Last Updated on July 26, 2026 by Daniel Globe
You rely on a shell that keeps you dry, breathes while you work hard, and fits into the way you move outdoors. The Verglas Infinity Shell line from Helly Hansen brings decades of Norwegian weather-tested design to hiking and high-output pursuits, combining waterproof protection with performance fabrics and practical pockets so you spend less time managing gear and more time on the trail.
Top Picks
| Category | Product | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Best Women’s Waterproof Shell | 96/100 | |
| 🎯 Best For High-Output | 91/100 |
How We Chose
You need to know which technical details matter most for a waterproof hiking jacket, so we focused on waterproofing and breathability first, followed by fit and mobility, fabric weight and packability, pocket layout and closure reliability, and long-term durability. We also considered care instructions and sustainability of materials because those affect how the jacket performs season after season and how it fits into your gear rotation.
Helly Hansen Verglas
You get a dependable waterproof shell designed for trail and town use, built from a recycled polyester blend with a relaxed anorak silhouette that layers easily over midlayers. The Verglas Infinity Shell focuses on keeping you dry while still letting moisture escape when you work hard, and the waist pocket layout keeps essentials accessible without bulk. For daily wet-weather commutes, weekend hikes, or travel where you need one reliable jacket, this is a practical choice that balances protection, comfort, and responsible material content.
What People Say
You’ll notice most customers praise the jacket’s reliable waterproofing and breathable feel during active use. People also highlight the comfortable relaxed fit and the recycled fabric as a thoughtful touch.
A few mentions focus on care instructions and sizing, but the general tone is that the jacket performs as expected.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Solid waterproofing for wet conditions | ❌ Hand-wash care rather than machine washable |
| ✅ Comfortable relaxed fit that layers easily | ❌ Fit may run roomy if you prefer a slim cut |
| ✅ Recycled fabric content for a lower footprint | ❌ Limited color options on some listings |
| ✅ Practical pockets and anorak styling |
When It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily Commute |
You stay dry and comfortable moving between transit and the office, with breathable fabric preventing clamminess during brisk walks. |
|
Day Hiking |
You get dependable waterproof protection and a relaxed cut that lets you add or remove layers as the weather changes on the trail. |
|
Travel |
You can pack a single versatile shell that handles rainstorms and offers practical pockets for essentials, reducing what you need to carry. |
|
Layered Winter Use |
You can use the Verglas as an outer layer over insulating pieces when conditions turn cold and wet, keeping insulation dry and effective. |
Durability
You can expect good longevity from the Verglas thanks to Helly Hansen’s build standards and the polyester blend, though following the hand-wash care guidance will help maintain waterproofing and fabric performance over time.
Key Benefits
- Waterproof Protection
- Breathable Performance Fabric
- Recycled Polyester Content
- Relaxed Fit for Layering
- Practical Pocket Layout
Rating: 5.0/5 (total: 2+)
Helly Hansen Odin
You get a purpose-built hard shell made for active mountain days where weather can change on a whim. The Odin emphasizes breathability and waterproofing so you can push hard without feeling soaked from the inside, and the bright orange color improves visibility when conditions are rough.
It’s a good pick for technical outings, avalanche-prone terrain, or any high-output activity where ventilation, weight, and protection matter. If you want a single shell for intense alpine use, this one leans toward performance rather than casual commuting.
What People Say
Customers often praise the Odin for its balance of waterproof protection and breathability, noting that it handles sustained effort without becoming clammy. Reviewers also point out the jacket’s lightweight feel and useful pocket layout, while a few mention fit and the need for hand-wash care as minor trade-offs.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Excellent waterproof-breathable performance with LIFA INFINITY™ | ❌ Hand-wash care instead of machine washing |
| ✅ Lightweight and designed for active movement | ❌ May fit snug or require layering consideration for some sizes |
| ✅ High-visibility color option for safety | ❌ Less tailored for casual everyday wear |
| ✅ Multiple pockets for gear access |
When It Helps
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| High-Output Mountain Days | You stay protected from wind and precipitation while breathability helps you shed sweat during sustained efforts. |
| Alpine Travel | You benefit from a lightweight shell that packs small and keeps you dry when conditions change quickly. |
| Backcountry Skiing | You get bright color for visibility and utility pockets for organizing avalanche tools and small essentials. |
| Fastpacking | You keep weight down without sacrificing weather protection, making it easier to move fast over mixed terrain. |
Durability
Built with durable polyester and Helly Hansen’s construction standards, the Odin should hold up well to frequent alpine use if you follow care instructions to preserve the waterproof membrane.
