Inspired by Tove Jansson’s “Moominland Midwinter” book, Karhu and Moomin are launching its newest collaboration on Saturday, the 22nd of Febuary. Karhu skis were one of the first produced items in a small workshop located in downtown Helsinki, where locally sourced birch was transformed into winter forms of transport. Worn by world champions, skiing has helped to shape the brand.
After searching through Moomin Character’s rich digital archive, the Karhu design team was attracted by the ski drawings from the “Moominland Midwinter” book from 1957. In this story, Moomintroll overcomes his amazement and isolation, and with the help of the wise Too-ticky and the fearless Little My, begins to explore the glittering new landscape. For this project, the Karhu team chose the Aria 95, a mid 90s runner which features a monosock construction. The monosock not only provides added comfort, it also reminded the Karhu team of the hill, on which Moomintroll was taught how to ski. Even though he explicitly stated “But no high hill”, his first attempt was still an unfortunate one.
The skiing Moomintroll is featured as an all-over print on the monosock and on the heel of the shoe. The orange and blue title on the original book cover inspired the shoe colours. The 75th anniversary Moomin logo is featured on the footbed design. The photos of the collaboration were taken in the Lalluka Artist Home in Etu-Töölö, Helsinki. Tove Jansson used to live here with her family from 1933 onwards. Lallukka Artists’ Home consists of 56 apartments, and to this day remains home to several professional artists with different specialties. The Lallukka Artists’ Home has now been renovated properly and during the renovation, valuable treasures were found. Under the floor of Tove Jansson’s father, Viktor Jansson’s,studio an old pair of wooden skis with Tove’s name carved on them was found. A fun fact, which made this project come full circle.
The Karhu x Moomin Aria 95 will be launched on Saturday, the 22nd of February at KARHU.COM, the Karhu Concept Store in Helsinki and select premium retailers worldwide.
