Testing our clothing in a frozen winter wonderland

In January 2020 we spent a week in Ruka-Kuusamo which is situated in Northern Ostrobothnia, in the north-east of Finland, bordering Russia. The area is located at 66 degrees North, so not technically in the Arctic but part of the Sub-Arctic and at least landscape-wise, a part of Lapland. Average daytime temperatures for January are -14C with just 4 hours of daylight. The region is one of the snowiest in all of Finland, though, with an average snow depth of 60 to 75cm between January and March.

Plenty of skiing during daytime, walks across frozen lakes and much more in this fabulous wilderness. The chance to see the Northern Lights was an amazing experience. Perfect for Woolpower’s merino wool layers, Parajumpers outerwear combined with a Paramo Torres Insulated Jacket ensured we were fully protected and able to enjoy our adventures. It is hard to find the words to describe the beauty of this region, it truly is a winter wonderland.

This was a great opportunity to further test some of the brands we sell. We simply would not travel to a cold climate without a good supply of Woolpower base layers, mid layers, socks, hats, balaclavas which all proved vital during the coldest days. My Parajumpers Skimaster Jacket once again proved to be my favorite outer layer, quite a statement when considering brands from our past. Perfect pocket design, enabling everything to be carried whilst skiing. It kept me warm, dry & comfortable despite strong Arctic winds and at times driving snow. I also tried out a pair of Pfanner insulated trousers which is a new brand for us going forwards into 2020. Great to wear travelling and general wear around resort. Paramo also kindly provided Torres Jackets which added an extra outer layer of insulation, much needed when standing exposed at night on the middle of a vast frozen lake awaiting the Northern Lights.

View our Facebook & Instagram to see more of our visit to Finland.