WORDS
Antonino Biondo
With almost three-quarters of its surface covered by coniferous forest and nearly 100,000 lakes, Sweden is justifiably proud of its countless natural wonders. Glaciated mountain ranges, freshwater streams and rocky archipelagos frame a carousel of untouched landscapes. All forests, fields, beaches and lakes across the country are completely accessible thanks to Allemansrätten – the right that guarantees the freedom to roam. No wonder the Swedes are renowned for their symbiotic connection with the great outdoors.
Nature has played a key role in the formation of the country’s national identity across literature and art – look, for instance, at the work of naturalist painter Bruno Liljefors, who beautifully portrayed the relationship between Swedish wildlife and its natural habitat.
Hiking, fishing and canoeing are among the most popular activities, so practicality and comfort take priority in Scandi fashion, with utilitarian yet well-designed styles preferred.
Swedes could be considered the forerunners of “Gorpcore” – a trend that popularised outdoorsy gear. The term, coined by fashion website The Cut, has its origins in the hiker’s trail mix (“good ol’ raisins and peanuts”), and identifies the style-conscious use of adventure wear in the urban environment. Think of raincoats, puffers, techy trainers, shell trousers and full-zipped fleeces. It reached a peak through the pandemic, when an interest in nature and the outdoors took hold of those in lockdown seeking release from their confinement and an opportunity to appreciate the world around them. However, the increased appeal of functional clothing hasn’t gone away, and it’s no surprise that more premium brands have dipped their toe into waterproof and technical wear, combining function with style and allure.
One of the most interesting results of this hybridisation is offered by minimalist Swedish footwear company CQP. Founded in 2014 by Adam Lewenhaupt, a former banker with a vivid passion for sneakers, the brand stands for quintessentially Swedish clean design and superb craftsmanship. Each style is created in its Stockholm atelier and handmade in Portugal. Do not expect monochrome only though.
A more playful approach to colours and details sets CQP apart from typical Scandi fare, which often sticks to a neutral palette. For the current autumn/winter 2022 collection, CQP has ventured into the great outdoors with a collection of footwear featuring grippy lightweight soles and technical components.
‘I am always on the move, whether in an urban environment or the outdoors,’ says Lewenhaupt. ‘The collection is a reflection of that, as well as the harsh winters we have to withstand here in Stockholm.’ He also knows his customers want more than just practicality: ‘We need style as well as substance and function, and I believe this collection is just that,’ he explains.
But the practical is key. These boots are literally made for walking, with multiple layers of cushioning guaranteeing extra support. The style of Sabulo – CQP’s first boot design – has been elevated into Saxum, a true rugged boot, featuring D-ring lacing with metal eyelets and a rubber panel surrounding the entire shoe.
Elsewhere, the stylish hiker boot Scander embodies the mountaineering aesthetic with a high-performance Vibram sole made from vulcanised rubber, which provides exceptional traction, resistance and durability.
CQP would seem to be an adherent to the popular Swedish saying, “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”.
