Likes
The Helly Hansen Duffel is one of the lighter bags we tested, yet was still one of the more fully featured. Along with the
North Face Base Camp Duffel and the Gregory Alpaca, it is one of the few duffels to feature external compression straps. These straps increased the comfort while carrying the duffel longer distances while not completely full. The shoulder straps, while thin, are among the most comfortable. Along with the North Face Base Camp and the Black Diamond Huey, this is the most comfortable to carry. We really like all of its three pockets: a large zippered mesh one under the lid, another smaller zippered mesh pocket on the side and then a thin Velcro-closed pocket on the outside hidden in the top (this is also where the shoulder straps stash). This pocket is a great place to stash tickets, passport, SuperTopo Guidebook or a random climbing magazine (the pocket is just big enough to carry even the larger, older issues of Alpinist).
Dislikes
The biggest drawback is that it only comes in two relatively small sizes: a 50L (3050 cubic inches) and a 90L (5400 cubic inches). Both are on the small side for longer trips or expeditions. It is the only bag we tested not to feature YKK zippers. The zippers are an unknown brand that don't seem to be as durable – but in fairness we never saw them fail. There are also no flaps to help protect the zippers from wear and tear. This bag is durable but the lightweight polyurethane coated fabric that makes it one of the lighter duffels also makes it a little less durable.
Value
For its size, it is nearly tied with the Gregory duffels for lowest price in our review and just beat out the Wild Things Burrow and Goat (though these are slightly larger). Compared with the similarly priced Gregory Long Haul, the Helly Hansen has backpack straps, clear information window pocket, compression straps, more pockets and a D-shaped opening. The only things you might give up are a little durability and a little water resistance.
