How petrol and multi-fuel stoves work

A multi-fuel stove can run on gas, petrol, lamp oil, kerosene and more. The stove comes with jets in different sizes, and you always choose…

Does a gas stove work in winter?

There are plenty of opinions about how gas stoves perform in the cold. Some say they become unreliable at the first light frost, while…

How insulation works outdoors – and how it keeps you warm

You hear plenty of myths about staying warm in a sleeping bag. The cold seeps up from the ground, there's a cold draught from the bothy…

A guide to getting started with packrafting

Packrafting is a fairly young sport. It began in 2000, when Alpacka Raft built the first packraft in the United States, and the sport as a…

How to wax your skis — Waxing alpine and cross-country skis

Waxing your skis makes them perform better. You get better glide, and the wax also protects the base from dirt and wear. Fluoro waxes have…

How to light a fire with a fire steel

Do you own a fire steel but find it hard to get a fire going with it? Or are you thinking of buying one for emergencies? Lighting a fire…

A guide to ice swimming

Ice swimming is a great hobby. It leaves you feeling fantastic, and people of all ages can do it. You get to know new people on the sauna…

Road trip – adventures across the Nordic countries

People often say that holidaying in Finland is expensive. And it can be, if you rent a cabin in the pricier part of a ski resort and eat…

How to lighten your pack

Anyone who has done a few multi-day hikes knows that a lighter pack is more comfortable to carry than a heavy one. A heavy pack holds you…

Scout camp season is calling – what should you pack?

Some of the best Scouting memories are made in summer, when camps, hikes and Sea Scout sailing trips lead to great adventures. To make camp…

Photography on day trips and hikes

Photography is a fun hobby, and it fits naturally with day hikes and longer treks. For many people, taking photos is actually the main…

The Tour Skater's Checklist

Nordic skating is a fascinating adventure sport, and one that gets people talking. The image is of skaters gliding over smooth, sunlit ice…

Mushroom foraging tips — how to make the most of your foraging trip

For many of us, our earliest memories of nature come from mushroom and berry picking trips with our parents or grandparents. This Nordic…

Repairing Damaged Hiking Clothing or Footwear

Broken zip on your waterproof or down jacket, a hole in your shell, a split seam in your trousers, or a sole coming away from your hiking…

How to go from day hiker to overnight hiker

Most of us have been out hiking at some point. Plenty of people have spent a night or two outdoors as well, but that doesn't necessarily…

A Guide to Getting Started with Bikepacking

Bikepacking is cycle touring with all your gear packed on the bike. Where it differs from traditional touring is the route: instead of…

Hiking gear hire — Rental shop

You don't have to buy all your outdoor gear. You can rent it too. Buying everything at once gets expensive, especially when you're just…

Cabin bags for hand luggage on flights

Many travellers like to take a larger bag on board as hand luggage, with room for everything you need during the flight, plus cameras,…

A guide to buying running clothes

This guide gives you tips on choosing running clothes . When you take up running, the right clothing matters as well as the right shoes.…

A guide to choosing alpine skis

Choosing the right downhill skis can feel daunting when there are hundreds of models and lengths to pick from. The right ski depends on…

A guide to choosing ski boots

Ski boots are the most important piece of kit you'll own as a skier, so it's worth taking a little time to choose the right pair. Boots…

Top 3 Outdoor Destinations in Turku

In this post, we introduce three hiking destinations in the Turku area that we can recommend to anyone who enjoys getting outdoors. All…

Winter hiking reading pack, with plenty of information and tips

We're celebrating Scandinavian Outdoor's hiking days, so we've put together a reading pack from our blog posts. You'll find plenty of…

A guide to off-track and backcountry skiing

In deep snow, skiing is a natural and energy-efficient way to get around. Off-track skiing is a completely different sport from skiing on…

How do self-inflating sleeping mats work?

