Whether you’re skiing or birdwatching, getting outdoors in the winter means layering. Staying warm can also help preserve energy, which is especially important if you’re near water. 

“When we get cold, we tire more easily, are more likely to strain a muscle, have a harder time gripping the paddle, and lose motivation and energy,” notes Dane Jackson, a Tennessee-based whitewater kayaker who spends most of the year in a travel trailer or overseas. 

For some active travelers, layering clothing may feel too bulky. One solution? Heated clothing, which have unique cold-weather benefits that go beyond what your typical heavy winter sweater or thermal underwear can offer. This type of clothing incorporates technology powered by rechargeable batteries or special heat-retaining design features for extra warmth.  

From jackets to shoe insoles, here are the heated clothes we’re packing on our next winter trip. 

The best heated clothes help you stay warm and protected from the elements but aren’t uncomfortable or bulky.  

For items with heating functions, look for features like long battery life, user-friendly controls, and a variety of heating modes. Clothing without an electric/battery heating system may have features such as reflective dots or panels, or specially designed material with enhanced insulation or heat-retaining properties.  

Why we like it: This hoodie has three heat zones, including a large panel across the back that can be helpful if a cold wind is bearing down on you. We also like the three heat settings, with the lowest getting you up to 10 hours of battery life, according to the maker.  

The hoodie has a tough cotton and polyester outer layer made to withstand the elements and a polar fleece lining that’s soft, comfortable, and warm. The drawstring is great for a snug fit. It’s also machine washable and made to resist water. 

We also like the Patagonia Diamond Quilted Bomber Hoody. This stylish full-zip hoodie is made with a quilted stitch that the brand says helps lock in heat. A drawcord on the hoodie and elastic cuffs and hems offer more heat retention. It’s also easy to pack. 

Keep in mind: The Gobi has a slim-fitting design. Travelers should size up for a looser fit.  

Product details: Materials: Cotton and polyester blend outer layer; polar fleece lining | Sizes: S-4XL (men); XS-3XL (women) 

Why we like it: With a layered interior designed to retain and redistribute heat, this work jacket is warm enough without the heated function on a cool day. It’s also coated with DWR (durable water repellent) and has a bit of stretch so it’s easy to move around.

We also appreciate extra details like the extended length on the back, which can help protect you from chilly drafts when you’re crouching or bending over. Five zipped pockets come in handy when you need to stash keys, tools, or other items. You can also store the battery in the front or back pocket—whichever is more comfortable.   

Keep in mind: The battery is somewhat bulky.  

Product details: Materials: Polyester/spandex | Sizes: S-3X 

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Why we like it: Heated insoles can help keep your feet warm no matter what kind of shoes you’re wearing. We love that these insoles are thin and that the heating pads are located under the toes—where you tend to feel the cold most.  

These insoles have three heat settings and come in two sizes (you can trim them). The wireless remote clips to a keychain or a bag loop for easy access when you want to adjust the temperature. 

We also like these Sharper Image Heated Insoles. They also have three heat settings and a remote, plus three sizes you can trim. 

Keep in mind: These insoles do not provide arch support.  

Product details: Materials: Fleece-lined soft shell | Sizes: S/M and L/XL 

Why we like it: These hefty mittens are built with heating elements that run along the top and in the thumb. You can choose from three heat levels that range from 111°F to 142°F, via the control button built into the cuffs. The flip-back design comes in handy when you need to use your fingers to operate your phone or other touchscreen devices.  

Keep in mind: These gloves tend to run small.  

Product details: Materials: Not specified | Sizes: S/M and L/XL 

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Why we like it: This hat is made with small thermal-reflective dots that the brand says reflect body heat. That helps create warmth without adding bulk or weight. The fleece-lined band targets vulnerable areas like the ears and forehead.  

Keep in mind: This hat can’t go in the washer or dryer due to the thermal lining. The brand recommends against removing the pom-pom at the top because doing so could damage the hat.

Product details: Materials: Acrylic shell; polyester lining | Sizes: One size 

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Why we like it: A chilly wind hitting the back of your neck can make your whole body feel cold, so it’s helpful that this scarf has a built-in heating zone right where you need it. You can choose from three heat settings via a button on the front. Some styles of this scarf offer the option to upgrade the battery for longer battery life. 

We appreciate that this Ororo scarf isn’t super bulky because it relies on 3M Thinsulate insulation for warmth, plus soft and cozy fleece that’s made to resist wind and water. 

Keep in mind: This scarf isn’t intended to go in the washer or dryer.  

Product details: Materials: Polyester or polyester/spandex shell; 3M Thinsulate fill; polyester lining | Sizes: One size (37 x 4.7 in.)  

