There is a Scandinavian saying, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothes”. So it is no surprise that Nordic brands have gained a reputation for functional, durable, and innovative pieces. Swedish brand Fjällräven was founded in 1960 with a single purpose: to develop products that would allow people to enjoy the wilderness and engage in outdoor life no matter the season. Its offerings run the gamut and pieces are available for all skill levels. Whether you plan to be trekking, camping, hunting, bird-watching, or simply exploring a new environment, you’re bound to find something that will suit your needs. Here are a few pieces to get you cold weather–proofed.
The shirts are not what you might expect from a performance brand, as they could be easily mistaken for lifestyle pieces. Fjällräven’s Greenland Shirt and Sarek Heavy Flannel Shirt are button down garments designed with trekking in mind.
The Greenland No. 1 Special Edition jacket is a classic piece; in fact, it features the same cut and design that founder Åke Nordin created from tent fabric back in 1968. It’s made from Fjällräven’s proprietary fabric, G-1000, which is hardwearing, windproof, and breathable, and also offers protection from UVA and UVB, as well as pesky mosquitos. G-1000 can also be waxed to increase durability and water resistance. All in all, a pretty dependable package.
If you’re going up into the mountains, and need the extra warmth but have little space to spare, the Pak Down Jacket does exactly what it suggests. It’s an ideal reinforcement layer that can be worn over your jacket to keep you toasty when you are setting up camp. If 700-fill goose down isn’t enough, the channels in the jacket are not sewn through, making it supremely windproof and preserving precious warmth within.
Fjällräven is lauded today for its ethical practices and commitment to animal welfare. A staunch proponent against live-plucking, force-feeding, and mulesing, the brand ensures that, when animals are involved in production, they are responsibly handled. The down is a by-product of food production, and a synthetic alternative to real fur is used.
There’s a surprisingly large selection of trousers—some, like the Keb, have all the bells and whistles, and others, like the Övik Trousers for men and Nikka Trousers for women feature a more relaxed fit. The Keb trousers are also made with the hard-wearing and tear-resistant G-1000 fabric as well as so as not to compromise movement. It features extra reinforcement at the knees, inside of the leg, and the rear. Vents on the sides release excess heat. While the Keb is designed for technically advanced alpine trekking and climbing, there is no reason why you can’t wear them for your jaunt up to Golden Ears.
Don’t let the weather keep you indoors, but rather, gear up and revel in it. Once equipped with Fjällräven, you might find yourself agreeing with the Scandinavians.
Photos courtesy of Fjällräven Canada.
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