Helly Hansen

Helly Hansen has been producing outdoor gear since 1877, making them one of the oldest and most trusted names in the industry. Born out of Norway’s brutal maritime environment, the brand’s earliest focus was on protecting sailors and fishermen from the unforgiving conditions of the North Sea. Over time, that deep-rooted understanding of weather protection naturally evolved into a broader outdoor offering, expanding into snow sports, hiking, mountaineering and workwear — while always keeping performance and practicality at the core.

Today, Helly Hansen is recognised worldwide for creating gear that feels robust, functional and fit for real-world use. Their clothing range covers everything from technical ski jackets to hiking shells, insulated layers and waterproof trousers, all designed with a clean, practical approach that doesn’t rely on gimmicks. In our experience, Helly Hansen kit tends to focus on getting the basics absolutely right: weather protection, breathability, durability and ease of use.

At the same time, Helly Hansen hasn’t stood still. They’ve been early adopters of important material innovations, including removing forever chemicals (PFCs) from their waterproof gear ahead of much of the industry. They’ve also experimented with new technologies like Thindown insulation — a clever material that combines the loft and warmth of down with the durability and moisture resistance of synthetic fills. It’s this blend of tradition and quiet innovation that keeps Helly Hansen relevant for modern outdoor users.

If you’re searching for the best Helly Hansen gear for British conditions, our Helly Hansen gear reviews dig into the jackets, midlayers and outdoor equipment we’ve properly tested across everything from wet hill days to snowy mountain treks. Whether you’re navigating boggy trails or carving turns on a winter trip abroad, Helly Hansen kit is built to perform when it matters.