Helly Hansen Odin Mountain Hybrid Softshell Pants and Jacket

The jacket is made with two versions of similar fabrics: one for maximizing breathability, and the other with a membrane for increased protection from the elements and then coated with a C6 DWR in order to keep them resistant to water and oils.  C6 is the industry standard for DWR. 

Two pockets are the breast offer storage that is still accessible while wearing a backpack and on the interior, two mesh stash pockets offer easy storage for skins, gloves, or any other large items that you want to keep warm.

The large hood is helmet-compatible and features a laminated brim for ultimate weather protection. The hood can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally and contrast piping and low profile cordlock buttons keep the hood stylish.

Another nice detail is moulded cuff tabs which make for quick adjustments at the wrist and help keep weather out.

Waterproofing: C6 DWR
Zipper: YKK
Fabric: HH 4-way stretch softshell (with and without weather protective membrane)

• 4-way stretch softshell with hybrid membrane fabrics
• C6 DWR
• Grid fleece backing
• Vertical and horizontal hood adjustments
• Laminated brim with contrast piping 
• Angled chest pockets
• Moulded cuff tabs
• Articulated sleeves

• 4-way stretch softshell fabric
• C6 DWR
• Windproof and breathable
• Thigh and waist pockets
• Zippered ankle cuff expansion and snap button adjustments
• Belt loops and velcro waist adjustments
• Outer-thigh ventilation
• Suspender compatible
• Reinforced ankle cuffs for sharps protection

Helly Hansen's Mountain Hybrid Softshells are warm and super stretchy and designed for high aerobic backcountry activity. The 4-way stretch allows for extra mobility and a host of backcountry specific features ensure that this kit is ready for your any adventure. The thick softshell material is warm and feels like it will be quite durable. 

I’m always a big fan of having lots of pocket options, and both the pants and jacket provide a number of them. I’m a little confused as to why they chose to put a velcro closure on one of the thigh pockets, as this does not seem well suited to active pursuits, especially in the snow. Another feature that seems a little weak is the use of large-holed mesh for the inside of the chest pocket. I often carry a notebook, pencil, and thermometer in my chest pocket (I know, I’m a bit of a nerd) and I feel like it wouldn’t take long for the pencil or thermometer to poke through the holes in the mesh, which would lead to a larger hole being created in the long run. The same mesh can be found in the pockets at the waist of the pants, and I see a similar issue with keys and other such things. 

I like the large hood, with ample room to be worn over a helmet. The ability to adjust the fit both horizontally and vertically is great and the low profile cordlock buttons are always a welcome addition. They did leave the cordlock pulls on the exterior which makes sense for easy access but means they will be dangling around on the outside of the jacket. It’s not a big deal but I prefer when they live on the inside of the jacket. 

The pants have great ventilation, but the jacket lacks pit zips. Perhaps the idea is that the enhanced breathability in the fabric will make up for it, but I am of the opinion that there is little substitute for actually being able to open up vents.

One little detail that should not be overlooked, is that the velcro seems super bomber. I know, I know, it’s just velcro… but this velcro actually feels like it grips a lot better. Upon closer inspection, it looks like they’ve changed the shape of the little hooks so that they have more grab. Moving on.

The expandable cuff on the leg is always a welcome feature, but one thing I noticed is the inner gaiter is super short! It is sewn into the pant only about 2 inches up from the bottom of the cuff. This might actually turn out to be an advantage, but I’m not 100% sure how to feel about it yet. Another welcome feature on the cuff is the abrasion guard; I’ve destroyed enough cuffs with crampons and I feel the abrasion guard is now a ‘must-have’.

Lastly, I find the entirely grey suit to be on the bland side and the little yellow highlights are not quite enough to keep it interesting. Thankfully, the Odin Mountain Hybrid Shoftshells come in a variety of colours, so you have a few more options to chose from. I like that they have toned down their logo as well because, in the past, they have favoured large neon logos.

This is a great kit for spring touring and warmer mid-winter days when you may not need the full-on weather protection fo a shells.