Jun 16, 2023 BY Louise Rowe
Does the anticipation of sunny days have you excitedly planning hikes and dreaming of clambering up mountains? If so you’ll probably be thinking what gear do I need? Want to combine comfort and style? Then check out this Helly Hansen women’s hiking gear review to make the most of what this season has to offer.
I have chosen six items to review across the broad Helly Hansen range. With a summer planned exploring the Alps, South Downs in Sussex and the Scottish Highlands, I selected items based on practicality and versatility. But also important is what made me feel good and looks great!
My trips to the Alps and the Scottish Highlands are later in the summer. So to test this women’s hiking gear I have been out hiking in Sussex, particularly in the South Downs National Park. Spring conditions were rather wet, and then a consistent north easterly breeze made it surprisingly chilly until a week ago.
A great pair of walking boots are imperative for any outdoor enthusiast! Yet being a tall woman with proportionately long feet, I’m often forced into wearing ill-fitting men’s footwear, which isn’t great for day long hikes. Luckily the Men’s Stalheim Helly Tech Waterproof boot has laces from toe to ankle, which I can tighten for a great snug fit.
The Stalheim boots make my feet feel super supported at all times. So, when my first stroll of the Spring turned into an impromptu hike, I was amazed how comfortable I felt.
I love how versatile these boots are, not only are they great to wear but had superb traction across various terrains. Their stylish design and breathable membrane meant, when a hike turned into an evening of socialising, I still felt more than happy in them.
Benefitting from Hellytech waterproof/ windproof membrane I’m reassured that, whatever the weather, my feet will remain dry. So nothing, not even the great British weather will stop me from getting out there this summer.
This Helly Hansen women’s hiking gear review would not be complete without some socks. As no matter how good your boots are, team them with the wrong socks and you reduce your comfort. Luckily Helly Hansen have created these technical hiking socks so you will never need to compromise.
Ribbed for additional support in the ankle and toe, these socks fitted perfectly. Made from polypropylene and merino wool they’re perfect for when the temperature rises. I was amazed despite the warm temperatures, how dry and comfy my feet felt.
This is another product of this Helly Hansen women’s hiking gear review which is a must have. Whilst pricier than I’d normally spend on an average pair of leggings – these are far from average. Made with Polymide with flatlock seams, they are super soft to wear.
The 4-way stretch system also means whatever activity you’re doing you can guarantee they’ll maintain their shape – mine have. I can see these leggings being a staple in my active wear for a long time to come.
I particularly like how flattering the adjustable waist drawcord looks on me. With the back pocket being the perfect size for my mobile I’m all set. In these super stylish leggings I can put on some tunes and head off on everything from my daily run, a hilly hike or spot of yoga.
Let’s face it, given how unpredictable the weather can be and for cooler evenings it’s always good to have something to keep you warm. The Daybreaker Woman’s Fleece Jacket is perfect for those moments. It’s really warm but also light, so is perfect to slip in a backpack to wear later or if the weather changes.
They come in an array of colours; I love the vibrancy of my orange fleece. It also looks great paired with my leggings. The fit is excellent, despite being tall, the length is great and, being a snug fit, it is not only flattering but also makes a great midlayer when teamed up with a Helly Hansen waterproof.
My must have for hiking in the mountains is the Lifaloft Hooded Insulator Jacket. This jacket is incredibly lightweight, whilst still providing enough warmth for cooler summer/ spring evenings. In fact, I was surprised by just how warm such a lightweight jacket could be.
Like the fleece, it easily slips into my bag for when I might need it. Again, the fit is perfect, despite being tall it’s a great size on my arms and goes beyond my waist. It also has several pockets, internal ones too. I love the large hood which came in handy when I was caught in a light rain shower, I was surprised how dry it kept me.
To top it all off and what above all makes it my go to jacket of the season is the colour. Whilst there’s a range of different options I went for the light green. The colour, the fit with the Helly Hansen logo discreetly showing, makes this a perfect, stylish, and practical jacket.
It’s versatility makes it suitable for any activity from hiking in the mountains to camping or a pub visit. It would even work as a winter midlayer for skiing or snowboarding.
This Helly Hansen women’s hiking gear review would not be complete without a waterproof jacket. Which you’ll need if your serious about getting out into the mountains. If you’re in the market for a quality waterproof jacket the Verglas 3 layer jacket should be your go to.
Again, the jacket is a great length and fastens up to your chin. With seams that are fully sealed and adjustable cuffs and hood, keeping the rain out is easy. I love how lightweight this jacket is, but if the temperature plummets, it can also be layered with my fleece and/or the insulator to ensure I’m cosy and dry.
Whilst some waterproof coats might keep you dry from the elements, doing exercise in the heat can leave you sweaty. The Verglas jackets breathable fabric ensures that you are dry both inside and out. No matter what the elements have thrown at me I know I can trust the Verglas to keep me dry.
By investing in kit by the Norwegian outdoor specialists Helly Hansen, you can pretty much guarantee you will have quality clothing. They make a worthy investment for many adventures to come.
Having tested these products near to home on the South Downs in Sussex, UK I now can’t wait to take them further afield. I’ve no doubt, when I hit the mountains later this summer, this collection will be the first I pack. Both technical, stylish and comfortable, they are items every hiker should own.
We hope you found this Helly Hansen women’s hiking gear review for the spring/summer 2023 range informative. Check out a our huge range of hiking holidays worldwide to properly test your kit!
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