Sleeping mats come in two main types: inflatable and closed-cell foam. Inflatable mats are further divided into self-inflating and…

Guide to choosing a torch

A torch earns its place during the dark months of the year. A modern LED torch is small but powerful, slips easily into a jacket pocket,…

Merino Wool Care Guide

Merino wool clothing doesn't need washing very often. Airing it out is usually enough. You can do this indoors by hanging the garment…

OAC Skinbased Skis — Buying Guide

We've put together a guide to choosing OAC's popular skishoes. OAC's ski range is wide, and each model is built for a different kind of…

Winter Shoe Buying Guide

Our selection includes a great range of warm winter shoes that are perfect for outdoor activities and hiking. High-quality shoes are also…

Outdoor Clothing in Generous Sizes: Plus Sizes and D-Sizing

We stock a wide range of generously sized outdoor and hiking clothing . Our outdoor expert Johanna explains plus-size and D-fit clothing.…

A night in a lean-to: your first night outdoors?

Spending a night in a lean-to by the campfire has a real atmosphere to it. A lean-to is a good place for your first night out, and an easy…

Guide to Buying a Winter Jacket — What Should You Consider?

As the weather cools, it’s time to bring out warmer clothing. A warm jacket is one of the most comfortable pieces to wear on chilly days.…

Tips for an autumn colours hike

This post has tips for an autumn hike in the ruska season, when the leaves and ground vegetation turn colour. If you enjoy hiking and…

First night out camping: what went wrong?

Do you still remember your first night outdoors, or are you still at the dreaming stage? In this post, we've gathered the most common…

Choosing and pitching a tarp

A tarp is a sheet of “tent fabric”, a bit like a tarpaulin, that you can use to make a shelter outdoors. On day hikes it keeps the wind and…

Tips for Getting Ready to Go Sailing

The author is a fire station officer with the Western Uusimaa Rescue Department. He sails, skis off-piste, climbs mountains and runs…

Choosing a Knife — How to Pick a Good Outdoor Knife or Puukko

Are you looking to buy your first outdoor knife? Choosing a knife can be tricky at first, as there are plenty of options available. In this…

Packing list for an overnight trip

In this post, we share tips and a packing list for an overnight trip outside the snow season. People often say that a single night out…

Packing list for a one-week hike

In this article, we provide tips on what to pack for a hike during the snow-free season. Many beginner hikers likely dream of one day going…

Rucksack sizes: how much fits in each one?

Buying your first backpack can be tricky when you have no idea what will actually fit inside. This post aims to give you a better sense of…

Backpack sizes: what actually fits in each one?

Thinking about getting a rucksack but not sure what size suits you? You're not the only one, so we put together this guide to backpack…

Five tips — what to do on your winter holiday?

Plenty of people still have winter holiday days to use, and maybe no plans yet either. You don't have to travel all the way to Lapland to…

How to choose skate skis, boots and poles

Skate skiing hasn't been through the same upheaval as classic skiing in recent years, but for many people it's the right way to move on the…

How do you choose skis, boots and poles for classic cross-country skiing?

As the weather turns colder and winter draws closer, it's a good time to check the condition of your old ski gear and perhaps upgrade to…

Choosing between merino wool and technical base layers

Wondering what the difference is between a technical and a merino wool base layer? And which one suits you better? In this post, we go…

A guide to buying shell trousers

Rain doesn't have to spoil a day outdoors – as long as you're dressed for it. Autumn is a great time for hiking and getting outside, with…

What on earth is a hydrostatic head rating?

With many clothes , tents and other gear , you'll come across a hydrostatic head rating. It's a value measured in a laboratory that shows…

Free to Hang — Hammock Camping Basics

Hammock camping has become very popular in recent years, and for good reason. With a little practice, a hammock is quick to pitch, the kit…

Hiking footwear buying guide

Our range of walking and hiking shoes is extensive, so we put together this guide to help with the questions that come up when you're…

Tips for spring bike rides — Why wear proper cycling clothing?

