A real hit from Helikon-Tex!
Hardshell Squall - effective protection against rain and snow. Note that several pictures show the jacket in the color coyote, this article refers to the jacket in shadow gray color like the first main picture.
Squall Jacket complements the Helikon-Tex range with the most modern outer layer. What is the difference between softshell and hardshell? A softshell jacket (e.g. Blizzard Jacket) is a soft layer that protects against light wind and drizzle, mainly due to the DWR impregnation. Hardshell is a stronger layer that should provide much better water resistance while maintaining good breathability. Both of these features are combined in the Squall Jacket.

Waterproof and breathable at the same time is ensured by TorrentStretch - a 3L (three-layer) laminate developed by Helikon-Tex. Between the stronger outer layer and the integrated lining is a microporous membrane. Their dimensions prevent water from penetrating the jacket. At the same time, they are large enough to effectively remove moisture (in the form of water vapor) generated by the body to the outside. Three layers laminated together form the TorrentStretch membrane. Hardshell Squall is a membrane jacket with very good waterproof properties: 30,000 mm of the water column.

The design takes care of all the details appreciated by hardshell users. The Squall is a fully feathered rain jacket with taped seams and a two-way adjustable hood with a high collar. Additional protection against moisture is provided by waterproof YKK® AquaGuard® zippers, of which the main zipper is two-way and fastens at the bottom with a Prym snap. The Squall Hardshell Jacket has been covered with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) hydrophobic coating, free of harmful PFCs (perfluorostockethane).

The basis of a good hardshell is water resistance and the transfer of water vapor from the body. The TorrentStretch membrane with a breathability of 30,000 g/m2/24h is responsible for both. Another parameter worth paying attention to when choosing a hardshell jacket is the RET evaporation resistance coefficient. In this way, the permeability of the water vapor through the membrane, i.e. the breathability, is determined. The lower the RET factor, the less resistance, so the jacket breathes better. The best quality is in the 0-6 RET range, and the Squall Hardshell has <5 RET, which is very good.

Underarm vents provide breathability. They provide better ventilation and, if necessary, help to regulate body temperature. The same with adjustable cuffs that fasten with Velcro and loops: two in the hood, one sewn to the bottom of the jacket. With so many options to adjust the fit of the jacket to your body, you can easily adapt it to the weather conditions. The jacket is equipped with solid stoppers from Woojin.

Hardshell Squall has been designed so that an extra warming layer in winter can be placed underneath it. Because of that, the hard shell will work as a standalone jacket in the spring and as an outer layer for winter expeditions. It has three pouches, two of which are lowered to improve comfort. The third pouch is placed inside for documents or a mobile phone. Velcro on the left shoulder facilitates personal adjustment. In addition, the Squall Jacket takes up little space when rolled up. Rolled up, it fits in the hood.

Features:
3L (three-layer) TorrentStretch membrane,
Water resistance at a level of 30,000 mm of the water column,
Breathability at the level of 30,000 g /m2/24h,
Evaporative resistance coefficient RET <5,
YKK® AquaGuard® waterproof zippers,
DWR PFC free impregnation,
Taped seams.
Velcro panel on left sleeve.
Weight : approx. 651 depending on the size.
Material: Outer fabric 100% Nylon, Lining: 100% Nylon, Membrane: 100% Polyurethane
Fabric weight [g/m2] 135

We experience this jacket as normal or slightly tight in size. The size is adapted for summer use, if you want to wear it with a reinforcement garment underneath, you should go up a size. Good sleeve length, large and XL also fit people who are up to 190 cm tall.

Note that Helikon's measurements measure the garment, not the body they are supposed to fit. So compare the measurements with a garment that fits you well.