Milwaukee Heated Hoodie

When I first got my hands on Milwaukee's Heated Hoodie, model 306-21, I was genuinely intrigued. The concept of a heated garment sounded like a game-changer for someone like me who spends a lot of time outdoors in chilly weather. It's powered by a 12V lithium-ion battery and features advanced carbon fiber heating elements designed to distribute heat to the chest and back. This hoodie promises up to eight hours of run-time on the low setting, which sounded perfect for long workdays or extended outdoor activities.

The first thing I noticed was the material. The hoodie is constructed from a blend of cotton and polyester, which gives it a soft, comfortable feel. The design includes durable utility pockets with reinforced edges, a feature I found quite practical for storing small tools or a phone. The interior is made of brushed fleece, which adds a layer of comfort and warmth even before turning on the heating elements. However, the hoodie is not insulated, so it relies heavily on its heating capabilities to maintain warmth.

One of the standout features is the one-touch LED controller that allows you to select from three heat settings. This is conveniently located on the chest, making it easy to adjust the temperature without having to fiddle with hidden controls. The Quick-Heat function impressed me; it warmed up noticeably within a few minutes, providing almost instant relief from the cold.

However, the fit of the hoodie left something to be desired. At 5'9" with an athletic build, I found that the medium size was somewhat restrictive, especially around the shoulders and arms. The sleeves felt short, and the elastic cuffs sat awkwardly about three inches above my wrists. The torso length also seemed inadequate, barely covering my belt line. Raising my arms caused the hoodie to ride up, exposing my midsection to the cold. This could be a significant drawback for anyone planning to use the hoodie as their primary outerwear in colder conditions.

The hood itself was another point of contention. It felt thin and baggy, lacking the snug fit that would offer better protection from wind and cold. I found myself wishing for a bit more material to make it more functional.

In terms of heating performance, the hoodie did well in warming up the chest area. I could feel the heat almost immediately after turning it on. However, the back heating elements were less effective; I barely noticed any warmth there unless I pressed my back against a chair or wall. This might be more useful if you're sitting still, but for active use, the back heating elements fell short.

The battery life was decent, lasting close to the advertised eight hours on the low setting. However, on the high setting, the battery drained much faster, lasting only about two to three hours. The battery pocket, located near the left kidney, was a bit bulky and could be uncomfortable if you lean back against it. I found it more practical to use the front pocket for the battery, although this could make the hoodie feel unbalanced.

One of the most convenient features is that the hoodie is washer and dryer safe. This makes it easy to clean without worrying about damaging the heating elements. However, I would recommend air-drying it to prolong the life of the internal wiring, as frequent machine drying could potentially cause wear and tear over time.

Despite these drawbacks, the hoodie does have its merits. It's well-suited for layering under a heavier jacket, making it a versatile piece for cold weather. The heating elements are a fantastic idea, especially for those who work outdoors or participate in outdoor activities where traditional layers might be too bulky or restrictive.

However, the inconsistent sizing and less-than-stellar build quality give me pause. For a brand like Milwaukee, known for its durable and reliable tools, I expected better craftsmanship. The hoodie feels like it was designed more for casual use rather than as a robust work garment. The limitations in fit and heating performance make it less appealing as a standalone outerwear option in colder conditions.

In summary, Milwaukee's Heated Hoodie offers a novel approach to staying warm, with some practical benefits like quick heating and easy maintenance. However, the issues with fit and the effectiveness of the heating elements, particularly in the back, are significant drawbacks. If you're looking for a comfortable mid-layer to wear under a heavier coat, this hoodie could be a good addition to your wardrobe. But as a primary outerwear piece, especially in colder or windy conditions, it falls short.

Would I recommend this hoodie? It depends. If you’re planning to use it as an additional layer and can find the right size that fits comfortably, it’s a solid choice. However, if you’re looking for a standalone solution for staying warm in cold weather, you might want to consider other options or be prepared to deal with some of its limitations. The concept is excellent, but the execution leaves room for improvement.