Tommy Hilfiger unveils gadget-charging jackets

Tommy Hilfiger has teamed up with solar manufacturer Pvilion to announce a range of solar panel jackets that let wearers charge their gadgets on the move.

The removal panels on the winterwear feature solar cells that keep topping up the 6000mAh battery stored in the pocket. When users notice they're running out of juice, they simply plug their device into one of the two USB ports and top it up.

There's a jacket for both men and women, because apparently one size doesn't fit all. For the fashion-conscious, the jackets are made from tartan-style material with contrasting waterproof sleeves and shoulder panels, where the solar sections attach.

A cable discreetly runs from the solar section to the pocket, meaning there aren't any unsightly wires while wearers strut their stuff on the commute to work.

Tommy Hilfiger reckons the jacket holds enough power when fully-charged to power a smartphone, tablet or iPod up to four times, although this will depend on the capacity of the gadget's battery.

Users also have the option to remove the battery when the sun's not out - and charge it via the mains using the USB connector.

The jackets reportedly cost around 300 (278 for the male version and 302 for the female version).

However, if you want to help your conscience, the fact that half of the proceeds go to Tommy Hilfiger's Fresh Air fund, which helps UK charities including Save the Children, the WWF and War Child, should help.

Clare Hopping
Freelance writer

Clare is the founder of Blue Cactus Digital, a digital marketing company that helps ethical and sustainability-focused businesses grow their customer base.

Prior to becoming a marketer, Clare was a journalist, working at a range of mobile device-focused outlets including Know Your Mobile before moving into freelance life.

As a freelance writer, she drew on her expertise in mobility to write features and guides for ITPro, as well as regularly writing news stories on a wide range of topics.