Helly Hansen Outdoor Gear

Helly Hansen is a globally recognized leader in technical sailing and performance ski apparel. The brand's history dates back to 1877 when sea captain Helly Juell Hansen and his wife Maren Margrethe began producing waterproof oilskin jackets and trousers in Norway to protect sailors from the harsh North Sea conditions.

Over the decades, Helly Hansen has been a pioneer in textile innovation, introducing layered clothing systems and the iconic Helly Tech waterproof breathable fabric. While the brand remains deeply rooted in its Norwegian heritage, its manufacturing operations are now global. Most production takes place in Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and China to leverage advanced textile manufacturing facilities.

In terms of corporate ownership, the brand has transitioned from a small family business to a global entity. In 2018, Canadian Tire Corporation acquired Helly Hansen for approximately $985 million CAD. This acquisition has allowed the brand to expand its presence significantly in North America while maintaining its headquarters and design operations in Oslo, Norway.