Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Rain Jackets

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 vs Outdoor Research Foray 3L

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.9 vs 4.0). Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 is best for: Serious skiers who prioritize weather protection over minimal weight. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Rain Jackets
Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0
1 source$225as of Oct 11

The Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 delivers exceptional breathability through its LIFA INFINITY membrane, which hikingdaily found prevents sweating even with pit zips closed, while outdoorsmagic confirmed it remains fully waterproof and windproof in heavy rain. The jacket features a helmet-compatible hood with four drawcords for secure adjustment and high-placed pockets that remain accessible under climbing harnesses or backpack hipbelts. However, at 17.64 ounces, the shell is heavier than many ultralight alternatives, and its one-way pit zips limit fine-tuned ventilation control compared to two-way designs. This durable, professional-grade jacket suits serious skiers and mountaineers who prioritize weather protection over minimal weight, while budget-conscious buyers or those seeking lighter gear for mild conditions should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — LIFA INFINITY membrane provides exceptional breathability, with reviewers noting it prevents sweating even when pit zips are closed.
  • — Fully waterproof and windproof construction using Helly Tech Professional three-layer fabric keeps wearers dry in heavy rain and snow.
  • — Large hand pockets feature two-way sliders and sit high enough to remain accessible while wearing a backpack or climbing harness.
Watch-outs
  • — At approximately 17.64 oz (500 g), the jacket is heavier than many ultralight alternatives.
  • — The pit zips are one-way only, limiting fine-tuned ventilation control compared to two-way designs.
Outdoor Research Foray 3L
Ranked #5 in Best Rain Jackets
Outdoor Research Foray 3L
2 sources$209.95as of Oct 11

The Outdoor Research Foray 3L delivers reliable waterproofing and durable construction through its AscentShell Dry membrane, yet it suffers from significant weight and poor breathability. Pack Hacker found that the jacket’s substantial mass prevents self-packing, while Better Trail noted that the extensive TorsoFlo zippers create uncomfortable pressure points under backpack hipbelts. Treeline Review highlighted its carbon neutral certification as a key environmental advantage, but confirmed that the thick fabric creates a stifling experience during high-output activities in warm weather. This shell is best suited for cold-weather use where storm protection outweighs ventilation needs, whereas hikers seeking ultralight gear or summer breathability should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Constructed from durable, stretchy 40D recycled nylon with AscentShell Dry 3L membrane for reliable waterproofing in heavy rain.
  • — Certified carbon neutral by Climate Impact Partners and utilizes PFAS-free Nikwax Direct.Dry DWR finish.
  • — Includes fully adjustable hood, hook-and-loop cuffs, and elastic waist cinch for a secure fit in storms.
Watch-outs
  • — Lacks breathability due to the durable face fabric, creating a stifling experience during high-output activity in warm weather.
  • — Does not pack into itself and is relatively heavy at 15.3 oz, making it less suitable for ultralight packing.
  • — Long side zippers can create pressure points under backpack hipbelts and the hem adjustment feels cheap to some users.

How they stack up

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0

The Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 excels in breathability with its LIFA INFINITY membrane, preventing sweating even when pit zips are closed, a feature the Patagonia Boulder Fork lacks entirely due to having no ventilation zips. However, it is heavier at 17.64 oz than the Arc'teryx Beta SL (12 oz) and uses one-way pit zips, which offer less fine-tuned control than the two-way zips on the Arc'teryx model.

Outdoor Research Foray 3L

The Outdoor Research Foray 3L uses hip-to-bicep TorsoFlo zips for ventilation, where the Patagonia Boulder Fork has no vents and the Rab Downpour has underarm vents. At 15.3 oz it is heavier than the Rab Downpour (13.3 oz) and the Arc'teryx Beta SL (12 oz). It costs less than the Arc'teryx and more than the Rab.

Specs side-by-side

SpecHelly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0Outdoor Research Foray 3L
Material100% Polyester (Recycled)40D Recycled Nylon
Weight17.64 oz / 500 g15.3 oz (men's)
VentilationYes (One-way)Hip-to-bicep TorsoFlo zips
Waterproof Rating—20,000 mm
Hood—Adjustable
Fabric Layers—3-layer
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