Is a heated gilet worth it?
Absolutely. These toasty body warmers are like a cosy hug on chilly days. Whether you're braving the great outdoors or just need extra warmth for your daily errands, the best heated gilet can keep you snug and comfy on the go. It's true, they're expensive, but if you can afford to splash out, we reckon they're worth the cost. They may even save you money on your heating bills in the long run too.
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How do heated gilets work?
Using a small battery pack (which is usually included in the price, but it's best to double check this), heated gilets have thin electrical wires sewn into their fabric. Using a simple button to turn on, off and adjust temperature, the wires heat up, distributing warmth to targetted sections of the vest.
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Which is the best heated gilet?
There are a variety of reasons someone might want a heated gilet – rather than just providing warmth, they’re also a great buy if you suffer with back, shoulder or neck pain.
Consider whether you want a winter jacket to keep you warm on chilly walks or whether you want one that eases muscular pain, and this will guide you to the best heated waistcoat for you. Some have a heating system with more warm patches than others, so if you want a gilet to soothe muscle ache, look for one with heat zones where you suffer pain.
A good all-rounder is the Ororo Women’s Vest, with heated sections on the back, front and neck area. We rated it highly as it heats up quickly, lasts well on a full charge and it’s comfy to wear, with everyone from dog walkers to warehouse workers praising it. We also love that it comes with a rechargeable battery pack too, so you don't have to worry about sourcing one yourself.
For budget picks, we also tested the Conqueco Heated Vest. This is currently out of stock, but the affordable Kemimoto Heated Vest makes a great alternative.