Milwaukee introduced its first M12 cordless heated jacket in its signature red color in late 2010. Powered by Milwaukee’s 12-volt Red Lithium battery, it resists water and wind, has three heating zones and heat settings, and delivers up to six hours of continuous heat per charge. Milwaukee now offers other options, including a new line of heated hoodies. The jackets, but not the hoodies, can also be powered by M18 18-volt battery packs.
Now Bosch and DeWalt have entered the conversation. The new Bosch 12V Max heated jacket comes in black only, and also has three heat zones and settings. DeWalt’s new line can be powered by 12V MAX or 20V MAX batteries, and includes jackets with and without removable or fixed hoods. Unlike the competition, DeWalt also has heated collars.
Overall, prices range from as low as $100 for Milwaukee’s bare heated hoodies (no batteries or chargers included) to about $200 and up for jacket kits.