Helly Hansen Odin Everdown jacket review: Gamechanging warmth to weight
A lightweight and impressively warm jacket designed for layering or standalone wear in the mountains. The Helly Hansen Odin Everdown punches above its weight in insulation while remaining exceptionally packable. But does it justify its price tag? We put it to the test in the UK's unpredictable conditions.
Helly Hansen Odin Everdown down jacket
Ideal for: Winter mountaineering, wildcamping, 3-season hiking, ultralight trips, fastpacking and bikepacking
Not suitable for: Wetter conditions or use during high-intensity activity
The lightest jacket we’ve ever tested, the Odin Everdown is an award-winning, top-of-the-range down jacket from Norwegian powerhouse Helly Hansen. Weighing pretty much bang on 300 grams in men’s medium, this jacket delivers heavyweight warmth in a breathtakingly lightweight package — all thanks to some seriously impressive developments in down tech that we expect to be the next big gamechanger.
The Good
Unbeatable warmth to weight
Packs down tiny
Comes with stuff sack
The Bad
On the pricier end of the spectrum
Helly Hansen Odin Everdown
The Helly Hansen Odin Everdown down jacket is marketed as a super warm yet lightweight mid or outer layer for cold-weather adventures. Weighing in at just 313 grams (in medium) and packing down to a remarkably small size, it’s a jacket designed to offer serious warmth without taking up much space in your rucksack. But at its recommended retail price, is it worth the investment?
To find out, we took the Odin Everdown on a series of adventures across the UK, testing it in everything from crisp mountain mornings to damp and blustery hill walks. We wanted to see how well it held up in real conditions—whether it could genuinely deliver the warmth and practicality Helly Hansen promises.
Our experience with the Odin Everdown
Features that stand out
One of the most interesting aspects of the Odin Everdown is its use of Thindown, a material that blends the warmth of down with the structure of synthetic insulation. The benefit? More consistent heat distribution, fewer cold spots, and improved durability compared to traditional down jackets.
Another standout feature is the jacket’s breathability. We found it regulated temperature well, avoiding the overheating issues that can plague bulkier insulated layers. The outer fabric also offers some wind resistance, though it’s by no means a replacement for a dedicated windproof or waterproof shell.
The fit is another plus. The cut is athletic but not restrictive, with enough room for layering. The cuffs and hem seal in warmth effectively, and the hood fits well without feeling oversized. However, those with broader shoulders may find it slightly snug.
The jacket’s lightweight construction also makes it ideal for high-output activities like fast hiking, ski touring, and scrambling. You can easily stash it in a pack without it taking up much space, which makes it a great emergency layer for changeable conditions.
Where it shines—and where it doesn’t
The Odin Everdown excels in scenarios where packability and warmth-to-weight ratio are key. It’s a great choice for multi-day hikes, fast-and-light missions, or as an emergency layer stashed in your pack. The lightweight construction means you hardly notice you’re carrying it, yet it delivers impressive warmth when needed.
That said, it’s not without its drawbacks. While it performs admirably in cold, dry conditions, it struggles when damp. Like most down products, its insulation properties take a hit when exposed to prolonged moisture, so a good shell layer is essential in wet weather. The price is also on the higher side, and while the technology is impressive, there are similarly warm jackets available for less.
We also found that while the Thindown insulation provides great warmth, it lacks the loft and plush feel of traditional down. Some users might prefer the cozy, pillowy sensation that higher-fill-power down provides. Additionally, the jacket’s shell material, while lightweight and wind-resistant, is not the most durable. Those venturing into rocky or brush-filled environments should take care to avoid snags and abrasions.
Real-world testing: how did it perform?
We took the Odin Everdown on a variety of adventures to see how it held up under real-world conditions. On a winter hiking trip in the Cairngorms, it proved to be an excellent mid-layer beneath a hard shell. The breathability meant we didn’t overheat on steep ascents, while the insulation trapped enough warmth to keep us comfortable when stopping for breaks.
In the Lake District, we tested its ability as an outer layer on cold, dry days. The wind resistance was decent, though in stronger gusts, a more protective shell would have been beneficial. The hood, while well-fitted, could have used a bit more adjustability for added protection.
During a wet and blustery weekend in Snowdonia, we saw its biggest weakness—moisture resistance. While light drizzle beaded off the fabric, sustained exposure to rain left the insulation feeling damp, reducing its ability to retain heat. This is something to bear in mind if you’re frequently out in unpredictable UK weather.
