How good is Helly Hansen outdoor wear?

[qacwac]

I've found what appears to me to be some pretty good deals on Helly Hansen pants and jackets. Any experience with their products. I'm mainly looking at waterproof stuff for hiking and backpacking. Thanks.

 

[jhu]

How good is Helly Hansen?

oh she's very good. uhm, are we talking about the same helly hansen?

 

[Don Vito Corleone]

Helly Hansen is decent but nothing special. It is roughly of the same caliber as Columbia, and not nearly as nice as North Face, Marmot, Patagonia, etc.

 

[amnesiac]

They're a good midrange brand. If you want durability and reliability I'd go with North Face or Marmot like Tee_Edwards said.

 

[qacwac]

I would certainly rather go with one of those brands but I don't have $100 to $299+ to throw down on a jacket and pants that I will only wear occasionally. Here is what Iordered:

Helly Hansen St. Elias Jacket 49.97 free shipping (list price 149.99)
description: This jacket by Helly Hansen is designed for less aggressive, back-country conditions and is ideal for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. This jacket is constructed of Helly Tech® Matrex shell fabric, which consists of 81% nylon and 19% polyester. It is treated with a classic waterproof yet breathable coating and Helly Guard® DWR finish.
The cross-dye construction adds texture and dimension to enhance surface interest without compromising performance characteristics. The hydorphobic polyester mesh and taffeta linings add to overall moisture control.
features: Active hip-length silhouette,Fully taped seams,Full-length, two-way front zipper with double storm flap and raingutter,Adjustable drawcord hem and hood,Fully adjustable, stowable hood,Underarm zipper ventilation,Adjustable elastic/Velcro cuffs

 

[billandopus]

It depends. I think that their high end stuff is good but at that price you'd be better off with North Face, Mountain Hardware, Arc'teryx, Sierra Designs, Marmot et al. I personally like Mountain Hardware/Arc'teryx and Sierra. If you get a good deal then go for it!

 

[bcterps]

I'd definitely recommend brands like The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, and Patagonia. Their stuff is built rock solid and all of them have lifetime warranties. You can definitely find good deals on North Face stuff, they get discounted all the time. I'd rather spend the money on a good jacket that I know will last me through the years then spend less money on something that will most likely be replaced within 2-3 years.

--Ben