Helly Hansen Ullr Midlayer Jacket

Field Notes: Hybrid design – combining PrimaLoft synthetic insulation and Helly Hansen’s Lifa Flow double knitted fabric – brings a multi-technology build that delivers the performance needed for fast-paced cold weather pursuits. The Ullr is ideal for hard charging freeriders and ski touring, when dexterity and warmth are both a necessity. With a torso-hugging athletic cut and a sleek fitted hood, the fit is exactly what is ordered for fast moving backcountry missions and epic all day tours, though is snug compared to what most of us in North America are accustom to. What the Ullr Midlayer Jacket accomplishes with its marriage of technical insulation and the innovative Lifa Flow material is design that maintains warmth yet manages moisture when you’re working up a sweat. Helly Hansen’s fabric technologies actively wick water away from the wearer, which worked beautifully for us on mountain bike rides. Meanwhile the Primaloft insulation retained warmth but didn’t allow us to overheat. The Primaloft synthetic down is water resistant as well, unlike natural down that becomes useless when wet. The combination is a technical hoody that performs in a variety of scenarios and works to keep you comfortable and at perfect temperature.

Pros: Body mapped insulation surrounds the torso in heat-trapping warmth but remains breathable so you don’t overheat.

Cons: Snugger fit than many other brands, which is a typical Euro-fit.  

Tester Comments: “This piece is definitely a great choice for backcountry skiers. Perfectly suited to be pair with a minimalist shell, as the Ullr is great for activities like skinning, when your heart gets pumping and body-heat regulation is crucial to stay warm and to cool down without becoming overly sweaty.”

Key Attribute: Fit