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The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 Shell Jacket is no stranger to high praise from outdoor enthusiasts, and after putting it through its paces, it’s clear why. This technical shell balances performance, durability, and thoughtful design for those venturing into the mountains for climbing, hiking, or skiing.
First Impressions & Key Features
Waterproofing & Breathability
Helly Hansen’s 3-layer fabric technology truly shines here, with the Odin 9 Worlds offering robust waterproofing and excellent breathability. In extended field tests, which enjoyed hammering rain and variable mountain weather, this shell kept me bone dry. The water-repellent coating beaded water effortlessly, while the Helly Tech Professional membrane was breathable and helped dump moisture during high-output activity, which is crucial for avoiding the dreaded sauna effect when approaching the base of the climb or hiking uphill.
Bombproof Durability
Built to survive punishing conditions, the Odin 9 Worlds Shell Jacket has a reputation for being as tough as nails. From mountain scrambles to winter mountaineering, the jacket’s reinforced stitching and abrasion-resistant material shrugged off abuse. It’s the kind of outerwear I have previously called ‘The Mothership’—ideal for climbers, mountaineers, and anyone with a penchant for rough terrain. From previous tests, I would put the jacket firmly in the same bracket as the Arc’teryx Alpha SV and, more recently, the Patagonia Triolet, both hardcore shell jackets for serious adventures. The Odin 9 Worlds Shell Jacket is cheaper with just as good features.
Versatile Mountain Design
One of the jacket’s standout features is its adjustability. The hood is helmet-compatible and cinches down snugly, while the hem and cuffs adjust easily to lock out wind and snow. Ample storage in the form of well-placed pockets means easy access to snacks, maps, or gloves without having to stop and dig through your pack—a boon on long, exposed routes. The harness-friendly hand pockets are huge, easily big enough for a laminated OS map and more; I liked the smaller additional inside pocket for putting my glasses into. The pockets have two-way zips, which I thought was unnecessary. All pocket and pit zips have glove-friendly zip pulls, and YKK Aqua Coil zips to help keep the kit dry.
Generous fitting with a full range of motion for when the ground gets steep and technical.
Comfort for Full Range of Motion
When you’re reaching for that next hold or adjusting your stance on a precarious pitch, the last thing you want is a jacket that restricts movement. Fortunately, Helly Hansen nails the ergonomic fit with articulated sleeves and underarm gussets that allow complete freedom of movement. Even with layers beneath, the Odin 9 Worlds doesn’t feel restrictive—a must for technical climbing and skiing.
The helmet-friendly hood works well for both mountaineering and hiking; it is fully adjustable and has an embedded RECCO reflector in the stiffened peak. Very useful and not just for snowsports as many rescue professionals use RECCO technology for helping to locate injured people. Remember, though, the RECCO reflector does not broadcast your position like a personal beacon does!
Style Meets Function
Though form follows function in the outdoor world, the Odin 9 Worlds doesn’t compromise on looks. Clean lines and a modern silhouette mean this jacket won’t look out of place when you’re transitioning from mountain to town. It’s a technical shell that still feels at home on the streets—perfect for those who want style alongside functionality. The well-sized chest zip pocket will fit plenty of larger styles of phone.
The side pockets were perfect for wearing with a climbing harness. The hood is fully adjustable when wearing a helmet.
Performance Testing in the Field
We tested the Odin 9 Worlds across a range of conditions, from deluges in Scotland to high-altitude snowstorms in the Alps:
- In Heavy Rain: The shell’s waterproofing was flawless. Prolonged exposure to torrential rain left us dry, with no leakage at zippers or seams. The DWR coating prevented the fabric from soaking, while the membrane ensured moisture escaped, maintaining comfort.
- In High Winds: Bracing against biting alpine gusts, the jacket proved its windproof credentials. The hood adjustments worked brilliantly to seal out wind, while the cuffs and hem prevented drafts from creeping in.
- In Snow: The Odin 9 Worlds will handle fresh snow with ease, shedding it from the surface while maintaining warmth. The robust fabric also keeps wet snow from soaking through—great news for those hitting the slopes or tackling a summit in winter – escpecially those spindrift scottish winter ascents.
- During High-Output Activities: When pushing hard on ascents, breathability is key, and this shell excelled. Even during fast-paced, sweaty climbs, the jacket vented well, and moisture didn’t build up inside.
Areas for Improvement
As good as it is, the Odin 9 Worlds isn’t without its potential downsides:
- Weight: Weighing in slightly heavier than some ultralight shells, it may not appeal to fast-and-light alpinists looking to shave grams. However, for those prioritising durability and weather protection, the trade-off is likely worth it.
- Price: As a premium piece of kit, the Odin 9 Worlds comes with a steep price tag. The quality, performance, and longevity justify the investment for serious users, but it’s a commitment for those on a tighter budget.
Final Thoughts
The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds Shell Jacket is a top-tier choice for those who demand serious protection and durability from their gear. Whether battling harsh mountain conditions or navigating unpredictable weather on multi-day treks, it delivers where it counts. While its weight and price might give ultralight purists pause, the jacket’s overall performance, adaptability, and comfort make it a reliable companion for serious outdoor pursuits.
If you’re looking for a rugged, technical shell that can handle whatever the mountain throws your way, the Odin 9 Worlds is well worth the investment.
The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 Shell Jacket has six colour options and sizes S – 2XL.
The female-specific version comes in an amazing ten colour options and sizes XS-XL.
The SRP is £440, and it can be purchased directly from Helly Hansen UK and specialist retailers.
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