Milwaukee M12 Toughshell - Review 2023

Nothing drags like a frigid, eight-hour work day; but thankfully, Milwaukee, Makita, DeWalt, Bosch, Ridgid, and Ravean all offer solid heated jacket options to get through that grind. Jackets from power-tool manufacturers are especially appealing since they share batteries with their corresponding tools.

In that category–Milwaukee leads the pack. They offer more heated products than most and their batteries are twice as discreet as DeWalt–much more wearable.

The Milwaukee M12 Toughshell is the latest improvement on their original softshell design:

• Complete wind and water resistance–literally zero penetration during testing.
• Heat pads at upper-back, chest, and lower pockets offer above-average coverage.
• Stretch-polyester shell feels tougher (advertised as 5x more durable than original) without compromising mobility or comfort.

Battery location and size set Milwaukee workwear apart:

• “Pass-thru” battery pocket allows you to plug in at the front or back as needed.
• Per industry standard, the battery locks into an adapter that has a DC port for the jacket plug.
• It has an extra USB-A port for device charging.
• It can be charged in the adapter via Micro-USB, or on a standard Milwaukee tools charger–usually included with the purchase.

The battery is about the size of an 8oz. juice can. Clunky compared to less industrial brands, but sleek against DeWalt’s obnoxious system–which is like having half of a brick in your pocket.

Available in blue, red, grey, black, and camouflage, its range of colors is almost as wide as its range of prices–which vary erratically from $200-350.

Your purchase should always include a battery and charger. Double check that you’re getting the full package when shopping third-party sites. Lastly, shop around. With so many other  options available, this jacket is more expensive than comparable jackets.