Helly Hansen manufactures apparel for all types of outdoor activities, but their main areas of focus are skiing and sailing. Helly Hansen is fast becoming one of the most popular brands for the adventurer seeking to battle against nature's forces due to its durability, performance and protection. Read on to find out more about this awesome brand, its history, technology and latest competitions.
HeritageHelly Hansen was founded in 1877 by Norwegian captain Helly Juell Hansen and his wife Maren Margarethe. After years at sea, they launched oilskin jackets and trousers that sold like hot cakes in the European market. Since its launch, Helly Hansen has been a frontrunner in introducing innovative technologies in outdoor apparel and breakthrough principles, like the popular 3-Layer System.
Helly TechHelly Hansen technology, or Helly Tech as it was named back in 1980, uses a combination of hydrophilic and microporous knowledge to produce apparel that is both waterproof and breathable. In vigorous outdoor conditions, either in the snow or at sea, Helly Hansen gear works with you to protect you from Mother Nature. You stay dry but you aren't so compact that your skin cannot breath. Helly Tech has had a profound impact on outdoor apparel in the 21st Century.
Athletes & PartnersHelly Hansen is the chosen apparel at all of Vail Resorts because of its incredible quality and protection. Along with Vail, Helly Hansen sponsors events, such as the 2012 Sydney Regatta and sponsors movies like The Attack of La Nina. Helly Hansen also boasts some top European athletes, more specifically skiers Anna Haag, Aurelien Ducroz and Emil Jonsson.
Why I love itI can honestly say I have never been anything but completely comfortable in my Helly Hansen gear. Temperature comfortable. Protection comfortable. Coziness comfortable. It doesn't allow you to get too hot or too cold, just a perfect happy medium. The same cannot be said for many of my other ski products.
Big Mountain BattleThis season, Helly Hansen has launched the 4th Big Mountain Battle, an event for skiers wishing to take on big mountains across North America. In teams of two, skiers must seek out all the checkpoints on each mountain in a three-hour period. The competition pushes skiers to experience new areas of each mountain and ski terrain they didn't even know existed. The grand prize at each venue is $2,000 worth of Helly Hansen gear and automatic entry into the Final Battle in the Bowls in Aspen/Snowmass.
PurchaseHelly Hansen can be found in most cities across America and Europe along with their website. Outlet options are available for those more on a budget but still seeking the best in outdoor wear.
Have fun, be safe and keep warm.
--Kate Thomas