Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 Review

The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 hardshell is described by the Scandinavian manufacturer as the ideal hardshell for the most demanding mountaineers. Within the Helly Hansen range, the name “Odin” is reserved for garments specifically designed to endure the most extreme mountain conditions—a fitting tribute to the powerful god of Norse mythology.

This jacket features the Helly Tech Professional membrane, which delivers excellent breathability and waterproofing. However, this comes at the expense of reduced overall lightness and compressibility.

Technical features of the Helly Hansen Odin 9

• Helly Tech Professional 3-Layer membrane – water resistance 20,000 mm – breathability 80,000 g/m2/24h
• Heat-sealed waterproof seams and zippers
• Dual-slider armpit ventilation zippers
• Backpack and harness compatible design
• YKK zippers
• 3 exterior pockets
• Hood with double adjustment and hard visor (helmet compatible)
• Waist adjustment
• Brushed tricot chin guard and collar interior
• Velcro adjustable cuffs
• Bluesign label, 68% manufactured from recycled components and PFC-free
• Weight: 570 g (size M)
• Country of manufacture: China
• Link to the manufacturer

Test mode

I tested the Helly Hansen Odin 9 worlds 3.0 jacket over the course of fall and early winter 2024 on some hiking, winter mountaineering, ski mountaineering, and even trail outings.

On some occasions the weather has been quite severe, even very windy at times. On others it was milder and with a wide temperature range. I deliberately used the jacket on the ascent so as to better assess breathability, which proved to be very good.

Helly Hansen Odin 9 on site-test

First impressions

The first impression of the Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 is that it is an exceptionally sturdy hardshell. The quality of the materials is immediately noticeable to the touch.

Its 3-layer construction and the weight of the fabric make it one of the most structured hardshells I’ve worn in the mountains. Despite its robustness, the jacket has a pleasant, soft feel when worn.

In addition to the sturdiness, one can also feel a fair amount of elasticity in the fabric. Already on the first outing one appreciates its ergonomic design and numerous details that allow fine adjustments even while wearing gloves.

Protection of the Helly Hansen Odin 9

The jacket features the Helly Tech Professional, a membrane patented by Helly Hansen that aims to combine the waterproofness of a hardshell with the breathability of a softshell. An ambitious goal but one that, after use in various aerobic contexts, I feel I can say has been achieved.

The waterproofing is excellent. Even after several hours under heavy snow, I didn’t experience any seepage. In fact, the protection felt comparable to, if not better than, other three-layer hardshells with Gore-Tex membranes.

This jacket embodies a true Norwegian philosophy: designed for those who venture into the mountains regardless of adverse weather conditions. It’s a hardshell that keeps you comfortable and confident, even in the harshest conditions.

Helly Hansen Odin 9’s breathability

Regarding breathability, I tested the hardshell while climbing, pairing it with a wool thermal base layer. The Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 performed impressively in this regard.

The ventilation is noticeably better than many other 3-layer hardshells on the market. The large underarm ventilation zippers, equipped with double sliders and waterproof closures, significantly enhance comfort. These zippers are well-designed and easy to access.

I didn’t experience the usual dampness or stagnation on the skin. Water droplets remain suspended on the fabric while vapor escapes, keeping the skin dry and comfortable.

Hood

The hood of the Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 is undoubtedly one of its most impressive features. Its fit is adjustable in multiple directions (both horizontally and vertically) using elastic bands, making it highly effective when worn with a helmet.

The hood is extremely comfortable and protective. Most importantly, it is easy to adjust, even while wearing gloves.

Pockets and zippers

The zippers on the Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 are all heat-sealed and waterproof. As is often the case with this type of zipper, the movement feels slightly stiff, though it doesn’t hinder functionality.

One drawback is that the main YKK zipper is one-way. This design makes it less convenient to use with a harness or ventral belaying devices. While this is a minor limitation, it’s worth noting for an otherwise highly versatile hardshell.

The hardshell features numerous, well-designed pockets. In addition to the chest pocket, which has a vertical opening and fits even large smartphones, there are two spacious side pockets.

Both side pockets are equipped with double sliders, making them easy to access even while wearing a backpack. Inside each side pocket is a small open elastic compartment, perfect for securely storing small items you want to keep within reach.

Cuffs

The cuffs of the Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 feature adjustable Velcro closures, ensuring a snug and stable fit. The Velcro includes a high-grip rubber, adding to the solid feel and overall construction quality.

These design elements also enhance thermal insulation, particularly around the sleeve area, keeping warmth in and cold air out.

Weight and dimensions

The Odin 9 World 3.0 is a structured hardshell with a significant weight, so both weight and dimensions are not its strong points. If you are looking for a highly compressible, super-light hard-shell for fast & light outings and favorable weather, this is not the ideal choice.

Fit

The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 features a regular fit, slightly tapered at the waist, with a cut reminiscent of an “American” style. The fabric has a slight stretch and is easily adjustable using the various elastics and loops.

These adjustments, combined with pre-shaped sleeves, provide excellent freedom of movement. The design also allows for layering a down jacket underneath the hardshell, even one with substantial fill.

Recommend for

Forget the minimalist, ultra-light trail-running-derived hard-shells that weigh little but from which you can’t expect much in the way of weather protection.

The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 is a hardshell in the true sense of the word. A functional and reliable jacket for those who live the mountains even when the weather is not the best and want to have in their backpack a garment ready to provide protection without compromise. All this without sacrificing good breathability.

Its versatility makes it ideal for long treks, ski touring and mountaineering, where its only sin is the lack of a bottom zip opening.