The Technology Behind Helly Hansen Jackets: Waterproof, Windproof, and More

When it comes to outdoor gear, particularly jackets, technology plays a crucial role in ensuring both comfort and performance. Helly Hansen, a brand renowned for its high-quality, durable outdoor apparel, has been at the forefront of developing innovative technologies that protect you from the elements. From advanced waterproofing to breathable fabrics, the technology behind Helly Hansen jackets is designed to offer superior protection and comfort, allowing you to tackle harsh conditions with confidence.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the cutting-edge technologies that make Helly Hansen jackets stand out, from waterproofing and windproofing to insulation and breathability.

1. HellyTech®: Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathable

One of the cornerstone technologies in Helly Hansen jackets is HellyTech®, the brand’s proprietary fabric technology designed to offer optimal protection from wind, rain, and snow. HellyTech® is a versatile fabric system that is engineered to keep you dry while allowing your body to breathe, making it perfect for outdoor activities in various weather conditions.

Key Features of HellyTech®:

Waterproofing: HellyTech® uses a highly effective waterproof membrane that prevents water from penetrating the fabric. Whether you’re caught in a downpour or exposed to snow, the jacket keeps moisture out, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
Windproofing: In addition to being waterproof, HellyTech® also offers windproof protection, which is crucial when facing gusty conditions on the slopes or on a hiking trail. The membrane creates a barrier against the wind, preventing cold air from entering and ensuring warmth is retained.
Breathability: One of the unique aspects of HellyTech® is its breathability. The fabric is designed to allow moisture vapor to escape from the inside, preventing you from getting sweaty and damp. This is especially important during high-intensity activities like skiing or hiking, where body temperature fluctuates frequently.

There are different levels of HellyTech® technology depending on the specific jacket model, ranging from HellyTech® Protection (the most versatile and breathable option) to HellyTech® Professional (ideal for extreme conditions and more demanding activities).

2. H2Flow™: Adaptive Insulation for Temperature Control

Helly Hansen’s H2Flow™ technology takes insulation to the next level by adapting to your activity level, helping you stay comfortable in a variety of conditions. Traditional insulation can either leave you too hot or too cold depending on whether you’re moving or resting. H2Flow™ solves this problem by using ventilation channels that open and close automatically to regulate body temperature.

How H2Flow™ Works:

Heat Regulation: When you’re active and generating body heat, the ventilation channels open to release excess warmth and moisture. On the other hand, when you slow down or stop, the channels close, trapping heat and ensuring you stay warm.
Breathability and Comfort: This dynamic system prevents you from feeling overheated during high-energy activities or too cold when you’re stationary. It offers superior comfort and warmth control, making it perfect for outdoor adventures where the temperature can change rapidly.

H2Flow™ technology is particularly useful in jackets designed for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, where conditions and your level of exertion can fluctuate throughout the day.

3. PrimaLoft® Insulation: Warmth Without the Bulk

Many Helly Hansen jackets feature PrimaLoft® insulation, a lightweight, synthetic material that provides excellent warmth-to-weight performance. Unlike traditional down insulation, which can lose its insulating properties when wet, PrimaLoft® retains its warmth even in damp conditions, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who might encounter snow, rain, or moisture.

Key Benefits of PrimaLoft® Insulation:

Water-Resistant: One of the standout features of PrimaLoft® insulation is its water resistance. Even when wet, it continues to provide warmth, unlike down, which clumps and loses its insulating properties when soaked.
Lightweight and Packable: Despite its superior warmth, PrimaLoft® insulation is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to move in and comfortable to wear. It’s also highly compressible, so it can be packed down into a small space when not needed.
Breathable: Just like the HellyTech® fabric, PrimaLoft® insulation is breathable, ensuring you don’t overheat when you’re active.

The combination of PrimaLoft® insulation and HellyTech® waterproof technology makes Helly Hansen jackets ideal for cold, wet environments, offering both warmth and protection from the elements without excessive bulk.

4. Recco® Reflector: A Safety Feature for Outdoor Adventures

Helly Hansen jackets are equipped with Recco® reflectors, a technology designed to enhance safety in remote, avalanche-prone areas. While it doesn’t replace traditional avalanche safety gear, the Recco® system can be a crucial tool for rescue teams if you’re ever caught in an avalanche.

How Recco® Works:

Reflectors: A small Recco® reflector is embedded into the jacket, allowing rescuers to locate you quickly in case of an emergency. The reflector interacts with Recco® detectors used by search and rescue teams, providing a signal that can help pinpoint your location.
Non-Electronic and Hassle-Free: The Recco® reflector is a passive system, meaning it doesn’t require any batteries or maintenance. Simply wearing the jacket with the Recco® reflector gives you an added layer of security during your outdoor pursuits.

This technology is particularly valuable for those engaging in backcountry skiing, mountaineering, or hiking in avalanche-prone regions. While it’s not a substitute for proper avalanche safety gear, it adds an extra layer of protection when you’re in the wild.

5. Bluesign® Certified Fabrics: Sustainable Manufacturing

Sustainability is an important consideration for modern outdoor gear, and Helly Hansen is committed to reducing its environmental footprint. Many of the brand’s jackets are made using Bluesign® certified fabrics, which ensures that the materials used in the manufacturing process meet strict environmental standards.

Benefits of Bluesign® Certification:

Sustainable Materials: Bluesign® certified fabrics are made from environmentally friendly materials that are produced using fewer chemicals and with less water consumption than traditional processes.
Ethical Production: The Bluesign® standard also monitors the entire production process to ensure safe working conditions and a minimal environmental impact.
Longer-Lasting Gear: By focusing on durable materials and ethical production, Bluesign® helps ensure that your Helly Hansen jacket not only performs well but also lasts longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Choosing jackets made with Bluesign® certified fabrics means you’re investing in gear that’s both high-performance and environmentally responsible.

6. 2-Way Stretch Fabrics: Enhanced Mobility

Outdoor activities often require a range of movements, whether you’re skiing, climbing, or hiking. Helly Hansen jackets incorporate 2-way stretch fabrics, which offer increased flexibility and mobility, allowing you to move freely without restriction.

Key Benefits of 2-Way Stretch:

Increased Comfort: Stretch fabrics ensure that the jacket moves with your body, whether you’re lifting your arms to ski or reaching for something on a climb.
Better Fit: The fabric also adapts to your body, offering a better, more comfortable fit without sacrificing warmth or performance.

Conclusion: Helly Hansen Jackets Lead the Way in Outdoor Technology

Helly Hansen jackets are built to withstand the harshest conditions, thanks to the brand’s dedication to innovation. With technologies like HellyTech® waterproofing, H2Flow™ adaptive insulation, PrimaLoft® warmth, Recco® reflectors, and Bluesign® certified fabrics, these jackets offer a winning combination of performance, comfort, and sustainability.

Whether you’re skiing in extreme conditions, hiking through snow-covered trails, or simply navigating unpredictable weather, Helly Hansen’s jackets ensure you stay warm, dry, and protected. The technology behind these jackets is designed not just for comfort, but also for enhanced safety and environmental responsibility, making them an excellent choice for outdoor adventurers who demand both high performance and eco-conscious gear.