Helly Hansen Holmen 5 Pocket Pant 2.0 Review: Your Go-To for Mountain, Office, and Everywhere In-Between

Norwegian outdoor legends Helly Hansen are renowned for their quality gear, and their latest Holmen 5 Pocket Pant 2.0 are no exception. These versatile trousers promise to take you from rugged mountain trails to the professional demands of the office, all with impeccable style and comfort. We’ve been putting them to the test, and here’s why we think they’re a standout choice for the discerning outdoor adventurer who needs gear that does it all.

As part of our ongoing commitment to showcasing the best from Helly Hansen’s extensive range, the Holmen 5 Pocket Pants immediately caught our eye. They epitomize versatility – perfectly suited for everything from navigating airport lounges and daily commutes to tackling crags and enduring important meetings.

Performance Where It Counts: Lightweight, Quick-Drying, and Ready for Anything

In an age where versatility is king, I look for apparel that seamlessly transitions across all my activities. Whether I’m cycling to the climbing gym, hiking local fells, or embarking on an outdoor climbing adventure, my gear needs to keep up. I’m pleased to report these lightweight, quick-drying pants have excelled throughout rigorous testing.

The UK has recently been graced with fantastic spring weather – a mix of cold mornings, brisk North-Easterly winds, and glorious sunshine. The Holmen pants have handled these varied conditions admirably. They are:

• Lightweight enough for climbing: Offering unrestricted movement.
• UPF 50+ rated: Providing crucial sun protection during prolonged outdoor exposure.
• Breathable for hiking: Ensuring comfort on the move.
• Wind-resistant: The tight weave effectively keeps cold breezes at bay when hiking over exposed fells.

These have quickly become my go-to hiking pants and climbing trousers.

Fabric, Features, and Thoughtful Design

The magic behind the Holmen’s performance lies in its construction:

• Main Fabric: A blend of 94% Polyamide and a highly effective 6% Elastane. This combination offers exceptional four-way stretch, ensuring you have all the movement you need, even for those high-step manoeuvres at the climbing gym.
• Twill Weave: Provides just enough structure to maintain a clean, sharp silhouette, preventing them from looking misshapen when worn in social or office settings. This makes them excellent smart casual trousers.
• Classic 5-Pocket Styling:
  • Two western-style hand pockets.
  • Two generous patch back pockets (easily accommodating modern smartphones).
  • A discreet, hidden inseam security pocket – perfect for valuables.
• Weight: A mere 320g per pair (Men’s W33 L30), making them ideal travel pants.
• Eco-Conscious: The fabric is Bluesign certified, an important factor for sustainable outdoor gear.

One small suggestion for improvement: the back pockets could benefit from a double layer of fabric at the base, a common feature in premium items, to enhance long-term durability in this high-wear area.

Fit and Sizing: Comfort and Choice for All

The Holmen 5 Pocket Pants boast a regular fit – a classic straight leg cut that avoids being too tapered or overly baggy. Think of them as similar to a classic Levi’s 511 slim fit – comfortable and timeless.

One of the most impressive aspects is the extensive range of sizes:

• Waist Sizes: From 28” to 40”, crucially including often-missed odd sizes like 31”, 33”, and 35”.
• Leg Lengths: Available in 30”, 32”, and 34”.

This commitment to inclusive sizing means you’re highly likely to find your perfect fit. I tested a W33 L30 (usually a W34 tester). They felt a little loose on the waist – perhaps a testament to increased cycling and hiking! The fit through the thigh is excellent, the rise comfortable, and there’s ample zipper room, which is particularly important when wearing a climbing harness. The 7” hem allows for easy pulling up over the knee, and the subtly articulated knees aid movement without disrupting the pant’s clean lines.

Premium Finishing Touches

As expected from a premium Scandinavian brand like Helly Hansen, the attention to detail is evident:

• Durable Construction: Double seams and bar tacking in high-wear areas.
• Robust Waistband: Double thickness with bar-tacked belt loops.
• Quality Hardware: A sturdy, riveted button closure and reliable YKK zips.
• Subtle Branding: A discreet HH tab on the back pocket.

The Verdict: Your New Favourite All-Rounder Pant

The Helly Hansen Holmen 5 Pocket Pant 2.0 are a superbly well-thought-out pair of trousers. Their blend of comfort, durability, stretch, and smart casual styling makes them incredibly useful for a wide spectrum of activities – from adventurous travel and outdoor pursuits to everyday social wear and even the office. They truly bridge the gap between technical outdoor trousers and everyday wear.

Key Details:

• Men’s Sizes: 28-40” waist, three leg lengths (30, 32, 34”), three colour choices.
• Women’s Version Available: Sizes 26-36” waist, three leg lengths and two colour choices.
• SRP: £80
• Availability: Helly Hansen UK and select retailers.

Disclosure – CGR reviewers and writers are never paid to provide a review and the website does not take advertising or link to affiliate sales. We are a bunch of keen climbers and travellers who accept sample products and offer an honest and independent review of the item.