Why a Heated Body Warmer is Your Winter Country Clothing Essential
As a family raised on a farm, my siblings and I often find ourselves reminiscing about what has made life in the countryside easier - from the days of our childhood to now. Just last week, we had one of those slightly surreal moments where all three of us agreed on the same thing: our heated gilets.
Anyone who’s grown up in a farming family knows that cold weather is just part of the routine. There’s always work to be done, some despite the winter and some because of it. Thick snow and frosty lanes. Winds that chill you to the bone. A downpour of rain that feels like you've involuntarily taken up cold water swimming.
Life in the country, as they say, goes on.
But now, thankfully, we have modern marvels like heated clothing that make the cold something we hardly need to worry about. Practical and simple, they offer the kind of warmth and comfort I would’ve longed for during those December mornings when we headed out to the stables as kids!
So if staying warm while getting on with your day sounds like a welcome change, here’s why these gilets have become such a must-have for us, and how they can make your winter a little easier too.
What Exactly Is a Heated Gilet?
At first glance, these heated body warmers look like a regular gilet: lightweight, sleeveless, and easy to throw on over a jumper. But then you discover the heating elements built into the fabric, and that's when you know you've chosen well!
These elements are usually across your chest and back, i.e. the places you often need warmth the most. The technology is powered by a rechargeable battery pack, which gets tucked away in a discreet pocket. Then, with just a press of a button, you can turn on the heat and adjust the temperature. Most gilets have a few different heating levels too, so you can choose how much warmth you need depending on what you're doing.
I love how the heat isn’t overbearing - it’s more like a gentle warmth that spreads slowly. I can set mine to low on milder days or bump it up when it’s really frosty out. The battery life depends on how high you’ve got the heat set, but I’ve found mine lasts easily through my morning walks and errands without needing a recharge right away.
The Benefits of Heated Gilets
Being outdoors in the British countryside is one of life's simplest pleasures. You've got incredible views everywhere you look, and there's so much you can enjoy. And if you live the rural life, you'll likely have wardrobes full of country clothing that help you make the most of your outdoor activities or work.
Hollands has been kitting out country folk for decades, and we don’t offer anything we wouldn’t recommend. For us, we know that our farmers are putting food on our tables, our gamekeepers are constantly out in the elements, and for weekend hikers, dependable outdoor clothing can make all the difference.
So when we say heated gilets make your life easier, we aren’t just saying it. But we've put together a few key reasons to sway any non-believers!
1. Adjustable Heat
Not every winter morning is the same. Some days, it’s just a bit nippy, and you only need a light boost of warmth. Other days, it feels like Jack Frost himself is giving you a hug.
This is where a heated body warmer really comes into its own. You are essentially being handed the button to control the temperature. You can turn the heat up when you need it and bring it down when you don’t. Being able to dial up or down the heat means you’re not stuck with the same temperature all day - you can adjust it based on how cold it actually is or how much physical activity you're doing.
2. Long-Lasting Warmth
A question we often get asked is, "How long do heated gilets really keep you warm?"
And we can confirm that the gilets we stock are designed to give you warmth that lasts, even on the higher heat settings. I’ve worn mine for long morning walks and farm chores, and I’ve never had to worry about the battery running out too soon.
Depending on how high you set the temperature, you can get a good few hours out of it on a single charge. And with the easy-to-swap power banks, you can carry a backup just in case.
3. Versatility
I used to struggle with feeling too bundled up in winter, but with a heated vest, I’ve found I've got the extra warmth I need, just without the need for lots more clothing. If you're someone who doesn't like wearing lots of layers, this is also music to your ears.
Being a gilet, it also slips easily underneath my main outer layer like my waterproof coat. It’s lightweight and easy to wear, so I’m not restricted in what I can do either. That freedom of movement is perfect, particularly for my morning dog walks when I've got an excitable golden retriever to keep my eye on!
And although the technology might be very modern, the brands we stock, like Deerhunter and Harkila, keep things classically country in style! So, you don't have to worry about having a jarring garment that doesn't match the rest of your country wear.
Finding the Best Heated Gilet for You
When heated jackets and gilets first became available, they were a bit of a novelty. But today, with so many different designs and features, they have become a key part of country clothing.
If you’ve been thinking about getting one, I’d say go for it. They’re a great investment, especially if you spend a lot of time outside during the colder months. To help you figure out what’s best for you, we’ve picked out a few of our favourites, so you can see what might fit your needs.
