Helly Hansen for Workwear: Military Discounts, Raincoats, Coveralls & Waterproofing – A Buyer's Guide (2025)

There's No One Right Answer – It Depends on Your Crew

When I took over ordering workwear for our 400-person team in 2020, I thought I'd just pick one brand and be done. Then I spent a week returning boxes because the gear didn't match how people actually used it. Here's the thing: Helly Hansen makes great stuff, but whether you need the fisherman's raincoat, coveralls, or work boots depends entirely on your environment. Even the military discount (more on that later) isn't a universal yes.

I've broken down the most common scenarios I've run into (and a few surprises I learned the hard way). Pick the one that sounds like your team.

Scene A: You Need a Heavy-Duty Raincoat (Like the Fisherman's)

If your crew works outdoors – docks, construction sites, oil fields – the classic Helly Hansen Fisherman's Raincoat is legendary. It's not just a raincoat; it's a waterproof fortress. But here's something vendors won't tell you: that coat runs hot. I ordered ten for our night shift security team thinking they'd love the durability. Three guys complained they sweated through their shirts within an hour (even with vents open). So if your guys are moving constantly, you might want a lighter hi-vis shell instead.

The right move: Use the Fisherman's raincoat for stationary outdoor workers – gate guards, dock supervisors, people who stand in drizzle for hours. For active workers, look at the Svalgard or LIFA series with breathable membranes. (Ugh, I learned that one too late – exchanged 6 units.)

Scene B: You Need Coveralls for Dirty Jobs

Coveralls are a game-changer for mechanics, painters, and warehouse crews who can't afford to ruin their street clothes. Helly Hansen's coveralls (like the Manchester or Aberdeen) come in both hi-vis and standard. What most people don't realize is that the fabric weight matters more than the brand. I once bought mid-weight coveralls for a crew working in a hot warehouse – they lasted three months before tearing at the knees. Turned out 240 gsm ripstop was too lightweight for their daily grind. We switched to 300+ gsm and got 18 months out of them.

My advice: Match the coverall weight to the abuse level. Lightweight for inspection roles, heavyweight for hands-on work. Also, check that they have enough pockets – our crew uses the chest pocket for tablets constantly. (Surprised how often brands forget that.)

Scene C: You Need Waterproof Work Boots – and How to Keep Them That Way

Work boots are the biggest headache in my purchases. Everyone wants waterproof, but after 5 years of managing these relationships, I've learned that 'waterproof' is a promise that fades. Helly Hansen's work boots (like the Varberg or Skagen) come with a good membrane, but even the best need maintenance.

How to waterproof work boots (the real way):

• Start with a clean surface – brush off mud and dirt. (I still kick myself for once applying wax over mud – ruined the leather.)
• Use a dedicated waterproofing spray or wax. Don't use mink oil if the boot has a Gore-Tex liner – it can clog the membrane.
• Let it soak in overnight. I've seen people spray and walk out the door, then wonder why their feet are wet by lunch.
• Reapply every 2-4 weeks depending on use. One of my biggest regrets was assuming yearly treatment was enough. After a rainy winter, I had to replace 15 pairs – $3k out of budget. Now I schedule quarterly re-ups.

And here's a cause-reversal most people miss: cheap boots don't cause wet feet – lack of maintenance does. The assumption is that you need expensive boots to stay dry. The reality is that a $150 boot with regular care outperforms a $300 boot left to rot.

Scene D: You Qualify for a Military Discount – and How Much It Actually Is

This is the number one question I get from our security and military clients. According to Helly Hansen's official military discount program (as of early 2025), eligible personnel – active duty, veterans, police, and first responders – receive 30% off full-price items. But here's an insider tip: the discount doesn't apply to sale items, and you need to verify through ID.me or SheerID. Processing 60-80 orders annually, I've found that the biggest savings come from buying during their semi-annual sales and stacking the discount (if allowed). One year I managed to get 45% off on rain gear by combining a flash sale with the military discount – but that's rare.

My process: Before any large order, I check if any team members qualify for the discount. Even 30% on a $400 order for 20 employees saves $2,400. That's real budget relief. (Thankfully our admin team tracks eligibility now.)

Which Scenario Are You In? (A Quick Guide)

Look at your team's three biggest pain points:

1. Water exposure: If they stand in rain >2 hours daily, go Scenario A (Fisherman's raincoat) or D (military discount if applicable).
2. Dirt and abrasion: If they crawl under machinery or paint all day, Scenario B (heavy-duty coveralls).
3. Wet feet: If their boots are constantly soaked, Scenario C (waterproof boots + maintenance).

Bonus: if you work around black fences (military bases, secure facilities), hi-vis and durable outerwear are essential – Helly Hansen's Manchester coveralls in orange with reflective tape work perfectly.

Bottom line: don't try to force one solution for everyone. Your crew will thank you, and your budget won't bleed. Now go check that military discount – you might be leaving money on the table.