Some models of heated vests are so attractive at first glance that it's tempting to just click on the big "buy" button and never look back.
But it's important not to shoot too fast. There are some key points to keep in mind before you commit to a brand.
1. Heating element
When shopping around for a heated vest, remember that the most convenient heating element material is carbon fiber.
In addition to producing and dissipating heat, carbon fiber is also very flexible and can move fluid. Carbon fiber heated vests can also be placed gently in the washing machine.
The other less ideal choice is plating steel or wire copper heating element. The heating vests that use them are significantly harder and harder to move freely. In addition, they need to be washed by hand.
In almost all cases, it is best to choose a heated vest that uses carbon fiber elements to generate heat.
2. Style and fit
Although most people don't buy heated vests to convey fashion, it's important to choose the style that suits them.
Fortunately, there are many choices for various designs, so there must be an ideal choice for each style preference.
Of course, it's no use choosing a fashionable heated vest if it's not right. In addition to choosing your favorite aesthetic, you should also check the product size chart carefully to make sure you find the right clothes.
There are also practical benefits in finding the right clothes. When the heated vest is appropriate, it prevents heat from escaping through the collar, sleeves and waistline.
3. Comfortable and convenient
Some heated vests can produce great warmth, but heavy batteries and stuffy materials can't bring comfort.
In addition to finding a heated vest to keep you warm, you should also make sure that the battery does not interfere with any activities you plan to carry out.
For example, if you are a winter sports enthusiast, it's best to avoid using clothes with heavy batteries. We've listed several options that are surprisingly lightweight and easy to place batteries.
4. Pocket
Is it important to have a mobile phone pocket for your heated vest? Do you need as many pockets as you can to store all the necessities? Or do you mind the pocket construction?
Depending on your needs, you may need to look for a heated vest with the right pocket layout. For example, outdoor workers may need a lot of bags to save them the journey to the tool bag when they are at work.
On the other hand, if you just want to use a heated vest to keep you warm when you're walking around the block at night, the standard dual pocket configuration will do.
5. Battery life
Battery life is one of the main factors to be considered before choosing heating vest. You'll definitely want to find this tidbit before you add anything to your shopping cart.
Some heated vests can power a day at a time, while others provide only a few hours of heat. For campers, the former is a must-have for the whole day. The latter may be a good choice for those who use power regularly.
In any case, note how long the vest you need to heat will run and take it into account before making the product.
Frequently asked questions
Since these are not your typical clothing, there are often problems for those considering using heated vests. We have answered the following most common questions.
- Is heating safe?
When wearing electric clothing, this is fully understandable for safety reasons. Fortunately, the companies that make these vests have put safety at the top of their priorities.
All safety aspects are t pressure tested and then pressure tested again. This process is repeated before the product is put on the market.
Due to the maintenance in the production process, you know that the possibility of any problems is extremely low, so you can put on a heated vest and be confident.
- How do I charge for my heated vest?
After installing the battery, just plug the charger into the power socket. The charging time depends on the specific brand of the vest involved.
- How do I clean the heated vest?
It's a great convenience to use a heated vest to keep warm, but it has a responsibility to maintain it properly. Fortunately, the models we listed here are easy to clean.
The first step may be to disconnect and remove the battery, as you may already know yourself. Whether you wash it by hand or put it in the machine, it is important to use only cold water.
When passing it through the machine, make sure to ride gently and, if convenient, place the vest in a mesh bag. Do not use bleach or similar strong solvents as this may reduce the insulation of the vest.
Then, just hang it dry. Do not wring the vest dry as this may distort its heating elements.