Helly Hansen have taken their proven H2Flow technology and made great use of it in the performance Ægir H2Flow Jacket & Salopette.
The lightweight combo are well fitted to avoid snagging and enable them to be worn under a waterproof shell without becoming too bulky.
They can also be worn on their own on cooler, drier days but are quick drying should they get a soaking from a rogue wave.
First impressions are of how comfortable they are. Almost rudely so. I did feel that I shouldn’t be sailing in these but maybe sitting round a log fire in a ski chalet somewhere. They really do feel good to wear. More importantly on a boat, they still feel good to wear when damp.
I could quite happily sleep in these when off watch, and feel perfectly comfortable and cozy.
The salopettes have elasticated ankles which means you can wear them with everything from bare feet to full boots. There’s also an elasticated waist to keep them from riding down.
There’s no adjustment on the shoulder straps but, once again, being elastic, keeps them in place nicely and I wasn’t searching for a buckle to tighten at any point.
There’s two hand warmer pockets at waist level which also provide the all important ventilation control. It would have been nice if these were zipped through to allow access to undergarment pockets, but I can see that this would add extra weight and complexity to a stripped back garment and can understand why that isn’t an option.
The jacket is a good fit over the salopettes and has a drop back with drawcord and two hand warmer pockets. It also has two chest ventilation pockets that do a great job of regulating the temperature.
The arms are lined but uninsulated, which works well to stop overheating and to keep the bulk down, and there’s a micro fleece lined collar with chin-guard to keep the drafts out.
As always, the attention to detail is fantastic. The breathable mesh on the collar, the zip garages, the reinforced wear areas, not to mention the excellent fit.