Enjoy the freedom to do more outdoors this winter, wearing the best heated gilet. Warmth should never be a luxury and by making smart purchases – such as hand warmers, heated socks and thermals – you and your loved ones can stay snug without costing a fortune. As the saying goes: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only how you dress for it".
A heated gilet or vest is a body warmer that has a neat little battery and concealed heating pads. Keep your back, neck and core warm, and adjust the temperature depending on your environment. The temperature ranges between 25°C to 65°C on some heated vests. Higher-spec garments have heated hoods and up to nine heat pads. Additional features include water resistance, zipped pockets and a power bank with an additional USB port so you can charge your phone as well as heat the gilet. It's more lightweight than a heated jacket, and you can say goodbye to wearing cumbersome scarves too.
Best heated gilet at a glance:
Unisex, rechargeable and lightweight, you can layer a heated gilet under your coat or wear it over a jumper to enjoy freedom of movement. Have more flexibility when playing golf, horse riding or hiking, without being weighed down by lots of layers. In addition, you can get on with tasks around the house without feeling restricted or having to put the heating on. The small power bank is concealed inside the gilet, so you are completely unrestricted in your movements.
Along with heated throws, electric foot warmers and even heated dressing gowns – the UK now has an arsenal of winter warmer wear to combat plummeting temperatures and the cost of energy. A heated gilet is ideal for older adults who may be more susceptible to cold temperatures and need additional warmth. Also, people dealing with chronic pain conditions will benefit from added heat to their core, providing soothing relief from arthritis and rheumatism. So, if you're looking for a gift for a loved one who's feeling the cold, or you want to make winter beach walks more bearable, here's our pick of the best heated gilets.
Best heated gilet
Best overall heated gilet
Whether you're jogging, working outdoors or looking for a useful gift for a loved one, the HEWINZE Fleece Heated Gilet ticks all the boxes. There are four heat zones, one in the neck, two heat panels in the front waist area, and a heat panel in the back. The gilet is equipped with two USB ports, which can be used for heating the vest and for charging mobile phones. Also, it comes with a 5V rechargeable battery. It's an elegant design, as the power button is an inconspicuous badge on the chest. Long press to switch on, and keep pressing for your desired power level. The temperature ranges from Low (40°C), Medium (45°C), and High (50°C).
Customers love the warmth and comfort this gilet offers as it's made from a soft, fleece fabric. There are some reviews that mention the gilets come up small, but the overall size range on offer is much appreciated.
Pros
- Range of sizes
- Soft fleece fabric for your comfort
- Four heat zones to keep you warm
Cons
- Some reviewers say it comes up small
Size | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL |
Battery | 5V 10000mAh |
Battery life | 4–9 hours |
- Quality YKK zips
- Machine washable
- High-quality graphene fibre heating elements
Best heated gilet for comfort
Loose-fitting and praised for accurate sizing, the FERNIDA Heating Vest is cosy without being restrictive. There are three heat levels that are indicated by red, white and blue lights, with the temperature controlled by a single power button on the breast. Low mode is 40–45°C, Medium is 45–50°C, High is 50–55°C. The power bank sits securely in an inside pocket and it has a universal USB charging port, so it's convenient to recharge it anywhere.
Do note that a battery is not included with this gilet, but a standard power bank for phone charging will suffice. Additionally, a laundry bag is included to protect the garment in the washing machine or alternatively, it can be hand washed.
Pros
- Praised by reviewers for accurate sizing
- Easy to control heat settings
- Loose-fitting so it's not restrictive but still cosy
Cons
- Battery is not included so you'll need to buy battery pack separately
Size | S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Battery | 5V/2A or 3A USB power bank (not included) |
Battery life | Not specified |
- Advanced carbon fibre heating element
- Windproof and waterproof nylon with skin-friendly cotton interior
- Adjustable drawstring buckle
Best heated gilet for heat
With a toasty maximum temperature of 65°C, this bestselling Bioscen Heated Vest is designed for extreme outdoor weather as it reaches its top temperature very quickly. The hood has heating panels to warm both sides of the head, in addition to neck, back and front abdominal heating. It's practical with two chest and side pockets, two internal pockets, a high quality waterproof zip, and two hemline drawstrings. A concealed button on the inside of the electric body warmer controls the temperature. Choose from Red (65°C), Orange (55°C), and Blue (45°C). To turn on/off long press on the button and short press to switch the temperature setting. Also, this gilet comes with a waterproof storage bag, so it's ideal for outdoor sports.
