Milwaukee Heated Hoodie

As a tool enthusiast, I was eager to test out Milwaukee's Heated Hoodie, model 301-20, and see how it holds up in various conditions. This innovative piece of gear is designed to provide warmth using carbon fiber heating elements, specifically placed in the chest and back areas. The hoodie is crafted from a cotton/polyester blend with a thermal lining, which Milwaukee claims is suitable for three-season use.

First Impressions

The hoodie comes with an M12™ REDLITHIUM™ CP1.5 Battery Pack, which promises up to six hours of runtime. The build quality appears solid at first glance, with durable utility pockets and reinforced edges, giving it a rugged feel. The hoodie is designed to be washer and dryer safe, which is a convenient feature for anyone planning to use it regularly outdoors.

Comfort and Fit

One of the first things I noticed was the fit. I opted for a medium size, which is my usual size for most clothing. While the shoulders and chest fit well, the sleeves felt a bit on the short side. Moreover, the elastic cuffs, which are a couple of inches longer than I prefer, tend to squeeze slightly above the wrist, creating an odd sensation. The overall length of the hoodie is a bit shorter than expected, barely covering the belt line. This could be an issue when raising your arms, as the hoodie tends to ride up, exposing the abdomen.

The hood is another area where the design might need some tweaking. It is thin and somewhat baggy, lacking the snug fit that would be ideal for keeping out the wind. Additionally, the hood is designed to be worn under a hard hat, which may explain its less-than-perfect fit when worn alone.

Heating Performance

The heating elements in the hoodie warm up quite rapidly, which is a significant plus. The chest areas heat up almost immediately, providing instant warmth. However, the heat distribution on the back is less effective. When standing, I barely felt any warmth on my back, which could be due to the positioning of the heating elements or the fit of the hoodie itself.

The one-touch LED controller is conveniently located on the chest and allows you to cycle through three heat settings: High, Medium, and Low. I found the High setting to be the most effective, particularly on chilly mornings. However, the heat settings could be more intuitive, as the middle setting can sometimes be misinterpreted as either Low or High.

Practical Use

One of the significant advantages of this hoodie is its ability to serve as a mid-layer. When used under a heavier coat, like a Carhartt, it provides substantial additional warmth. However, as a standalone piece in sub-50°F weather, it struggles to keep you warm, especially if there's any wind. For light outdoor activities like walking the dog or quick errands, it's quite effective. But for prolonged exposure to cold, it might not be sufficient on its own.

The battery life is another area worth mentioning. While Milwaukee claims up to six hours of runtime on the lowest setting, real-world use may vary. On the High setting, the battery lasted around two hours, which is decent but requires an extra battery for extended use. The battery holder is just that—a holder without any indicator for the remaining charge, necessitating a separate charger to keep track of battery levels.

Durability and Maintenance

In terms of durability, the hoodie feels robust, though some users might find the material less premium than expected from Milwaukee. The construction does seem capable of withstanding regular wear and tear, but the heating elements and internal wiring may be prone to failure over time, especially after multiple wash cycles. To extend the life of the heating elements, it might be wise to skip the dryer and opt for air drying instead.

Practical Features

The hoodie includes several practical features, such as large exterior pockets and a device pocket integrated on the right side. The zippered pocket for the battery is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that the battery stays secure while you move around. The pockets are deep enough to hold small tools or personal items, making it a versatile piece for work or casual use.

Conclusion

So, is the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie worth the investment? It depends on your specific needs and expectations. For those looking for a versatile mid-layer that provides additional warmth without the bulk of a heavy coat, this hoodie is a solid choice. It's particularly useful for outdoor workers, sports enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a bit of extra warmth during transitional seasons.

However, if you're looking for a standalone piece that can handle extreme cold or wind, you might need to look elsewhere or consider additional layers. The fit can be a bit tricky, so trying it on before purchasing or opting for a size up might be necessary. The heating elements work well but could benefit from better placement and improved durability.

Overall, I would recommend the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie for its intended use as a mid-layer. Its innovative heating technology and practical features make it a valuable addition to your cold-weather gear. But keep in mind its limitations and consider how it fits into your specific needs for outdoor warmth and comfort.