Key Benefits
- High Breathability
- Reliable Waterproofing
- Lightweight Hard Shell
- High Visibility Color
- Multiple Utility Pockets
Rating: 4.5/5 (total: 29+)
Helly Hansen Verglas
You get a versatile shell that handles rainy commutes and trail days with the same straightforward reliability. The Verglas uses a recycled polyester blend and a relaxed anorak silhouette so you can layer comfortably without feeling constrained.
Its waterproof construction keeps out showers while the fabric breathes during activity, and the waist pocket layout keeps small essentials within reach. It’s a solid option when you want one jacket that performs for daily wet-weather use and light to moderate hikes, leaning toward practicality over technical alpine features.
What People Say
Most buyers note that the jacket delivers on keeping you dry and comfortable during active use, with several pointing out the breathable feel and easy layering. Customers also appreciate the recycled fabric as a small sustainability win. A few mentions focus on the hand-wash care and fit preferences, but overall feedback centers on dependable performance.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Effective waterproof protection in wet conditions | ❌ Hand-wash care rather than machine washable |
| ✅ Comfortable relaxed fit that layers well | ❌ Roomy cut may not suit those who prefer slim fits |
| ✅ Contains recycled polyester for a lower footprint | ❌ Limited color availability on some listings |
| ✅ Practical pocket placement for everyday use |
When It Helps
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Urban Commute | You stay dry walking between transit and work while breathable fabric prevents overheating on brisk walks. |
| Day Hikes | You get dependable rain protection and a relaxed cut that allows you to add or remove midlayers as conditions change. |
| Weekend Travel | You can rely on a single lightweight shell to handle unpredictable weather and keep essentials close at hand. |
| Layered Cold Days | You can wear it over insulating layers to keep moisture out and preserve the warmth of inner pieces. |
Durability
Built with Helly Hansen standards and a sturdy polyester blend, the Verglas should last through seasons of use if you follow the hand-wash care to preserve the waterproof membrane and fabric finish.
Key Benefits
- Reliable Waterproofing
- Breathable Performance Fabric
- Recycled Polyester Content
- Relaxed Fit for Layering
- Accessible Waist Pocket
Rating: 5.0/5 (total: 2+)
FAQ
Is It Truly Waterproof?
The Verglas is designed as a waterproof shell, built to keep rain and wind out during commutes and wet hikes while the fabric lets some moisture escape during activity. That said, waterproof performance depends on the whole system—closures, seams, and how the jacket is cared for—so you’ll get the best results if you maintain the finish and pair it with appropriate layers for heavy, prolonged downpours.
How Should I Size And Layer It?
The jacket has a relaxed, anorak-style cut and a standard length, so you can layer a midlayer or light fleece underneath without feeling restricted. If you prefer a closer fit for technical use, consider sizing down, but if you want room for thicker insulation plan on your normal size; try it on with the layers you typically wear to check sleeve length and mobility for overhead movement.
What’s The Best Way To Care For It?
Follow the care guidance and hand wash gently with a mild detergent, avoid fabric softeners, rinse well and line dry away from direct heat to protect the waterproof treatment. When water stops beading on the surface, reapply a DWR treatment and avoid machine drying or harsh cleaners to preserve the membrane and seams for longer service life.
Customer Preferences
When choosing between the Verglas and the Odin, you typically decide based on whether you need a versatile everyday shell or a performance-focused hard shell for intense activity. If you want reliable waterproofing, easy layering and recycled fabric the Verglas fits better, while the Odin appeals when breathability, lightweight movement and high-visibility color are the priorities.
Wrapping Up
If you want a dependable women’s shell that balances fit, recycled fabric content, and waterproof protection for everyday hiking, the Helly Hansen Verglas is a strong choice and is listed at $304.23. If you pursue high-output mountain activities and need an ultrareactive, highly breathable hard shell, the Odin model focuses on performance with LIFA INFINITY technology.
Choose the Verglas for versatile trail use and everyday wear, and choose the Odin when you prioritize peak performance and ventilation during intense activity.
| Helly Hansen Women’s Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket | Helly Hansen Men’s Odin 9 Worlds 2.0 Waterproof Shell Jacket | |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
| Rating | 5.0/5 (2 reviews) | 4.5/5 (29 reviews) |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof | Waterproof |
| Material | 54% Recycled Polyester, 46% Polyester | Polyester |
| Pockets | 1 Waist Pocket | 4 Utility Pockets |
| Shop Now | Shop Now |
This Roundup is reader-supported. When you click through links we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.