If you live in a cold climate and you have had to spend any significant period of time outdoors, you know how difficult it can be to stay warm.
Luckily, staying warm in even the coldest conditions has never been easier thanks to heated outerwear. Heated jackets make it possible to stay warm and comfortable while facing off against the winter elements.
Whether you have a job that requires you to spend significant amounts of time outdoors on cold days, like construction and professional snow removal, or you just enjoy spending leisure time skiing and hiking during the winter, a heated winter jacket can be the perfect piece of equipment to make your time outdoors much more enjoyable.
How Can We Help?
To help you choose the perfect heated jacket, we have reviewed some of the best options on the market today. We will go over some of our top picks and explain how heated jackets work and what features you should look out for when you are looking to buy one.
What are Heated Jackets and Why are They Becoming so Popular?
Heated jackets use rechargeable batteries and fully integrated heating elements to keep you comfortable in cold weather conditions. But they offer other appealing attributes:
They Cut Down on the Bulk
Wearing numerous layers to stay warm outside can be uncomfortable and bulky. It can also be irritating stripping down and layering back up if you are in a situation where you are switching from indoors to outdoors throughout the day.
Heated jackets allow you to shed some of those unnecessary layers while remaining comfortable in frosty conditions. If you are a skier, snowboarder, hiker, or you have an outdoor job that involves plenty of movement, you know how annoying it can be to move around while wearing excessive layers.
Heated Jackets Have Never Been So Effective or Affordable
Where heated jackets and other electric outerwear used to be expensive and somewhat ineffective, the technology has now improved to the point that it is possible to purchase a warm and reliable heated jacket at an affordable price. This explains its recent surge in popularity.
If all of this sounds appealing, you will enjoy our buyer’s guide, which will highlight some of the best heated jackets available.
The Best Heated Jackets on the Market Today
Now that you know a little bit more about why heated jackets are becoming so popular, you are probably interested in your options. To make things simple, we have reviewed some of the best heated jackets out there today. Read over our list and find the perfect jacket for your needs.
1. The Best Overall Option – Milwaukee – M12 Lithium-Ion 12V Heated Jacket
This stylish and effective heated jacket from Milwaukee takes our top spot because it delivers outstanding performance and a variety of desirable features.
For starters, Milwaukee’s unique ToughShell polyester exterior is both wind and water resistant. Its FreeFlex mobility gussets also offer full mobility, which allows the wearer to behave the same way they would if they were wearing a non-heated jacket.
In terms of heating performance, the M12 uses carbon fiber heating elements to generate and distribute heat to the wearer’s chest, back, and front hand pockets. The high-capacity lithium-ion battery holds a charge for up to five times longer than similarly priced heated jackets.
We really liked that the jacket features a simple one-touch LED controller, which allows wearers to switch between three heat settings. On top of that, each of the heat zones can be adjusted independently, which means you can choose to heat the entire jacket or just one particular area of the body.
It also looks great and is available in four unique colors, including a camo version, which is perfect for hunters and other outdoors enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Three heat settings, and each element can be controlled independently
- Outer and inner zipped pockets
- Adjustable cuffs and waist, plus a drop tail for skiing and snowboarding
- High-capacity battery can run for up to eight hours on a single charge
- Washer and dryer safe
2. The Runner-up – ORORO – Soft Shell Heated Jacket
ORORO’s heated jacket is a great choice for those that are looking for a lightweight and durable option that will keep them warm as they enjoy outdoor activities during the colder months.
The softshell exterior keeps the heat in while keeping the wearer comfortable. This is because the jacket features a breathable lining that keeps heat in while pushing moisture out. In terms of the jacket’s heating potential, three carbon fiber heating elements generate heat across core areas of the body, like the chest and the middle of the back.
By warming areas of the body that have high blood circulation, the jacket is able to keep the wearer’s entire body warm. The 7.4 volt, CE-certified battery provides enough power to heat the elements in seconds. It is also capable of powering the jacket for up to 10 hours off of a single charge.