For many of us, early spring marks the start of cycling season. Others ride all year round, whatever the weather. Cycling is a versatile…

A guide to choosing running shoes

In this guide, we go through what to consider when you're buying running shoes for flat surfaces such as tarmac. If you're looking for…

A guide to softshell clothing

Softshell clothing has been around for quite some time, but many people still aren't sure what it actually is. Softshell isn't a material…

What to eat on the trail — the basics of outdoor meals

Good provisions and tasty food are the cornerstones of a successful trip. On a short outing, the lunch break is often the highlight. On a…

Tips for buying a hiking jacket

Thinking about buying a hiking jacket? In this guide, we explain how a hiking jacket differs from a shell jacket and how to choose one that…

Choosing the right size of hiking shoes and boots

When choosing hiking boots , getting the right size matters. This guide explains how to find hiking boots that fit you properly. A boot…

Choosing a backpack: what should you look for before you buy?

Thinking about getting a new backpack ? Which one is right for you: a school bag, a solid daypack for hiking, or one backpack that does…

How do you choose the right rucksack for you?

Choosing the right backpack isn't always easy, especially if it's your first. A test winner won't necessarily suit everyone. Should you go…

Packing lists for ski trekking and winter hiking

Winter is a brilliant time for hiking. But the cold season can be dangerous if you set off with inadequate kit or skills. In this article,…

Winter hiking basics

Winter hiking covers a lot of ground. In this post, we go through the basics: how winter trips differ from hiking in the warmer months, and…

Down as insulation — What is fill power (FP)?

Down is the most valued and widely used insulation in winter jackets , lightweight down jackets and sleeping bags . In this article, we…

Grip/friction-sole shoes or studded shoes?

For slippery conditions, you have a few footwear options, such as grip-sole shoes (also known as friction-sole shoes) and studded shoes.…

Nature Challenge Camp Food Live – Cook an Outdoor Lunch with a Guide

Join us for a live stream on Facebook. This time, you can cook a tasty outdoor meal along with us if you like. When: Friday 30 October…

A guide to lightweight insulated and down jackets

Good lightweight down jackets, or "puffies", have kept hikers warm for years. They've also become a versatile, long-lasting go-to layer for…

A guide to waterproof Gore-Tex gear

Many manufacturers make their own waterproof shell materials. The most common is Gore-Tex, often shortened to GTX. This guide covers the…

Getting Started with Hiking

People often say they'd like to get into hiking but don't know where to start. This article shows you how to begin with day hikes and, if…

Choosing a sleeping bag and pad – how to pick a functional pair?

Choosing a suitable sleeping bag and pad is not the easiest task at the start of your hiking hobby. This guide will show you what options…

Choosing a camping stove — different stoves compared

In this blog post we will go over different types of camping stoves and will tell you how they differ from one another. With these tips you…

Heading Out with Kids – What to Keep in Mind

Hiking with children is fun and rewarding for the whole family, as long as you get a few basics right. In this article, our expert Mikko,…

Caring for base and mid layers – merino wool and synthetics

Base and mid layers are an important (if not the most important!) part of what you wear for hiking and time outdoors. Base layers are made…

How to wash a down jacket

We recommend having your down jacket professionally cleaned, but you can also wash it yourself unless the care label specifically says not…

Cotton and synthetic blends – care instructions

Outdoor clothing often includes synthetic fibres because they make a garment last longer and stand up to more wear. Many polycotton…

How to store and care for a sleeping bag and pad

What could be nicer than wrapping yourself into a comfortable and well maintained sleeping bag after a long day of hiking! After reading…

Tent maintenance, storage and cleaning

In this guide we will give you the best tips for tent maintenance, storage, and washing, so that you can enjoy your tent’s service on your…

Overnight Trips Made Easy — Tips and Packing List

An overnight trip is an easy way to fit some adventure into everyday life. In summer, when the weather is warm, you don't need to carry…

Trail running is a good way to get to know the woods on your doorstep!

