Heli R - Making a great jacket even better

Kathmandu’s Heli jacket became its second most popular product of all time.

Now the Heli R – which uses recycled materials and is lighter, softer, more packable and just as warm – is set to replace it. Kathmandu’s general manager of product, Robert Fry, explains why they messed with a good thing.

This interview was first published in the Wilderness June 2023 Issue

What sets the Heli R apart?

We employed recycled materials wherever we could – the face fabric, the liner, the zipper tape, trims and labels. It used to be that performance was sacrificed when choosing a more sustainable route (Kathmandu is committed to reducing its footprint on the planet), but with the Heli R, we’ve made the product significantly lighter (25%!), more packable, and just as warm while using recycled materials.

A key aspect is the use of Traceable Down – an assurance that we’ve sourced our down from the most ethical suppliers.

We’ve also created digital IDs for every Heli R jacket. Customers can scan the Digital ID QR code and discover their jacket’s actual history; it’s not just a generic timeline, with generic information. This is a huge leap forward for transparency.

How did you make the Heli R so much lighter than the original?

We have clever designers and engineers who examined every aspect of the original Heli. We asked if the fabric could be 33 per cent lighter and be stronger. We looked at trims and details for the same thing. Finally, we engineered a jacket that’s just as warm as the original, but is lighter, has a softer feel, and it packs down even smaller.

What’s the benefit in using recycled fabrics and components?

Material waste is a serious issue. By refabricating material into durable, usable goods, we’re ensuring that some of society's waste remains in use for as long as possible, and stays out of the environment.

Kathmandu’s journey starts with recycling waste. In future, we will recycle recycled materials, extending their use, and hopefully keeping these materials out of the landfill forever.

What is the future: more products made from recycled materials or new materials that will be acceptable for landfill and better for the environment?

Both, and most assuredly and emphatically, yes.

Kathmandu is committed to ensure 100 per cent of our polyester fabrics are recycled by 2030, and we’re hot on the path to heavy use of recycled nylons. We are also developing nature-based, technical performance solutions such as using bio-membranes in rainwear. There is no single solution, but we are continually researching materials to ensure we have the best solution for each situation.

There are some playful colour schemes in the Heli R range. What is going on there?

Nature is our inspiration. The range’s colours are derived directly from the local landscape around us in the South Island. We know that colours affect mood. Colours can also help us open our minds and hearts when in nature.

Kathmandu Ambassador Sophie Piearcey shares her impressions of using the Heli R novaLOFT jacket.

“On a recent hiking trip in Tasmania, it was the perfect hiking companion, great for travel and the lighter, more compressible features mean it takes up no room in your pack but favours warmth. Put to the test in Cradle Mountain, I was toasty warm at the summit.

“I’ve always favoured Kathmandu gear for many reasons but using more responsibly sourced materials is a huge tick for me and the planet. Hiking is my passion and consolidating my backcountry kit with lighter, more sustainable items is something I am proud to do.”