The idea for the Skagen Race was born in 1995 aboard the sailboat Enigma. Following a Wednesday regatta on the Oslofjord, Jon Arne Seeland and his crew decided they needed a more challenging event. They envisioned a massive fleet departing Norway in the spring, racing southward toward the treacherous waters of Skagen, Denmark.

By May of 1996, the first official race took place. It was a brutal introduction to offshore competition. Of the 90 registered boats, only 48 managed to cross the finish line. Competitors faced freezing temperatures, stiff gales, and heavy seas that pushed their vessels to the absolute limit. Today, organized by the Bærum Seilforening, the race attracts up to 150 boats and stands as a true test of offshore endurance.

The modern route begins in Holmestrand, Norway, and spans three intense days of racing. Sailors must constantly adjust their tactics as they move from sheltered fjords into the exposed, choppy waters of the Skagerrak Strait. The weather can change in an instant. A clear morning can quickly deteriorate into a freezing, rain-soaked afternoon.

To succeed in these volatile conditions, your clothing must function as your first line of defense. The Skagen Collection combines advanced materials and ergonomic designs to ensure you stay dry, comfortable, and focused on the horizon.

When the wind howls and the rain turns horizontal, you need reliable shielding from the elements. The collection features HELLY TECH® Performance fabric. This proprietary technology uses a durable water-repellent outer layer, a highly breathable membrane, and a quick-dry inner mesh lining. This combination prevents water molecules from penetrating the jacket while allowing sweat vapor to escape easily. You stay completely dry from the outside and perfectly comfortable on the inside.

Offshore sailing is tough on gear. Constant friction against non-slip decks, winches, and rigging will quickly destroy inferior materials. To combat this, the Skagen Collection incorporates 600D Oxford CORDURA reinforcements in high-wear areas. This thick, sturdy fabric resists severe abrasion, ensuring your kit remains intact season after season.

Safety is a critical component of any offshore crossing. The Skagen Collection integrates SOLAS-approved reflectors that feature a candela rating of over 1,000. This ensures you remain highly visible from thousands of feet away. Combined with EN20471-certified high-visibility piping, these features provide crucial peace of mind during night watches.

Making sure your kit is ready is a vital step in preparing for a new sailing season. Here are the core pieces from the Skagen Collection. 

The Skagen Offshore Jacket offers unparalleled protection and enhanced mobility. It features a high, fleece-lined collar and an adjustable face mask to shield your face from driving spray. Inner polyurethane cuffs provide a tight seal against cold water, and intelligently designed drainage pockets ensure quick water evacuation. The hood includes an elasticated drawcord for a precise, customized fit.

The Skagen Offshore Bib is engineered to keep you protected on wet decks. It includes Velcro adjustable ankles to eliminate cold spots, reinforced back hems for added longevity, and articulated knees for superior freedom of movement. Fleece-lined hand pockets deliver essential warmth during long night shifts. Furthermore, the Women's Skagen Offshore Bib offers female-specific features like a tailored fit and a convenient drop seat.

Preparing for the Skagen Offshore Race or simply increasing your time on the water means having the right equipment is non-negotiable. The Skagen Collection provides the professional-grade performance, robust durability, and tailored comfort you need to face the elements with confidence.

Step 1: Inspect your current wet weather gear for signs of wear and tear. 
Step 2: Identify any gaps in your layering system. 
Step 3: Upgrade your kit to ensure you are fully protected on your next voyage.

Explore the full collection today and experience the high-performance difference that professional sailors trust worldwide.