Makita Heated Jacket

The Makita Heated Jacket, model DCJ201Z2XL, is a unique piece of gear designed to keep you warm in the harshest of conditions. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time outdoors, especially in colder weather, this jacket intrigued me right from the get-go. After using it extensively over the past few months, I have gathered a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Makita Heated Jacket does not disappoint. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camouflage pattern gives it a rugged, outdoor-ready look, which I find quite appealing. The jacket is well-constructed with durable materials that seem capable of withstanding regular wear and tear. The soft fleece-lined collar is a thoughtful addition, providing extra comfort around the neck—a small but significant detail that enhances the overall user experience.

However, the jacket's zipper quality left me a bit frustrated. It can be somewhat challenging to zip up, especially when wearing gloves. This is a minor inconvenience but worth mentioning, as it can be annoying when you're in a hurry to get warm.

Heating Performance

The heating elements in this jacket are powered by Makita's 18V Lithium-Ion batteries, which are known for their reliability. I tested the jacket with a BL1850 battery, and true to its claims, it provided heat for up to 28 hours on the lowest setting. The jacket features three heat settings—low, medium, and high—allowing you to adjust the warmth according to your needs.

In moderately cold weather, the jacket performed admirably, keeping me comfortably warm. However, in extremely cold conditions, I found that the jacket struggled to maintain adequate warmth, even on the highest setting. This could be a deal-breaker for those who work in sub-zero temperatures for extended periods.

Battery and Portability

One of the standout features of this jacket is its compatibility with Makita's 18V LXT and 18V Compact Lithium-Ion batteries. While this is a significant advantage, the downside is that the battery pack can be quite bulky. I initially used a 3amp hour battery, which made the jacket feel a bit cumbersome. Switching to a compact battery helped reduce the bulk, making it more comfortable to wear throughout the day.

The jacket also includes an on-board USB power port, which is incredibly useful for charging portable electronic devices. This feature came in handy multiple times, especially during long outdoor sessions where access to power outlets was limited.

Practicality and Comfort

With four pockets, including a zippered chest pocket, the jacket offers ample storage for small items like keys, phones, and wallets. The knitted storm cuffs and drawstring waist help achieve a better fit, preventing cold air from creeping in. I appreciated these design elements, as they contributed to the overall functionality and comfort of the jacket.

One practical tip I discovered is to remove the sleeves and wear the jacket over a thin shirt, layering it with a fleece or wind jacket. This setup provided both heat and mobility, without the restriction of bulky sleeves. It’s a versatile approach that worked well for me, especially during more physically demanding tasks.

Durability

The Makita Heated Jacket has proven to be quite durable. Despite regular use, the jacket has held up well, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. This is particularly impressive given the rough conditions it has been subjected to. The jacket has lasted through multiple winters, which is more than I can say for many other coats and jackets I've owned in the past.

Areas for Improvement

While the jacket has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could improve. First and foremost is the battery pack's bulkiness. Finding a way to make the battery pack less obtrusive would significantly enhance the jacket's comfort and usability. Additionally, improving the zipper quality would make it easier to use, especially in cold conditions when dexterity is often compromised.

Another area for improvement is the jacket's performance in extremely cold weather. While it does a good job in moderately cold conditions, it falls short when temperatures plummet. Enhancing the heating elements to provide more consistent warmth in freezing conditions would make this jacket a more reliable choice for those who work in very cold environments.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Makita Heated Jacket is a well-designed, durable piece of gear that offers a unique solution for staying warm in cold weather. Its compatibility with Makita's 18V batteries, multiple heat settings, and practical features like the USB power port make it a versatile and useful jacket for outdoor enthusiasts and tradespeople alike.

Would I recommend the Makita Heated Jacket? Yes, but with some reservations. If you work in moderately cold conditions and already own Makita 18V batteries, this jacket is a fantastic addition to your gear. However, if you frequently find yourself in extremely cold environments, you might need to look for a jacket with more robust heating capabilities. The bulkiness of the battery pack and the zipper issues are minor inconveniences that can be overlooked, given the jacket's overall performance and durability.

In conclusion, the Makita Heated Jacket is a solid investment for those looking to stay warm while working or exploring the outdoors. With a few tweaks, it has the potential to be an indispensable part of any cold-weather wardrobe.