Helly Hansen Men’s Lifaloft Air Insulator Jacket
Helly Hansen produced the Lifaloft Air Insulator primarily for the ski market. However, anything that can be as light as this jacket (just 280gms) and still be toastie warm is a winner for me whatever you’re doing – it’s just a great jacket for being outside in these changeable spring months.
The jacket is a mid-layer, and HH rates its windproof factor as a four, which means ‘slightly windproof’ and says it’s best for hiking and walking use. This jacket rates as a two for its waterproof qualities, which means only water repellent. However, that’s as a standalone jacket, and when you add a shell, you then have a six in both categories!
HH developed Lifaloft in partnership with PrimaLoft® to create insulation with more air pockets and a lighter fibre structure, which means a 20% lighter warmth to weight ratio than other similar products, trapping more heat allowing for maximum comfort and agility. This synthetic insulation, which has a smaller carbon and water footprint than comparable polyester, is the outstanding performer on this jacket, being so lightweight and yet so good at holding heat.
I don’t have anything wrong to say about the comfort. I felt comfortable with the fit, which was neither too tight nor too loose, and the fleece-lined hood is much appreciated. The materials used to make the jacket are of excellent quality, and the insides of the pockets are lined with fleece. The waistband has an elastic that a toggle can trap to tighten the fit when required. There are three zipped pockets with the waist pockets quite deep, and the chest pocket is suitable for a phone, etc. To top it off – it does look excellent and stylish.
Staying warm without the bulk of an oversized jacket is what the Helly Hansen LifaLoft Insulator Jacket is all about. I appreciated the jacket on its own for spring and autumn weather or when used as a mid-layer in the colder winter under a quality shell jacket. Just one to look out for is the fabric is super light, so be mindful of sharp surfaces.
https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/lifaloft-air-insulator-jacket-65792
Price as tested: £170.00