What really stood out to us about this jacket is its handy USB port, which allows the jacket to act as a power bank for charging smartphones and other portable electronic devices. We also appreciated the fact that the heating elements can be adjusted to three separate heat settings with the simple touch of a discreet button.
Key Features
- Water and wind resistant exterior and soft enough to allow for unrestricted movement
- Three heat settings
- High-capacity battery lasts up to 10 hours
- Stylish and tailored exterior, as well as a removable hood
3. Most Versatile Option – Venustas – 3-in-1 Heated Jacket
Venustas offers a sharp 3-in-1 heated jacket that is perfect if you are looking for something that has the versatility to be worn in a variety of weather conditions.
The hooded and waterproof exterior shell and the heated inner fleece can be worn separately or as one piece. For those brisk fall walks, the heated fleece is enough to keep you warm and comfortable. While the outer shell on its own makes for a great spring raincoat. For those extra-cold winter days, the fleece and shell can be combined to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable.
In terms of the jacket’s heating potential, three carbon fiber heating elements generate enough heat to warm the core areas of the body. Not only do the heating elements reach full heat in seconds, but they also can be adjusted to three separate heat modes.
The jacket uses a built-in 10,000mAh battery, which can last up to 12 hours on the lowest heat setting and up to eight hours on high heat. The battery also features two USB ports so you can charge your mobile devices on the go.
We really liked that both the exterior shell and the interior liner are fully machine washable. As an added bonus, Venustas includes a waterproof carrying bag so you can easily store everything when you are travelling or camping.
Overall, the quality is impressive. With adjustable cuffs, easy access pockets, a removable hood, and a series of high-quality zippers, we really cannot recommend this jacket enough.
Key Features
- 10,000mAh rechargeable battery with dual USB ports
- Waterproof nylon outer shell and warm, heated inner fleece jacket
- 3-in-1 design means you can wear it as a windproof raincoat, warm fleece, or as a double-layered heated jacket
- Double poly carbon fiber heating elements distributed at core points across the body
- Available in four eye-catching color combinations
4. Best Budget-Friendly Options – Venture – Windproof Heated Jacket
This simple and stylish heated jacket from Venture takes our top spot for the best budget-friendly option. While the low price point would lead you to believe this jacket lacks warmth, the truth is it actually performs really well.
With three carbon fiber heating elements that can warm the body in key areas for up to 10 hours, this jacket has all the power you need to stay warm on the coldest days. The jacket’s extra-large heating panels and superior insulation combine to keep you warm.
Wearers will appreciate the simple controls and three heating options. The built-in 7.4 volt battery holds a charge really well and even includes a USB output port so you can charge your phone as you walk. As an added touch, users can even access an integrated mini-flashlight by holding down the battery button.
Key Features
- Fully machine washable
- One-year warranty
- High-capacity battery powers three heat zones
- Affordable price
- Comes with a nylon packing cube for storage and travel
5. Best Vest-style Option – NUNEWARES – Lightweight Heated Vest Jacket
If you are looking for an affordable heated jacket, you should take a look at this striking vest-style heated jacket from NUNEWARES. Despite the low price, this heated jacket offers five built-in carbon fiber heating elements.
Not only can the heating elements reach their full temperature quickly, but the jacket also features smart overheat protection so you do not have to worry about unsafe temperatures or burns.
We liked that this jacket is sleeveless as it works well as a base layer in the winter or as an outer layer for mild spring and fall days. The jacket looks great and is tailored really nicely. With a smooth zipper and double-hemming around the edges, you do not have to worry about frustrating rips and tears.
We also really liked that the entire vest is machine washable. The heating elements work quickly and wearers can choose between three different heating modes.
It is worth noting that this jacket does not come with a battery, which partially explains its lower cost. However, it is compatible with just about any type of battery bank as it can be connected with a DC-type female connector or a USB plug. The interior of the jacket also features a discreet battery pocket.
