Icebreaker, the merino wool specialist from New Zealand, is expanding its collection with the Helix LS Zip Hood, a sporty thermal layer that is also available without a hood (Helix LS Zip) or as a vest (Helix LS Vest). The properties of merino wool that are valued by athletes have been packaged in a new concept: recycled merino wool serves as an insulating lining between water-repellent nylon and skin-friendly, odor-inhibiting merino wool. We tested how this concept performs in practice on snow, sand and asphalt.
First impression
When you hold the Helix LS Zip Hood in your hands for the first time, you immediately notice the high-quality materials. In addition to the fine, water-repellent outer layer made from 100% nylon, the stitched lining made from 100% light gray merino wool is particularly impressive. The lining, which is very comfortable to the touch, is incorporated into the jacket at the chest and back and sewn in a square pattern. These seams prevent the insulating recycled merino wool filling from slipping and ensure even warmth. According to the manufacturer, the "MerinoLOFT" filling also insulates comparably well to 650-fill down and Primaloft (100gm). Stretch inserts are incorporated between the merino lining on the front and back, which allow greater freedom of movement and have an additional positive effect. They are made of breathable material and thus ensure improved temperature regulation and a high level of comfort.
The design of the jacket could be described as "timeless", if not "timelessly elegant": straightforward, without a lot of "frills" or eye-catching design elements and pleasantly discreet in the choice of colors (in addition to the test model in black, the Helix Zip Hood Jacket is also available in gray, dark green and light blue). Also worth mentioning are the high-quality details, such as the zip on the inside pocket, the lining's closure to the hood and the chin guard. The fit is based on the design: Classic, straightforward and without surprises. The length of the straight-cut jacket is rather short. It reaches approximately to the crotch. Size L fits a 182 tall man well. The jacket is a little wider around the stomach and towards the hips than you might expect from a sporty thermal layer. In use, however, this is not noticeable in a negative way.
Practical test
During the test, the Helix Zipp Hood developed into a loyal companion. I used the jacket more and more, and not just for sports. The jacket also makes a good impression in the office, on walks with grandma and when traveling. Merino lining and stretch inserts make it comfortable to wear, and not just according to the product descriptions. Due to the low weight of 600g (measured size L) and the good heat regulation, you feel comfortable in the jacket in almost all situations, only in very cold temperatures does the jacket reach its limits compared to "classic" down jackets. On
On the mountain, the jacket has proven itself both as a mid-layer under a shell and as an outer layer. On warm days, a base layer under the Helix LS Zip Hood is sufficient. The jacket is also suitable for touring due to its relatively low weight and pack size. Although there are a few shortcomings here: The outer shell is a little fragile and you don't want to graze rocks with it, for example. The hood is not helmet-compatible and there are no adjustment options for the hood or the waistband at the hips (these are adjusted slightly by an integrated elastic band). For these reasons, I also used the jacket more in everyday life during the test, without having to do without it on many days on the slopes and off-piste skiing. The Helix Zip Hood proved to be particularly useful when biking in the city and when traveling. Whether it's a hairdryer on the bike in Innsbruck or an Atlantic breeze during the escape from the (hopefully only so far) lousy winter of 2015/16 on Fuerteventura, I've been able to rely on the wind protection so far. In addition to the wind-repellent outer material, this is also due to the lined placket behind the zip, which prevents draughts through the zip and also forms insulation between the cold zip and the inside of the jacket. The frequent reaching into the void when you want to take something out of the breast pocket is a little annoying. This is on the inside and to get to your phone or wallet, you also have to open the front zipper of the jacket.
Conclusion
The Helix LS Zip Hood from Icebreaker is a high-quality thermal layer ideal for freeriding and days on the slopes. It's not the classic touring PrimaLoft or down, but you're still wrapped up warm and protected from the wind on a tour. This hood is so comfortable and pleasant to wear that it has become my "always and everywhere piece of clothing" since the start of the test: Whether in powder or when traveling to the same with the Helix LS Zip Hood, Icebreaker has succeeded in creating a great mid-layer that you can also wear as an outer layer without hesitation.
Advantages & disadvantages
+very comfortable to wear
+absolutely suitable for all-round use
-Band & hood not adjustable
Details
Material: main part 100% recycled polyester fabric, side inserts: 255 g/m² Terry, 46% polyester, 38% wool, 16% LYCRA®, insulation: MerinoLOFT™ 70 g/m², lining: 100% wool
Slim-fit fit
Warm, breathable, sustainable, comfortable
Can be worn on both sides
Cuffs and chest pocket with press stud fastening
Here is the manufacturer's website with further information, here you can buy the Helix LS Zip Hood from our partner store Bergezeit here.
This product was provided to PG free of charge by the manufacturer for testing.
