Heater Bodysuit vs. Arctic Shield

When you head out into the cold for a long hunt, camping trip, or a frigid football game, staying warm isn’t just about comfort — it’s about actually enjoying your time outdoors. So when two products look almost exactly the same online but cost different amounts, the choice can get confusing. That’s where a real-world review can make all the difference.

I’ve been in the same spot as many of you. I bought both the Heater Body Suit and the Arctic Shield Insulated Bodysuit. I’ve worn them, tested them, and put them through some cold nights. And I can say right up front: while these suits might look identical at first glance, they are not the same. This post is all about breaking down the real differences between the Heater Bodysuit and the Arctic Shield so you can make your decision with confidence.

Introduction: The Search for Warmth

If you’re browsing gear online and debating between the Heater Body Suit and Arctic Shield, you’ve probably noticed they look almost exactly the same. Both are waterproof, both have hoods, both zip in the front, and both promise to keep you warm in cold weather. But looks can be very deceiving.

“Arctic Shield held nothing back into making a product that looks just like a heater bodysuit. But there is some very, very big differences, and I wanted to go over those.”

This review comes straight from hands-on experience — not just marketing claims or manufacturer specs. I’ve used both suits, and here’s what I found.

How They Look Alike: Shared Features

• Waterproof Material: Both suits will keep you dry in rain, snow, or sleet.
• Hood: Essential for shielding from wind and trapping heat.
• Front Zipper: Makes it easy to climb in and climb out quickly, no hassle.
• Safety Harness Slot: Slot in the back for threading your safety harness, crucial for tree stand hunting.
• Packability: Both can be rolled up for easier transport.

This is probably why so many people get confused — online photos make them look almost identical.

Heater Body Suit’s Carry Pack: The Backpack Advantage

• Heater Bodysuit: Rolls up into a backpack. Sling it on your back, freeing your arms to carry weapons, gear, or just keep your hands free.
• Arctic Shield: Also rollable, but the carrying system isn’t as convenient.

The backpack design of Heater Bodysuit is a huge win for hunters and anyone lugging gear into the wild.

Arctic Shield’s Unique Features

Arctic Shield tries to set itself apart with one main feature: double arm zippers.

• Double Arm Zippers: Two zippers on the right and left of the suit’s front, designed to let your arms out without unzipping the front.

“I find it a little crazy. Why not just unzip the front and zip, pull your arms out? Or you can unzip two zippers, one on each side, and get both arms out.”

These zippers seem unnecessary, especially considering they create insulation weak spots.

“Zippers aren’t insulated. So there’s a part of two strips in the front of you that isn’t insulated at all.”

The Problems with Arctic Shield’s Insulation

The Arctic Shield Insulated Bodysuit might look puffy and warm, but its insulation is misleading. They market “Retain Technology” (aluminized polypropylene core layer) to reflect body heat, but…

• No 3M Thinsulate: Arctic Shield does not use 3M Thinsulate, a proven insulator in cold-weather gear.
• No Clear Rating: No real claims about insulation weight or quality.

“Not only do I think that it’s ridiculous and it doesn’t work on the Arctic Shield part of things. It just doesn’t work.”

Independent R-Value Testing

• Heater Bodysuit: 3.9 (VERY good)
• Arctic Shield: 1.6 (low)

That’s more than double the warmth in a Heater Bodysuit!

Price Comparison and Value

Arctic Shield: $299
Heater Bodysuit: $369

It’s about $70 more for the Heater Bodysuit, but here’s what you get:

• 3M Thinsulate insulation that works
• Much higher R-value
• Better warranty
• Backpack carry system
• Trusted, proven track record

“So what are you getting for $70? … you are getting a suit that actually works.”

Heater Body Suit’s Insulation: Does It Actually Work?

The Heater Bodysuit is loaded with 200g 3M Thinsulate, and the Xtreme version adds another 160g Thermoguard! Lightweight but powerful insulation hunters trust.

R-Value: The Real Test of Warmth

Heater Bodysuit: 3.9
Arctic Shield: 1.6

• Higher R-value = Better insulation
• Lower R-value = More heat loss

The Heater Bodysuit Guarantee

“Not only that, the heater bodysuit has a money back guarantee. Not just any kind of guarantee. It keeps you warm or your money back.”

No Risk, All Reward:

• Money Back If You’re Not Warm
• No Other Company Offers This

When Does Arctic Shield Make Sense?

• Mild Winters: Fine for climates where “cold” means 50°F.
• Budget Buy: Cheaper option for occasional light cold.

“If you live in Florida, the Arctic Shield might be where you want to go…”

Extreme Cold: Heater Bodysuit Takes the Lead

• Northern Hunts: Sitting in a deer stand for hours.
• Winter Sports: Below-freezing football games.
• Winter Camping: Cold-weather tenting.
• Xtreme Line: Built for harsher climates.

“The heater body Suit, especially the new Heater Bodysuit Xtreme is the product to have. There’s just no comparison.”

Final Verdict: Apples vs. Oranges

• Heater Bodysuit: Worth every penny. Real insulation, practical features, and a money-back guarantee.
• Arctic Shield: Looks similar but lacks warmth. Okay for mild cold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use the Heater Bodysuit for other activities besides hunting?
   Yes. Camping, fishing, sports, or outdoor work — it works for all cold-weather use.
2. Is the Arctic Shield worth it for mild climates?
   Yes, if 50°F is your “cold.”
3. Are both suits waterproof?
   Yes.
4. Are the zippers on Arctic Shield really a problem?
   Yes, in freezing temps they leak cold.
5. How does the Heater Body Suit’s backpack system work?
   It rolls into its own pack with shoulder straps for easy carry.
6. Is Heater Body Suit bulky?
   Roomy but not overly bulky thanks to 3M Thinsulate.
7. What’s the warranty?
   Heater Bodysuit = money-back guarantee. Arctic Shield = standard manufacturer warranty.

Wrapping Up

If you’re comparing Heater Bodysuit and Arctic Shield online, don’t let the photos fool you. They’re two totally different animals. If staying warm is your top priority, Heater Bodysuit is the way to go. If you just need mild protection, Arctic Shield could be fine. But when you’re sitting outside for hours in freezing weather, the right gear isn’t just about price — it’s about staying warm and enjoying the outdoors.