Milwaukee Heated Hoodie Kit

As a long-time user of Milwaukee tools, I was excited to try out the Heated Hoodie Kit, model 301-21. Milwaukee promises a lot with this product, especially when it comes to staying warm without the bulk of a heavy coat. After putting this hoodie to the test in various conditions, I have some insights that might help you decide if this is the right tool for you.

Design and Fit

The hoodie is made from a durable cotton/polyester blend, which feels soft to the touch yet robust enough to handle some wear and tear. The thermal lining is a waffle weave design that effectively traps heat. However, the fit can be a bit tricky. Despite following the sizing chart, I found that the medium size was a bit shorter in the sleeves and torso than I expected. If you have a longer wingspan or prefer a more relaxed fit, you may want to consider sizing up. The hood, while designed to fit under a hard hat, felt too baggy and thin for my liking. It didn’t offer much in the way of wind protection.

Heating Performance

The hoodie boasts carbon fiber heating elements located in the chest and back areas. These elements heat up quickly and provide a noticeable warmth, especially when set to the high setting. The one-touch LED controller is intuitive and lets you cycle through three heat settings easily. However, I found that the back heating element was less effective unless I was leaning against something. The chest elements worked well and provided consistent warmth.

Battery and Run Time

The hoodie is powered by a 12V M12 REDLITHIUM CP1.5 Battery Pack, which Milwaukee claims can provide up to 6 hours of runtime. In my experience, the battery lasted closer to 4 hours on the highest setting, which is still adequate for most outdoor activities or short work stints. The battery pack fits into a dedicated pocket on the side of the hoodie. While it’s convenient, the battery can feel a bit bulky and may get in the way if you’re sitting down or bending frequently.

Practicality and Usability

One of the standout features of this hoodie is that it’s washer and dryer safe, making it easy to clean. However, I’d recommend air drying to extend the life of the heating elements. The hoodie also includes several utility pockets with reinforced edges, which are great for holding small tools or personal items. The large exterior pockets are particularly useful for keeping your hands warm or storing gloves.

The hoodie is not insulated, so it’s best suited as a mid-layer in colder conditions or as a standalone layer in milder weather. It’s not weather-resistant, so you’ll need an additional outer layer if you’re dealing with rain or heavy wind.

Comfort and Mobility

The hoodie is comfortable to wear, thanks to its soft material and thoughtful design. The ribbed cuffs around the wrists ensure a snug fit, preventing cold air from sneaking in. The fitted hood is a nice touch for those who wear hard hats, though it’s not the best for standalone use. The overall mobility is excellent; I didn’t feel restricted in any way while performing various tasks.

Durability and Longevity

One area where the hoodie falls short is durability. After a few washes, I noticed that the internal wiring for the heating elements started to degrade. This is a significant drawback, especially if you plan to use the hoodie frequently and need it to last through multiple seasons. The zipper and general build quality feel solid, but the heating elements are the weak link in terms of longevity.

Value for Money

At its price point, the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie is a mid-range option for heated clothing. While it offers decent performance and comfort, the issues with durability and fit may make you reconsider. If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M12 battery system, this hoodie could be a convenient addition to your gear. However, if you’re looking for a more reliable and long-lasting heated garment, you might want to explore other brands or models.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie Kit? It depends. If you’re looking for a versatile, comfortable, and warm mid-layer for moderate outdoor activities, this hoodie does the job well. The quick heating elements and intuitive controls make it easy to use, and the fact that it’s washer and dryer safe adds to its practicality.

However, if you need a more durable heated garment that can withstand frequent washing and heavy use, you might be disappointed in the longevity of the heating elements. The fit issues also mean you should be cautious about sizing, especially if you have a longer wingspan or prefer a looser fit.

In summary, the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie Kit is a good but not great option. It offers convenience and comfort, but its durability and fit issues may make it less appealing for those who need a reliable, long-term solution for staying warm in cold conditions.