Brrrrr! Temperatures are plunging, snow is falling, and the ground is covered in ice and slush. As you continue to work, your clothes get wetter and the cold only gets worse. It's only a matter of time before the weather gets too dangerous and you'll be forced to call it a day.
Are you someone who works outside in cold temperatures, or a small business owner who employs outdoor workers during the coldest months of the year? Looking for a way to keep your team warm for long periods—beyond wearing bulky clothing and tons of layers? Heated clothing may be the solution you've been looking for.
Designed to help workers stay comfortable, warm, safe, and productive in harsh winter conditions, heated clothing can ensure that the weather won't hold you back from important work. In this buying guide, we'll explore in detail how innovative heated clothing can keep you and your team warm for hours at a time.
What Is Heated Clothing?
Heated clothing is exactly what it sounds like—clothing that has been designed specifically to keep you warm, usually while working at a jobsite. It typically uses battery-powered electrical heating elements integrated into the clothing's fabric to generate and maintain a comfortable temperature.
Heated clothing can come in many forms, including jackets, gloves, vests, pants, and more. These items use lightweight insulation materials to help retain heat and keep the wearer warm for extended periods. With their flexible design and high-tech features, heated clothes can provide comfort that other types of winter wear cannot match.
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The Benefits of Heated Clothing
Heated clothing provides insulation and warmth, but it also offers a range of additional advantages that can help to increase comfort and productivity. Here are a few of the most important benefits.
- Enhances blood circulation and reduces fatigue, which is especially beneficial for those in construction or landscaping. In addition, many brands come with rechargeable batteries that make it easier to stay powered up all day.
- Temperature control settings allow workers to adjust the level of warmth depending on their needs.
- Modern designs are lightweight, breathable, and flexible, making them ideal for various work activities. Just like other winter clothing, heated gear may feature waterproof designs, sweat-wicking fabrics, hoods, and other useful features for staying warm and dry.
Types of Heated Clothing
When it comes to heated gear, there are many options available that can help workers stay warm and comfortable on the job. From base layers to jackets, vests, gloves, and hats, heated clothing covers all the essentials for any cold workday.
Many brands also offer specialized items like snow pants and heated socks that add warmth and protection. These garments are designed with insulation materials such as down or synthetic fibers to lock in body heat while keeping you dry. Some heated clothing also comes with adjustable temperature settings for added convenience, allowing workers to customize the level of warmth based on their needs.
Heated Jackets
Heated jackets provide a great solution to the problem of bulky clothing that can restrict movement, as they offer more coverage and protection from the elements than heated vests do. This makes them ideal for workers who need to be outside for extended periods. Heated jackets often come with adjustable temperature settings and use insulation made from down or synthetic fibers. They may also feature waterproof outer shells for added protection.
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Heated Vests
A heated vest is an excellent choice to stay warm at the jobsite without being weighed down by a heavy coat or jacket. These versatile and lightweight vests are perfect for construction work, farming, or delivery services. Vests may use down or synthetic fibers to lock in body heat and often come with adjustable temperature settings, too.
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Heated Hoodies
These innovative hoodies are designed with built-in heating elements and also include a hood for added warmth and protection from the elements. They are made from durable, high-quality materials that are wind- and water-resistant. The heating technology is powered by rechargeable batteries, and heated hoodies are available in various sizes, colors, and styles to suit workers' preferences.
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Heated Gloves
A must-have for the job site, heated gloves keep your hands toasty while protecting them, too. They make it possible to work outside for longer periods without worrying about your fingers getting numb or being harmed by the cold. They have adjustable temperature settings and most also have waterproof outer shells to protect against harsh conditions.
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Heated socks keep your feet warm by emitting heat through battery-powered elements inside of the socks. They're made with moisture-wicking materials, so they'll also keep feet dry and sweat-free, which further boosts temperatures and comfort. Designed with durable, flexible materials that withstand rugged outdoor environments, they may also feature adjustable temperature settings and are perfect for those who work outside in harsh winter conditions.
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Features to Consider When Buying Heated Clothing
Do you need heated clothing for cold-weather outdoor work, but are not sure which items are right for you? Before you buy, consider these important factors to ensure that your purchase suits your needs.
Heating Element
Consider the type of heating element used in the garment. Typically, this is either a battery-powered system or a heating pad. Battery-powered systems generally provide more consistent heat and last longer than heating pads. However, they can be heavier and more expensive than other options. Meanwhile, heating pads may not offer as much coverage, but they usually cost less and are easier to move around.
Fabric
Pay attention to the fabric of the garment itself. Some fabrics are designed for extreme temperatures, while others may be more suitable for milder climates. Make sure you choose a fabric that's designed for the conditions of your work.
Special Features
Are there any special features, such as adjustable temperature settings or safety measures? Your options may include features like automatic shut-off timers that make using heated clothing more convenient and safe.
Heat Settings and Levels
With adjustable temperature settings and levels, you can customize your experience to ensure that you stay comfortable in any situation. Most heated clothing has temperature settings that range from low heat to high heat, as well as options for a quick boost of warmth when needed.
Water Resistance and Wind Resistance
Water and wind resistance are essential features for any heated clothing. Water-resistant fabrics help keep you dry during unexpected showers or if you're caught in a snowstorm, while wind-resistant materials protect you from chilly breezes.
Look for garments with waterproof membranes that provide an extra layer of protection against the elements, and breathable fabrics that allow heat to escape when necessary. Many heated clothing items also come with adjustable hoods and cuffs that can be tightened or loosened depending on the weather conditions.
Fleece Lining for Maximum Warmth
A fleece lining is essential for maximum warmth and comfort in cold weather and can provide that extra bit of protection against the elements. Fleece is lightweight, breathable, and easily packed, making it ideal for keeping warm while on the go.
Battery Life and Rechargeable Batteries
Battery life is an important factor to consider when buying heated clothing since that will limit your use depending on how often the battery needs to be charged up. Rechargeable batteries can usually provide up to 10 hours of warmth, depending on the type and size of the battery used. It's important to look for items with long-lasting, high-capacity batteries that are reliable and easy to recharge, so you won't be stuck in the cold when your battery runs out of juice. Rechargeable batteries are more expensive initially, but also more cost-effective over time than disposable ones, saving you money in the long run.
Temperature Rating and Hours of Heat
Finally, temperature rating and hours of heat are two important factors to look at when shopping for heated clothing. The temperature rating indicates the highest level of warmth you can expect from your new gear, while the hours of heat tell you how long it will last at that temperature.
It's best to look for garments with a high temperature rating if you work in very cold conditions, but don't forget to check the hours of heat as well. Heated items with longer durations will keep you warm and comfortable for longer periods, giving you more bang for your buck.
Whether you're a small business owner or work out of your own truck, heated garments and gear can be essential tools in cold-weather work. They not only keep you warm, comfortable, and safe in harsh environments, but they can also give a boost to your productivity and bottom line by making it possible to efficiently complete longer projects in frosty conditions.
Shopping for heated clothing for your own business? You can find everything you need at Zoro.com, including premium heated gear from top-rated brands like Milwaukee and DeWalt.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.