There are lots of things to love about the Oodie – the oversized wearable blanket that’s quickly become a millennial icon. But, its style as status is not high on the list. Fortunately, we discovered an excellent alternative that sits somewhere between an old-school electric blanket, the body of a warm partner and a classic heater – that’s infinitely chicer, doesn’t have commitment issues and comes with way less risk of burning your house down.
With Winter marking its official entrance across Australia last week, the time is opportune for many Aussies to dust off all their cold-weather essentials. However, for those looking to invest in something a little sexier than their thick thermals, our suggestion is a Stoov Big Hug XL, which, unlike your average electric throw, uses infrared heating to warm you. Not the air around you.
It’s the kind of tech that delivers a deep, to-the-bone kind of warmth that you usually only get from direct sun or a really solid cuddle. But, there’s no awkward crackling you get with old-school electric blankets. Or even more awkward feeling of disentangling yourself from another body. This thing is smooth, soft and manufactured to stick around like a serious relationship.
Designed to drape over your chair like an ultra-luxe shawl, the Stoov Big Hug’s hidden carbon fibre heating panels target your back and seat, making it ideal for long Netflix marathons where your movie buddy just isn’t pulling his or her weight. And, with three adjustable heat settings (a single press toggles between warm, warmer and oh wow, yes please), you’re always in control of your cosy levels.
It’s also cordless. The rechargeable battery slips discreetly into a pocket and delivers up to seven hours of warmth, depending on which one you go for. Whether you’re sipping wine on the balcony, glamping in the great outdoors, or freezing your toes off at your local footy match, the Big Hug lets you BYO heat (up to 58 degrees of it!). And, you can still use it while it’s charging … just in case you forget to top up the juice before heading out.
Other excellent features. include an automatic shut-off for peace of mind, overheating protection, and removable, washable covers (Woolly or Original – depending on your aesthetic) and even muscle relaxant abilities – due to the infrared warmth. Which makes all excuses for avoiding exercise due to the arctic blast null and void.
And for the eco-conscious, Stoov also comes through strong on the sustainability front. From recycled plastic inners to smart packaging and tree-planting partnerships in Tanzania, this is a blanket with benefits – both personal and planetary. Plus, by heating yourself directly rather than the whole room, you’re cutting down on energy bills and emissions. Snuggly and smug? Say less.
So, is the Stoov Big Hug worth it? Absolutely. Warm, wireless, and well-designed, it’s the Winter companion you never knew you needed. Less slouchy than an Oodie, far more refined than a dusty old heater and probably sweeter than your significant other, this sleek, infrared-powered wonder is the upgrade your cold-weather routine’s been waiting for.
Fair warning, though: once you’ve experienced this level of comfort, you’ll want one for every chair you own. And possibly one for your plus one.