Since this heated jacket was designed in a unisex style, it is worth consulting the company’s size guide to make sure you choose a size that fits you properly.
Key Features
- Made from a wind- and water-resistant polyester material
- Three separate heat settings
- Comes with multiple battery cables and can run for up to 12 hours on a typical portable power bank
- Five carbon fiber heating elements ensure five key areas of the upper body remain warm
- Highly reflective safety strip increases visibility at night
What to Look for in a Heated Jacket
If you are in the market for a heated jacket, there are a few features you should look out for. Remember, not every heated jacket is made to the same standards, so it is worth choosing one that will keep you warm and comfortable.
Luckily, all of the heated jackets we reviewed and recommended find the perfect balance between attractive features and comfort. With that being said, it is still worth knowing what to look out for as a consumer.
Heating Ability and Temperature Range
As you likely suspected, heating ability is one of the most important factors when separating a poorly made heated jacket from a high-quality option.
While it is a given that a good heated jacket should be able to keep you warm in cold weather conditions, it is also worth noting that the best options offer different heating modes. Having the ability to select how much heat you want your jacket to produce gives you the versatility to wear your jacket in different weather conditions.
Milder temperatures, like you would experience in the late spring and early fall, might only require a low heat setting. While the icy cold temperatures you would experience throughout winter could require a medium-to-high heat setting.
Most jackets will also list what temperature they are suitable for. The best heated jackets can keep you warm in temperatures below freezing, while low-quality heated jackets barely keep you warm enough to enjoy going outside on a mild spring day.
Heat Distribution
It is also worth keeping an eye out for heated jackets that distribute heat evenly and appropriately. Some of the lower-quality options will only have heating elements in a few zones. This means they heat your upper body in an uneven and ineffective way.
On the other hand, the best heated jackets will use numerous heating elements and distribute them throughout the jacket to more effectively keep you warm.
Battery Performance
Since heated jackets are powered by rechargeable batteries, it is important to know how long they will last. Look out for heated jackets that use high-capacity batteries that can actually hold a charge and keep you warm for extended periods of time.
The last thing you want to do is invest in a heated jacket that will only keep you warm for minutes when you want to be outside for hours. To avoid buying a heated jacket with poor battery performance, look for the battery’s voltage and the length of time that battery will last.
In simple terms, the higher the voltage, the quicker the jacket will heat up and the warmer it will get. So, a 12-volt battery will be more effective than a 7.4-volt battery. However, this does not necessarily mean the battery will be able to sustain those temperatures. This is why it is also important to note the battery’s capacity.
Jacket Material
While heating ability is understandably a major concern, it is still important that your heated jacket is made from high-quality materials that will keep you warm and hold in the heat your body and jacket generate.
Look for high-quality synthetic materials that are water and wind-resistant. You should also make sure that the jacket offers good insulation. The best heated jackets will be insulated with materials that trap in heat effectively, like feathers, synthetic fibers, and synthetic fleece.
The main thing you want to avoid is a heated jacket that just acts as a low-quality sweatshirt with a built-in heating pad. Your heated jacket should be able to keep you warm, even if the heating elements are not activated. Remember, your battery could die if you are outside for an extended period and you want to avoid a jacket that cannot keep you warm when it is turned off.
Storage and Style
Think of buying a heated jacket the same way you would if you were buying any piece of outerwear. Just because your jacket has integrated heating elements does not mean it has to be ugly or lack pockets.
Some of the lower-quality heated jackets look really bulky, or they just look like hooded sweatshirts rather than stylish jackets. If you plan on wearing your heated jacket on a regular basis, you will want to choose one that looks good and performs well. Choose a heated jacket that finds the perfect balance between style and performance.
It is also worth choosing one that comes with enough pockets to be a practical piece of outerwear. Given that we now take our smartphones, keys, wallets, and much more with us whenever we leave the house, you will want to find a jacket that can actually hold your daily carry items.
