BUG-like Grip

ANIMA2-BUGripOne good thing about winter is that runners don’t have to deal with a lot of bugs, and while insects generally can’t get a grip on ice the ANIMA2 BUGrip shoes offer sure footing in most winter conditions. Made by Icebug of Gothenburg, Sweden these feature 19 sharp studs that are embedded into the shoe’s rubber sole.

These 1mm long studes can dig in to provide traction when there is snow and ice on the ground and provide decent traction. These aren’t fully waterproof but they provide enough water resistance to keep the feet dry in icy and snowy conditions. While not ideal for concrete or indoor use these will help runners get through the long winter ahead.

Icebug ANIMA2 BUGrip Official Website

POC Tempor Debuts at Olympics

At yesterday’s 2012 Olympic Games Bradley Wiggins of the UK and Kristin Armstrong of the USA took rode to the gold in the men’s and women’s Olympic Time Trial in cycling. Their efforts likely turned heads, but so did the new helmet that was donned by the Swedish riders.

This was the POC Tempor time trial helmet, which was developed by the Swedish company with the help of 2008 Olympic time trial silver medalist Gustav Erik Larsson. Larsson and teammate Emma Johansson each wore the helmet, and while they didn’t share the podium at these games, the helmet’s designers believe it could “promote maximum performance and aerodynamics, without sacrificing safety properties.” Continue reading POC Tempor Debuts at Olympics

Traditional Axe Coming to America

The axe is a tool that has stood the test of time, and while there are more modern versions today, outdoor and bushcraft enthusiasts, know a quality “old school” axe just gets the job done. Sport Hansa is now offering authentic, handmade Swedish axes from Wetterlings that are perfect for hikers, campers and anyone looking to use a quality tool made the old fashioned way.

Since 1880 the company has produced a unique brand of quality axes, making it the oldest axe forger in Sweden. Today, Wetterlings produces an array of bushcraft, forest, and splitting axes made of Swedish carbon alloy steel heads and American hickory handles. Not only does Wetterlings have a strong commitment to quality, but they also have demonstrated a commitment to the environment, and since 2012 the company’s factory has been completely energy self sufficient through the use of environmentally friendly waterpower. Continue reading Traditional Axe Coming to America

Sweden Building World’s Largest Indoor Ski Slope

Stretching over 753,473 square feet, Skipark360 will be the world’s largest indoor ski resort doubling the size of today’s current indoor ski champ, Holland’s SnowWorld Landgraaf. The new resort, which will be situated 45 minutes from Stockholm, Sweden, also hopes to be the world’s only indoor ski resort to house a 2,297-foot long slope with a 525-foot drop — large enough to officially host alpine World Cup events. Designed by CF Moller Architects, this winter wonderland will also feature a 2.2-mile cross country ski tunnel, 20,000 square-foot biathlon arena, ice hockey arena, figure skating arena, and a snowboarding area. And that’s just part of this massive facility.

Video after the jump Continue reading Sweden Building World’s Largest Indoor Ski Slope