Helly Hansen FLY Pant : Light, Dry, Comfy

Allow me to get two things off my chest before discussing Helly Hansen’s lightweight, fast-drying, moisture-wicking Fly Pants, a perfect base layer for hiking, skiing, or sitting in the stands on a chilly December day in Berlin at an upcoming World Cup Soccer game between, say, Norway and Montenegro.

First, long before I purchased any HH products, I admired the form-fitting Helly look made more distinct by the zebra-like stripes highlighting the sleeves and/or legs. Second, and this is a little embarrassing, I like the name Helly Hansen. Perhaps, I thought, it had to do with my love of alliteration. When I trained with my friend Jan Jensen, a Danish kayaker who sported a fine selection of HH tops and bottoms, I’d repeat, “Jan Jensen wearing Helly Hansen,” often enough that he asked me to stop. Perhaps, in truth, it has more to do with the fact that everything with the HH tag that I’ve worn has been a winning combination of form and function.

That said, my HH Fly Pants are so light and comfortable that once I pull my size 13 feet through the snug leg holes I forget that I have them on. Though basic in design – no zippers or side stripes -- the Fly Pant dries faster than any base layer I’ve tried. And it provides a surprising amount of warmth given its miniscule weight. Kayaking this winter I’ve worn them under a pair of neoprene shorts and my legs remained comfortable even when the temperature barely exceeded freezing. Under a pair of running shorts, the Fly Pant also fits the bill on chilly mornings when heavier tights would be overkill.

Bottom Line: The Fly Pants are light, comfortable, wick moisture from my body, and dry quicker than you can say "Jan Jensen wears Helly Hansen," 22 times fast.--J.G. (Feb 06)

Price: $30-39

Manufacturer's Site: www.hellyhansen.com,

Buy Online: Outdoor Gear & Clothing, Altrec.com, www.peterglenn.com

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