Updated on: 27 Aug 2025 | By Actual Article
Sailing in challenging waters demands gear that can withstand unpredictable weather, intense wind, and constant water exposure. This is where Helly Hansen, a global leader in marine and outdoor gear, comes into play. Known for its innovation and high-performance products, Helly Hansen sailing gear is trusted by professional sailors, offshore racers, and weekend yachters alike.
Founded in 1877 in Norway, Helly Hansen started with oilskin jackets for fishermen battling the harsh Norwegian seas. Over the decades, it evolved into a globally respected brand known for technical sailing gear. Today, it's a go-to choice for coastal cruising, offshore expeditions, and professional sailing teams.
When it comes to sailing jackets, Helly Hansen offers multiple options tailored to specific environments:
- Ægir Race Jacket 2.0 – Designed for offshore sailing, featuring HELLY TECH® Professional fabric and fully sealed seams.
- Skagen Offshore Jacket – Great for both inshore and offshore adventures.
- Pier 3.0 Coastal Jacket – More affordable yet highly effective for coastal sailors.
All jackets come with reflective elements, adjustable cuffs, and double storm flaps to provide full protection on deck.
Pair your jacket with Helly Hansen’s range of sailing trousers:
- Skagen Offshore Bib – Durable, waterproof, and breathable.
- HP Foil Pants – Ideal for fast-paced inshore sailing.
These pants feature reinforced seat and knee areas, quick-dry lining, and articulated knees for better mobility.
Footwear matters on slippery decks. Helly Hansen offers:
- Sailing Sneakers – Lightweight and designed for grip.
- Waterproof Deck Boots – For colder and rougher environments.
Each shoe is engineered with non-marking rubber outsoles and drainage systems to ensure safety and comfort.
Helly Hansen uses LIFA® and LIFALOFT® technologies to regulate body temperature:
- Base Layers (LIFA®) wick moisture away and keep skin dry.
- Mid Layers (LIFALOFT®) offer lightweight insulation without bulk.
Layering properly can greatly improve endurance and comfort during extended sails.
HELLY TECH® is the brand’s proprietary membrane technology that is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Variants include:
- HELLY TECH® Protection – For light rain and wind.
- HELLY TECH® Performance – Designed for high activity in severe weather.
- HELLY TECH® Professional – Extreme protection for offshore sailing.
Selection depends on sailing type (offshore/inshore), weather, and individual fit. Prioritize gear that offers high waterproof ratings, ventilation, and ergonomic designs. Always opt for bright colors or reflective details for safety.
Helly Hansen offers full sailing kits for men, women, and children. Their unisex designs with ergonomic tailoring ensure everyone has access to high-performance gear. Women-specific fits like the Skagen Offshore Women's jacket ensure maximum comfort without compromising protection.
You can purchase Helly Hansen gear from:
- Amazon UK
- Helly Hansen Official Website
- Marine outfitters like Wetsuit Outlet & Marine Super Store
Look for seasonal discounts, especially during Black Friday and clearance sales.
Proper care increases the lifespan of your sailing gear:
- Rinse with fresh water after every sail.
- Use mild detergent and cold wash.
- Avoid tumble drying – hang dry only.
- Re-waterproof with spray-on treatments annually.
Helly Hansen sailing gear is praised for its durability, fit, and weather resistance. Some users note that sizing runs slightly large, and high-end items may be costly. However, the quality and long-term value often justify the investment.
Compared to brands like Musto and Gill:
- Helly Hansen stands out with its innovative fabrics and sleek Scandinavian design.
- Musto offers more customization and is popular in professional sailing circuits.
- Gill is often budget-friendly but lacks HH’s high-tech offerings.
According to 2024 sales reports:
- UK, USA, Germany, and Norway are the top markets.
- Sailing jackets and waterproof bibs lead the sales.
- Helly Hansen saw a 12% YoY growth in sailing gear sales.
Amazon and HH.com remain top-selling platforms. The most frequently purchased items are the Skagen and Ægir series jackets.
Helly Hansen plans to expand its eco-friendly sailing gear line by 2026. With a commitment to sustainable materials and circular fashion, they aim to introduce recyclable waterproof membranes and zero-waste production processes. Expect more AI-integrated smart fabrics that adjust to weather in real-time.
Helly Hansen caters to all levels of sailors. Beginners often appreciate the balance between affordability and protection offered by the Pier 3.0 Coastal Jacket or HP Foil Pants. These provide essential waterproofing and comfort without overwhelming features. Professionals, on the other hand, go for the Ægir series, which is engineered for extreme offshore conditions. These advanced jackets and bibs include reinforced designs, advanced breathability, and integrated safety features such as emergency whistle pockets and reflective hoods.
For warm weather sailing, lightweight base layers made with LIFA® ACTIVE are recommended. These wick sweat effectively and dry quickly. In cold and wet environments, combining LIFA® base layers with LIFALOFT® mid layers and HELLY TECH® outer shells ensures thermal efficiency. Sailors in Nordic regions often add fleece-lined insulation for extra warmth, while Mediterranean sailors prioritize UV-resistant and quick-dry layers.
Helly Hansen is pushing towards a greener future. Many of their 2025 collections now feature recycled materials, including ocean-bound plastics. The brand has committed to becoming carbon-neutral by 2030, investing in sustainable supply chains and low-emission production. Their new line of Eco Ocean gear is set to feature biodegradable membranes and water-repellent coatings free from harmful PFCs (perfluorinated compounds).
"As a yacht skipper in the English Channel, Helly Hansen is my only choice. The gear keeps me dry even in the roughest squalls." – James H., Southampton.
"We outfitted our entire crew with Helly Hansen for a transatlantic race. Not a single complaint. Worth every penny." – Laura F., New York.
These firsthand reviews reflect the trust Helly Hansen has earned through quality performance at sea.
Helly Hansen partners with top sailing events and teams, including the World Match Racing Tour and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). These collaborations allow the brand to test products in extreme conditions and gather feedback from elite sailors. The continuous improvements derived from these partnerships fuel product innovation for everyday consumers.
Looking ahead, Helly Hansen is investing in smart apparel technology. Prototypes are underway for jackets with built-in sensors that monitor body temperature and external weather conditions. This data can sync with a mobile app to alert wearers when to add or remove layers. Additionally, future collections will explore 3D-knitted garments, reducing seams and increasing flexibility.
If you're serious about sailing, investing in Helly Hansen gear is a smart move. Their heritage, innovation, and durability make them an industry leader. Whether you're gearing up for a regatta or a coastal weekend sail, HH gear ensures you stay dry, warm, and safe.
Find Helly Hansen Sailing Gear at Amazon UK
