So futuristic and frost-bitten that it proves the arctic must still exist in a few hundred years.
We’ve got to admit, the thought of getting involved in cold-weather sailing, which literally involves lurching around on a boat amidst blood-chilling winds, takes the wind out of our sails. But, as an inspiration point for sportswear, it makes us feel pretty buoyant indeed.
How so? Well, the latest link-up between Puma and Helly Hansen, now in their third season, takes the practical requirements of the sport and thaws them down into an ice-cool capsule destined for ski slopes, frosty mornings and emergency the-heating-has-gone outfits.
Designed to endure whatever the hell the rest of 2020 throws us weather-wise, the collection utilises polarised fleece, reflective detailing and stormCELL technology (breathable and rainproof), fortifying whatever you’ve layered below it.
To do it Drake style and start from the bottom, the collection introduces four new trainer silhouettes. Colourways revolve around oil-rig blacks and snow-tipped neutrals, taking notes from snow boots and patrol gear along the way.
Moving up, we’ve got fleece pants and sweatpants with pops of 90s neon on the drawstrings and emblems for a touch of après-ski, with a selection of fleeces and a heavy duty technical jacket to top things off.
Finishing the capsule is a smattering of snow-ready accessories, including two retro-inspired beanies and an extra-tall backpack ideal for solo expeditions to get you through November.
It’s the kind of release that makes bad weather psychologically bearable, if not actually wished for. Like a truant-disposed schoolkid, you’ll be praying for a flurry of snow the night before – just so you can throw on one of these new polar fleeces and trek to the blistering tundra of your local high street.
The Puma x Helly Hansen Into the Arctic collection is available to buy now via Puma or Helly Hansen.
