Extreme kit

Helly Hansen unveil Ocean Racing Suit which will clad the Ericsson VOR team

Helly Hansen has teamed up with experienced ocean racers to create the Helly Hansen Ocean Racing Suit. In close collaboration with Thomas Coville, Knut Frostad and the Ericsson Racing Team, the Ocean Racing Suit provides maximum protection to offshore sailors facing unpredictable and volatile conditions at sea.

The Suit will be put through its paces during the 2008/09 Volvo Ocean Race with the Ericcson Racing Team. Prototypes have already been put through tests in the Southern Ocean during Thomas Coville’s latest non-stop solo attempt around the world.

Designed to withstand the harshest environments, the full stretch suit has been constructed using Helly Hansen’s durable HellyTech XP fabric, to ensure it remains breathable and waterproof. Body warmth is sealed in with fully waterproof Dynantzips and double rubber and neoprene wrist and neck closures. In addition an extra high fleece lined collar and waterproof, breathable socks provide extra warmth and comfort.

Protection and safety are key to the suit. A fully featured high visibility hood with multiple adjustment options provides a superior fit and increased security. SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) approved reflectives have been placed on all sides of the suit for maximum visibilty at all times, whilst a rubber strip on the socks ensure grip below deck when not worn with boots.

The suit also features a number of storage options: An Aquapac mobile pocket with a downward slide-out opening keeps electronic items dry and safe even in extreme conditions, whilst additonal workwear thigh pockets provide plenty of room to keep sailing tools and other small items within reach.