by contributor McKenna Anderson

As someone who is always cold during fall and winter, I can never find a sweatshirt thick enough or a flannel soft enough to keep me warm! No matter how much I layer, the chill of winter still gets to me.

Whether I’m trying to enjoy outside time with my family, going on hikes with my friends, or just enjoying my own company in the house, I can’t help but be slightly miserable due to the cold. I’m never able to fully enjoy myself, which, as I’m sure you can imagine, isn't fun at all!

I thought all hope was lost until I heard of ORORO and their heated vests. At first I was dubious to try one; after all, nothing had ever worked to keep me warm enough. But, I decided hey, why not give it a try?

I decided to try a large women’s fleece vest, and I’m so glad I did. For the first time, I can enjoy the beaches of San Francisco without shivering, I can hike through the Santa Cruz mountains without having to go home early, and I can enjoy time at home without having to wear two sweatshirts and a long sleeve shirt. I’m actually warm. Toasty, even, and I couldn’t be happier.

Unboxing my New Vest

I was so excited to receive my ORORO women’s heated fleece! It came in a sturdy box, which really showed me how much ORORO cares about their product. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve ordered something and the box has come damaged.

Anyway, when I opened the box, the vest was neatly wrapped in its own little self contained mesh bag, which was super convenient for storage. In the bag was the battery, charger, and instruction manual (and of course the heated vest!).

Quality and Fit

I was pleasantly surprised by just how soft the fleece was—it wasn’t scratchy at all. Both the inside and the outside of the vest were super soft. When I put the vest on, it fit perfectly! It wasn’t too snug and it wasn’t too loose. It hugged my body nicely, which gave another element of warmth in addition to the carbon nano heating elements located on the back and pockets.

The best part was that the vest wasn’t bulky. I felt comfortable moving around in the vest whether I was bending down, reaching, or walking, the vest stayed flexible and non-restricting. Plus, I love how deep the heated pockets are! Usually women’s pockets are super small, but not on this vest. 

Usability and Mobility

This vest couldn’t be any easier to operate. It’s literally as easy as the click of a button. First, you have to attach the battery to the vest. There’s a little cord in the inside pocket that attaches to the battery, and then all you have to do is press the button on the lapel! I couldn’t believe how quickly it heated up. It was like instant heat as soon as I pushed the button. The longer I gave it, the warmer it got.

The battery also has light up dots that tell how charged the battery is, which is helpful. Not only does the battery light up, but the button on the vest that turns on the battery does too (which I thought was super cute!). I’ve never felt so cozy. 

Warm and Fashionable

This vest is better than any sweatshirt I own. The collar gave an extra level of warmth I hadn’t expected but was glad to have. I know I’ve already mentioned the heated pockets, but I honestly can’t get enough of them. I never have to worry about cold hands again! Not only is it warm, but I find the fleece vest very stylish too.

Because the vest is black, I can mix and match it with pretty much every outfit I own! Whether I’m wearing a plaid flannel, floral long sleeves or a solid color, this vest goes with everything. Plus, if I want to be even warmer, I can always layer! Like I mentioned earlier, this vest isn’t bulky, so it’s easy to throw on a sweatshirt or jacket over the top of it.

All in all, my new vest is easy to use, warm, and stylish; I couldn’t ask for it to be any better! If you’re like me and can’t stand the cold, this heated fleece vest is a must-have.