Stay warm this winter with the best heated vests of 2024! Our rigorous testing and in-depth reviews reveal the top performers for comfort, heating performance, and battery life. Discover the best heated vest to suit your needs, whether for outdoor activities or simply staying cozy. Find reliable heat and exceptional value in our comprehensive guide.
Heated vests have become increasingly popular for anyone spending time outdoors in cold weather, offering targeted warmth without the bulk of multiple layers. With so many options available, choosing the right one can be daunting. This year, we put a range of heated vests through rigorous testing, evaluating them on heat output, battery life, comfort, fit, and overall value. Here are our top 7 picks for the best heated vests of 2024.
Top Picks: Our Tested and Reviewed Heated Vests
Our testing involved evaluating each vest in a variety of cold-weather conditions, from brisk walks to extended periods of stationary work. We considered the heat distribution, ease of use, and durability of each vest, factoring in real-world user feedback as well.
Comparison Chart: At a Glance
Vest |
Key Features |
Heat Zones |
Battery Life (Hours) |
Pros |
Cons |
Price Range |
---|
ORORO Heated Vest |
Carbon fiber heating elements, water and wind resistant, machine washable |
3 (Chest, Back, Collar) |
Up to 10 |
Excellent heat output, long battery life, comfortable fit, machine washable |
Battery pack can be bulky, limited color options |
$130 - $160 |
Venture Heat Heated Vest |
Thin profile, Bluetooth control, multiple heat settings, durable construction |
4 (Chest, Back, Stomach) |
Up to 8 |
Sleek design, customizable heating via Bluetooth, good heat distribution |
Higher price point, Bluetooth app can be finicky |
$200 - $250 |
Milwaukee M12 Heated Vest |
Heavy-duty construction, reinforced high-wear zones, powered by M12 battery system |
3 (Chest, Back) |
Up to 6 |
Durable and rugged, great for construction workers, compatible with Milwaukee tools batteries |
Battery and charger sold separately, shorter battery life compared to others |
$150 - $200 (without battery) |
Bosch 12V Max Heated Vest |
Wind and water resistant, adjustable heat settings, compatible with Bosch 12V Max batteries |
3 (Chest, Back) |
Up to 6 |
Comfortable and versatile, works with Bosch tool batteries, good value |
Battery and charger sold separately, heat output slightly less intense |
$120 - $180 (without battery) |
Arris Heated Vest |
Graphene heating technology, rapid heating, lightweight design, USB charging |
5 (Chest, Back, Shoulders) |
Up to 12 |
Fast heating, lightweight and breathable, long battery life, USB charging option |
Can feel delicate, sizing may run small |
$100 - $140 |
PROSmart Heated Vest |
Water-resistant, breathable fabric, multiple pockets, adjustable fit |
3 (Chest, Back) |
Up to 8 |
Affordable price, decent heat output, comfortable to wear |
Heat distribution could be better, less durable than premium models |
$70 - $100 |
DEWALT DCHJ067 Heated Vest |
Durable water and wind resistant outer shell, three core heating zones (left chest, right chest, mid-back), LED controller with 3 temperature settings |
3 (Chest, Back) |
Up to 7.5 |
High-quality construction from a trusted brand, great for outdoor work and recreation, compatible with DEWALT batteries |
Battery and charger sold separately, some users report the heat zones are not large enough |
$180 - $220 (without battery) |
In-Depth Reviews of Our Top Picks
Let's delve deeper into what makes each of these heated vests stand out.
ORORO Heated Vest: This vest consistently scores high marks for its exceptional heat output and long battery life. The carbon fiber heating elements provide even warmth across the chest, back, and collar. The water and wind-resistant fabric make it suitable for various weather conditions, and the fact that it's machine washable is a huge plus. While the battery pack can feel a bit bulky, the overall performance and comfort of the ORORO Heated Vest make it a top contender.
Venture Heat Heated Vest: If you're looking for a sleek and customizable option, the Venture Heat Heated Vest is worth considering. Its thin profile allows for comfortable layering, and the Bluetooth connectivity lets you control the heat settings directly from your smartphone. The four heating zones provide excellent heat distribution, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The higher price point is a drawback for some, but the advanced features and stylish design make it a worthwhile investment for those who value technology and comfort.
Milwaukee M12 Heated Vest: Built for tough conditions, the Milwaukee M12 Heated Vest is a rugged and reliable option for construction workers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its heavy-duty construction and reinforced high-wear zones can withstand demanding environments. The vest is powered by Milwaukee's M12 battery system, making it compatible with other Milwaukee tools. Keep in mind that the battery and charger are sold separately, and the battery life is shorter compared to some other models. However, its durability and compatibility with Milwaukee tools make it a great choice for those already invested in the Milwaukee ecosystem.
Bosch 12V Max Heated Vest: Similar to the Milwaukee option, the Bosch 12V Max Heated Vest is designed for professionals who rely on Bosch tools. It features wind and water-resistant fabric and adjustable heat settings. The vest is compatible with Bosch 12V Max batteries, providing a convenient power source for those already using Bosch tools. The heat output is slightly less intense compared to some other models, but the comfortable fit and good value make it a solid choice.
Arris Heated Vest: The Arris Heated Vest utilizes graphene heating technology for rapid and efficient warming. Its lightweight design and breathable fabric make it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The five heating zones, including the shoulders, provide comprehensive warmth. The long battery life and USB charging option are added conveniences. Some users may find the vest to be delicate, and the sizing may run small, so be sure to check the size chart before ordering.
PROSmart Heated Vest: If you're on a budget, the PROSmart Heated Vest is an excellent option. It offers decent heat output and is comfortable to wear. The water-resistant fabric and multiple pockets add to its functionality. While the heat distribution could be better and the durability may not be as high as premium models, the PROSmart Heated Vest provides good value for its price.
DEWALT DCHJ067 Heated Vest: Known for its robust build and dependable performance, the DEWALT DCHJ067 Heated Vest is a solid choice for those who demand durability and brand reliability. Its water and wind-resistant outer shell is designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it suitable for both outdoor work and recreational activities. Powered by DEWALT batteries, it provides consistent heat across the core heating zones. It is important to note that the battery and charger are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
Choosing the Right Heated Vest For You
When selecting a heated vest, consider your specific needs and priorities. Think about the activities you'll be using the vest for, the level of warmth you require, and your budget. Look for vests with adjustable heat settings, durable construction, and a comfortable fit. Battery life is another crucial factor, especially if you plan on using the vest for extended periods.
No matter your needs, there's a heated vest on this list that's sure to keep you warm and comfortable all winter long.