Helly Hansen Women’s Odin 9 Worlds Infinity Shell Jacket
‘A good waterproof jacket’. I can hear my mother and, indeed, her mother preach. What everybody living within the British Isles requires; we could even go as far as saying a necessity. But unlike the unpredictable British and Irish weather, the Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Shell Jacket is reliable. The fully taped and welded seams ensure that any precipitation will remain external, with absolutely no risk of it seeping through.
The Helly Technical Professional range is their most advanced range, and this jacket certainly earned its place in this category. The high-rise front zip, up along the entire collar, aids the barrier between yourself and the elements. The hood is also exceptionally designed, with a cap-like peak to keep the water out yet not obstruct visibility (apparently, it can be worn over a helmet). The adjustable cuffs also help keep the water out and allow flexibility if you wear layers or gloves.
It’s not just the waterproof elements of the jacket that I like (admittedly, though, that is the most important)! It’s the attention to detail that Helly Hansen has delivered with the Infinity Shell Jacket. The two double-zipped pockets allow for them to be opened and closed at either the top or bottom end. The pockets are large and roomy, with plenty of space for the stupidly large, modern-day mobile phone. An additional lined second pocket of soft cloth material within these gives your hands added warmth on those fresher days. There’s a single chest pocket for smaller items, such as a compass.
Warmer, muggier days
For those warmer, muggier days, the vent zippers underneath the arms allow for ventilation. Likewise, these can also be opened from the top or bottom. The fitted waist on the women’s jacket gives a flattering fit – none of that bin-bag look that some waterproof coats give. Perhaps slightly on the vain side, but I also really like the colour schemes these jackets are available in; I have the grey, which has a cool, crisp sheen.
The jacket weighs 500 grams, and given its high technical grade, half a kilogram isn’t too bad. I certainly didn’t notice it at the bottom of my rucksack when the sun eventually appeared. The jacket is also fitted with RECCO technology, which may give some peace of mind during more challenging adventures.
For those of you with a green conscience, the Infinity Shell Jacket’s membrane, which gives it long-lasting water-repellent performance, is achieved without the use of chemicals. It’s impregnated with polyfluorinated chemical (PFC)-free, durable water-repellant (DWR). It’s a blue design product, so it’s designed with minimum impact on people and the environment, and its manufacture is done responsibly.
The negatives?
Although it is stated for wet, cold, and windy conditions, I think I’d prefer something a little thicker for those colder days. The adjustable features (cuffs, hem, and hood) do, however, make it easy to add a fleece or base layer underneath.
Not all waterproofs are as ‘good’ as others, and generally, I have found the pricier ones withstand the most rain and last the longest. I guess the price tag for the Infinity Shell Jacket is probably at the upper end of most people’s budget, but the fact that this coat should never need to be reproofed is a lifelong investment. I think the female generations in my family would be happy with that.
Price £550.00
