Helly Hansen
Sailing Polar Fleece-Lined Raincoat
Helly Hansen Sailing Polar Fleece-Lined Raincoat is a waterproof, wind-resistant hooded jacket built for sailing and marine environments. It features a polar fleece knit lining through the body, synthetic insulation in the arms and neck, and adjustable wrists and hem for a secure fit. Note that the heavy, low-breathability construction prioritizes protection from sea spray and wind, so it is less suitable for high-exertion activities.
- Material
- Polar fleece lining, synthetic insulation
- Gender
- unisex
- Style
- nautical, utilitarian, sporty
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Outerwear > Coats & Jackets
Color
Size
Specifications
Waterproof and wind-resistant sailing jacket with warm polar fleece lining and synthetic insulation.
Waterproof shell, fleece lining, synthetic insulation, full zip, adjustable hood, multiple pockets.
- Material
- Polar fleece lining, synthetic insulation
- Style
- nautical, utilitarian, sporty
- Gender
- unisex
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Outerwear > Coats & Jackets
Additional Attributes
- waterproof and wind-resistant shell
- polar fleece knit lining through body
- synthetic insulation in arms and neck
- full-length zip closure
- hood that folds up into collar
- zippered hand pockets
- zippered chest pocket
- adjustable Velcro wrists
- barrel drawstring adjustable hem
- designed for sailing
- warm polar fleece lining
Product Insights
Helly Hansen's Sailing Polar Fleece-Lined Raincoat combines a windproof shell with a polar fleece lining and synthetic insulation that stays warm when wet, along with a stowable hood and zippered pockets; however, trade-offs include a permanently attached hood, reports of seam leaks, shorter durability in newer models compared to older ones, and unresponsive customer service, though its price undercuts Arc'teryx while matching Gill's quality.
Verified claims
- Fit and sizing
- Buyers report true-to-size relaxed fit with room for layering
- Layering
- Best with thin base layers; relaxed cut fits light sweaters; hood adds neck bulk; jacket can be standalone
- Wind protection
- Windproof shell and stowable hood block cold drafts and retain body heat.
- Fleece lining
- Stretchy polar fleece lining traps heat and moves with the wearer.
- Synthetic insulation
- Synthetic insulation in arms and neck stays warm even when wet.
- Hood attachment
- Non-removable hood folds into collar for instant deployment, sacrificing a collar-only profile.
- Pockets
- Zippered pockets enable one-handed operation and resist salt spray.
- DWR reactivation
- Low-heat tumble drying reactivates DWR and dries the jacket after washing.
- Detergent rules
- Only technical wash or mild liquid detergent without softener should be used.
- DWR reapplication
- Reapply DWR with spray-on or wash-in treatment when water stops beading.
- Seam maintenance
- Seam leaks have been reported; early repair with seam sealer is advised.
- Hood care
- The permanently attached hood folds into collar; careful handling avoids crease damage.
- Durability
- Buyers report that older HH sailing jackets last 17+ years, but new ones fail prematurely.
- Competitive value
- Helly Hansen sailing jackets are rated equal to Gill, below Musto and Arc'teryx.
- Customer service
- Helly Hansen's customer service is reportedly unresponsive to warranty claims.
- Competitive positioning
- Matches Gill's quality, outdoes North Face, and undercuts Arc'teryx on price.
Product record
- Title
- Sailing Polar Fleece-Lined Raincoat
- Brand
- Helly Hansen
- Price
- 230 CAD
- Availability
- In stock
Deep Research
How the fold-away hood works in practice
- Like the Helly Hansen Welsey Trench, this jacket's hood cannot be removed—only folded into the collar—so it’s always on hand for sudden downpours, but you trade the ability to go fully collar-only; it’s a deliberate marine design choice that prioritizes preparedness over a tailored neckline.
How the pocket layout works with sailing gear
- The chest pocket uses a zipper rather than hook-and-loop, allowing one-handed open-and-close while the other hand stays on the tiller or grab rail, and the closure won't compromise under salt spray the way velcro can.
How to wash and maintain a fleece‑lined raincoat
- Tumble drying after washing is often essential to reactivate the DWR treatment on the shell; Helly Hansen’s care guide explicitly states that tumble drying helps restore water beading, so skipping the dryer and air-drying alone may leave the jacket prone to soaking through faster.
- When water no longer beads and rolls off, the DWR finish has worn out and must be reapplied; Helly Hansen recommends spray-on or wash-in treatments from Nikwax, Grangers, or McNett, a simple at-home process that restores the jacket’s rain-shedding ability without professional service.
