Rohan Helix vs OR Helium 2

First look

I’ve yet to fully test the Rohan Helix jacket but I have taken it out on a number of walks during lockdown. Rohan kindly sent it in for free for me to take it for a spin so what are my initial thoughts?

Initial thoughts?

After taking it out for some day walks in the wind and rain I have to say I’m amazed at the water repellency of the fabric and finish. Water droplets literally bounce right off it and if the water gets rubbed in my mid-layer is still completely dry. The fabric is soft and stretchy making it incredibly comfortable to wear and the fit is perfect for my 18″ torso and 27″ chest frame. The arms are a little on the long side, but that’s expected for a performance jacket. The colour is very striking which is handy in the hills. This jacket is literally like something out of Back to the Future 2, it’s a very high tech waterproof breathable shell.

How’s the quality?

The quality of the stitching is superb and the cutting of each panel from the pattern is excellent. The lining of the jacket is beautifully designed and the seam taping is robust and neatly placed. It looks very futuristic and with all the features which are also well-considered and crafted to a high standard, I can’t wait to take it with me on my Cape Wrath Trail thru-hike soon. I actually hope it rains, but then I should probably be careful what I wish for in the Scottish Highlands.

Anything negative to say?

For now, the only downside is the price, but for the price, you are getting an incredible shell jacket and it’s actually not the cheapest in its class. Cheaper jackets I’ve tried are the OR Helium 2 and the Patagonia Torrentshell which aren’t as comfy or high tech as this. The price does, however, bring with it very high expectations. The attributes I’m most looking forward to testing are the hydrophobic finish, durability and breathability of this jacket. Let’s see how it gets on, watch this space and I’ll update after a few hundred miles.

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