Customers liked the functionality, quality and comfort of this gilet but wished it came with a battery pack. While that's something to bear in mind, reviewers found that a 5V 2A charger for mobile devices worked just fine.
Pros
- Fast heating in one minute
- Comes with a waterproof storage bag
- Has a hood for extra warmth
Cons
- The power bank/battery is not included and must be purchased separately
Size | S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Battery | 5V 2A power bank (not included) |
Battery life | Up to 12 hours |
- Waterproof and stain resistant
- V-neck design
- Hand wash or machine wash with laundry bag
Best heated gilet for battery
Without a doubt, the LABEWVI Heated Vest packs a punch with the power bank that is included with this gilet. The lightweight power bank (300g) boasts 7.4V output. With a battery life of up to 13 hours and a maximum temperature of 65°C, this heated vest is robust enough for extreme cold when layered with other protective outdoor gear. It features a windproof and rainproof DWR coating and premium insulation. Three heating levels are denoted by colour. High is red (65°C), Medium is blue (55°C) and Low is green (45°C). Whilst we're not all going mountaineering, this is a great option for those who are living life to the extreme.
Many reviewers felt this product was something that was made to last but there are a handful of the nearly 500 reviewers that had issues with stitching. Overall though, many were impressed with the quality and how warm and toasty it kept them.
Pros
- Up to 13 hours battery life to last all day
- Has windproof and rainproof coating to protect from the elements
- Three heating levels
Cons
- Had its own battery pack – connector is not compatible with standard USB connector power banks
Size | S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL |
Battery | 7.4V 25000 mAh power bank |
Battery life | Up to 13 hours |
- Durable and machine washable cotton and polyester material
- Silver Mylar thermal liner poly heat system
- Protected from overheating
Best heated gilet for outdoors
For outdoor pursuits, the Rrtizan Heated Vest for Men and Women is a great option. Its layered construction consists of waterproof fabric, polyester stuffing, a heating sheet, and soft fuzzy lining. It has nine heat zones, a hood, and it's elasticated to prevent cold getting inside the vest. Three heat levels are indicated by coloured lights. High is red (50–55°C), Medium is white (40–45°C), and Low is blue (30–35°C). Depending on the temperature setting the heated vest can stay warm from 3–10 hours. Also, this all-weather heated gilet comes with a power bank that has a USB Type-C port so it can be used to change mobile devices too.
A highly rated product on Amazon with over 4,000 reviews, this gilet is loved by customers for the level of comfort it provides and its appearance too. Reviews about the functionality are mixed though, with some saying they didn't realise they needed to long-press the power button to turn it on, which made them think it didn't work, but many have had no issues at all.
Pros
- Nine heat zone for warmth
- Made from a waterproof fabric for weather-proofing
- Elasticated to prevent cold from getting inside
Cons
- Some customers were not aware they needed to long-press the power button to turn on
Size | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL |
Battery | 10,000 mAh |
Battery life | 3–10 hours |
- Premium carbon heating fibre
- Machine washable in a laundry bag
- Snow-proof
- Wind resistant
Best heated gilet for back pain
Whilst the PROSmart Heated Vest could be layered underneath a weatherproof jacket for outdoor activities, with its cosy fleecy material and heat zones on the upper back and lower back, it's a no-fuss heated gilet that applies heat to relieve muscle and back pain. Three heating levels are controlled by a single power button on the breast. The temperature range is 40–60°C and High, Medium and Low are indicated by red, white and blue. It requires a 5V / 2.1A USB port power bank, which can also charge mobile devices.
Reviewers say this gilet offers good warmth and quality for the cost but some wished the battery life was better as it doesn't last all day.
