Helly Hansen Lifa Pro Belay Insulated Jacket

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The last time we had any Helly Hansen gear for reviews was back in the old COMBAT & SURVIVAL Magazine days, so this is probably a good time to reintroduce the brand to the Gormley's Gear column.

Great timing, actually, as the arrival of some HH kit coincided with the recent cold weather which was an ideal time to get out on the moor to enjoy the stunning sunsets and moonrises in comfort. Jean was more than happy to don the Women's Lifa Pro Belay to head out onto the very chill evening to help me get some photos.

The aptly named Deep Fjord Blue sort of sums up this cosy insulated jacket from Helly. You can easily imagine not being underdressed if out by a Norwegian Fjord in mid-winter. This jacket was initially developed for use by Scandinavian Mountain Rescue Team personnel, who we well know have to get out in all weathers, so we can be assured this is a well thought out and high performing jacket.

As soon as I see Primaloft Gold in the specification sheet I just know it will be a good garment, but this jacket teams it with LifaLoft Infinity, so one can safely expect good things when the weather turns against you. As well as providing the wearer with very high levels of insulation, these materials are also quite resilient to water too and if cold turns to wet will provide a good first level of resistance. Importantly, this ability does not require additional or frequent reproofing to maintain its capability.

This jacket, available in both Men's and Women's cut and in five sizes each, gives the user a very universal garment to suit most outdoor activities when the weather is cold. Sadly, I have not had a chance to try this garment myself but Jean tells me it is a case of an immediate cosy feeling as soon as you pull on the Belay jacket. Jean has already booked in this jacket to take with us on our long-awaited trip to Canada a little later this year!

As well as having all the technical capabilities, the materials used for the Women's Lifa Pro Belay are all made within the bluesign textile environmental manufacturing guidelines.

[Images © Mike Gormley]

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