This review of the Helly Hansen Ridge Infinity Shell Jacket (Black) was carried out snowboarding on the slopes of the Portes du Soleil ski area in France in January 2025. I had good snow conditions and bluebird skies (I know, lucky me!).
Introduction
The 2024–25 Helly Hansen Ridge Infinity Shell Jacket is another strong entry in the brand’s high-performance lineup. Developed with input from professional freeride skiers, it’s built for those who want durability, smart design, and a bit of eco-conscious credibility while carving up the mountains.
Back to Black
For years, I was the man in black on the slopes—until someone pointed out that black doesn’t exactly stand out in photos. So, I went through a phase of brightly coloured jackets. But this season, I couldn’t resist returning to black—specifically, the Ridge Infinity Shell in its sleek, glossy finish. Stylish, sharp, and undeniably cool, it was worth breaking my own rule.
Performance and Weather Protection
At the heart of the Ridge Infinity Shell is Helly Hansen’s 3-layer HELLY TECH® PROFESSIONAL construction paired with their LIFA INFINITY™ membrane. It’s a solid combo that delivers excellent waterproofing and wind resistance. You also get fully taped seams and a PFC-free DWR coating to help keep the wet out.
To be honest, I didn’t get to test its limits—every day was blue skies and barely a whisper of wind. But based on the build quality and materials, I’ve got no doubt it can handle more challenging weather.
The hood fits easily over a helmet and gives good coverage without cutting off your field of vision. The high collar and slightly extended back also help when the chairlift breeze kicks in.
Breathability and Ventilation
In terms of breathability, it’s solid but not outstanding. The underarm vents are definitely appreciated when things heat up, and they work well on warmer days or after a bit of a charge down the piste. If you’re planning serious backcountry missions or skinning uphill, though, you might want something with a bit more airflow.
That said, the ventilation was fine for me—I stuck mainly to resort runs this time around since the off-piste conditions weren’t up to much.
Fit and Comfort
The fabric has a nice bit of stretch—enough to let you move freely without feeling oversized or floppy. I usually go for a large in Helly Hansen jackets because I like a looser fit, but this one felt a bit more tailored than usual. Still comfy with enough space for layers underneath, but if you like a baggier fit, it might be worth going up a size.
Pockets
I was happy to see Helly Hansen had stepped things up with the pocket layout compared to last season’s model. There’s no shortage of storage—hand pockets, a ski pass pocket on the sleeve, internal stash spots, and an insulated chest pocket to stop your phone dying in the cold.
The only thing that slightly let it down was the chest pockets—when you unzip them, anything small inside tends to tumble out a bit too easily. They could really do with a bit more depth so stuff isn’t perched right at the edge.
Features and Functionality
The Ridge Infinity Shell packs in a solid set of features that actually make a difference on the mountain:
• Life Pocket™: Insulated to help extend your phone’s battery life in cold conditions
• RECCO® Reflector: Built-in for added safety in case of search and rescue
• Plenty of Pockets: Including brushed hand pockets, ski pass sleeve, goggle pocket, and internal stash pockets
• Adjustable Powder Skirt: Keeps the snow out on those deeper days
Other thoughtful touches include articulated sleeves and thumb loops to keep everything in place, especially when layering.
Durability and Sustainability
Made with 54% recycled polyester and finished with a PFC-free DWR coating, the Ridge Infinity Shell manages to be both tough and environmentally mindful. It feels built to last, whether you’re clocking up days in resort or tackling more adventurous terrain.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the 2024 Helly Hansen Ridge Infinity Shell Jacket is a seriously impressive piece of kit. If you’re spending most of your time in the resort—and maybe dipping into a bit of off-piste—it ticks all the right boxes: waterproof, warm, well-made, and packed with useful features. It’s clearly built to handle the mountain and feels robust.
It’s not the most breathable option out there, so if you’re all about backcountry touring, there might be better choices. But for the average snowboarder or skier who wants comfort, function, and a sharp look, it’s a strong contender.
Pros:
• Excellent weather protection
• Loads of thoughtful, ski-specific features
• Eco-friendly materials without compromising durability
Cons:
• Moderate breathability for high-exertion use
• Slightly tailored fit may not suit those who like extra room for layering
Helly Hansen Ridge Infinity Shell Jacket reviewed by Snow.Guide
Gender: Men
Good for: Freeride and Piste skiing/snowboarding
Price: £650
Rating: 9 out of 10
To find out more and to purchase from Helly Hansen, click here
