Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew Evaluation

Bottom Line

For morning trail runs and long ski tours,  it’s nice to have a single base layer that will take away the crisp morning chill but let in a cooling breeze as the day heats up – the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew does precisely that. We put this layer to the test in the Rocky Mountains, bagging high peaks and trail running across windy ridge lines. We also scrutinized it against similar base layers in a controlled testing environment.

The Lifa Stripe is incredibly lightweight and breathable while still adding a little bit of warmth. The synthetic material efficiently wicks moisture, constantly fighting the good fight of keeping you dry as you sweat through it on a long trail run. Although it’s not the warmest out of all of our favorite base layers, the HH Lifa Stripe stands out as one of the best for high-output activity.

Comfort

The Lifa Stripe is a slim-fitting top made from soft, synthetic fabrics that layers easily and moves with you. The ultra slick synthetic polyester and polypropylene blend allows other tops to easily slide over it, making it virtually transparent as a base layer. The elastic cuffs work great with gloves. The cuffs are wider than most and stay in place with no problem.

We definitely recommend sizing up at least one size with the Lifa Stripe, as it runs quite small. We tried it out in our typical size, and while it’s still a comfortable base layer, the extremely tight fit lent itself to a few issues. The underarms and shoulders fit well, while the torso was quite tight, and the seams were pretty noticeable against the skin. This style of fit made the base layer more likely to bunch up and wedgie during lots of movement, especially as part of a layering system.

That being said, these issues will improve with a larger size, so just be aware that your normal size will be extra form-fitting. 

Warmth

The Lifa Stripe base layer is the least warm of all of the base layers we tested, but warmth is not its main purpose. This top is meant to keep you from freezing during aerobic activities, which it does remarkably well. The Lifa Stripe is our go-to when morning temperatures are in the 40s-50s, but the sun will soon turn it into a balmy summer day.

The Lifa Stripe provides more warmth via moisture management than it does through insulation. The synthetic fibers wick moisture quickly and efficiently to cut down on evaporative cooling. 

The Lifa Stripe can hold its own as a standalone layer for endurance activities. However, when we plan on building some downtime into our day, we will definitely bring an insulating layer to make up for the thinness of the Life Stripe.

Breathability

Breathability is another strong point for the HH Lifa Stripe Crew. The breathability of the ultralight synthetic fabric goes hand in hand with its excellent moisture wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable.

At just 4.8 ounces, the Lifa Stripe is the lightest base layer we tested. Not only did it dry remarkably fast during our controlled drying test, but it felt noticeably more breathable than other layers when worn in breezy weather. While Helly Hansen’s LIFA technology moves moisture to the surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate faster, the mesh construction allows air in to dry off any excess moisture remaining on the skin.

While we love the breathability for most conditions that we use the Lifa Stripe in, it can be a little too much at times. We love pairing this base layer with a lightweight shell or wind shirt for optimum trail-running versatility.

Versatility

While all of the base layers we tested do offer a good amount of versatility, the Lifa Stripe, in particular, is more targeted towards high-output activity. The weight and breathability of the fabric make it well-suited for running or cross-country skiing during shoulder months but not so much for staying warm in the coldest weather.

The Lifa Stripe also aims to keep things simple with the lack of bonus features. It doesn’t have thumb loops, a hood, or a zipper. This lack of features helps keep the Lifa Stripe streamlined and light, which may be one of the reasons it’s  as well as the most inexpensive layer on our list.

Style

While we understand that style is mostly subjective, we base style points on how suitable the layer is in business-casual situations and how many colorways are offered.

The Lifa Stripe is only available in three different colors compared to other base layers with 20+ color options. We would love to see some more variety from Helly Hansen.

All of the colors feature the signature racing stripes down each sleeve, which may be a deal breaker for folks who prefer something less flashy. The racing stripes give a decidedly athletic feel. More so than other layers, the Lifa Stripe screams activewear.

We love the utility of the Lifa Stripe Crew, but if you wear it out to dinner with friends, they might think you just finished running a marathon. Maybe that’s what you’re going for! 

Should You Buy the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew?

The Lifa Stripe Crew is an incredibly affordable base layer that is perfect for all aerobic activities when there is a chill in the air. While it’s best as an active layer, it really packs a good bit of value into its small price tag, as its uses easily spill over into winter and summer seasons. Unless you live in a particularly frigid environment, the Lifa Stripe could even be a solid option for a sole base layer all year round. 

The Lifa Stripe is ideal for people who like to get after it regardless of the weather. From skiing to climbing to running, it’s an optimal choice. The synthetic fibers excel at moisture-wicking and drying time so that you can stay warm, dry, and comfortable.

If warmth is what you’re after, there are better options. While it does trap some heat, insulation is not the Lifa Stripe’s most effective function.

What Other Base Layers Should You Consider?

If the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew Base Layer isn’t right for you, check out all the other base layers we tested.

Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Review: The OR Echo Hoodie is another breathable and lightweight active layer that adds a few more bonus features. It’s not as insulating as the Lifa Stripe, but it shines as a sun hoodie with thumb loops and a hood.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review: The Capilene is a synthetic base layer with a little more insulation than the Lifa Stripe. The synthetic material has similar benefits to the LIFA fabric but has a more relaxed fit and traps more heat. If you plan on doing a little more stopping and resting during your outing, the Capilene is a good alternative.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Review: If wool is more your thing, the Classic All-Season is one of the lightest merino wool base layers out there. It is naturally moisture-wicking and breathable while also being odor-resistant. It’s not as stretchy or form fitting as the Lifa Stripe, but is a good alternative active layer.