Why we like it: Although it’s called a midlayer, this heated shirt is warm enough to wear on its own. It’s snug enough to pull on a sweater or jacket, too, if the heating elements don’t provide enough warmth.  

This Bluetooth-enabled shirt has three heat settings you can control through an app. The lowest setting provides up to 10 hours of heating time, according to the brand.  

The Heat Holders Thermal Base Layer Top is another suitable option. This heavyweight top is made with a brushed yarn for warmth and has some stretch for comfort. It makes a great foundation for layering.  

Keep in mind: The Venture top is made to be form-fitting and runs slightly small, so you may want to size up if you want more room.  

Product details: Materials: Not specified | Sizes: XS-XL (women’s); S-2XL (men’s)  

Why we like it: This jacket’s 650-fill power premium down insulation offers considerable warmth on its own, but you can increase the temperature using the built-in heating technology. There are three heat modes (Eco, Comfort, and Boost) operable via a button on the jacket or the Clim8 app.  

The down filling creates a “puffy” feel that many travelers may find cozy without being overly bulky. The jacket’s shell is lightweight, stretchy, and has a DWR coating that helps keep you dry.  

Another great option, the Ororo Heated Jacket is machine-washable, has a detachable hood, and a weather-resistant shell, plus three heating options.  

Keep in mind: The Radiator jacket can’t go in the washer or dryer, and Eddie Bauer says it shouldn’t be dry cleaned, so you mainly maintain it via spot cleaning.  

Product details: Materials: Polyester with 650-fill power premium down insulation | Sizes: XS-2X (women’s); S-2X (men’s)  

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Why we like it: This heated vest from Venture Heat is thinner and sleeker than puffer vest styles. Like the Venture Heat midlayer, it is Bluetooth enabled and can be controlled via the Add Heat app.  

This vest has five heating panels—more than many other heated clothing items on the market (and on our list). We also like that it can accommodate two batteries.  

Keep in mind: This vest comes with only one battery. You can purchase a second one separately.  

Product details: Materials: Not specified | Sizes: S-2XL (women’s); M-2Xl (men’s); 

Why we like it: These Ororo pants have a little spandex for comfort and stretch, plus thicker weaves in areas that tend to wear down more easily, like around the knees.  

There are three heating zones: On the thighs and lower back. The fleece lining adds a little extra warmth even when you’re not using the heated function, and the seven pockets offer plenty of places for stashing essentials. Unlike many other items on our list, these are machine washable (on the cold/gentle cycles).  

Keep in mind: The fleece liner is somewhat loose and may bunch up when pulling these pants on and off, which may be cumbersome. While these pants are machine washable, they can’t go in the dryer.

Product details: Materials: Nylon/spandex shell; polyester lining | Sizes: 4-12 (women’s); 32-40 (men’s)  

Why we like it: These pants are lightweight and breathable enough to be worn as a base layer for ski pants, overalls, or sweats, but they can also be worn on their own. They have three heat zones, including one across the lower back.  

There are three heat settings (from 113°F to 140°F), with the lowest giving you up to eight hours of battery life, according to the brand. We also love that these pants have zippered pockets and can be tossed in the washing machine.  

Keep in mind: These pants are designed with a slim fit, so you may want to size up if you prefer them to be a bit looser.  

Product details: Materials: Polyester/spandex | Sizes: S-2XL (women’s); S-2XL (men’s); 

Why we like it: These thick, warm socks from Heat Holders are made from a thermal yarn that helps retain warmth. They’re also reinforced in the areas where socks tend to develop holes (the heel and toe).  

These socks aren’t super tight at the top, so they’re less likely to make your legs feel constricted. They’re also machine washable.  

Keep in mind: Because they are thick, these socks are best for boots and looser footwear.  

Product details: Materials: Acrylic, nylon, polyester, and elastane | Sizes: 5-9 and 8-13 (women’s); 7-12 and 13-15 (men’s)  

Why we like it: These heated boot slippers are versatile enough to wear while lounging around indoors or while doing outdoor activities. Three heat settings help keep feet warm—up to 14 hours on the lowest. 

The faux fur lining adds warmth and comfort, while the DWR exterior coating and rubber insole add durability and protection from rain.  

Keep in mind: For best results, you may want to wear these boots with thin socks.  

Product details: Materials: Nylon upper; faux fur and terry cloth lining; foam insole; rubber outsole | Sizes: 6-13 (women’s); 5-13 (men’s)  

Why we like it: This Columbia boot has a thermal reflective lining that the brand says helps retain heat. The boot’s construction involves multiple layers, but the individual materials are light and thin enough to keep the boot from feeling uncomfortably heavy.  

