Pickled herring, a little gnome-like old man with an unpredictable temper, and Santa knocking on the front door on Christmas Eve. While some of it might sound strange, there are few more serene experiences than Christmas in Scandinavia.
There are a lot of reasons to like winter. Few experiences are more satisfying than stepping outside on the first really cold day of the year, and feeling that distinctive crunch of frost under your boot. It is probably only topped by the feeling of stepping inside after a day spent hiking or a couple of hours spent skiing in cold weather.
It’s that time of year. The leaves are red and yellow. If they haven’t started falling already they soon will, and the air has a bite to it when walking the dog in the morning. In other words, it is time to start thinking about winter jackets.
“Friluftsliv”. It is a widely accepted word in Sweden and the rest of Scandinavia. There is no direct translation in the English language. It encompasses much that cannot be simply put into words. The best way to describe it is perhaps a life in the free air, where nature is very much part of everyday life. It includes many activities, both big and small. At the very foundation of this notion is the right to roam, Allemansrätten.
A lot of people know that wool has terrific insulating qualities, many know of its breathability, and some even know of how it can keep you warm even when it is wet. But what few people, at least here in the UK, have realised is that this insulation and breathability works to create a natural air conditioning effect, keeping you cool on hot days.
Howling winds reaching 25 meters per second. A thick snowfall creating a complete whiteout. Not so much as a sliver of blue skies in four days. Not quite the relaxing stroll through the beautiful fells of Jamtland we had imagined. But, as far as testing out gear goes, we couldn’t have asked for better conditions.
The notion of dressing in layers is closely tied to the Scandinavian approach to outdoor clothing. It is also something that lie very close to our hearts here at Nordic Outdoor. But why.
Over 2,600 international exhibitors, over 80,000 visitors from 110 countries. Without exaggerating it is safe to say that ISPO Munich is massive. It is also the place to go if you want to make sure that you are getting your stock for next winter right.
The Kåta. It was invented by the Sami, an indigenous people found in northern Sweden, Norway, and Finland among other places. Back when it was first created, thousands of years ago, the conical shape was supported by a wooden frame covered with animal hides. This inherently stable design has stood the test of time, and since 1989 Tentipi have produced Kåtas by combining this design with high quality fabrics. The solution Tentipi has come up with has resulted in a versatile tent where.
As you walk into the shop you are greeted by the staff, but you brush them aside. You know why you are here. When you get further in you see it. There is a beam of light directed at it from a source you can’t detect, with an angelic choir singing in the background. A jacket that is the ultimate performer whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring, whether it’s scorching hot or freezing cold. It’s the perfect jacket.
