The demand for heated clothing is expanding rapidly, as the outdoor industry is gearing up for winter. It isn’t easy to know what size jacket or vest will suit your needs. Here is a guide to help you pick the best one for your plans.
1. Jacket Size & Fit
Although sizing may vary between different retailers to another It is essential to make sure your jacket fits properly to allow the heating elements inside to perform their job. So always check the sizing chart for the brand on their site. Also, If you’re not certain which size you need, opt on the smaller side.
Remember that certain jackets are made specifically for fashion rather than warmth. These jackets are often smaller in insulation than the more advanced winter cycling apparel. You may want to consider purchasing a more robust winter cycling jacket you feel your jacket isn’t performing well in colder weather.
2. Thermal layers
To shield from heat, most heated jackets will require an additional layer. The most well-known materials used for the layers is Thinsulate, which is supposed to be both lightweight and efficient at capturing heat. This layer is recommended to be placed on your skin to prevent it from rubbing against the jacket’s surface. So if you’re considering buying a jacket with a heating element that doesn’t include an additional layer for warmth, remember that extra layers may be needed.
3. Charge Time and Battery Life
The table’s jackets come with a charger, as well as a battery pack. Some batteries can be fully charged in less than two hours, while others need eight. The more your jacket holds temperatures, the more time it’ll take for it to fully charge. However, if you ever find yourself stuck somewhere without an outlet to connect your charger, think about using an external battery pack to help give your battery a boost.
Also, take note of the estimated battery lifespan for each jacket, so you are aware of how long you will stay comfortably warm before recharging or changing batteries. If you are able, find a jacket that uses Lithium-ion batteries, as they tend to keep their charge longer than other rechargeable batteries.
4. Heating Levels
The majority of jackets we’ve tested have high and low heating settings. Low setting is adequate if you intend to only stay outside for a brief time and will save energy. However, if you’re planning to go on a long trip or are planning to bike at more speed, it’s best to use the high setting.
5. Comfort Controls
A lot of jackets come with a remote control, but you need to be able to control how hot your jacket produces. If you go from a warm area to one that is cold it won’t cause you to shiver as soon as you turn off the heat. Therefore, I strongly recommend that all heated jackets come with an element of temperature control.
6. Battery Life Indicator
Just like your car’s gas tank, it could be quite frustrating when the battery is dead just when you’re due to return home. This can be avoided by ensuring that your battery is charged to capacity and taking note of the battery’s indicator before you begin your bicycle ride. Certain jackets can tell you how long the battery will last depending on the temperature you select to ensure that you don’t get stuck at night without warning.
7. Style & Style
Keep in mind what kind of things you’ll be using your heated jacket for. If you are only planning on using it to keep warm while doing outdoor activities, then a looser cut will probably suit you well. If you’re looking for something more versatile and can be used as part of an everyday outfit, then you’ll choose an elongated jacket.
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