- Helly Hansen mandates a technical wash (Nikwax, Grangers, or McNett) or a plain liquid detergent without perfumes, foam, or fabric softeners — ordinary detergents leave residues that clog the waterproof membrane and strip the DWR, while fabric softeners coat fibers and reduce breathability.
How warm this jacket is for sailing
- Because the outer shell is both waterproof and wind-resistant, the still air inside the jacket isn't blown away by gusts — the fleece and insulation can hold onto body heat as effectively as a thicker standalone sweater would in calm air.
- Stowing the hood inside the collar adds a layer of fleece and shell around the neck, effectively creating a self-contained gaiter that blocks cold drafts and stops chimney-effect heat loss from the torso, with the option to deploy the hood for full head coverage when the wind builds.
- The body liner is a polar fleece knit — a stretchy, lofty construction that traps body heat in its open loops while moving freely with the wearer, so the jacket stays close to the body for consistent warmth even during active deck work.
- Helly Hansen concentrates the synthetic fill in the arms and neck — the zones that catch the most wind and spray on deck — keeping the torso lighter and more flexible for tasks that demand twisting and reaching, while still protecting the limbs from chill.
- Synthetic insulation's real advantage at sea is that it won't lose its loft when wet — unlike down or cotton, which pack flat and stop insulating the moment they absorb moisture — so the arm and neck zones stay warm even after a splash or in persistent drizzle.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Front view of a coral-pink hooded rain jacket with a dark grey fleece-lined hood, full-length front zipper, vertical chest zip pocket, zippered hand pockets, elastic draw hem with toggles, and adjustable sleeve cuffs.
- Outer shellSmooth coral-pink outer shell covering the torso, sleeves, and hood exterior with a matte, water-resistant finish.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.18 · w 0.76 · h 0.72 (high) - Hood liningVisible dark charcoal-grey fleece lining inside the hood and around the collar opening.
1 region
x 0.33 · y 0.06 · w 0.34 · h 0.18 (high) - Front zipperCentral full-length front zipper in a matching pink color with a visible zipper pull and a fabric zipper tape.
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.24 · w 0.20 · h 0.58 (high) - Chest pocketVertical zippered chest pocket on the left side (viewer right) with a matching pink zipper and pull.
1 region
x 0.58 · y 0.24 · w 0.12 · h 0.20 (high) - Hand pocketsTwo zippered hand pockets set into the front seams; left hand is shown inserted into the left pocket (viewer left).
2 regions
x 0.14 · y 0.64 · w 0.20 · h 0.18 (high); x 0.66 · y 0.62 · w 0.18 · h 0.20 (high) - Elastic draw hemElasticized hem with visible gathered fabric and two small black drawcord toggles near the bottom front.
3 regions
x 0.30 · y 0.82 · w 0.44 · h 0.12 (high); x 0.50 · y 0.81 · w 0.06 · h 0.06 (high); x 0.38 · y 0.81 · w 0.06 · h 0.06 (high) - Sleeve cuffsStraight sleeve cuffs with a folded cuff tab that appears to use a hook-and-loop style closure; cuff on right sleeve (viewer right) is visible and folded back.
1 region
x 0.70 · y 0.78 · w 0.18 · h 0.16 (high) - Visible stitching and seam linesHorizontal chest seam across the upper front and vertical princess seams along the torso are visible as stitched seam lines.
2 regions
x 0.18 · y 0.26 · w 0.64 · h 0.08 (high); x 0.22 · y 0.34 · w 0.56 · h 0.46 (high) - Inner hood rim text“HANSE”Partial
1 region
x 0.57 · y 0.12 · w 0.12 · h 0.06 (medium)
Other
Studio shot with a model wearing the jacket against a neutral light grey background; three-quarter front pose, even soft lighting, slight shadowing at lower right, and visible portion of a white T-shirt and black leggings that are not part of the product.
- Model pose and framingModel is shown from mid-thigh up in a three-quarter front pose, head turned to viewer right; jacket is the primary focus and centered in frame.
- Background and lightingUniform light grey studio background with soft, even lighting and minimal harsh shadows.
- Visible non-product clothingWhite crewneck T-shirt visible at the collar and black leggings visible below the jacket; these are props and not described as product features.
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.22 · w 0.20 · h 0.10 (high) - Image qualityHigh resolution and sharp focus on the jacket; no motion blur or obvious color banding.