We also tested the Odin Everdown in more urban settings, such as commuting on cold mornings and wearing it during casual outings. The streamlined design and lack of excessive branding made it a stylish and functional piece for everyday use. It worked well when transitioning from outdoor adventures to city life, making it a solid all-rounder for those who want a jacket that performs both on and off the trails.
Durability and long-term performance
Durability is always a key concern with lightweight insulated jackets, and while the Odin Everdown is well-made, we did notice some signs of wear after extended use. The outer shell is relatively thin, which helps keep weight down, but it also means you need to be careful around sharp objects or rough surfaces. If you plan on using this jacket heavily, especially in rugged environments, a reinforced or ripstop outer fabric might be a better choice.
The insulation itself held up well over time. Some down jackets tend to develop cold spots as the insulation shifts around inside the baffles, but thanks to the structured nature of Thindown, this wasn’t an issue. The warmth remained consistent even after months of wear, which is a significant advantage.
Value for money
At its price point, the Odin Everdown is competing with some heavyweight outdoor brands. The innovative Thindown insulation and exceptional packability certainly make it a tempting option, but if you’re looking for absolute versatility, there are synthetic options that handle wet conditions better.
That said, if you’re after a lightweight, high-performance jacket for dry, cold conditions, this is a compelling choice. Its warmth-to-weight ratio is impressive, and it’s well-suited to a range of mountain activities where every gram counts.
It’s also worth noting that Helly Hansen’s reputation for quality and durability means this jacket should last for years with proper care. While it’s not the cheapest insulated layer on the market, it offers solid performance and innovative materials that justify the cost for those who need a highly packable cold-weather solution.
Who should buy this jacket?
This jacket is ideal for fast-moving hikers, climbers, and backcountry skiers who need a warm but packable layer for cold conditions. It’s best suited for dry environments, making it perfect for crisp autumn days, alpine adventures, and high-altitude pursuits where warmth without bulk is a priority.
If you often find yourself in damp conditions, you may be better served by a synthetic alternative. Likewise, if you prefer a plush down feel, you might find the structured insulation of Thindown a little different from what you’re used to.
FAQ Title
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It’s incredibly warm — especially for its weight. The Thindown insulation delivers even heat with no cold spots, keeping you comfortable down to freezing with just a base layer. It’s not a deep winter belay jacket, but for UK conditions, it’s one of the most efficient layers we’ve tested.
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Ideal for winter hiking, ski touring, and lightweight backpacking. It’s designed for cold conditions where warmth, low weight, and packability matter. Whether you’re on the move or stopping to take in the view, it delivers reliable insulation and comfort in wintry, dry, and windy weather.
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It isn’t waterproof. The outer is lightly water-resistant and the Thindown copes better with moisture than traditional down, but it still loses warmth when wet. You’ll need a shell if rain’s forecast.
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Yes, if you value performance. It’s expensive, but the warmth-to-weight ratio is superb and the Thindown tech is genuinely impressive. One of the best ultralight insulation layers we’ve tested.
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Surprisingly durable for its weight. The outer fabric is light but tough, the zip is excellent, and the build quality is solid. With care, it’ll handle years of regular UK use.
Conclusion
For those who value packability and warmth, the Helly Hansen Odin Everdown down jacket might be the strongest contender on the market right now. It’s an excellent option for cold-weather layering and lightweight adventures, particularly in dry, windy conditions where its unique Thindown construction really shines. Whether you’re pulling it on for a summit stop, chucking it in your bag for backup warmth, or relying on it at camp, it’s a remarkably efficient bit of kit.
If you’re after a versatile, ultralight insulated jacket and don’t mind the premium price tag, this could be a worthwhile investment. However, if you frequently find yourself in prolonged wet conditions, you might want to consider a synthetic or waterproof-insulated alternative.
Overall, this is a well-engineered jacket that offers an excellent balance of warmth and weight. It’s not the most budget-friendly option, nor is it the most water-resistant, but for the right user — someone who prioritises low pack weight and dependable performance — it could be a game-changer.
With proper layering and care, the Odin Everdown is a reliable companion for chilly adventures. It’s the sort of jacket you grab for fast, light missions in unpredictable weather, and for the right sort of hillwalker, trail runner, or mountain-goer, it’ll earn its place in your pack time and again.
