Helly Hansen during Black Friday

Moss, 1877: oilskin jackets for sailors

Helly Hansen was founded in 1877 in Moss, in southern Norway. Captain Helly Juell Hansen and his wife Maren Margarethe made jackets, trousers and oilskins from linen fabric soaked in linseed oil to protect seafarers from rain and spray. The brand kept its headquarters in Moss until 2009, before moving to Oslo. From this maritime origin, it has maintained a culture of workwear for extreme conditions: its offshore jackets equip sailors, and its ski gear is worn by many mountain professionals.

Other top brands

The Black Friday of top brands also includes:

• Schott.
• Faguo.
• adidas.
• Asics.
• Birkenstock.
• Crocs.

All top brands are gathered on the top brands page.

LIFA, Helly Tech: the three-layer system

Helly Hansen has built its reputation on a system of three layers that work together. Next to the skin, the LIFA fibre, developed in the 1970s from polypropylene, pushes sweat to the outside to keep the body dry. In the middle, the insulating layer made of fleece traps warm air. On the outside, the Helly Tech membrane, launched in 1980, blocks rain and wind while allowing moisture produced by effort to escape. This trio adjusts according to temperature: the middle layer is removed in spring, and doubled in the middle of winter.

Sailing, skiing or hiking jacket: which model

The sailing jacket Helly Hansen is recognised by its high collar, adjustable hood and waterproof cuffs that prevent water from running down the arms during maneuvers. The ski jacket adds insulation, a snow skirt and a pocket for the ski pass; it is cut a bit roomier to accommodate a fleece. The hiking jacket, lighter, compresses into the bag and comes out at the first downpour. For the city, an unlined waterproof jacket worn over a fleece suits both autumn trips and rainy winter days.

A gift idea Helly Hansen for winter

Before the holidays, a piece from Helly Hansen makes a useful gift for outdoor enthusiasts. The lightweight, easy-to-choose technical underwear LIFA accompanies skiers, hikers, and everyday cyclists under any jacket. The fleece, to be worn alone in mid-season or as an intermediate layer in winter, fits all styles. The waterproof jacket remains the most striking gift, provided you know the person's size and intended use: a sailor, skier or city dweller will not expect the same fit. A plain jacket in a sober colour can be worn in the city as well as in the mountains.

Frequently asked questions

How to choose your size at Helly Hansen?

Take your usual size, considering the layers worn underneath: ski jackets allow for a fleece, city jackets are closer fitting. The brand's size guide indicates chest, waist, and hip measurements.

How to wash a Helly Hansen jacket?

In the machine, at a low temperature, with zips closed, using detergent for technical garments and without fabric softener, which clogs the membrane's pores. A gentle drying rejuvenates the water-repellent; re-waterproof when the water no longer beads.

What do the two H's in the brand logo represent?

The two H's represent the initials of the founder, Helly Hansen. The logo appears on the chest or shoulder of jackets and fleeces, and professionals in the sea and mountains recognise it from afar.

Can a LIFA undershirt be worn alone?

Yes, in mild weather for intense effort, like a ski touring outing or a winter jog. Most often, it serves as a first layer under a fleece and jacket, to wick away sweat during effort.

Does Helly Hansen also dress children?

Yes, the brand offers ski jackets, fleeces and technical underwear in children's sizes, with the same membranes and a fit that is adapted. Sizes are chosen based on the child's stature, allowing a bit of room for growth.