The Helly Hansen Elevation waterproof, windproof and breathable ski jacket is a single skin outer layer that will last for years. It has the feel that it would be just as much at home sailing around the world as it is on the ski slopes.
Inspired by the Norse God of snow, Ulla, the Elevation is an extremely well designed jacket, with thought gone into every aspect of its durable design.
On first inspection the Elevation's weight (medium is 1060g) and stiff fabric comes as a surprise. But once worn the fabric soon starts to loosen up, and doesn't hinder the skiing/snowboarding experience in any way, the weight soon forgotten.
The main YKK® Aquaguard® Vislon® water resistant zip is large and easily operated with gloves on, and once fully closed encases your face, to goggle height, in a large warm soft fleece patch.
There are two lower vertically entered pockets which are easily sufficient for a hat... Plus two massive side pockets with vented mesh inners, thus doubling up as side vents if you get a little hot, although I wouldn't ski with then open if I had anything in them. The cooling vents work really well with the four Primaloft® pillows on the inside back of the jacket which help with airflow. There's also a lift pass pocket on the left sleeve.
There are two breast pockets, the right hand pocket has a goggle wipe on elastic, and is great for a wallet, while the one on the left is a Life Pocket+™ with Primaloft® Aerogel Insulation, designed to prolong the life of your phone. The problem we have is that most avalanche transceivers sit on the left side of your chest and having the life pocket and your phone on the left too, could lead to problems with your out-going transceiver signal being detected if buried.
The massive hood will fit over all helmets and while fully adjustable is somewhat large when not in use. The sleeves have integrated wrist gaiters with thumb holes, and industrial sized Velcro cuff adjusters. The functional powder skirt is clip compatible with most Helly Hansen ski pants.
The Elevation is a top quality downhill jacket, for charging around big mountains in all weathers. Built to last by one of Scandinavia's top brands and let's face it they know a lot about dealing with weather in Norway.
