Helly Hansen

Buy Helly Hansen

Helly Hansen is a Norwegian brand that has been making protective clothing for use on the water and in extreme weather conditions for more than 140 years. The brand started as a producer of sailcloth and oilskins for Norwegian fishermen and sailors, and is now known for technical sailing clothing, layering systems for cold and wet weather, and casual maritime clothing for the marina. At Watersportsonline you will find the complete range: from offshore sailing suits and dry suits to midlayers, fleeces, caps and water sports shoes.

Helly Hansen range overview

Category	Products	Use
Sailing clothing	Sailing suits, dry suits, offshore jackets	Active sailing in all weather conditions
Sailing jacket	HPX, MPX, BR1-3, Aegir series	Waterproof protection when sailing and boating
Sailing trousers	Waterproof trousers, salopettes	Complementing the sailing jacket, on deck and in the cockpit
Jacket	Fleeces, midlayers, softshell jackets	Warmth and protection ashore and in the marina

All Helly Hansen clothing is designed on the layering principle: a Lifa base layer that transports moisture away from the skin, a mid layer that retains warmth, and an outer layer that protects against wind and water. You choose which layers to combine based on the weather and activity.

Helly Hansen sailing clothing: which protection level?

Helly Hansen divides technical sailing clothing into classes that indicate how severe the conditions are for which the clothing is suitable. The BR line (Boot Racing) is the entry line for sheltered waters and recreational sailing. The MPX line is the mid-range, suitable for more open waters and multi-day passages. The HPX line is the top class for offshore and heavy sailing: fully waterproof and seam-sealed. Choose the class based on how far from shore you sail and how long the passages are.

Frequently asked questions about Helly Hansen

What is the difference between the Helly Hansen BR1, MPX and HPX?

The three lines represent increasing levels of protection. The BR1 (Boot Racing 1) is the entry category: wind-resistant and water-repellent, suitable for recreational sailing in sheltered waters. The MPX (Midlayer Performance) offers better waterproofness and breathability for more open waters and multi-day passages. The HPX (High Performance) is the top class: fully waterproof, seam-sealed and offshore-certified. Choose the level based on distance from shore, wave height and passage duration.

Is Helly Hansen sailing clothing also suitable for other water sports?

Yes, Helly Hansen sailing clothing is versatile. The jackets and trousers are popular with motorboat users, sea anglers and SUP boarders who need protection from wind and rain. The Lifa base layers are also popular outside water sports as a thermal layer for skiing and outdoor activities in cold and wet weather. The casual jackets and fleeces are widely worn as marina wear or everyday clothing for those who enjoy the maritime style.

How do I care for Helly Hansen sailing clothing?

Wash technical sailing clothing at a maximum of 40°C without fabric softener. Fabric softener damages the DWR coating (Durable Water Repellency) causing water to be absorbed rather than beading off. Restore the DWR coating after washing by briefly tumble-drying the jacket at a low temperature or ironing it briefly on a low setting. Store the jacket loosely rolled, not compressed in a backpack or bag for extended periods.

What is the difference between a sailing suit and a dry suit?

A sailing suit consists of a separate sailing jacket and sailing trousers that overlap but are not fully sealed. It is suitable for active sailing where you occasionally get wet but are not submerged. A dry suit is a one-piece overall with sealed cuffs at the ankles, wrists and neck that keeps you completely dry when submerged. Dry suits are standard for dinghy sailing, catamaran sailing and racing sailing where there is a high chance of regularly ending up in the water. Helly Hansen has both types in its range.

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