HELIKON-TEX TOP JACKET SQUALL HARDSHELL – TORRENTSTRETCH

“Hardshell Squall – effective protection against rain and snow

The Squall Jacket complements the Helikon-Tex range with a more modern outer layer. What is the difference between softshell and hardshell? A softshell jacket (such as the Blizzard Jacket) is a soft layer that provides protection against light wind and rain, mainly due to DWR impregnation. A hardshell is a stronger layer that needs to provide much better water resistance while maintaining good breathability. Both of these parameters are combined in the Squall Jacket.

Squall jacket membrane properties:

Waterproof and breathable are ensured by TorrentStretch® – 3L (three-layer) laminate. Between the strong outer layer and the integrated lining, there is a microporous membrane. Its size prevents water from entering the inside of the jacket while being large enough to effectively remove moisture generated by the body (in the form of water vapor) to the outside. Three laminated layers together form the TorrentStretch membrane. The Squall Hardshell has a membrane cover with very good water resistance parameters: 30,000 mm water column.

Main feature – water resistance

The Squall is a full-fledged rain jacket with a two-way adjustable hood with a high collar. Additional protection against moisture is provided by waterproof YKK® AquaGuard® zippers, with the main zipper being two-way and bottom fastened with a Prym snap button. The Squall Hardshell jacket is coated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) hydrophobic coating that does not contain harmful PFCs (perfluorocarbons).

How the jacket provides breathability:

The primary focus of a good hardshell is on water resistance and the transfer of water vapor from the body. Both are the responsibility of the TorrentStretch membrane with a breathability of 30,000 g/m2/24h. Another parameter to consider when choosing a hardshell jacket is the RET (Resistance to Evaporative Transfer) value, which determines the permeability of water vapor through the membrane, i.e., breathability. The lower the RET value, the lower the resistance, making the jacket more breathable. The best quality falls within the 0-6 RET range, and the Squall Hardshell has a <5 RET, which is very good.

Tested solutions for better ventilation:

Underarm ventilation openings increase breathability. They provide better ventilation and, if necessary, help regulate body temperature. The same goes for adjustable cuffs, which can be closed with a hook and loop, and flaps: two on the hood, one sewn at the bottom of the jacket. With so many options to adjust the fit to your body, you can easily adapt the jacket to weather conditions. The jacket is equipped with sturdy Woojin buckles.

Practical solutions for all weather conditions

The Hardshell Squall is designed so that you can layer it with additional warm layers underneath during the winter (e.g., the Wolfhound Hoodie Jacket). Therefore, the hardshell can function as a standalone jacket in the spring and as an outer layer for winter expeditions. It has three pockets, two of which are lowered. The third pocket is located inside for documents or a phone. A loop and hook on the left shoulder make personalization easy. In addition, the Squall jacket, when folded, takes up very little space. Rolled up, it fits into its hood.

How to care for a membrane jacket:

Technologically advanced products require special care to ensure they last as long as possible. Membrane jackets should be maintained according to the instructions to prevent them from losing their waterproof and breathable properties. To maintain these properties, it’s worth regularly renewing the hydrophobic coating with a DWR treatment.

How to wear under a hardshell:

To fully utilize the capabilities of the Squall Hardshell jacket, you should wear technical clothing underneath that supports effective moisture transfer. This way, water vapor effectively and efficiently exits the jacket.

Squall Hardshell Jacket received quality certifications:

BlueSign® – The BlueSign® system eliminates environmentally harmful substances from the manufacturing process from the start. Thanks to this, it is possible to guarantee a safer and greener production, higher standards for resource usage, consumer protection, emissions into water and air, as well as occupational safety.

Oeko-Tex® standard 100 – a certification that attests to the quality of textiles and textile products in contact with human skin. The product is tested for a hundred of the most harmful substances that threaten consumers. Factors such as resistance to sweat, saliva, and foreign odors are also assessed.”