Ultimate Guide To Buy The Best Heated Jacket
If you’re heading to Finnish Lapland in the midst of winter, you’re likely researching how to stay warm in sub-zero temperatures. And at some point, you’ve probably come across heated jackets. These modern clothing item promise extra warmth with the touch of a button – but are they a good and safe idea for Lapland? Let’s break it down for you and let you decide whether heated jackets are good and safe for sub-zero temperatures! Read the full guide on the best heated jackets Australia has to offer.
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Page Contents
What are heated jackets?
Heated jackets are battery-powered garments with built-in heating panels, usually located in the chest, back, and sometimes sleeves. Most models use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and allow wearers to adjust the heat settings for comfort.
Heated jackets comparison table
| Product | Key Features | Battery Life | Water Resistance | Rating | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWBU Heated Jacket Polar Fleece | Soft fleece material, 5 heating zones, USB port for device charging, with 12V Battery Pack | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.2/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| DEWBU Women’s Soft Shell | Soft shell fabric, detachable hood, 5 heating zones, with 12V Battery Pack | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.4/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| DEWBU Men’s Soft Shell Heated Jacket | Soft shell fabric, detachable hood, 5 heating zones, with 12V Battery Pack | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.4/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| DEWBU Heated Jacket | 5 heating zones, 3 heat settings, 12V battery, detachable hood | Up to 10 hrs | Water- resistant | 4.4/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| ORORO Women’s Heated Jacket | 4 heating zones, detachable hood, machine washable | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.7/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| ORORO Men’s Heated Jacket | 4 heating zones, detachable hood, machine washable | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.6/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| Milwaukee 204B-20 M12 Toughshell | TOUGHSHELL™ fabric, 3 heat zones, quick-heat function | Up to 8 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.5/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| Milwaukee M12 Axis Heated Jacket | Lightweight design, 4 heat zones, compressible | Up to 6 hrs | Water- resistant | 4.5/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| ORORO Women’s Lightweight Heated Vest | Lightweight design, 4 heating zones, machine washable, with Battery Pack | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.6/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
| ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest | Lightweight design, 4 heating zones, machine washable, with Battery Pack | Up to 10 hrs | Water-resistant | 4.6/5 | CHECK PRICE HERE! |
Are heated jackets safe for cold-weather travel?
Yes, when used correctly and purchased from reputable brands, heated jackets are generally safe. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Choose quality over cheap options. Stick to well-reviewed, certified brands (like ORORO, Milwaukee, or Venustas) to avoid overheating or battery faults.
- Don’t sleep in them. These jackets aren’t meant for overnight use. Always turn them off when indoors or while sleeping.
- Follow battery guidelines. Keep spare batteries in an insulated pouch when not in use. Never charge batteries in extreme cold or leave them outside overnight.
- Check airline rules. If flying within Europe or from Australia, always check carry-on rules for lithium-ion batteries.
Do you need a heated jacket for Lapland?
Honestly? Not necessarily – but they can be useful and/or nice.
Heated jackets are not essential if you’re layering properly with thermal underwear, an insulated mid-layer, and a high-quality outer jacket rated for Arctic conditions. In fact, most activity providers in Lapland will lend or rent out heavy-duty outerwear suitable for temperatures as low as -30°C.
However, heated jackets can be a great extra for:
- Low-activity situations, like watching the Northern Lights
- Waiting around outdoors, for example at husky farms or ski resorts
- Travellers who feel the cold easily
- Parents supervising kids who may not be as active
What to consider before buying a heated jacket for Lapland
- Battery life in the cold
Extreme cold drains battery life fast. Some jackets last only 2-4 hours in very cold conditions. Carrying spare batteries is a must. - Layering limitations
Heated jackets are usually best worn as a mid-layer. If it’s bulky or ill-fitting, it may restrict movement under your main winter jacket. - Weight and luggage space
They’re heavier than regular jackets and take up more space in your luggage – important to consider if you’re flying with carry-on limits. - Cost
Prices range from AUD $150 to $400+. Weigh this against the fact that many Lapland tour operators provide free rental outerwear.
