The demand for clothing that is heated is expanding rapidly, especially because the outdoor industry is gearing up for winter. It can be a little daunting knowing what’s going to suit you so here is an overview of how to choose a heated jacket or vest based on the needs of your.
1. Size and Fit of the Jacket
Although sizing may vary between different retailers to the next It is essential to make sure your jacket is properly fitted to allow the heating elements within to function. Make sure to check the sizing chart of the manufacturer on their site, and if you’re not sure which size to get, err towards the smaller size.
Remember that some jackets are built specifically for fashion rather than warmth. They typically offer smaller in insulation than the more advanced winter cycling equipment. You may want to consider purchasing a more robust winter cycling jacket if you feel your present jacket isn’t performing very well in colder conditions.
2. Thermal layers
To keep heat out the majority of heated jackets require an additional layer. Thinsulate is a common choice to cover these layers. It is lightweight and can trap warmth very effectively. The layer is best worn against the skin to stop it from rubbing against the jacket’s surface. If you’re looking to purchase a jacket with a heating element that does not include an extra layer to keep warm, be aware that additional layering may be required.
3. Charging Time and Battery Life
All the jackets we have listed in the table above come with chargers and a battery pack. Certain batteries can be fully charged in just two hours, while other require eight. The longer the jacket you wear has temperatures, the more time it’ll take for it to fully charge. If you’re in a situation that there’s no space for you to plug in your charger an external battery charger can be a great option to give your battery some additional power.
Also, note the estimated life of the batteries for every jacket, so that you are aware of the length of time you will remain comfortably warm prior to recharging or swapping out batteries. If possible, try and choose a jacket made with lithium-ion batteries as they tend to retain their charge better than other types of rechargeable batteries.
4. Heating Levels
The majority of the jackets that we’ve looked at have high and low heating settings. The lower setting is sufficient if you plan to only stay outside for a short time and conserve energy. If you intend to go for a ride with higher speeds or commute for an extended period of time, the high setting is recommended.
5. Comfort Controls
Although most jackets have an integrated remote control or controller, it is essential to have some kind of control over how much warmth your jacket produces. So, if you’re traveling from a hot space to one that is cold, you won’t start shivering the second you turn the jacket off. Therefore, I strongly recommend that every jacket that is heated has an element of temperature control.
6. Battery Life Indicator
It can be frustrating to find that your battery is dead just before you arrive home, similar to your car’s gas tank. One method to prevent this from happening is to examine the indicator for battery life prior to leaving for your bike ride and checking that the battery is fully charged. Certain jackets can tell you how long the battery is expected to last based on your selected heat level so that you do not get stuck at night without warning.
7. Style and Style
Remember the main purpose of the jacket you’re wearing. The looser cut is the best in case you are planning to wear the jacket for outdoor pursuits. A tailored jacket is best if you are looking for something flexible that is wearable every day.
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