Essential Heated Gear for Working in the Cold
Updated: Feb. 27, 2023This heated gear delivers warmth without the bulk to anyone working (or playing) in the cold.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
From self-heating jackets and heated vests to insulated cold-weather gear for outdoor work, there are many new products on the market to help you stay warm and cozy this winter. But with the vast array of winter workwear available, it can be difficult to know which ones are best for those tough jobs that require long hours in frigid temperatures.
Thanks to improvements in heating technology, this generation of heated gear is much less bulky and more reliable. We’ve rounded up a list of the best products that offer hours of warmth in the coldest of temperatures. So whether you’re outside and working hard (we’re looking at you construction pros) or playing hard (hello, skiers) or you just need clothes while removing snow, we’ve got you covered.
Ororo Heated Fleece Hoodie
The classic hoodie gets a winter-weather heated gear upgrade with this unisex zip-up jacket. It keeps you warm for hours (three hours on high, six hours on medium, 10 hours on low). The rechargeable battery stays in its own special zippered pocket and features an extra USB port for phone charging. The material is thick and soft-to-the-touch, there’s a durable zipper and it’s even machine-washable. If you need a bit more warmth, add on a fleece jacket.
Rechargeable Heated Gloves
Powered by a rechargeable battery pack, these heated gloves stay warm for up to five hours, depending on which of the three temperature settings you chose. They can be cinched tight around your wrist, and slim batteries fit into a discreet pocket for a comfortable fit. These waterproof gloves are ideal for walking your dog, going to a ballgame and even working on a construction site. Add them to the list of essential heated gear you should pack for any outdoor activity.
Balaclava Ski Mask
A balaclava is fundamental in keeping your head and neck warm when working in frigid conditions. It’s heated gear that provides extreme warmth—no batteries required. This version is machine-washable and features a heavyweight moisture-wicking fleece, plus a longer length and draw-tight toggles to keep cold air out.
Pnuma Heated Core Vest
The best heated gear on the market provides warmth without adding extra bulk. That’s exactly what this vest does: The carbon fibers concentrate on three areas: your chest, kidneys and the base of your neck—providing up to 6.5 hours of heat. The moisture-wicking and anti-microbial material is perfect for outdoor work. Wear it right next to your skin to keep your core toasty, then add on a fleece vest for more coziness.
Heated Base Layer
This body-hugging base layer shirt offers about five hours of warmth via a built-in power bank. The power bank activates the garment, but it can also charge your phone, tablet or any other USB device. The integrated heating panels are strategically placed in shirt’s chest and upper back so they’re barely noticeable.
ThermUp Heated Insoles
The tiny battery pack for these insoles is meant to be worn above the ankle via a strap. It may sound uncomfortable, but users claim it stays in place, never needs adjusting and that you quickly forget it’s even there. Each insole has a 7.4-volt lithium ion battery and puts out about five hours of heat on the lowest setting. The fibers are evenly distributed across the cushiony rubber insole for support and warmth.
HotHands Hand Warmers
Hand warmers are vital when it comes to heated gear, and these odorless, air-activated HotHands are a classic for a reason. Buy them in bulk for crews to keep warm on job sites or stock up for your family this winter. The handheld packs tuck easily into gloves, boots, hats—anywhere you need a little pocket of heat.
Heated Beanie
Heat rises, so keep the top of your head toasty and you’ll feel warmer all over. This winter beanie heats up in less than 10 seconds and delivers three levels of heat, which you can control directly on the hat. It has a breathable fleece-lined interior and a stretchy soft shell that sheds rain and snow, too.
Jomst Heated Socks
These breathable, quick-drying warming socks feature extra thickness at the toes and heel. Plus, to solve problems reported with many heated socks (too hot and not enough coverage), these have three temperature settings and a large heated area (the entire foot front and instep). They’re the perfect work socks for any outdoor job or activity in the cold.
Winter Hard Hat Liner
This lightweight thermal liner fits comfortably under helmets or hard hats without feeling too bulky. It has four hook-and-loop straps on the exterior to securely attach to any head piece. Two layers of insulation and a thermal mouthpiece attachment provide full-face coverage, and the shoulder-length design keeps your head, ears and neck protected from the elements. There are also two pockets on the ears to hold warming packs if you need an extra dose of heat.
Shop smarter with our expert recommendations for tools, gear and money-saving deals on can’t miss DIY and home products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