Pros
- Heats the upper back and lower back specifically
- Comfortable lining as it's made from a cosy, fleecy material
- Three heating levels ranging between 40-60°C
Cons
- Some reviewers wished the battery life was better
Size | S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Battery | 10000 mAh power bank |
Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
- Secure zipped pocket
- Battery pocket
- Polar fleece
- Machine wash (in a laundry bag) or hand wash
Best heated gilet for neck
The Loowoko Heated Gilet stands out for its attention to the neck area. Goodness knows it's a blessed relief to ditch heavy winter scarves, and this heated vest offers that solution. It features a stand-up collar and lid for the zip, that prevents it from grazing your chin. The outer fabric is windproof, waterproof and tear-resistant. Three temperature levels are indicated by lights. Red is 55°C, Orange is 45°C, and Blue is 39°C. The four heating zones are the neck, back, left abdomen and right abdomen. Additionally, the battery pack has two USB ports, so you could charge a phone off it too.
The gilet is padded with 100 per cent pure cotton for insulation. The elasticated sides, and cinchable hem – plus zipped pockets – keep the heated vest snug and close-fitting, which some may like to feel that cosy whereas others may find a bit restricting.
Pros
- High, stand-up collar to keep the chill off your neck
- 100 per cent pure cotton padding for insulation
- Windproof, waterproof and tear-resistant
Cons
- It's designed to be snug and close fitting, which some may find restricting
Size | M, L, XL, XXL |
Battery | 5V 10000 mAh battery |
Battery life | Not specified |
- Hand wash or machine wash at 30°C
- Temperature indicator
- Four heating zones
- Carbon fibre elements heat up fast
Best for all-round body warmth
For 360° heat, the Bseical Heated Vest is a top choice. It has nine heating zones, to warm all of your back, waist and stomach. With a stand-up collar, and close-fitting, cotton-padded body, this heated gilet provides ample heat with great all-round distribution. While it's not geared up for extreme outdoor sports, it can provide extra body heat with three temperature settings that range from High (45–50°C), Moderate (40–35°C) and Low (30–25°C).
The fact this gilet is great value for money is raved about in the reviews, saying the gilet has great duality for the price. One thing that is flagged in the negative customer reviews is the fact it requires you to buy an additional charger or power bank as one isn't included.
Pros
- Offers heat at both the front and back to keep you warm
- Nine carbon fibre heating pads to warm your back, waist and stomach
- Great value for money
Cons
- Requires a 5V mobile phone power bank (not included)
Size | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Battery | 5V 2.1A power bank (not included) |
Battery life | Not specified |
- Preheat for 30 minutes
- Machine washable
Best heated gilet for style
The Rikay Outerwear Heated Gilet is ideal for winter leisure clothing, and it comes in a lovely range of colours and sizes. It's very cosy as it's made from high-quality, insulating material with a super soft velvet lining and heat pads in both the front and back of the gilet to ensure you stay toasty however cold it is outside.
A power bank will need to be purchased separately, but otherwise it offers the usual functionality, with three temperature modes: Warm gear (45°C), Comfort gear (35°C), and Energy saving gear (25°C). It's recommended to buy one size up from your usual, as customer reviews mention that sizing runs small.
Pros
- Range of colourways
- Heat pads in both the front and back
- Super soft velvet lining
Cons
- Customers comment the sizing runs small
Size | S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL, 6XL |
Battery | Requires a 5V 2.1A power bank |
Battery life | Not specified |
- Front and rear carbon fibre heating pads
- One button heating
- Infrared heating
Best everyday use heated gilet
Get style and practicality with the ORORO Women's Heated Vest. This is the only gilet in our guide to use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. But it still provides a level of warmth on par with the rest. With four carbon fibre heating panels, this heated vest keeps your core warm, whether you're on the commute or having a leisurely walk in the woods. It's also got a heated collar to keep your neck extra toasty. It's made from Polyester, with a skin-friendly lining. Three heat settings are colour-coded. High is indicated by a red LED (55°C), Medium is a white LED (45°C), and Low is a blue LED (38°C).
Reviews say this offers fantastic warmth, a good fit and is made to be great quality too. However, opinions are mixed on the bulkiness of the gilet as some say the batteries make it stick out and sit uncomfortably around the hip, but many say it's a great lightweight layer that they can wear under jackets without it being too bulky.