The mild winter in southern Finland made it easy to keep trail running all season long. Spring brings warmer running weather, though.…

How to choose hiking and trekking boots

Especially a novice hiker will have a lot of trouble selecting their first hiking boots . In this guide we’ll look into the details of…

A guide to hiking close to home — packing list for a picnic day out

If there was ever a good time for a local outing, it's now. Migratory birds are returning, and the woods are full of birdsong as nesting…

Tent Buying Guide: Is a Tunnel, Dome, or Other Type Best for You?

Are you considering buying a new tent? Our outdoor expert Mikko shares tips on what to consider when choosing the right tent. Buying a tent…

Navigating on hikes and treks: map, compass and GPS devices

Navigation is one of the most important outdoor skills. Once you know the basics, you can pinpoint your position on the map, judge how fast…

How to pack a backpack the right way for a hike

Have you just purchased a backpack and are you thinking of how to pack it correctly? In this article we will tell you how to pack your…

What makes a good pair of ski gloves for kids?

Scandinavian Outdoor content creator Tanja went on a ski holiday with her family and set out to find which ski gloves work best for kids.…

How to take care of your waterproof shell garments

You can and should wash membrane fabrics! When a shell garment is clean it breathes better and all its technical features work in the best…

Taking care of your hiking boots – with these easy tips your shoes will be as good as new!

Washing, treating, and waxing hiking boots Taking care of hiking boots is very important, since the right kind of maintenance will increase…

Hiking boot care – simple steps to get your boots back to their best

Cleaning, waterproofing and waxing your hiking boots Looking after your hiking boots matters. The right care keeps them comfortable and…

Caring for your hiking boots – a few simple habits that keep them in good shape for many more miles

Washing, treating and waxing hiking boots Looking after your hiking boots pays off. With the right care, they last longer and stay…

Treating your new hiking boots

Treat your new hiking boots before you wear them Just bought new hiking boots and itching to hit the trail? Hold on a moment. New hiking…

How to choose a headlamp

Dark autumn evenings are no excuse to stay inside laying on the couch. Light emitting diodes, also known as LEDs, will come to the rescue…

Planning a hike — what do you need to think about?

July heat is on its way to southern Finland, and the best hiking season of the year is only just getting started. Now is a good time to…

Mosquito and Insect Protection — Use These Tips to Keep Mosquitoes and Ticks at Bay!

In Finland, mosquito season usually kicks off just after Midsummer and lasts about a month. In Lapland, this period is known as räkkä .…

A Guide to Hiking Close to Home: 10 Tips from an Outdoor Expert

When everyday life starts to weigh on you, a short trip close to home is a great way to enjoy the summer outdoors while you wait for your…

Lightweight Hiking — Expert Tips and a Kit List for Your Trip

Hiking and trekking are great hobbies partly because everyone can do them in their own way. There's no right or wrong approach, as long as…

Tent-buying tips from our outdoor expert Mikko

Our Outdoor Tent Week runs from 30.5 to 9.6.2019 in our stores and online store . With help from Mikko, one of our outdoor experts, we've…

Merino wool is naturally technical

A merino wool garment is usually the first choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. But many people aren't quite sure how merino wool is…

Northern Lights Quick Guide: How to see and photograph?

“After the Northern Lights and love you can run, or wait for the next one.” Aurora Borealis, more commonly the Northern Lights are the best…

A guide to the ins and outs of layering

Most people in the Nordic countries have probably heard of layering at some point. If you live in a cold climate, you learn to dress warmly…

Why is a good shell jacket one of the most versatile pieces you can own?

In our view, a long service life and versatility are what make an outdoor jacket truly sustainable. For us, durability means quality, and…

Expert outdoor tips for trail running: how do you choose trail running shoes?

Trail running, off-road running, cross-country running – this much-loved sport goes by many names! In this article, we share tips on…

Studded running shoe comparison and winter runner's guide

Have the slippery winter conditions caught you off guard these past few days? Looking for grip on solid ground, only to feel your foot slip…