At SBC Skier we’re good at testing gear and telling you if it’s worth a stack or a pass, but you know what we’re not the best at? Deep dark tech. Each brand has it’s own lingo for their specialties – specialties we love – but no one breaks them down better than the brand themselves. Want to speak Helly Hansen? Here’s your guide to understanding Helly Hansen’s raddest outerwear technology.
PS, our favourite nugget is last so read the whole shebang.
HELLY HANSEN TECH TALK
LIFA® Infinity Pro™
Helly Hansen has revolutionized the standard for sustainably made waterproof and breathable outerwear with the invention of LIFA® Infinity Pro™ Technology. Helly Hansen uses zero chemicals, topical coatings or solvents to offer 3-layer outerwear boasting top level waterproofing and breathability with an inherent and permanent DWR, not requiring a coating or to be re-coated. The face fabric and membrane of the LIFA Infinity Pro Technology is made up of 100% LIFA fibers, which is a proprietary Helly Hansen fiber that is lightweight, diverse, and inherently hydrophobic.
LifaLoft™
LifaLoft™ is the result of an exclusive collaboration combining Helly Hansen’s unique LIFA® technology with Primaloft® insulation and extensive expertise in synthetic insulation. The new LifaLoft insulation retains more heat while remaining lightweight and comfortable during even the most intensive activities. Thanks to a lighter fiber structure, LifaLoft insulation is 20% lighter than standard insulation – allowing for maximum comfort and agility. The fiber structure also creates more air pockets giving more warmth at lower weight, compared to standard insulation.
Helly Tech:
Helly Tech® is the waterproof and breathable outer layer between you and the elements. Its unique membrane will keep water molecules out, while allowing sweat vapor to pass through – keeping you dry from the outside and comfortable on the inside. HELLY TECH® is a tough weatherproof outer layer, specially designed for the harshest conditions. It is a combination of a DWR-treated outer fabric, a highly breathable and waterproof membrane, and often a highly breathable inner fabric, mesh or lining.
Life Pocket™
A pocket engineered to preserve your personal electronics’ battery life span. Scientifically tested and proven by engineers to extend the battery life of your mobile phone or action camera in cold environments. The Life Pocket™ uses thermal resistance material and an innovative construction to stay two times warmer than a regular ski jacket pocket. The Life Pocket+™ uses one of the best insulation materials available, PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Aerogel, and an innovative construction, resulting in the pocket staying three times warmer than a regular ski jacket pocket.