There are many moments in Back to the Future II that fans of the movie marvel at, not least the futuristic inventions that audiences in the 80s imagined the shiny new millennium might have in store.
From self-lacing sneakers to apps that pinpoint the precise end of a rain shower, the second instalment of Robert Zemeckis’s epic trilogy is packed with genius inventions, wizardry and tech.
While we still live in hope for a time-travelling DeLorean to roll onto forecourts (CC: Tesla), there is one version of a product in the movie that you can get your hands on right now - a heated jacket.
In the movie, Marty McFly wears a jacket that self-dries after he foils Griff and his band of bullies and falls into the Clock Tower pond.
Today’s heated jackets are the closest we can get to that - and once tried (especially in winter’s freezing temperatures), it’s hard to go back.
How do heated jackets work?
Using heating panels in the chest and back, they’re powered with the help of lightweight portable battery packs. The rechargeable power banks usually sit in a dedicated pocket in the lining or an internal pocket, keeping it safe from the infamous British weather.
Are heated jackets safe?
Absolutely - there’s no chance of accidental shocks here. As well as a safety switch-off that cuts power if the panels overheat, most coats are designed to withstand bad weather, featuring mindful touches like water-repellent finishes. These also add an extra layer of protection to the power banks.
Whether you want to find a way to make working outdoors less of a misery, or you simply like the idea of an extra boost of heat on the move, a heated jacket can make winter wonderful again.
We’ve rounded up the best designs for both men and women to shop now.
See our favourites below
Kintiwe Heated Jacket for Women
The Scandinavians have a saying: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes". That's certainly true when you’re wearing this future-forward coat, crafted with carbon fibre warming panels by the front two pockets and three across the back. They're powered by a 7200mAh battery which lasts up to eight hours with a top temperature of 60°C - Jack Frost won't get a look in.
There's also a hood and elastic cuffs to shut the cold out.
Buy now £79.99, Amazon
Men’s Thermogen Powercell 5000 Insulated Quilted Heated Jacket Black
This unassuming-looking jacket has a hot secret up its sleeve. It uses a rechargeable copper heating zone to keep you toasty, whether you’re braving the commute or heading out for a hillside hike. Not only will the padded hooded jacket keep chills at bay, but you can even charge your phone through the water-repellent jacket - what’s not to love?
Browse Regatta’s full range of heated jackets for men and women here.
Buy now £65.95, Regatta
Regatta Women’s Voltera Waterproof Heated Jacket
Stay red hot in more ways than one with Regatta’s heated jacket, available in sizes 10 - 20 in a rich red colour. The heated hooded jacket boasts a water-repellent finish, taped seams and plenty of insulation, while still being breathable, keeping sweat at bay.
It’s warm enough on its own, but if you need an extra boost, simply activate the battery-powered heating system on the back panel - you’ll be snug as a bug in no time. The power bank, sold separately, sits safe from the elements in an inner pocket.
Was: £200.
Buy now £87.95, Regatta
CONQUECO Heated Vest Jacket: Lightweight Slim Fit Gilet Coat
Best for: varied sizing
A gilet with ambition, this piece is ideal for everything from taking Rover for daily walkies and camping trips to keeping warm on the terraces at the next big game.
The padded sleeveless jacket has warming panels across the chest, all working to keep your core nice and warm with a choice of three settings that go up to 65℃ - winter weather stands no chance.
Available in sizes M - 3XL.
Buy now £84.79, Amazon
Regatta Women's Voltera Loft II Insulated Heated Jacket Navy
A warm coat that doesn’t weigh you down, Regatta has hit the nail on the head with its Voltera insulated jacket, which comes in navy as well as a beetroot red. The heated tech is one large panel on the back, which runs on a battery pack. It’s lightweight and water-repellent with elasticated cuffs and hems to keep the warmth where it should be.
Buy now £47.95, Regatta
2024 Upgraded Heated Jacket Vest
Once bought, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get this heated jacket sooner. It will have you feeling as snug as a bug no matter what’s on the agenda, from wintry walks and ice fishing to snow-based exploits on the slopes. There are three heat settings which you can adjust according to the chill and the shell is made from water-repellent polyester to keep you dry when it’s damp. This doesn’t mean it’s showerproof though, so avoid wearing it in pouring rain.
Buy now £29.97, Amazon
Regatta Men's Thermogen Heated Softshell Jacket
Regatta’s Thermogen Heated Softshell Jacket for men looks like a classic black jacket, but it’s so much more. Waterproof and hi-tech, the heated softshell number features a smart rechargeable copper heating zone that's connected to microwires within the waterproof jacket, ensuring water will never get in. A vibrant orange lining adds a touch of flair and visibility to boot.
Buy now £99.95, Regatta
Blazewear Women’s Explorer Jacket - Navy
Using TriZone Heat Technology with heating elements across the chest and on the back, the Explorer jacket puts outdoor pursuits back on the cards. It uses a rechargeable 5V power bank, which once connected, offers three heat settings so you can reach your desired level of toastiness with the push of a button.
Besides the built-in central heating, the jacket is filled with Thermolite insulation, which will cloak you in warmth alone, while fleece-lined front pockets help keep your mitts warm too - helpful if you forget your gloves.
Buy now £199.99, Blazewear
Rrtizan Heated Vest for Men and Women, Hood Heated Gilet
Whether you’re tending to the garden or nipping to the shops for supplies, this heated sleeveless jacket will be your white knight in keeping warm. Made from easy-care waterproof material, it heats up with 9 heating pads. The hood also helps protect your neck against wintry breezes. Available in small to large sizes.
Buy now £47.24, Amazon
