reflective-trimmed zippers and piping, which are not only functional but add a touch of style. The zippers are smooth and easy to operate, although I did notice that they can be a bit finicky if you’re wearing thick gloves. The jacket includes five multifunction pockets, which are incredibly useful for storing small tools, a phone, or even snacks. However, the absence of a waist drawcord or cinch means that cold air can sneak up your back, which is a minor but noticeable drawback.

Heating Performance

The heating elements are what sets this jacket apart. It features three heat zones: two on the chest and one on the back. The customizable heat settings—high, medium, and low—are controlled by an LED controller. I found the high setting to be particularly effective on colder days, although it does drain the battery faster. On a 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery, the high setting lasted about 1.5 hours, which is decent but could be better. The medium setting offers a good balance between heat output and battery life.

One minor issue I encountered is the placement of the heating coils. The chest coils are located just below the collarbone and above the chest, which means the heat doesn’t distribute as evenly as I would have liked. Lower placement of these coils would have allowed the heat to rise more effectively. The back coil also sits higher than I expected, just below the scapula, making it less effective when you’re not leaning back.

Battery Placement and Usage

The battery pocket is located off-center at the left kidney area, which is a thoughtful design choice. This placement allows for ease of movement and doesn’t interfere much when you’re sitting or driving. However, the pocket is a bit snug, and fitting a larger 5Ah battery requires some effort. There’s an option to place the battery in the front pocket using an included extension cord, but this setup can be a bit cumbersome.

One of the nifty features is the USB power outlet on the battery adapter, allowing you to charge your phone or other devices. While I haven’t used this feature extensively, it’s a nice touch for those who might need it.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort-wise, the jacket scores high marks. The gusseted underarms provide ease of movement, which is crucial for anyone engaged in physical work. The hidden ribbed storm cuffs are another excellent feature, sealing in warmth effectively. However, the neck area is a bit loose and lacks insulation, so I found myself needing a wool scarf to keep cold air out.

The fit is generally good. I opted for a large size, and it was snug enough to allow for additional layers underneath without feeling restrictive. It’s worth noting that the black outer shell tends to show dirt easily, but it wipes clean with a wet rag, so it’s not a significant issue.

Durability and Maintenance

After several weeks of use, the jacket has held up well. The materials and construction appear to be durable, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe usually does the trick for minor dirt and stains. Given its robust build, I expect this jacket to last through multiple seasons of heavy use.

Overall Impression

In summary, the DeWalt Heated Quilted Soft Shell Jacket is a well-designed, functional piece of gear that offers excellent warmth and comfort for outdoor work. It has a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of a waist drawcord and the placement of the heating coils, but these are outweighed by its many benefits. The battery life on the high setting could be better, but the medium setting offers a good compromise.

Would I recommend this jacket? Absolutely. It’s especially useful for anyone who spends extended periods outdoors in cold conditions, whether you’re working on a construction site, riding a motorcycle, or even just enjoying outdoor activities like hunting. The combination of durability, comfort, and effective heating makes it a worthwhile investment. Just be sure to choose the right size for a snug fit to maximize the heating benefits.