Review: Helly Hansen Men's Sogn Shell 2.0 3L Jacket
By Snowboarding Expert
Clint Hobbs
Helly Hansen Men's Sogn Shell 2.0 3L Jacket
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The Curated Take
4.3/5
With its excellent waterproofing and durability, the Helly Hansen Men's Sogn Shell 2.0 3L Jacket is an ideal choice for backcountry and touring enthusiasts. The jacket's secure pockets keep contents dry in wet conditions. Its high-quality construction and lightweight design make it suitable for various activities, from snowboarding to snowmobiling. The Sogn shell is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize staying dry and require a reliable, rugged outer layer capable of withstanding diverse weather conditions and activities.
Ideal for
- Great waterproofing
- Excellent durability
- Pockets are secure
Not ideal for
- Zipper on the front of the jacket comes up a little too high and can be uncomfortable when fully zipped
- Wish it was a little baggier
Aesthetics
I like tighter jackets because I have had problems with my hoods getting caught on trees in the woods. I also like the look of a tighter-fitting jacket, but I...Read more
Waterproofing
I bought this jacket for the waterproofing. The taped zippers ensure no water gets into my pockets and keep my electronics and sandwiches nice and dry. This three-layer shell ensures...Read more
Durability
I have ripped several jackets over the years from tight glade runs. I normally don't make it more than 10 days in a jacket before it rips. So far, I...Read more
Comfort
I was a little scared when trying on Helly Hansen gear because the fit seemed to be more European than other snowboarding companies. Although it fits tighter than most, the...Read more
Warmth
The Sogn isn't as warm as an insulated jacket. But I love the ability to layer underneath this shell, which allows me to stay warm on the coldest days. The...Read more
Breathability
I wish this jacket had bigger zips underneath the armpits, but it still breathes quite well. I normally have to unzip my jackets when touring, but I like to tour...Read more
Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
Clint Hobbs
About the jackets
- Model: Helly Hansen Men's Sogn Shell 2.0 3L Jacket
Test conditions
- When I bought this: January 17, 2021
- Where I’ve used it: Backcountry, touring, park, sunshine, groomers, and in the Midwest and Northeast.
- How many times I've used it: 100
Expert Reviews of the Helly Hansen Men's Sogn Shell 2.0 3L Jacket
Clint Hobbs The Helly Hansen Men's Sogn 2.0 Shell is excellent at keeping the water out and weathering large storms. After getting 30+ days on this jacket in my first season, my only complaint is that the fit is a little tight, and the front zipper comes up too far. I have been out in storms where we have gotten 16 inches in one day, and this jacket kept me dry the whole day, kept the snow out of my pockets, and was dry and ready to go for the next day. I even had my Camelbak blow up on my back, and although the outside of the jacket was wet, it never seeped through to the inside. The zippers on this jacket are very well-built, and I have not had an issue with them getting off track or misaligned. The zippers are fully waterproof, which is rare. Most zippers seem more than 80% but less than 100% waterproof. The hood on this jacket is also large enough to fit my helmet underneath, which is great during those heavy snowfall days. All in all, the Sogn is pretty warm for being a shell and is durable.
Product Specs
Gender | Men's |
Age Group | Adult |
Featured technology | DWR, HELLY TECH®, RECCO® |
Features | Breathable, Hood, Powder skirt, Waterproof, Windproof, Zippered pocket |
Style | Shell, Long sleeve |
Material | Polyamide |
Review Ratings
Aesthetics
5/5
Clint Hobbs gave 5 of 5 stars. I like tighter jackets because I have had problems with my hoods getting caught on trees in the woods. I also like the look of a tighter-fitting jacket, but I also like the functionality of the tighter fit. This jacket is still quite roomy, and I can fit my cell phone, wallet, and GoPro in my pockets easily. I like the contrast of the Helly Hansen logo on this jacket.
Waterproofing
5/5
Clint Hobbs gave 5 of 5 stars. I bought this jacket for the waterproofing. The taped zippers ensure no water gets into my pockets and keep my electronics and sandwiches nice and dry. This three-layer shell ensures maximum waterproofness while also offering good breathability. I am pretty comfortable in this shell on warm and hot days. It doesn't overheat me when I skin in the backcountry, either.
Durability
5/5
Clint Hobbs gave 5 of 5 stars. I have ripped several jackets over the years from tight glade runs. I normally don't make it more than 10 days in a jacket before it rips. So far, I have worn this jacket for 90-plus days, and it has not ripped at all. The materials are surprisingly breathable yet thick, like Canvas.
Comfort
4/5
Clint Hobbs gave 4 of 5 stars. I was a little scared when trying on Helly Hansen gear because the fit seemed to be more European than other snowboarding companies. Although it fits tighter than most, the jacket is still flexible in areas like the armpits, offering a large amount of maneuverability. Due to the flexible armpits, I do not even have to unzip this jacket when skinning.
Warmth
3/5
Clint Hobbs gave 3 of 5 stars. The Sogn isn't as warm as an insulated jacket. But I love the ability to layer underneath this shell, which allows me to stay warm on the coldest days. The jacket is also good at blocking out wind, which, when combined with layers, can aid with increased warmth.
Breathability
4/5
Clint Hobbs gave 4 of 5 stars. I wish this jacket had bigger zips underneath the armpits, but it still breathes quite well. I normally have to unzip my jackets when touring, but I like to tour with the Sogn zipped up. I find the fabric thick enough to offer good protection and breathes nicely.
FAQs
What do you love about this product?
Clint Hobbs This jacket keeps the water out well, especially on the chairlift. The zippers and seams make sure that my pockets stay dry, too. I also love the lightweight aspect of the shell. I snowboard in Colorado often, and the ability to layer up and down is crucial to the changing environment. The pass pocket is a nice touch and something I like a lot more than I thought.
What was your favorite moment with this gear?
Clint Hobbs I had a pretty awesome snowmobile trip in this jacket. The temperature hovered around 0°F, and we rode up the continental divide. We saw some super cool views but felt even crisper temperatures. I stuffed a bunch of layers under my Sogn shell and stayed warm and dry in the sub-zero temperatures. I love this shell.
Why did you choose this product?
Clint Hobbs I have always been intrigued by Helly Hansen products and wanted to try their shells. They make good sailing gear, so I had high expectations for the Sogn shell. It did not disappoint in the waterproof department and has been my go-to jacket for any day I fear getting wet. I also enjoy touring in this jacket because it is lightweight and waterproof.
What is the value for the money versus other options?
Clint Hobbs Helly Hansen products tend to be more expensive than other companies, but there is a lot of value in the Sogn shell. For $375, this jacket packs a lot of features, like RECCO, a powder skirt, a pass pocket, and hand warmer pockets. The hi-vis hood comes in clutch when people try to find me in the lift line or on the mountain.