DeWalt Lithium Ion Soft Shell Heated Jacket

When the cold weather hits, staying warm while working outdoors becomes a top priority. Enter the DeWalt Lithium Ion Soft Shell Heated Jacket (model DCHJ060B), a product that promises to keep you toasty with the convenience of portable battery power. I've had the opportunity to use this jacket extensively, and I’ve gathered my thoughts on its performance, design, and overall value.

First off, the jacket’s heating capabilities are impressive. It features four heating zones—upper left and right chest, mid-back, and collar—powered by either 20V or 12V batteries. With three temperature settings and a pre-heat function controlled by an LED controller, it’s easy to dial in the exact level of warmth needed for varying conditions. On the coldest days, I found the high setting to be a lifesaver. The heat distribution is even, and it starts warming up within a few minutes of activation.

One of the standout features is the jacket’s runtime. Using a 20V compact 1.5Ah battery, I was able to get up to 7 hours on the low setting. While this is more than sufficient for most workdays, it’s worth noting that the battery life on the high setting is significantly shorter—around 2 hours in my experience. This means if you’re planning to be outside for extended periods in extreme cold, you’ll need to carry extra batteries or swap them out during breaks. The jacket's USB power source is compatible with both DEWALT 20V and 12V batteries, which is a convenient touch, especially for those already invested in DeWalt's ecosystem of tools.

The jacket itself is quite durable. The outer shell is water and wind resistant, making it suitable for a variety of weather conditions. I wore it in both rain and snow without any issues, and it held up well. The adjustable waistline and sleeve cuffs allow for a customized fit, which helps keep the elements out. However, I did find the jacket to be somewhat bulky, especially with the battery pack in place. The expandable battery pocket is a nice feature, but the battery's size can be cumbersome, particularly when sitting or performing tasks that require a lot of movement.

Comfort-wise, the jacket is generally good. The soft shell material is flexible and doesn’t restrict movement, but the cut seems to cater to a broader body type. As someone without a "pot belly," I found the fit to be a bit loose around the midsection. This might be a plus for some, as it allows for layering underneath, but it’s something to consider when choosing your size. The jacket is available in sizes S-3XL, so there’s a wide range to accommodate different body types.

One area that could use improvement is the jacket’s zipper quality. While the rest of the jacket feels robust, the zipper feels somewhat flimsy and has been a point of failure in my experience. A more heavy-duty zipper would add to the overall durability and user satisfaction.

Another minor gripe is the placement of the power switch. Located on the left chest, I found myself accidentally turning the jacket off while moving or adjusting my position. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to stay warm in cold conditions. Having to unzip the jacket to turn it back on is an inconvenience that could be easily resolved with a better switch location or design.

Despite these drawbacks, the jacket excels in its primary function: keeping you warm. On days when I had to work outside for long periods, this jacket made a significant difference in my comfort level. The heating zones are well-placed, and the ability to adjust the temperature means you can tailor the warmth to your needs. Even when the heating function is off, the jacket provides good insulation, making it a versatile piece of gear for various weather conditions.

Cleaning the jacket is straightforward. Simply unplug the battery holder and follow the washing instructions. I’ve washed mine a few times, and it still looks and functions like new. This ease of maintenance is a big plus, especially for those who might get their jackets dirty on the job.

In conclusion, the DeWalt Lithium Ion Soft Shell Heated Jacket is a solid investment for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in cold weather. It offers excellent heating capabilities, decent battery life, and a durable, weather-resistant design. However, it’s not without its flaws—the bulkiness of the battery, the less-than-ideal zipper quality, and the awkward power switch placement are areas that could use improvement.

Would I recommend this jacket? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re already using DeWalt tools and have spare batteries on hand, this jacket integrates seamlessly into your existing setup and provides much-needed warmth in cold conditions. However, if you’re looking for a more streamlined and less bulky heated jacket, you might want to explore other options. Overall, it’s a practical and effective solution for those who need reliable warmth while working outdoors.