Helly Hansen-4

We’re deep into winter season and Vancouver’s local ski resorts have had some pretty good snow dumps already. Getting out in the snow should be fun, not a struggle to keep warm. I was recently sent some Helly Hansen women’s gear to test drive here in BC (and it will all be joining me next month as I hit the polar climate of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories).

Helly Hansen Eire Women's  Jacket

First off, a warm coat. Helly Hansen’s Eira Jacket’s a stylish, faux-fur lined parka that’s an updated Hilton Jacket, using PrimaLoft insulation. This water-repellent fabric is perfect for Vancouver’s stormy weather. The faux fur can be detached from the adjustable hood, while wrist gaiters keep you extra warm and protected against the windy cold.

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PrimaLoft repels water while helping to trap heat inside. Even though it’s synthetic and not down, it is a warm material, perfect for playing in the snow.

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Other design elements include a two-way Vision front zipper, exterior hand pockets with snap closure, breathable Helly Tech protection fabric, and a branded metal HH badge on the upper sleeve. The Flag Red version I own is complemented by a royal navy interior. Eira is also available in Midnight Rose, Olive Night and Black.

What I really like about this jacket is that it’s only got a couple of snaps down the front, so you’re not spending a ton of time getting bundled up once you’ve zipped the jacket. As well, there are actually TWO pockets in front on each side: one that’s accessed from the top, the other from the side, ones you’d naturally place your hands into. Find the Eira jacket online or at Helly Hansen shops around Canada and the US. CAD $340.

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Helly’s Garibaldi boots are just the ticket for snow. They’ve got a nice chunky protective rubber midsole, are made with waterproof, full-grain natural nubuck leather with a warm felt lining and include a fun faux-fur lining to complement the Eira jacket. The back of the boot has a diamond quilted pattern with a stitching colour to match the nubuck. They’ve got a lot more character than a pair of UGGs IMHO.

The bottom sole has a good grip system. I like the fact that they’re not heavy clunkers, and are wonderfully suited for wool leggings and jeans alike. You can pair these with a casual winter skirt, dress or jeans. The hardware that holds the lacing feels sturdy as well.

Helly Hansen Garibaldi boots

My Garibaldi’s are in Whiskey/Espresso/Sperry Gum. The other two colour combinations available are Moon Rock/String/Bung and Black/Natura/Feather and retail for CDN $170.

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Next up, keeping your hands and head warm. Here I chose Montreal Chunky Knit Mittens and Beanie in Eggshell as well as Helly’s Heritage Knit Beanie in a two-toned grey Scandinavian design in off-white with removable pom pom. All range from between CAD $34 to $36. The Heritage Beanie is made of 50% acrylic/50% wool, while the Montreal pieces contain a Merino wool blend.

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It’ll be great to test these out in much colder conditions. I do have some Helly Hansen Warm Glove Liners (CAD $28) ready to pack for the subzero weather. Stay tuned.

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Helly Hansen garments are fully warranted against defects in materials and workmanship. Should any garment’s key features or functions fail due to a manufacturing defect, they’ll honour the guarantee and either repair it free of charge or provide a replacement. Shoes carry a one-year warranty against defects as well.

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[Keeping warm in Yellowknife, NWT at Snowking Castle; photo by Hannah Eden, Up Here Magazine]

Visit Helly Hansen online for more info, product ordering and store locations around the globe. A big thanks to the Helly Hansen team for keeping me warm from head to toe for this and many more winters to come!

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