Milwaukee Women's Heated AXIS Vest Kit

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time working outdoors, finding the right gear to stay warm without sacrificing mobility is essential. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out Milwaukee's Women's Heated AXIS Vest Kit, and it has been a game-changer in my cold-weather wardrobe. This heated vest, powered by Milwaukee's M12 REDLITHIUM CP1.5 Battery, offers a blend of functionality and comfort that stands out in the heated apparel market.

Design and Fit

The first thing I noticed about this vest is its sleek and stylish design. It’s not bulky, which means it layers well under heavier jackets or over lighter shirts, depending on the day's temperature. The vest is made from a wind and water-resistant fabric, making it a suitable choice for various weather conditions. The fabric feels durable, and the reinforced high-wear zones add an extra layer of toughness, which is a must for anyone working in rugged environments.

However, sizing can be a bit tricky. The vest tends to run small, so if you’re on the fence about which size to get, I would recommend going a size up. In my case, the medium fit snugly, which is generally fine for my 5'6", 140-pound frame, but I can see how it might be too tight for someone who prefers a bit more room.

Heating Performance

The core feature of this vest is its heating capability, and it does not disappoint. It has carbon fiber heating elements strategically placed in the chest and back areas. The vest heats up remarkably fast, thanks to its Quick-Heat function. Within a couple of minutes, I could feel the warmth spreading evenly across my upper body. The one-touch LED controller is intuitive, allowing you to toggle between three heat settings: high, medium, and low.

On the highest setting, the vest provides about 1.5 hours of continuous heat, which is perfect for shorter outdoor activities or breaks. On the lowest setting, it can last up to six hours, making it ideal for longer durations. I found the medium setting to be a good compromise, offering a balance between warmth and battery life. One minor drawback is that the heat elements do not extend to the lower torso, which would have been a nice touch for those extra chilly days.

Battery and Convenience

The battery pack is located in a pocket on the back left side of the vest. While this placement keeps the battery out of sight and mind during most activities, it becomes a bit of a nuisance when sitting down or leaning back. The battery can press into your back, which is uncomfortable during car rides or when seated for extended periods. Despite this, the battery's compatibility with other Milwaukee tools is a significant advantage. I appreciate that I can use the same battery for my impact socket wrench set and other Milwaukee gear.

Charging the battery is straightforward with the included charger. The battery charges quickly, and having a spare battery on hand can easily extend your warmth throughout the day. The vest also features multiple pockets, which are convenient for storing small items like your phone or keys. The pockets have zippers, ensuring that your belongings stay secure.

Practicality and Durability

One of the standout features of this vest is its practicality. It’s machine washable, which is a huge plus for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors and inevitably gets their gear dirty. Just remember to remove the battery before throwing it in the wash. The adjustable waist and drop tail extended back provide a comfortable fit that keeps the vest in place, even during more strenuous activities.

I’ve worn this vest in various conditions, from light rain to windy days, and it has held up well. The wind and water-resistant fabric does a good job of keeping the elements at bay, and the vest remains comfortable even after extended wear. The lightweight and compressible design also make it easy to pack away when not in use.

Areas for Improvement

While the vest performs admirably in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be improved. The battery placement, as mentioned earlier, is not ideal. Relocating the battery to a side pocket or providing an extension cable to move it to a more comfortable position would significantly enhance the vest's usability.

Another area for improvement is the overall insulation. While the heating elements provide ample warmth, the vest itself is not very thick. This means that without the heating function, it doesn’t offer much protection against the cold. Adding a bit more insulation would make it more versatile, allowing it to be used comfortably even when the battery runs out.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Milwaukee Women's Heated AXIS Vest Kit is a well-designed piece of gear that excels in providing warmth and comfort during cold weather. Its quick-heating elements, durable construction, and practical features make it a valuable addition to any outdoor wardrobe. However, the sizing issues and battery placement are drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

Would I recommend this vest? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re looking for a heated vest that offers quick and reliable warmth, and you don’t mind the occasional discomfort from the battery placement, this vest is an excellent choice. Its compatibility with other Milwaukee tools and its machine washable design add to its convenience and practicality. However, if you need a vest with better overall insulation and more comfortable battery placement, you might want to explore other options or wait for a potential redesign that addresses these issues.