Design and Aesthetics
Helly Hansen has long been known for its innovative yet sophisticated designs, and the ACTIVE Puffy Jacket is no exception. Its clean lines, hip-length cut, and branded details give it an effortlessly stylish look. The jacket is available in a number of colours (black blue, purple, orange etc), making it easy to incorporate into a range of outfits, from casual jeans and boots to hiking gear.
With printed Helly Hansen logos and durable, high-quality YKK zippers, the jacket doesn’t just look good; it feels well-made and dependable. The adjustable hood and hem are excellent additions, as they allow you to tailor the fit, maximising warmth while minimising any loose, cold air seeping in.
I just wish I had this before heading to the Faroe Islands earlier in the year, as it would have kept me so toasty in the cold conditions I faced, but wow this is a go-to item from this day onwards. I’m going to be very cosy and warm through the winter when heading on a hike with my mate or going into the office.
How Comfortable Is It?
One of the key aspects of the Helly Hansen ACTIVE Puffy Jacket is its comfort. Thanks to body-mapped insulation technology, the jacket provides optimal warmth where it’s needed most, without adding unnecessary bulk (seriously, it didn’t feel as heavy as I expected considering the size of it). This design approach makes it suitable for a range of temperatures and activities, whether you’re commuting to work or taking a weekend hike through the South Downs.
With its ergonomic structure, this jacket has been created with the wearer’s comfort in mind. It’s easy to move around in, and the brushed tricot chin guard adds an extra layer of softness against the skin, especially useful for days when you’re fully zipped up to block out the cold.
Does It Keep You Warm And Insulated?
One of the standout features of the ACTIVE Puffy Jacket is the High Loft synthetic insulation. The synthetic fill is not only highly effective in retaining warmth but also performs well in damp or wet conditions, maintaining its insulating properties where other materials might fail. This insulation is also notably eco-friendly, with 40% of it made from recycled polyester, reflecting Helly Hansen’s commitment to sustainability.
Weighing in at 1.1kg, the jacket is substantial enough to provide adequate warmth in cold conditions, yet light enough to avoid feeling burdensome. It’s ideal for everyday wear in autumn and winter and should be more than sufficient for the UK, especially when layered.
Helly Hansen’s approach to insulation is particularly useful if you’re heading outdoors for an extended period. The jacket’s ‘blowable synthetic insulation’ is body-mapped to provide warmth where you need it most, making it effective even on colder days.
Practical Features
This jacket comes equipped with several practical elements that enhance its functionality:
- Hand Pockets with YKK Zippers – These zippers add durability and ensure that pockets stay secure and accessible, protecting your valuables while you’re on the move.
- Adjustable Hood and Hem – The flexibility of an adjustable hood and hem is perfect for battling the cold while retaining warmth, especially on windy days.
- PFC-Free DWR (Durable Water Repellent) Finish – So basically this means that it has been treated with a durable water repellent but they haven’t used fluorocarbon compounds which are harmful to the environment when washed or worn. The PFC-free DWR finish provides water resistance, repelling light rain and moisture. This feature is beneficial for unpredictable UK weather, while it certainly made Raquel jealous as the water physically bounced off me while sunk through her jacket.
The jacket is machine-washable, but the brand recommends taking specific care steps, such as using dryer balls and avoiding fabric softeners, to ensure it maintains its insulation and fit over time.
Sustainability
As eco-conscious consumers, it’s refreshing to see brands incorporating sustainability into their products, and Helly Hansen’s use of recycled materials is a step in the right direction. With 40% recycled polyester in the insulation and a PFC-free DWR coating, the jacket is designed with both performance and environmental impact in mind, a big thumbs up from me.
The use of recycled materials not only reduces waste but also lowers the jacket’s overall environmental footprint. It’s a nice touch for a brand that’s been dedicated to innovation and quality for over a century, balancing performance needs with ecological considerations.
Performance
The Helly Hansen ACTIVE Puffy Jacket is engineered to cater to a variety of settings and activities, making it ideal for the multi-faceted lifestyle many of us lead. While it’s highly effective in cold weather, it’s equally suitable for day-to-day use, striking a balance between technical functionality and casual style. This means it’s equally useful as my hiking jacket in the UK or on adventures around the world as it is for popping down the road on a dog walk.
The durable YKK front zipper and placket ensure that it holds up well over time, even if you’re frequently out and about.The adjustable hood and hem offer versatility for different weather conditions, and while the jacket is primarily designed for warmth, the synthetic insulation is breathable enough to avoid overheating during moderate activity. This balance makes it a reliable choice for those seeking a comfortable, high-performance jacket that fits in just as well in city life as it does in the great outdoors.
Is It Worth the Price?
With a £200 price tag, the ACTIVE Puffy Jacket isn’t a low cost option. However, when considering Helly Hansen’s long-standing reputation, the quality of materials, and the attention to design and functionality, it’s an investment in durability. I would highly recommend it after testing it out for a few weeks.
For those who frequently find themselves outdoors in colder weather or need a versatile winter jacket, this puffer jacket is 100% worth considering. Its combination of warmth, style, and sustainability makes it a compelling choice within this price range. Plus, to quote Game of Thrones, Winter is Coming, so you don’t want to be caught out with your Autumn jackets not offering enough warm when heading out.
Final Say
The Helly Hansen Men’s ACTIVE Puffy Jacket is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a warm, stylish, and durable winter jacket. With its reliable insulation, sustainable materials, and innovative design details, it meets the needs of anyone and everyone.
If you’re after a high quality puffer jacket that delivers on both functionality and style, the Helly Hansen ACTIVE Puffy Jacket offers a strong return on investment. It’s a purchase you can feel confident in, knowing it’s built to last and can handle whatever winter throws your way (even in Britain).
