Few companies have the history, heritage, and commitment to excellence as does Helly Hansen, the Norway-based outfitter with a reputation for durability and quality among survivalists, workmen, and serious sportsmen, with lines for the casual wearer as well. Proving once again that necessity is the mother of invention, Helly Hansen, the clothing line, began in 1877 when Helly Hansen, the man, saw a need. As a fisherman, he saw the need for a better means of keeping the fishermen dry and warm, so he and his wife Maren developed waterproof clothing using sturdy linen and an oil-curing process. Their popularity took off, and by the time Helly Hansen died in 1914 and left the business to his son, the next Helly Hansen, their clothing was being shipped around the world, and Helly Hansen the son pledged to continue the ground-breaking work his father had begun in the previous century. With the 20th century seeing so many scientific advancements in materials and fabrics, the innovation continued, and their products continued to expand and improve.
These advancements also helped Helly Hansen to focus on the aesthetic aspect of their clothing, making it accessible and appealing for women and children as well as working or adventurous men. There is also a working-class youth appeal to the Helly Hansen line, with its reputation for being tough and resilient, and able to stand up to any sort of mischief or fun. Not just for loggers, fishermen, and explorers anymore, the Helly Hansen line has also branched out into sturdy sportswear and casual, everyday lines, and are widely available in shops.
Helly Hansen carries jackets ranging from lightweight and waterproof, such as the “Dublin” or the “Ula” for a dreary springtime to thick, well-insulated parkas for harsh winter days or mountain treks. Many varieties are either waterproof, windproof, or both, and are suitable for any climate or weather conditions. Jackets for women come in appealing shades of pale pink or blue, proving once again that you don’t have to sacrifice warmth and comfort in order to look good. The parkas come in several lengths and are fur-lined for both the sake of warmth and fashion, and Helly Hansen is also up on the latest looks for the season, with a military-style jacket as well as a bomber jacket. With 130 years of experience behind them, Helly Hansen clothing will keep you warm, dry, and looking good.
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