Helly Hansen's New Baselayer...

The big news from Helly Hansen at Harrogate - apart from the revelation that the company will be using eVENT in the future - was the launch of an interesting looking range of baselayer kit under the name Lifa Versa.

The HH guys have taken the polypropolene fabric they use for the established brand signature 'Lifa' range - it's the stuff with the stripes - and combined it with an outer layer of polyester.

The idea is that the polypropolene inner, which doesn't absorb water, will move moisture away from the skin, while the polyester outer will spread it across the surface of the fabric for rapid dissipation into the atmosphere. It's also treated with antibacterial agents to prevent pong attacks.

The secondary advantage of the new range is that while Lifa looks very much like a layering piece and, let's be frank, lacks a certain visual coolness when worn alone, Versa is significantly more attractive. We're not saying you'll pull, but hey, they definitely look neater when worn as a single layer.

The collection is aimed at both men and women and includes a Zip Jersey with both long and short sleeve options, a short-sleeved block jersey, a tee and a fell-running short. Lasses get a sleeveless jersey option, Tank Top and Capri Pants.

And just so you remember the Lifa heritage, the range has the distinctive stripe trim on the inside of the collar.

More information on Helly Hansen on their web site. Lifa fans will also be please to learn that the entire Lifa range will be available to buy online via the Cotswold Outdoor web site. See the OM Shopping Section for a link.