Pros
- Stylish and practical
- Heated collar to keep your neck warm
- Four carbon fibre heating elements for body warmth
Cons
- Opinions are mixed on the bulkiness of the gilet
Size | XS, S, M, L, XL |
Battery | Lithium ion battery |
Battery life | 10 hours |
- Range of colours available
- Wind and water-resistant fabric
- Secured zipped pocket
FAQs
What to consider when buying a heated gilet
Whether it's you or a loved one who has an outdoor hobby – or is just in need of extra warmth – a heated gilet is an asset worth having in your winter wardrobe.
Comfort and fit are all-important. Always refer to the sizing chart before buying online. Note the chest, shoulder width, hip and collar measurements, plus the length of the gilet. Also, pay attention to customer reviews as they indicate whether the sizing is accurate.
Look for a gilet with adjustable heat settings to customise warmth according to your needs. If you're going skiing or ice fishing you'll benefit from a garment with a higher maximum temperature to prevent hypothermia. Or if you're wearing it to stand at the school gate, if should be a comfortable warmth rather than lifesaving levels of heat.
Note the battery life of the power bank or battery, especially if you plan on extended outdoor activities. In general, most heated gilets are compatible with a phone charging power bank. Take more than one with you if you're going camping or working outdoors. Be aware that some heated vests don't come with a power pack and it needs to be purchased separately. Also, remember to remove the battery pack before washing.
Choose a heated gilet made from durable materials that are resistant to wear and tear – and not too bulky. If you're venturing outdoors, the outer layer should also be water-resistant for added protection. Keep icy winds from whipping through you with wind-resistant fabric.
Check for safety features such as overheat protection, it's a key feature to look for in the product description.
Consider the portability of the heated gilet, especially if you plan to carry it on travels. Generally, gilets are lightweight and some come with a convenient storage bag.
Finally, most heated gilets are machine washable (in a laundry bag) and never iron a heated gilet as it will ruin the heating elements.
What are the benefits of a heated gilet?
Not all of us will be riding snow mobiles or touring the Norwegian fjords this winter, but whether it's walking the dog, or working from home in the chilly garden studio, a heated gilet is an excellent solution to staying snug. The key benefit is comfort, it's like wearing an electric blanket.
A heated gilet is versatile, because of the flexible temperature control, you can adapt it to casual outdoor gatherings, or Beast From The East conditions. In addition, a lightweight gilet eliminates bulky layers whilst keeping your core thoroughly warm. Rest assured, you'll be ready for the next cold snap.
For those who are concerned about using electricity during winter, a heated gilet is a supremely energy-efficient way to stay toasty. The battery life on some products is 12 hours and both lithium-ion batteries and power banks are rechargeable. Keep electricity bills low and heat your body rather than constantly heating a room.
Can wearing a heated gilet help with certain medical conditions?
Yes, if you find you get aches and pains in the colder months of the year heat can open up blood vessels and improve blood flow around the body. Muscle tension is alleviated as the heat relaxes tight muscles. From mild to chronic pain, heat can soothe discomfort.
Conditions, such as Raynaud's Disease, are improved as warmth promotes good blood circulation to the extremities. Additionally, joint stiffness that's associated with arthritis can be improved by localised heat. If you or a loved one have symptoms, do follow the NHS's guide to arthritis and pursue the diagnosis and treatment that's appropriate as the condition takes many forms.
Finally, in extreme conditions a heated gilet, worn with other outdoor gear, can be crucial in preventing hypothermia. It protect your core to keep vital organs functioning.
Why is it important to keep your body warm?
Keeping your body warm in winter helps to prevent all manner of health problems, including cold, flu and pneumonia. Also, according to the NHS, feeling cold can trigger depression, heart attacks and strokes.
Normal body temperature is 37°C. Staying warm maintains vital functions and maintains blood circulation. In addition, a warm body supports the immune system, defending against infection and illness.
Finally, being warm is essential for maintain flexible muscles. And, as anyone who's stood at the bus stop in the depths of winter knows, it's miserable being cold for too long!
Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Yours, specialising in home appliances. When she's not testing sparkling water makers, she flexes her creative flair as an artist.