Winter Ready? Check Out These Heated Jackets for Fall and Winter

Fall has only just begun, but the mornings are already feeling chilly. And if you’re someone like me who loves being outside—whether it’s for work, hiking, biking, or walking the dog—you know that the cold can quickly creep up on you. Especially if you’re a chilly person (hand raised), sometimes a regular winter coat just won’t cut it. That’s when a heated jacket is no longer an unnecessary luxury, but an absolute game changer.

I used to think it was something for techies or bikers. Until I tried one on a winter hike in the Ardennes. Since then I've been a convert: it's the best investment I've ever made in my winter wardrobe. Let's dive in.

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Who is a heated jacket ideal for?

Actually for everyone who regularly stands in the cold. But especially these groups benefit the most:

• Cyclists and walkers who do not want their exercise to be stopped by the cold
  
  

• Outdoor workers such as gardeners, parcel deliverers or construction workers
  
  

• Winter sports enthusiasts who want to hit the slopes in comfort
  
  

• People like me who feel cold and even at 10 degrees they walk around with woolen socks and gloves
  
  

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How does a heated jacket actually work?

A heated jacket looks like a normal softshell or parka, but inside is where the magic happens. Or rather: heating zones.

Integrated heating zones

Most models have zones on:

• The back (especially the lower back, which is so nice)
  
  

• The chest (to brave that cold wind)
  
  

• Sometimes also in the neck or even sleeves
  
  

You can feel the heat within a minute of turning it on. On my first day of use I walked through the forest at -2 degrees and felt like I was wearing a warm blanket.

Powerbank powered

The jacket usually works with a USB-connected power bank . You put it in a special inner pocket and connect it via the built-in cable. Easy. Some brands supply one, others don't - so check that before you order.

Adjustable heat settings

Almost every coat has at least three settings:

• Layer : subtly warm, ideal for autumn
  
  

• Medium : nice and comfortable around freezing point
  
  

• High : sauna on the go – seriously, it's almost too hot
  
  

I usually use the middle setting so the battery lasts a bit longer (more on that later).

Safety

Important to know: these jackets work on low voltage and are often CE-approved , which means that they meet European safety requirements. So you don't have to worry about short circuits or danger.

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What should you pay attention to when purchasing?

Not every heated jacket is the same. Here are the things I look for (and didn’t think of with my first jacket – oops):

Fit and material

• Softshell : breathable and light, good for hiking and cycling
  
  

• Hardshell : often waterproof and windproof, ideal for extreme weather
  
  

I prefer softshell for everyday use. Make sure you have enough room for a sweater underneath.

Heat zones and operation

• How many zones are there? More zones = more heat, but also faster battery drain
  
  

• Where are they? Some have only back, others also chest and neck
  
  

• Operability : Large buttons on the outside are useful when wearing gloves
  
  

Battery life & power bank

• Duration on low setting : 8 to 10 hours
  
  

• On high : often only 2 to 3 hours
  
  

My tip? Always take an extra power bank with you when you are outside for a long time. I use a 20,000mAh power bank from Glode , which helps me get through a day with ease.

Washability

Yes, most heated jackets can be machine washed. However: always disconnect the battery and cable and wash at a low speed. Always check the washing label.

Style

• Casual : for everyday walks and work
  
  

• Business : combine with formal clothing, choose a solid color
  
  

• Sporty : bright accents, breathable material
  
  

I happily wear my coat to the office over a turtleneck – no one can tell there's technology in there.

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Practical experiences

Let me go back to that first really cold morning. I walked a round through the dunes with -5 degrees. Thick hat, gloves, and my new heated jacket. No shivering, no stiff shoulders from the cold - just enjoying.

What did I learn then?

• Choose a heat setting wisely : start on high, and once you have reached the right temperature, return to medium or low
  
  

• Power bank choice matters : a good power bank keeps you warm for hours, a cheap one can suddenly fail
  
  

• Always carry a spare : especially if you are out for more than 3 hours. I always carry an extra in my backpack
  
  

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Bonus: Combine smartly for ultimate warmth

The jacket is already great, but there are ways to make it even better:

Heated accessories

• Heated gloves : great for cycling or scootering
  
  

• Heated insoles : no more ice cold toes
  
  

Glode.nl has a nice range of these types of accessories.

Thermal clothing underneath

A good thermal shirt and leggings under your jacket retain heat better. This way you can turn down the heating level - and that saves battery.

Extra layer on top

On really cold days I wear a light raincoat or hardshell over my heated jacket, which keeps the heat in even better.

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Warm and stylish through the winter

Heated jackets are no longer a gimmick. They are warm, comfortable, and now also stylish. Whether you work in the cold, ride your bike every day, or just don't like shivering: there is a model that suits you.

I tell you from experience - winter is so much nicer with a heated jacket. And if you combine it smartly with thermal clothing and a good power bank, you are ready for everything that autumn and winter throw your way.

Stay warm. Stay stylish. And most of all, enjoy being outside.