Product Reviews
DEWBU Heated Jacket Polar Fleece
Overview: This jacket features a soft fleece material for added comfort and warmth. It includes five heating zones covering the chest, back and arms, and a USB port to charge devices. The 12V battery provides up to 10 hours of heat on the lowest setting.
Ideal For: Travellers looking for a cosy, fleece-lined jacket for extended outdoor activities in cold climates.
DEWBU Women’s Soft Shell
Overview: Designed with a durable soft shell fabric, this jacket offers five heating zones and a detachable hood. The 12V battery ensures up to 10 hours of warmth.
Ideal For: Women looking for a stylish and functional heated jacket suitable for various outdoor adventures.
DEWBU Men’s Soft Shell
Overview: This men’s jacket combines a robust soft shell exterior with five strategically placed heating zones. The detachable hood and 12V battery provide versatility and extended warmth.
Ideal For: Men engaging in outdoor activities who require reliable and adjustable heat.
ORORO Women’s Heated Jacket
Overview: Featuring four heating zones, this jacket offers targeted warmth to the chest, back and collar areas. It’s machine washable and includes a detachable hood.
Ideal For: Women seeking a high-quality heated jacket that balances style and functionality.
ORORO Men’s Heated Jacket
Overview: This jacket provides four heating zones and a detachable hood, ensuring comprehensive warmth. It’s designed for durability and ease of maintenance.
Ideal For: Men needing a dependable heated jacket for various cold-weather activities.
Milwaukee 204B-20 M12 Toughshell
Overview: Constructed with TOUGHSHELL™ fabric, this jacket offers three heat zones and a quick-heat function. The kit includes the M12™ battery and charger.
Ideal For: Individuals requiring a rugged and efficient heated jacket for demanding environments.
Milwaukee M12 Axis
Overview: A lightweight and compressible option, the Axis jacket features four heat zones and is designed for layering. Its water-resistant shell makes it suitable for varying weather conditions.
Ideal For: Travelers needing a versatile jacket that can be easily packed and layered.
ORORO Women’s Lightweight Heated Vest
Overview: This lightweight vest features four heating zones and is machine washable. It’s designed for layering and provides up to 10 hours of heat.
Ideal For: Women looking for a versatile heated layer to wear under other clothing items.
ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest
Overview: Similar to the women’s version, this vest offers four heating zones and a lightweight design. It’s suitable for layering and provides extended warmth.
Ideal For: Men seeking a flexible heated vest for various outdoor activities.
Final recommendations
- Best overall heated jacket: ORORO Women’s Heated Jacket, 4 Heat Zones Heated Coat with Battery
- Best lightweight heated jacket: Milwaukee M12 Axis Heated Jacket
- Best men’s heated jacket: ORORO Men’s Heated Jacket, 4 Heat Zones Heated Coat with Battery
- Best budget-friendly option: DEWBU Heated Jacket Polar Fleece with 12V Battery Pack
- Best for layering: ORORO Women’s Lightweight Heated Vest with Battery Pack and ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest with Battery Pack
- Best Extended Battery Life: DEWBU Soft Shell Heated Jacket for Men with 12V Battery Pack
When selecting a heated jacket for your Lapland holiday, consider factors such as battery life, heating zones, material and layering compatibility to ensure optimal warmth and comfort.
Are heated jackets worth packing?
Yes – if you’re someone who gets cold easily, enjoys tech, or plans to do lots of low-intensity outdoor sightseeing. Heated jackets are safe and can provide that extra boost of comfort. But they’re not a must-have, especially if you’re prepared with high-quality layers or renting snow gear upon arrival.
If you do decide to bring one, make sure it’s from a reputable brand, follow battery safety rules and don’t rely on it as your sole source of warmth!
Erin Parker is a Finnish Lapland specialist, women’s adventure host and founder of Lapland Lowdown & Travel Her Way. She has travelled six continents and brings first-hand experience to every destination she writes about – from the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland to the high Andes of Peru. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Erin helps long-haul travellers plan extraordinary Finnish Lapland adventures and leads small group trips for women who are ready to explore the world boldly.
