On the bare ground they lie, up the steep rock faces they climb and on their knees they patiently sit. The Arctic Patrol 3-in-1 Light Parka holds the key to versatility. Comprising a modular system to manage the scientists’ shifting activity levels, it also tackles the toughest terrain and adapts well to the climate in which they work.

Having listened to the scientists’ experiences of working through the cold and dark winters in Svalbard, we developed the Arctic Patrol Modular Parka. When we spoke to them again, the scientists specified a need for a more lightweight parka that could be used throughout the summer and shoulder seasons. In polar regions, however, every season brings volatile conditions, so the Arctic 3-in-1 Light Parka makes no compromise on the features.

By snowmobile or in small boats, scientists make the long journey into the cold windswept field. Such an excursion requires meticulous planning and preparation. From provisions to a wide range of equipment, they need to maximize every storage option available. A tablet slots perfectly into the large pocket that spans across the back. And LIFE POCKET+™ - the additional insulation made from PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Aerogel - helps to slow the battery drain on electric devices. With multiple large pockets, maps, a GPS and radio can be easily stored and accessed. The parka also comes with a number of tool loops (hooks and D-ring) upon which to hang lighter instruments, such as sensors and floats.

Nestled high among the cliffs away from predators, seabird colonies are far from accessible. Scientists must leave behind the comforts of their research base and embark on physically demanding journeys. But once in the field to collect samples, their activity levels drop. As fine motor skills assume control, retaining warmth can be a matter of not only comfort, but of survival.

These changing activity levels can be supported through a layered approach: one midlayer jacket and one shell jacket. Inspired by the seabirds’ characteristics of thermal insulation and water repellency, the Arctic Patrol 3-in-1 Light Parka boasts versatility. PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Active+ delivers optimal warmth in the form of a midlayer jacket. And HELLY TECH® Professional meets the extreme waterproofness and breathability required to tackle Arctic climates. Built as a 2-layer system, each component can be worn together as one or as a standalone piece, resulting in three ways to wear the jacket. Any layers removed can be conveniently stored away in the accompanying 20L waterproof bag.

Kristoffer Ulriksen, Category Managing Director for Urban at Helly Hansen, said:

"We listen closely to our professionals and work to provide them with gear they can trust to perform and offer protection even in the harshest of conditions. For the Fall/Winter 2021 season, we wanted to expand our Arctic Patrol collection with a new parka built to provide the highest level of waterproof, breathable protection while still being highly functional and versatile for those who live and work in extreme environments."

While activity levels continuously shift, the rugged terrain in which scientists work remains much unchanged. On hands and knees they crawl, grappling with the most rugged guano-coated rock faces. In this climate, any thin-wearing gear instantly exposes you to the punishing windchill. Made with the highest density of CORDURA® fabric, the outer shell layer provides excellent resistance to wear and tear. Extra attention is paid to the areas around the sleeves and pockets with additional reinforcements. 

The scientists’ research into seabirds is vital. Because the birds forage at sea and breed on land, they provide a good insight into the effects of climate change. The Arctic Patrol 3-in-1 Light Parka was born out of inspiration by the scientists’ commitment to our planet. Our goal was to help them continue their work unhindered by the Arctic conditions and their activity levels.

In addition to the scientists, we were inspired by physiology lecturer Professor Danny Longman who took part in Expedition Polar Row (a record-breaking rowing expedition that covered 600 miles from Tromsø to Jan Mayen). Insights from this experience (and other polar researchers) and his own research into human adaptability would see the launch of the Arctic Modular Patrol Parka. 

Following the success, we teamed up with Professor Danny Longman once more. He said:

"Scientists working in Arctic environments must be able to work as though they are in an office, and they must feel as though they are in an environment in which they can function unencumbered by the severity of their surroundings. The scientists’ work is punctuated by long periods of inactivity and they inevitably encounter snow and ice, so waterproof yet breathable clothing is important."

In our home of Norway, where one third of the landmass is rooted in the Arctic region, we are no strangers to harsh conditions. We’ve built on our cold-weather expertise by partnering with  professionals like seabird scientists and Arctic researchers not only because they give great product insights, but because their work is often tied to the future of our planet. These partnerships laid the foundation of the Arctic Patrol Collection: a range of trustworthy, functional, and durable gear. Developed and tested by professionals who work to understand and protect the environment that we love, this collection will help every person weather a cold winter. After all, a blizzard or Arctic chill shouldn’t prevent anybody from enjoying nature to its fullest.