Colors
coral pink· outer shell#FD6C7Ccharcoal grey· hood liningblack· drawcord toggles- Outer shellSmooth coral-pink outer shell covering the torso, sleeves, and hood exterior with a matte, water-resistant finish.
- 02
Product
Rear three-quarter view of a coral-pink hooded rain jacket showing the back panel, attached hood, long set-in sleeves, and a rectangular brand patch on the upper left sleeve.
- View and silhouetteRear three-quarter view of the jacket on a model, showing a gently tapered back with visible vertical princess seams that run from the shoulder down toward the hem.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.24 · w 0.76 · h 0.62 (high) - Hood constructionAttached hood with a loose rounded shape and a horizontal top seam; hood lies flat against the upper back in this view.
1 region
x 0.14 · y 0.07 · w 0.60 · h 0.22 (high) - Sleeves and cuffsLong set-in sleeves with simple straight cuffs; left sleeve cuff (viewer right) shows a small tab with a hook-and-loop style closure.
1 region
x 0.50 · y 0.70 · w 0.36 · h 0.26 (high) - Seam and hem detailHorizontal yoke seam across the upper back and a slightly gathered hem at the bottom edge.
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.30 · w 0.76 · h 0.14 (high); x 0.18 · y 0.82 · w 0.68 · h 0.10 (high) - Sleeve patch logoRectangular black and white fabric patch on the upper left sleeve with large initials and smaller lettering beneath.
1 region
x 0.68 · y 0.36 · w 0.14 · h 0.12 (high) - Patch text large“HH”
1 region
x 0.70 · y 0.38 · w 0.09 · h 0.07 (high) - Patch text small“HELLY HANSEN”Partial
1 region
x 0.70 · y 0.44 · w 0.11 · h 0.05 (medium)
Other
Studio shot with a plain light gray background; model posed looking to the right showing the jacket back and side; soft even lighting with minimal shadows.
- Background and stagingPlain light gray seamless background with no props visible.
- Model poseModel stands with body turned slightly away from the camera, head turned to the right showing profile, right hand partially visible at the hem.
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.68 · w 0.30 · h 0.30 (high) - Lighting and shadowEven diffuse studio lighting with soft shadows primarily beneath the hood and along the left side of the jacket.
Colors
coral pink· shell#FD6473black with white text· sleeve patch#140C0C- View and silhouetteRear three-quarter view of the jacket on a model, showing a gently tapered back with visible vertical princess seams that run from the shoulder down toward the hem.
- 03
Product
Rear upper portion of a coral-pink raincoat shown on a model: high stand collar, horizontal yoke seam, small back vent with a narrow yellow trim, and a tonal reflective 'HH' logo on the right shoulder.
- High stand collarTall, lightly padded stand collar with a folded top edge and visible topstitching along the collar seam; collar sits upright behind the model's neck.
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.10 · w 0.46 · h 0.18 (high) - Back yoke seamHorizontal yoke seam runs across the upper back, curving slightly downward toward the sides and visible as a stitched line dividing the upper panel from the lower back panel.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.44 · w 0.68 · h 0.10 (high) - Small vent with flap and pipingRectangular back vent with a stitched flap; a narrow horizontal piping or trim in yellow runs along the top edge of the flap.
1 region
x 0.60 · y 0.26 · w 0.18 · h 0.08 (high) - Tonal HH logo“Large two-letter 'HH' logo printed on the right shoulder area in a lighter, slightly more reflective pink than the shell fabric.”
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.14 · w 0.20 · h 0.18 (high) - Smooth synthetic shellOuter fabric appears smooth with a matte finish and minimal surface texture consistent with coated or synthetic rainwear fabric.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.20 · w 0.68 · h 0.64 (high) - Shoulder and sleeve constructionVisible shoulder seam and set-in sleeve with vertical seam running down from the underarm along the sleeve; seams are topstitched.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.36 · w 0.36 · h 0.50 (high)
Other
Studio portrait crop showing the model from behind and in profile; neutral pale gray background, soft even lighting, and visible model hair and earring used as styling context.
- Model profile and hairModel shown from the back and left profile with hair pulled into a low ponytail that extends down the back; right ear with a small hoop earring is visible.
1 region
x 0.02 · y 0.02 · w 0.44 · h 0.36 (high) - Lighting and backgroundEven, soft studio lighting with minimal harsh shadows; background is a uniform light gray.
