Easy Weather Protection
I live in Seattle and work on boats, so I often get caught in squalls or the spray of hose water while washing boats. I need a lightweight shell that will keep me dry and is easy to take on and off. The Helly Hansen Loke Packable Anorak by Helly Hansen has been the ideal shell for me–at work and for light activity.
Stay Dry in the Rain
First and foremost, the Loke Anorak is definitely waterproof. It’s made of a slick polyester material that doesn’t allow water to seep through.Water beads up nicely so I stay dry in the rain. The hood covers my whole head and has a stretchy cord around it so I can cinch it up so it will stay in place. The collar can be snapped up all the way to my neck, which provides great coverage on windy days! I also appreciate that the Loke Anorak is very lightweight and easy to pack into a small bag or daypack.
Good on Cold Days
Helly Hansen’s Loke Anorak is supposed to be breathable, but I didn’t notice too much breathability. When I was active and starting to sweat, I definitely started getting hot in the anorak. I found the anorak worked best for me on cooler days in the 50’s and 60’s while I was doing mild activity. Taking a walk in it was fine, but I wouldn’t wear it jogging.
Baselayers and Mid-layers
The anorak is a shell; it’s meant to be warm with a warm mid-layer when the weather gets cold. In moderate temperatures I was comfortable with just a light shirt underneath. Since the anorak is not that breathable, a wool shirt underneath would be perfect to help wick away sweat.
Big Pockets
The pockets are awesome on my Loke Anorak. There’s one large pouch in the front with side entry for my hands. It’s large and secure enough that I was able to keep my humongous cell phone and my keys in it without worrying about them falling out. For more sensitive items, such as cash and credit cards, I use the smaller, zippered pocket above the pouch that’s hidden by a flap. So hidden, that it took me a couple days to notice it and once I did, I was so excited to have discovered a new pocket!
Coverage and Style
As far as style, my Helly Hansen Loke Anorak looks very stylish whether I’m wearing it with jeans to go out to a casual dinner or with shorts or yoga pants to exercise or go work on a boat. And it covers my butt! It has nice lines and fits true to size. It comes in three colors – red, green and navy blue.
Materials: 100% Polyester
Sizes: Women’s XS – XL (also available in men’s sizes)
Bottom Line: Versatile, stylish and waterproof, great for light activity.
Manufacturer’s Site: HellyHansen.com
$100 at Amazon.com
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