Appearance and function match the final product, but is made with different manufacturing methods.

Looks like the final product, but is not functional.

Demonstrates the functionality of the final product, but looks different.

A prototype is a preliminary model of something. Projects that offer physical products need to show backers documentation of a working prototype. This gallery features photos, videos, and other visual documentation that will give backers a sense of what’s been accomplished so far and what’s left to do. Though the development process can vary for each project, these are the stages we typically see:

These photos and videos provide a detailed look at this project’s development.

Chi - Energy, Life Force

2 Patterns - 2 Sizes

7.4 V Vest shown with matching power pack

Free Magnetic Flat USB cable ($5 value) - just share our campaign with the share buttons for Facebook, Twitter, email. Then Post a comment: "I shared Chi Vest on __ , add Free flat cable".

Who is Chi Vest for?

Anyone that wants to be warm when needed. No need to wear layers of thick and heavy sweaters, vests, or coats - and then have to take them off when it gets warm.

Football fans - freeze no more!

Bikers, hikers, joggers, golfers, hunters, fishermen - stay out longer, stay nimble and get an edge over your competition.

You work long hours outdoors? Chi Vest fits over or under your uniform with no extra weight or bulk.

Senior citizens and even athletes with back muscle pains or poor circulation can get pain relief without being tied down.

Computer Design Process

Why is Chi Vest better than other heated garments?

Compatible – 2 patterns and thin materials fit into any environment or under jackets without bulk or clashing with your style.

Why look like a polar bear when you can stay thin and wear your favorite jacket or football jersey on the outside?

Patent protected system to adjust the length, width, vertical positioning and intensity of the heat pads

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) guidelines were followed to design the heat pads and positioning for optimum heating and relaxing of core muscles and circulation to internal organs.

Only Chi Vest has 3 back + 2 front heat pads (others have 1 back) to provide heat for muscle relief while working or resting at home.

Separate front and back heat zones for maximum comfort control

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The 7.4 V rechargeable lithium ion power pack is the most powerful made for heated garments (up to 300% more capacity than others). It enables the Chi's lowest temperature to be equal to the highest temperature of most other heated garments.

Use year round for work, leisure, and health without the weight of extra clothing, or being stuck to a plug in heating pad at home

Top grade materials and electronic components combined with professional craftsmanship for long reliable service in all weather conditions

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Features

Adjustable width and length two sizes options: ​

SMALL: (5 feet to 5.5 feet) Adjustable length 55 - 58 CM (21.7 - 22.8 inches) Adjustable width (girth) 101 - 125 CM (40 - 49 inches)

Adjustable length 55 - 58 CM (21.7 - 22.8 inches) Adjustable width (girth) 101 - 125 CM (40 - 49 inches) LARGE: (5.5 feet to 6.5 feet) Adjustable length 68 - 71 CM (26.8 - 27.9 inches) Adjustable width (girth) 110 - 134 CM (43 - 53 inches)

Detailed features and specifications are on the bottom of this page.

How does Chi Vest work?

The Chi Vest is our 2nd generation design and has:

more carbon fibers for faster heat up time, and higher temperature

5 vs. 3 heating pads for more body coverage

2 separate heat zone controls for maximum comfort

7.4 V or 5 V power pack versions available

The rechargeable power pack plugs into the control unit, and powers the carbon fiber heating elements for fast and safe heat. They are flexible and will not overheat, short circuit, or burn.

Why 3 heating pads in the lower back location?

We also make heating belts for pain relief according to Traditional Chinese Medicine guidelines, and discovered that the if the pads were in the middle back or higher up between the shoulder blades, they were not as efficient or effective. This advanced design heats the lower back muscles and is more balanced for heating the legs and upper back too. Plus the locations are TCM proven to also improve circulation.

Rewards (shipping is included)

You can let us know the style and size choice when you return the survey in September.

7.4 V or 5 V?

We added the 5 V version to be compatible with any standard 5 V, 2 A power bank so you can use one that you already own, or get it locally. The 5 V 2 A option has slightly slower heat up time (about 15 seconds more), while single zone temperature is about the same. When BOTH zones are on, the maximum temperature is 50 C or 122 F, which is still high enough for most people. 7.4 V Vests are only sold in a set, with the matching power pack.

Single Chi Vest Only (Retail $100) - $55

This 5 Volt model can be powered with any standard 5 Volt, 2 Amp battery power bank (minimum 4,000 mAh recommended). Add a power bank from us by just changing your pledge Total. You will choose the size and style before shipping.

Single 7.4 V Set (Retail $160)

Early Supporter $85

Kickstarter $95

Two 7.4 V Sets (Retail $320)

Early Supporter $160

Kickstarter $180

Four 7.4 V Sets (Retail $640)

Early Supporter $290

Kickstarter $330

Custom colors, patterns, logo, and sizes are available for minimum order of 500 sets - please email sales@heatkraft.com

Extra 7.4 V Power Pack (Retail $56)

$30 - can only be ordered with a Chi Vest. Just change the Reward Pledge total, and email us afterwards.

When will we ship?

February 2018 and earlier, if possible.

Who are we?

Heat Kraft designs electronic heated garments and accessories for private label clients, such as gloves, socks, belts, masks. We are based in California, and our manufacturing partner is based in Hong Kong and China. Our clients are in North America, Japan, and Europe.

What we need and why?

After designing and producing heated garments and accessories for different clients for the last 3 years, we decided in March 2017, that it's time for us to make our own design with the best unique features.

Rather than spending huge amounts on marketing and then add it to the end user cost, we decided that Kickstarter is the perfect platform for us to launch the Chi Vest, and get valuable and useful feedback from the members. In fact, we already added some suggestions to this design

How can we keep our schedule?

We have shipped over 10,000 units of the previous heated vest and are familiar with the scheduling that is required. The fabric patterns is different, and the 3 back heating pads will have to be custom made, but everything else is usually in stock.

In order to keep within our schedule, please return surveys after the campaign ends so we can collect your shipping and selection info.

September: campaign ends - we will send surveys for your shipping info after funds are collected (usually 15 days later)

October: we will order the components and materials because the fabric patterns and heating pads are not our usual stock

November / December: components arrive and production sample is made for our final approval

January: production starts

February: shipping starts

Specifications

Breathable polyester outer shell

Mesh inner liner (matching with outer shell)

5 carbon fiber heating pads

2 separate heat zone controls

Hand washable

3 rows of snaps on each shoulder

3 position zippers width adjustment

2 front pockets

Temperature Level - Duration - Button Color

High 70-75 ℃ 3-4 hours Red

Medium 60-65 ℃ 5-6 hours White

Low 40-45 ℃ 7-8 hours Blue

Each Chi Vest Package includes: Chi vest, rechargeable Battery power pack, USB to micro USB cable 1 YEAR WARRANTY

7.4 V Battery power pack

The most powerful rechargeable Lithium-ion battery power pack available specifically made for heating pads