Colors
coral pink· main shell#F45D71light pink· HH logo#FBB6A2bright yellow· vent piping- High stand collarTall, lightly padded stand collar with a folded top edge and visible topstitching along the collar seam; collar sits upright behind the model's neck.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
4 total4 reviews · out of 5
Impeccable
Je cherchais un manteau printemps-automne. J’ai trouvé avec cette veste. Taille bien. Plusieurs poches. Réponds à mes attentes.
Love my fall jacket
I like the fleece lined waterproof jacket. Keeps me warm on the fall days.
Un coupe vent indispensable
J’aime beaucoup la marque Healy Hansen. Qualité/prix on ne se trompe pas.
Great Fall coat
fits great, I got a medium and I'm 5'7" and 130 lbs. Arms are a good length, hits at the bum, lots of room inside. I recommend this jacket for the spring and fall.
Q&A
6 answered- What is the breathability rating (e.g., MVTR) of the waterproof shell fabric?
- The product listing does not provide a specific MVTR breathability rating, and community feedback indicates that this jacket prioritizes waterproofing over breathability, making it less suitable for high-exertion activities.
- Are the seams fully taped or just critically sealed?
- Helly Hansen sailing jackets like this one typically feature fully taped seams for waterproof integrity. Some recent reviews have noted quality control issues with seam leakage on newer models, but the construction standard is fully taped.
- Does the polar fleece lining add significant bulk compared to a standard unlined raincoat, affecting the fit for layering?
- Yes, the polar fleece lining and synthetic insulation add significant bulk compared to a standard unlined raincoat, which can affect fit for layering. Many customers find it works best as a standalone jacket with a thin base layer, rather than over thick sweaters.
- Is Helly Hansen sailing gear still durable?
- Older HH jackets are known to last nearly 20 years, but newer models have mixed reviews with reports of delamination and leaking seams.
- How does HH compare to Gill for sailing?
- They are generally considered similar in quality; choose the one with the better deal.
- Can I use HH sailing gear for hiking?
- It is extremely waterproof but too heavy, restrictive, and non-breathable, so it is not recommended for hiking.
Reddit Insights
5 threads · r/BuyItForLife, r/SailboatCruising, r/hikinggearReddit discussions on Helly Hansen rain and sailing gear paint a mixed picture: older jackets are lauded for decades-long durability, but recent years have seen reports of quality decline, making it a brand that still offers good value if you choose carefully.
Positive experiences with 17-20 year old jackets counterbalance numerous reports of failing seams, delamination, and poor customer service on newer products, leading to an overall cautious sentiment.
Themes
Use Cases
- Offshore and coastal sailing
- General outdoor rainwear for work
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Gill
Many users find Gill and HH offshore gear to be of similar quality, both keeping them warm and dry, with similar wet-out times.
vs Musto
Musto is often cited as superior to both Gill and HH, but at a higher price point.
vs North Face
Some consider HH jackets better than North Face, especially for the price.
vs Arc'teryx
HH is seen as not as high quality as Arc'teryx, but significantly cheaper.
vs Columbia
At least one user found HH far superior to Columbia in a similar price tier.
Source Threads
17-year-old Helly Hansen sailing jacket still going strong
I have a sailing jacket that’s now 17 years old and it’s still my go to. It’s been around the world and back with me and a daily driver for many years. Shame to hear that the brand has gone down.
u/DoughymidgetView thread →
Helly Hansen offshore gear compared favorably to Gill
Only experience is with Gill offshore jacket for my wife and HH offshore bibs for the both of us and HH offshore jacket for myself. I think Gill and HH are of the same quality. So go for the one that you can find a better deal on. Both are very warm, and dry. Both wet out at the same amount of time.
u/2jzgeView thread →
Helly Hansen sailing gear not recommended for hiking due to weight and breathability
I've used some of their sailing stuff for sailing. Will you be drier and more protected that with any trekking hardshell? Yes Will you be way more sweaty, uncomfortable and overloaded than with a trekking hardshell? Absolutely! The things are designed for sailing where you have sea spray, saltwater and wind, so of course they're more protective, but they're also heavier, obstruct your movement more and breath way less. I personally wouldn't use it for trekking. HH has some trekking gear tho'!
u/RaggaDruidaView thread →
Helly Hansen jackets seen as better than North Face but below Arc'teryx
I have a few HH jackets that I got on a good deal. IMHO they are better than a lot of north face. Not as good as Arc’terex but are much cheaper.
u/the_tysonView thread →