Helly Hansen Partners with Canada Ocean Racing Team for The Ocean Race Journey

Helly Hansen's New Role in The Ocean Race

Helly Hansen, a premier brand in sailing gear, has officially partnered with the Canada Ocean Racing - Be Water Positive Team for upcoming races including The Ocean Race Europe in 2025, The Ocean Race Atlantic in 2026, and The Ocean Race around the world in 2027. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as Helly Hansen becomes the official clothing supplier, providing high-performance gear tailored to meet the extreme demands of ocean racing.

The Ocean Race is renowned as one of the most challenging team sporting events globally, pushing sailors and their equipment to the limits in harsh marine conditions. In this race, male and female sailors will compete together in the foiling IMOCA class, known for its innovative technology and record-breaking capabilities. Scott Shawyer, President and Skipper of the Canada Ocean Racing team, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "The Ocean Race is a critical part of our Be Water Positive campaign, pushing us and our equipment to the limit in some of the most extreme conditions on Earth."

This partnership is not only focused on performance but also emphasizes sustainability, as the Canada Ocean Racing team champions the Be Water Positive initiative. This program aims to raise awareness about water scarcity and promote sustainable practices in oceanic environments, using the platform of The Ocean Race as a global stage.

The team's journey will assist Scott Shawyer in his ambition to become the first Canadian to complete the Vendée Globe in 2028. Shawyer has already achieved notable success by setting a double-handed course record in the Royal Ocean Racing Club Transatlantic Yacht Race and being the first Canadian to finish a grueling race from New York to Vendée, covering nearly 3,100 nautical miles.

Alongside Shawyer is British offshore sailor Pip Hare, who brings invaluable experience and mentorship to the team. Having competed in top-tier events such as the Vendée Globe, her insights will be crucial as the team prepares for the relentless challenges of ocean racing.

In the quest for performance and safety, Helly Hansen will provide equipment from their renowned Ægir offshore collection. This line of apparel benefits from over five decades of refinement made possible through collaborations with elite racing teams. Each piece is designed with the latest innovations in mind, ensuring maximum protection and comfort under adverse conditions. Helly Hansen engages closely with professional sailors to test and improve their gear continuously, a testimony to their commitment to excellence in maritime sports.

The partnership will culminate at The Ocean Race Europe on August 10, 2025, where the Canada Ocean Racing team will face competitors in multiple stages that span several beautiful cities, including Portsmouth, UK, Matosinhos-Porto, Portugal, and more, before the final leg in Boka Bay, Montenegro.

As this partnership unfolds, both Helly Hansen and the Canada Ocean Racing - Be Water Positive Team are resolute in their mission to make waves not only in the racing world but in environmental stewardship as well. Follow their progress and learn more about Helly Hansen'sÆgir collection at their official website. Here’s to a thrilling ocean race ahead, where innovation meets adventure, all while championing the message of being water positive for future generations.