Helly Hansen
Norwegian foul-weather brand founded in 1877. The cursive boxed wordmark gave way to the bold red 'H/H' slash in 1989 — the cleanest dating split.
- Origin
- Norway
- Founded
- 1877
- Category
- Outdoor & Heritage
- Documented eras
- 4
How Helly Hansen labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
Europa & Helly Tech Tags
Bold graphic tags from the Europa line with an 'E' emblem on checkered stripes, Helly Tech tags promoting the breathable-waterproof technology, and standard tags emphasising Norwegian heritage.
- Bold graphics and colors used in the Europa line, showcasing an “E” emblem against checkered stripes.
- Helly Tech tags with informative graphics and bold color blocks, highlighting the innovative, breathable waterproof technology.
- Standard tags emphasizing the Norwegian heritage and international manufacturing with clear washing instructions.
How to spot it
The cursive boxed wordmark, Europa or Helly Tech graphics.
Value signal
Strong; 80s Helly Hansen has a terrace following.
1990–1999
Red 'HH' Logo Tags
Red Helly Hansen logos with the iconic 'HH' initials prominent, carrying country of origin and fabric composition across multiple tag styles.
- Red Helly Hansen logos with the iconic “HH” initials prominently displayed.
- Manufacturing information including country of origin and fabric composition for clear garment care instructions.
- Multiple tag styles showcasing brand identity and material properties for outerwear shells.
How to spot it
The red 'HH' slash logo on the tag.
Value signal
Solid 90s vintage; the bold colour-block shells sell well.
2000–2009
Bright Loop-Style Tags
Loop-style tags in bright colours emphasising the 'HH' logo, Boardwear tags with personalised info cards, and lightweight contrasting-colour designs.
- Loop-style tags often incorporating bright colors, emphasizing the classic “HH” logo.
- Boardwear tags and information cards, offering a personalized space for user contact details.
- Modern tag styles with lightweight fabrics and contrasting colors for outerwear and boardwear lines.
How to spot it
A bright loop-style tag with the 'HH' logo.
Value signal
Common; modest resale.
2010–2019
Multilingual Heritage Tags
Consistent 'HH' logo use across regions with country-specific make info, the Norwegian heritage highlighted in bold, multilingual instructions and standardised sizing.
- Consistent use of the “HH” logo across multiple regions with country-specific manufacturing information.
- Tags indicate innovative design and development with the Norwegian heritage highlighted in clear, bold letters.
- International production is emphasized through multilingual instructions and standardized sizing indicators.
How to spot it
The 'HH' logo with multilingual, region-coded sizing.
Value signal
Modern; priced on the piece.