What is the Fjällräven Classic UK?
The Fjällräven Classic UK is a prestigious trekking event that draws adventurers from all over the globe. This year set in the picturesque Lake District, this trek covers approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) over three days. The route is designed to challenge trekkers with diverse terrains, from steep ascents to serene lake paths. Along the way, you'll be treated to panoramic views of rolling hills, lush valleys and pristine lakes, making every step a reward in itself.
The Birth of a Classic
The Fjällräven Classic first came to life in 2004, sparked by the awe-inspiring beauty of Sweden’s northern wilderness. The debut trek, set against the stunning backdrop of Swedish Lapland, was much more than a hike; it was an invitation to immerse oneself in nature, embrace personal challenges, and forge lasting bonds through a shared adventure.
The Spirit of Sustainability
From the very beginning, the Fjällräven Classic has championed sustainability as a core value. The event encourages participants to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that the breathtaking landscapes they traverse remain as pristine and unspoiled as they were found. This commitment to preserving the environment extends beyond the trails, deeply influencing Fjällräven’s approach to product design and corporate practices.
Fjällräven integrates sustainable practices into every aspect of their operations, from using eco-friendly materials in their gear to reducing their carbon footprint. Their dedication to environmental stewardship is evident in their efforts to minimise waste, promote recycling, and support conservation initiatives. By embedding sustainability into their ethos, Fjällräven not only protects the natural beauty of the places we explore but also inspires a broader community to adopt responsible practices and make a positive impact on the planet.
Join Ian on His Epic Fjällräven Adventure!
Ian, a shareholder at The Sporting Lodge, is gearing up for this year’s Fjällräven Classic trek, and we’re thrilled to follow his journey! Before he embarks on his 3-day adventure through the picturesque Lake District, we caught up with him to get the inside scoop on how he’s prepping for this epic trek. From his strategies for conquering the trail to the top-notch gear he’ll be using, Ian’s sharing all the details of his adventure.
Get ready to dive into the excitement as we explore Ian’s plans, his go-to equipment, and what he’s most looking forward to on this thrilling journey. Buckle up—this is going to be one adventure you won’t want to miss!
Here are some of Ian’s responses to our questions about his upcoming trip:
The first question Ian I've got today is how are you preparing for the walk?
Well, my day job's a lawyer so I spend a lot of time sat behind a desk but my 2 passions outside law are karate and hiking. So I spend a lot of time in the Peak District and I spend a lot of time in the Lake District. The past 2 years in particular, I've travelled out to Japan 6 times. Not many people know but Japan's made up of 70% of mountains. So every time I go out to Japan, I tend to do a day of karate training and alternate that with a hike.
What kind of gear or equipment are you bringing with you and why did you choose this gear?
I'm taking the Fjallraven Kajka rucksack which we sell at The Sporting Lodge which is a great rucksack. I can fit my tent in there and my sleeping bag - I can pretty much fit everything in there without having anything hanging outside my rucksack looking like a Christmas tree. So that's a bonus! Taking the Fjallraven Abisko II tent; I'm quite excited about that in a geekish kind of way; and probably for the last 5 years I've owned a pair of Hanwag Berglar leather hiking boots
How do you plan to stay motivated during the challenging parts of the route?
I always say at work I don't see my job as a job. To me, it's a way of life. I enjoy what I do - if you don't enjoy doing something you shouldn't be doing it. Whenever I'm out hiking, I never think of it as being difficult or challenging, I just see it as being exciting and it's just a way to learn. I think when you're around people that's quite motivating; I think getting inspiration from other walkers listening to them about their experiences. The inspiration and the motivation will come from the other people doing the Classic and I'm very much looking forward to meeting new people and making new friends.
What are your thoughts on the Fjällräven Classic’s emphasis on outdoor sustainability and eco-friendly practices?
I think it's really important ESG is front and centre of every business at the moment. It's right up there; it's one of the most strategic objectives and goals and strategies of any business and I I think the responsibility that they show and the fact they make sustainable gear and equipment is very important and respecting the environment and just making sure they reduce their environmental footprint. I mean, it's all very very important but it's not just important for Fjallraven, it's important for every business.