Helly Hansen's Pile Fleece Evolution
In 1961, Helly Hansen joined forces with Norwegian Fiber Pile Inc. to pioneer a groundbreaking textile innovation: pile fleece, now widely recognized simply as a Men's fleece. This collaboration marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of synthetic fabrics, fundamentally reshaping the apparel industry with its unprecedented blend of warmth, comfort, and functionality.
The Creation of Pile Fleece
Pile fleece emerged as a direct response to the shortcomings of traditional wool garments. While wool offered excellent insulation, it was often heavy, bulky when wet, and slow to dry. Recognising these limitations, Helly Hansen and Norwegian Fiber Pile Inc. set out to develop a fabric that could match wool's warmth, yet surpass it in terms of weight, drying time, and moisture management.
The breakthrough came with the use of synthetic fibres, primarily polyester, arranged to mimic the insulating properties of natural wool. Pile fleece featured a distinctive pile or nap on one side which effectively traps warm air close to the body whilst allowing moisture vapour to escape. This dual-action mechanism kept those wearing it comfortably warm and dry in various conditions, quickly establishing it as a favourite among Scandinavian lumberjacks and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Why Fiberpile?
What distinguished the original Fiberpile from conventional fleece was its superior breathability and loft. The fabric's open structure facilitated excellent air circulation, enhancing its thermal efficiency without adding bulk. As an insulating mid-layer, Fiberpile maintained optimal breathability, preventing overheating during exertion while providing essential warmth — a hallmark feature that remains influential in modern fleece design.
Pile Fleece Today
Today, the legacy of pile fleece lives on in Helly Hansen's innovative fleece jackets, exemplified by offerings like the Panorama Pile Fleece Block Jacket and the Patrol Pile Fleece Jacket. These modern interpretations seamlessly blend the practical benefits of pile fleece with urban-appropriate designs suitable for both city streets and mountain trails.
The evolution of pile fleece continues to shape Helly Hansen's commitment to delivering high-performance outerwear. From its origins as a solution to wool's limitations to its current status as a cornerstone of functional apparel, pile fleece embodies a legacy of innovation and practicality that resonates with adventurers and everyday wearers alike. Explore the enduring quality and versatility of Helly Hansen fleece jackets, where tradition meets contemporary performance.
Posted by Benjamin
Benjamin is a web content specialist and brand manager at Philip Morris and Son, overseeing a diverse portfolio of leading brands. With a background in food, luxury wine, and spirits, he brings a refined sense of quality and style to his role, which he has held since 2022. His passion for food and cooking is evident in his work with premium cookware brand Le Creuset, while his love for outdoor adventure aligns seamlessly with brands like Tilley, Musto, Didriksons, and Helly Hansen, where his expertise in weather-protective gear truly shines. Although his impressive Birkenstock collection suggests he’s more drawn to warmer climates!
When not exploring new cultures and cuisines around the world, Benjamin enjoys hiking and wild swimming. A student of Arabic, he also loves cooking and baking at home, occasionally treating the office to his culinary creations.