The Odin range by Helly Hansen is the company’s recently updated professional-grade outdoor gear range. Let’s look at two key pieces: the Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket and in more detail the new Odin Everdown hooded jacket.
Odin Everdown hooded jacket
The Odin Everdown hooded jacket is a new addition from Helly Hansen, featuring eco-friendly materials and a minimalist design. I’ll say it up front: there’s a few things about this jacket that I’m unsure about…
The colours and materials gives it a “marmite” appeal—love them or hate them. And first impressions: I really wasn’t sure. That said, the colour (Cactus) is growing on me: It switches from green to grey depending on the light. The material, I’m still getting used to.
There’s five colours across the men’s and women’s versions, with the (lipstick)Magenta being perhaps the wildest.
Innovations
A key innovation is the use of one sheet of down. The Odin Everdown hooded jacket has a full layer of Thindown (the world’s first down fabric) stitched into the jacket with lots of space either side between the down and the surface layer.
I get the idea and I’m sure it’s well researched and tested but I’ve one issue: what happens if it gets damaged? With a panel design, if you damage one panel, that’s all that will be affected; with the sheet, what happens to the efficiency of the jacket if you break the integrity of the surface?
I’m kinda sceptical about this gossamer-like recycled polyamide fabric, so I’ve reached out to Helly Hansen to find out, how tough is it, is it waterproof, how do you fix it?
Ripstop on top
Looking closer at the specs the cover fabric is 10 denier Ripstop (Ripstop has a distinctive check to it where fabrics are reinforced) – so that’s reassuring. And it’s recycled.
Also, thanks to the single down sheet if you were to snag the fabric you’ll not loose any feathers.
Without just listing the specifications, instead here’s a summary of what I learned about the new Odin Everdown hooded jacket.
Packsize is super small and weight is only 350g.
Odin Everdown hooded jacket: features and performance
- Single-sheet down construction: Instead of the typical down-filled panels, this jacket uses a single sheet of down, preventing the clumping that often leads to cold spots. This design aims to ensure consistent warmth
- Ultra-light fabric: The lightweight recycled polyamide fabric, while slightly slick to the touch, makes the jacket extremely packable without sacrificing warmth.
- Distinctive colour and texture: The green, with a slight petrol tint, is eye-catching but may not suit everyone. The texture reminds me of something between a spacesuit and one of those compostable plastic bags.
- Wind resistance and packability: The jacket holds up well against light wind and compresses easily for packing. When you pack it away you can see it does trap air – but better than a down panel jacket?
- Pockets and hood: My main gripe here is the lack of pocket closures. I’d really like something simple to help keep my stuff in. The hood, while comfortable, could use a simple adjustment to keep it tight.
What I like
- Lightweight and compact: Compresses exceptionally well for easy storage.
- Innovative down design: The single-sheet construction provides even warmth distribution.
- Impressive warmth-to-weight ratio: Delivers solid insulation without bulk.
- Wind-resistant surface: Adds versatility for light breezes.
- Eco-friendly materials: Includes PFC-free DWR and recycled content.
- Safety: There’s a Recco panel stitched into the hood.
What I’m not sure about
- Feel of the fabric: The plasticky feel may not be for everyone, though you don’t notice it when layered.
- Waterproofing: I’m just not sure how waterproof the outer fabric is but it does have a DWR coating
- Pocket closures: Simple toggles or velcro would make the pockets more functional.
- Hood adjustability: Adding a toggle would improve functionality in windy conditions.
Summary: Odin Everdown hooded jacket
I might be missing the point with this jacket… maybe it’s not the jacket, it’s me?
The Odin Everdown hooded jacket is a lightweight, eco-conscious option with a good warmth-to-weight ratio. While some design choices could be more practical, it’s probably a solid choice for alpinists and climbers who prioritise packability and insulation over added features. It’s a specialist piece of clothing for harsh conditions and ultra-light layering.
Oh, and it picked up an ISPO award and here’s what they said about it:
“Helly Hansen presents a novelty with this highly functional, lined down jacket. The jacket does not require quilting thanks to innovative sheet insulation, which offers a number of advantages, both in production and application.”
Jury ISPO Awards
Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket
The Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket is a mainstay in Helly Hansen’s pro grade outdoor gear lineup and is recently refreshed with lighter, high-performance fabrics. It’s a jacket that helped with the development of equipment for UK search and rescue teams and has picked up some accolades since launch.
At £440, it’s a hefty investment, but it promises solid, all-season protection – and if you look closely at the Helly Hansen Odin 9 World’s 3.0 official page, you’ll see some versions discounted much cheaper than this :).
As someone who typically caps their jacket budget around £250, I was keen to see if it was worth the extra spend.
Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket: features and performance
- Top-spec fabric: The Helly Tech® Professional fabric used here is Helly Hansen’s highest-grade option. While the brand doesn’t disclose precise waterproof/breathability numbers, real-world use is ultimately more revealing than lab-tested figures.
- Better sizing: Compared to my earlier review of the Helly Hansen Verglas jacket, which felt oversized, the Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 offers a much better fit in XL. The cut is excellent, allowing for easy movement, and it’s a big improvement in terms of sizing and articulation.
- Clever pocket design: The jacket skips traditional pockets in favour of access zips that open to a full-length internal compartment. It’s spacious but requires a bit of organisation to avoid it becoming a jumbled mess.
- Pro-grade hood and safety features: The hood is fully adjustable, helmet-compatible, and includes a Recco reflector—ideal if you’re into trekking or snowshoeing holidays in more remote, challenging destinations.
What I like
- Quality finish and fitting: The attention to detail in the seams and fitting is impressive.
- Adjustable hood: Two-way adjustability ensures a secure fit, even in windy conditions.
- Improved cut: Compared to my previous jacket from the Verglas range, the fit is just right.
- Ample storage space: The compartment provides plenty of room, though it takes some organising.
- Colour choices: Available in six colours, with the Concrete being a great choice if you wanted something more subtle for the city.
What I’m not sure about / What could be improved
- Hand-warmer pockets: Slightly larger, lined pockets would be more comfortable.
- High-visibility elements: Adding reflective strips could enhance safety in low-light situations.
- Dedicated phone pocket: A secure sleeve in the chest area would make accessing essentials easier.
Summary: Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket
At this price, the Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket is aimed at those who need high-end waterproofing and durability. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for an all-season shell, but it might be worth considering if you really need gear with pro-grade outdoor performance.
It’s possible the only waterproof I’ll need for some time – and with a hefty discount on some colours – I’d say it’s an excellent choice for most outdoor lovers.
Final thoughts on the Odin range of professional outdoor gear
Both the Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 shell jacket and Odin Everdown hooded jacket reflect Helly Hansen’s dedication to quality and innovation.
Whether you’re after all-season waterproofing or lightweight warmth, these jackets are worth considering if you’re into more serious or testing adventures. Together they make a great combination, just make sure you need this level of performance for your typical outdoor conditions.