For Everyday Wear: Deerhunter Heat Inner Waistcoat & Deerhunter Lady Heat Inner Waistcoat
The reason why we've put this one in this category is simple: it's a mid - layer that can truly be worn for anything rural.
It's become a bestseller with our farmers, hikers, and dog walkers, and we immediately point anyone in its direction when they say they need something to keep them warm over the winter. The impressive lightweight design makes it feel like a thin hot water bottle all over your upper body, so you get all the benefit of those technical heated elements, without the sense that you've put on lots of extra layers.
It comes in at a great price range too, so if budget is something you have in mind, this is definitely a good one to take a look at it.
Standout Features:
- Integrated heat system with 3 adjustable heat levels
- Stretchable fabric at the sides for enhanced fit and movement
- Elastic edging at sleeve openings and bottom for comfort
- Lightweight padding with Dupont™ Sorona® insulation for warmth
- Water-repellent surface treatment
For Those Who Want A Bit More: Harkila Clim8 Base Waistcoat
If you’re after something with a bit more tech, this Harkila gilet is extremely clever.
Harkila is known to think outside the box, and they've outdone themselves here! You download an app, and then, via bluetooth, it adjusts the heat based on your body temperature, so you don’t have to fiddle with settings while you’re out and about.
It’s ideal if you’re someone who likes to stay on the move and wants consistent warmth with a “set it and forget it” option.
Standout Features:
- Large heat pad on the back with app-controlled heat settings
- Reflective heating layer with down insulation and wind-resistant lining
- Elasticated armholes and bottom hem for a snug fit
- Zipped chest, side, and inner pockets for storage, including power bank stow pocket
For Country Sports: Harkila Camo Heat Waistcoat
Hunting often means staying still in the cold for extended periods, so this is exactly where a heated body warmer shines. You can sit quietly, not giving away your position, while still staying warm - no need to shiver through the morning while you wait for the game to appear.
The design also prioritises ease of movement for those moments when you do need to act quickly. And, because it's designed with the camouflage print, it's practical for the needs of the sport too. To sum up, it ticks all the boxes for hunting clothing!
Standout Features:
- Double heat panels with reflective heat lining
- Stretch fleece panels for added comfort and mobility
- Zipped chest pocket (left side), side zip pockets, and power bank stow pocket
- Elasticated collar, armholes, and bottom hem for a snug fit
- Heat-reflective silver print lining and polyester padding for extra warmth
- Durable water-repellent (WR) polyester with PU coating
For Working in Tough Conditions: Deerhunter Padded Heat Waistcoat & Deerhunter Lady Heat Padded Waistcoat
Although similar to the Deerhunter gilet we mentioned before, this one comes with more padding so is great for even more warmth.
Just like the inner waistcoat version, it’s got the heating elements in all the right places, but with that added insulation, it’s brilliant for when you know you're in for a long day working outdoors. Even when the cold wind kicks in, you'll still feel comfortable, which is no mean feat!
This is perfect as a versatile piece with a sleek design, that can be worn under your farmers jacket as you head out into the fields.
Standout Features:
- Integrated heat system with 3 adjustable heat levels (two front and one back element)
- Stretchable contrast fabric panels for enhanced comfort and fit
- Multiple pockets: chest, front, and inner, all with zippers
- Quilted front and back panels for added warmth
- Elastic edging at neck, armholes, and bottom for a snug fit
- Machine washable for easy care
Summary
We’re often told that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. But in the case of a heated body warmer, that old saying couldn’t be more wrong!
Whether it’s cold days out on the farm or long dog walks across frosty fields, these gilets deliver exactly what they promise: warmth where and when you need it most. Just like at home, where you rely on electric blankets, central heating, and hot water bottles, your time spent outdoors deserves the same level of comfort and reliability. And that’s exactly what a heated gilet offers. It really is that simple.
If you’re ready to make your own winter mornings a little easier, why not check out our full range of heated gilets? And if you’ve got any questions or would like some more friendly advice, please don’t hesitate to drop us a comment - we’re always happy to help.
About the Author
With her extensive firsthand experience of farm life and a keen eye for quality, Sarah Holland's advice on womens country clothing reflects her genuine appreciation for the joys and comfort of rural living. Whether it's a smart tweed jacket for a formal occasion or durable wellies for muddy walks, she knows what works for life in the countryside. Sarah loves sharing her knowledge and insights to help others discover the perfect attire for their outdoor lifestyle.
