Heated Gear 101: Understanding & Caring for Heated Clothing

Benefits of Heated Gear

With a variety of brands like ActionHeat, Mobile Warming, and more, heated gear is becoming a popular choice for many people no matter the activity, and for good reason. Key benefits include:

• Staying Warm without the Bulk: Heated jackets, vests, and other garments provide core warmth without needing multiple heavy layers, allowing for free movement.

• Extend Outdoor Time: Whether for hunting, fishing, or work, heated gear allows you to stay outside longer.

• Customizable Comfort: Adjustable heat settings let you easily adapt to changing weather and personal comfort preferences.

Choosing the Right Heated Gear

There are a variety of types of heated apparel, gear, and accessories to meet different needs, activities, and comfort levels. Knowing what’s available at SCHEELS can help you pick the right piece for your lifestyle:

• Jackets & Vests: Provide core warmth for hunters, anglers, or anyone spending extended time outdoors. Many also feature water-resistant or waterproof shells to keep you dry longer.

• Gloves & Mittens: Keep your hands warm during ice fishing, skiing, or winter work.

• Socks & Insoles: Maintain foot warmth and circulation in freezing conditions.

• Other Accessories: Heated hoodies, balaclavas, and base layers extend comfort to your head, neck, and underlayers.

• Chairs & Blankets: Perfect for camping trips, tailgates, or cheering at youth sports, these are also great options for keeping you warm. 

How Heated Gear Works

Most heated gear works using the same basic technology: thin, flexible heating elements built directly into the garment. These carbon fiber or steel wiring panels are strategically placed in key areas—like the chest, back, hands, and feet—to provide targeted warmth.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries power the heating elements, and adjustable heat settings let you control your comfort. Most brands offer low, medium, and high settings, with higher heat levels using more battery power and lower settings extending battery life. Thanks to this design, heated gear is safe for daily wear and built to keep you comfortable in the cold.

About Batteries in Heated Gear

Batteries are a key part of how heated gear performs. Knowing the battery type, voltage, and runtime can help you pick the right heated gear for short outings or full days outdoors.

• Included Batteries & Chargers: Most brands include the compatible battery and charger with each heated garment. Some smaller items, like heated socks, may run on AA batteries instead of rechargeable packs.

• Voltage & Power: Jackets and vests typically use 5–7V batteries, while accessory items like socks and insoles usually use 3.7–5V batteries.

• Run Time: Battery life ranges from 2–10 hours, depending on the garment type and heat setting. Low settings extend runtime, while high settings use more power.

• Battery Lifespan: If properly cared for, most batteries handle around 300—500 full charge cycles before needing to be replaced.

Expert Tip | With the right adapters, some heated gear batteries can also be used to charge your phone or other small electronics—making them even more versatile.

Caring for Heated Gear

Proper care keeps heated gear working season after season. Here are a few tips our Outerwear Experts recommend:

• Remove batteries before washing.

• Use a gentle cycle and a garment bag when machine-washing.

• Air dry to protect the heating elements.

• Store batteries at roughly 50% charge in a cool, dry place during the off-season.

How to Use Heated Gear

Each brand may operate slightly differently, but our Outerwear Experts recommend these tips for first-time users:

• Charge Batteries Fully: Ensure your batteries are fully charged before first use.

• Press & Hold: To prevent accidental activation, many brands require holding the power button for up to three seconds.

• Start Low: Begin on a low heat setting to gauge warmth and battery use.

• Adjust as Needed: Increase heat when needed, but keep in mind higher settings will reduce battery life.

• Layer Strategically: Heated gear works best when combined with a light base layer; avoid thick layers that trap heat away from your body.

• Monitor Battery & Safety: Do not use damaged batteries or exposed wiring, and follow manufacturer safety instructions.

Whether you’re hunting in frigid temps, ice fishing at dawn, or cheering from the bleachers, heated gear is a game-changer for comfort and performance. By understanding how it works, caring for it properly, and choosing the right pieces for your lifestyle, you’ll get the most out of your investment season after season. If you have additional questions about choosing heated gear or dressing for cold weather, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Outerwear Expert.