This boot would probably be a good choice for those who want to avoid cold feet while skiing or hiking in any season. The outsole has a grippy tread pattern that gives you more secure traction, which can be helpful in rainy or cold-weather conditions.  

Keep in mind: This style is only available in men’s. 

Product details: Materials: Leather and mesh upper; “Techlite” lightweight responsive foam midsole; “Omni-Grip” non-marking rubber tread outsole designed for all terrain | Sizes: 7-15 standard and wide (men’s) 

In compiling this list of best heated clothing, we considered several factors, from customer reviews to expert advice. Here’s what we analyzed: 

• Third-party reviews: We scoured customer reviews, paying particular attention to trends, frequently praised features, and common concerns.  

• Ease of use: For items with battery-powered heating elements, we considered how easy it is to access and adjust the controls.  

• Expert input: We gathered feedback and advice from several experts who spend considerable time outdoors in cold weather.  

Lifespan 

Clothing designed for harsh weather conditions should last. Look for durable materials and/or weather-resistant elements, such as DWR (durable water repellent) coatings. Remember that proper care and maintenance are important to extending the lifespan of heated clothing. Always follow manufacturer instructions.

Material 

Some materials are known for their warmth or insulating properties but consider where you’ll be traveling. “Depending on the humidity or general moisture of the environment you’re in, you’re going to want to have either a down jacket/pants, or a synthetic jacket/pants,” says Hunter Hall, and outdoor adventure guide and program manager with Andrew Skurka Adventures, based in High Sierra, California. 

“Wet environments demand synthetic materials, but drier environments prefer down,” continues Hall. “The reason is that synthetic clothing handles moisture much better than down does, even if it is a little heavier. So, if I’m guiding in Alaska, I’m wearing synthetics. If I’m in the High Sierra, it’s down. Either way, I’m always bringing a synthetic over-layer in winter, due to the excess moisture.” 

Cleaning and maintenance  

Heated clothing requires careful maintenance, especially for items with a built-in heating function. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. These items often require hand-washing and air-drying. For machine-washable items, use cold/gentle settings to avoid damage. 

“Clothing should be kept dry and stored uncompressed,” Hall says. “Throwing down garments in the dryer on low heat after you use them is always wise but be careful with synthetic garments because they might shrink.” 

Brand reputation 

Choosing a brand with an established reputation can be reassuring and may be worth the higher cost. “Trust and longevity are always worth taking that extra cost on the front end because you don’t want to be halfway through a trip and start to have issues with whatever cold weather wear you are relying on to keep you warm,” says Jackson. “Sometimes those bigger names take the extra time to use better materials and designs to make the most useful or trustworthy products, so that extra cost is often worth it in the long run.” 

Still, experts advise being open-minded to trying lesser known labels. “Brand reputation is fairly important, but it’s also a very fluid metric, because so many cottage manufacturers are producing cutting-edge products every year,” says Hall. “They don’t necessarily have the brand reputation of someone like Patagonia, but that doesn’t mean their products are any less valuable.”  

Temperature  

Before buying specialized heated clothing, think about the weather and temperature range where you’re traveling. Manufacturers often specify the ideal temperature range for a cold-weather item. For items with heated functions, look for the maximum temperatures for each heat setting. Keep in mind that higher temperature settings use more power, draining the battery more quickly.  

Charging 

Charging time is an important specification to consider when evaluating clothing with heated functions. You don’t want to wait hours before you can get dressed to go outside. Pay attention to the expected battery life. You can usually get the maximum battery life by using the lowest heat setting.  

“Having had both non-insulated and insulated heated vests, I think it’s important to have an insulating layer because once your vest is heated up enough, you can turn it off, preserve your battery and still stay warm,” says Martin Patterson, a TV sound recordist based in Montreal, Canada. “Most batteries only last about five hours or so depending on which temperature setting you use. Turning it off means you’ll be able to cycle your battery to make it last 12 hours in the cold.” 

Some heated clothes can accommodate an extra battery, but they’re often sold separately. 

Is it safe to wear heated clothing? 

Wearing heated clothing is generally safe, as manufacturers typically have built-in safety features to prevent overheating or other issues. It’s important to follow manufacturers’ instructions regarding care and use.  

How long does heated clothing last? 

Heated clothing can often last several years or more. Obviously, your results will vary depending on how often you use the item and in what type of conditions. You can help extend the longevity of heated clothing by following the manufacturer’s care instructions.  

Are heated gloves worth buying? 

Heated gloves are worth buying if your hands tend to get cold easily or you plan to spend lots of time in cold weather. Look for heated gloves with features such as flip-back ends that allow you to use your fingers to operate touchscreen devices or perform other tasks.