The first thing you notice about the Bay Jacket is that it looks fantastic. The blue and magenta combined with the eye catching graphics really makes it stand out. It’s the same as the current all-female round the world yacht racing team are wearing and it turns heads.
As with all Helly Hansen gear, it the quality and attention to detail that really make it stand out. Little features such as the bellows in the small inside pocket and the mesh draining and ventilation strip at the base of each pocket.
The captive cordlocks are kept out the of the way and free from snagging and all zips have protective flaps to prevent water ingress.
The high collar conceals an excellent, lined, hood with full adjustment and peak, although the peak is not wired. The collar itself is fleece lined, provides ample protection from the wind and feels comfortable against the skin without feeling clammy. It also boasts a fleece chin guard to prevent the zip chaffing.
The jacket itself is lined with mesh panels to allow for ventilation and to allow any moisture to escape.
With a more feminine design, it has a fitted style and a slightly cinched waist, without being too tight or constricting, even for those that aren’t training for the olympics.
The cuffs are secured with velcro tabs which is more than adequate and the sleeves are long enough without becoming cumbersome.
The material is ‘Helly Tech Protection’ and is marketed as good for every day use and moderate weather conditions. It’s a lot more breathable because of this and I think fills the gap nicely between out and out waterproofs and day jackets.
Features
- HELLY TECH® PROTECTION
- Kill cord D-ring
- Hanger loop
- One-hand adjustable hem
- Adjustable cuffs
- Hand warmer pockets
- Solas reflectives
- Adjustable tonal hood
- Polartec® fleece collar
- Hip length, regular fit
- Quick dry lining
- Lined for comfort
- Durable Water Repellency treatment (DWR)
- Fully seam sealed
- 2 ply fabric construction
- Waterproof, windproof and breathable