Helly Hansen: A Brand for Sailors Who Don’t Want to Compromise

When people talk about sailing clothing, one of the first names that comes to mind is Helly Hansen. This Norwegian brand, with more than 140 years of history, was created to solve a simple problem: staying dry and warm in harsh weather at sea.

Today, Helly Hansen is one of the most trusted brands for yachting, outdoor activities and work in extreme conditions.

Helly Hansen History in Brief

The story of Helly Hansen begins in 19th-century Norway. Captain Helly Juell Hansen was looking for a way to protect himself and his crew from cold, wind and rain. The result was some of the first waterproof garments, which quickly spread among sailors and fishermen.

Since then, the brand has:

• developed clothing for demanding weather conditions,

• combined functional materials with smart cuts,

• become one of the leaders in membranes and technical fabrics designed for water and wind.

Why Helly Hansen on a Yacht

On a boat, clothing has to work without compromise. Helly Hansen is popular among sailors mainly because:

• the garments are designed specifically for conditions at sea,

• they protect against wind, rain and spray,

• they use modern membranes that are waterproof yet breathable,

• they last for multiple seasons with regular use.

When choosing gear for a cruise, Helly Hansen is a very common choice for jackets, mid layers and functional base layers.

Helly Hansen for Yachting: Main Types of Clothing

1. Helly Hansen Sailing Jackets

A sailing jacket is the foundation of any kit on board. Helly Hansen sailing jackets offer:

• protection from wind and water,

• a breathable membrane,

• a hood with adjustment points,

• a high collar to protect the neck,

• adjustable cuffs that help prevent water from entering the sleeves.

There are models suitable for milder conditions (for example, Mediterranean sailing in spring and autumn), as well as jackets designed for harsher weather.

2. Helly Hansen Mid Layers

Under the jacket, you need a layer that provides warmth. Helly Hansen mid layers typically include:

• fleece hoodies and jackets,

• technical mid layers that fit comfortably under a shell,

• quick-drying, comfortable materials.

These hoodies and mid layers are often used not only on the boat, but also in everyday life – in the city, at work or when travelling.

3. Helly Hansen Base Layers

The base layer is the first layer directly on the skin. For sailing it plays an important role:

• it wicks moisture away from the body,

• dries quickly,

• helps maintain thermal comfort.

Helly Hansen offers functional T-shirts and base layers suitable under a mid layer and a sailing jacket. Combined with a mid layer and an outer shell, this creates a complete clothing system for sailing.

How to Choose Helly Hansen by Type of Trip

One Week in Croatia in Summer (June – September)

• a lighter Helly Hansen sailing jacket as protection against wind and occasional rain,

• a thinner hoodie or mid layer,

• a functional T-shirt with short or long sleeves for cooler evenings or night sailing.

Spring or Autumn Cruise (April, May, October)

• a higher-spec, waterproof Helly Hansen sailing jacket,

• a warmer hoodie or thermal mid layer,

• a functional long-sleeve base layer,

• a beanie or neck warmer for wind and lower temperatures.

Summary

Helly Hansen is a brand with a long tradition of making clothing for harsh weather conditions. For sailors, it offers:

• reliable sailing jackets,

• quality mid layers (hoodies and technical insulation),

• functional base layers worn next to the skin.

If you are looking for gear that can handle wind, rain and salt water, Helly Hansen is a solid choice you can rely on for multiple seasons at sea.