I must confess, I'm not entirely certain whether my profound adoration for Norwegian woollen jumpers should be labelled as cultural appropriation, especially now that I'm penning an article about them. Let's simply say that it's the love for these magnificent, tradition-rich, and meticulously crafted jumpers that compelled me to write. In this modest piece, I'd like to introduce you to the five most interesting and or famous Norwegian sweater brands and the most exquisite jumpers you could or couldn't possibly imagine. If you're in search of a splendid specimen to don during your visit to Norway, do read on.
But first a little introduction on this magnificent piece of kit. The Norwegian sweater, or 'lusekofte', stands as a remarkable piece of Nordic cultural heritage. Born in the 19th century among fishermen and farmers who needed protection from fierce fjord winds, these woollen garments quickly evolved into something far more significant than mere outdoor wear. Sometimes they were waxed in order to keep the wind and moist out even more.
Each region developed distinct patterns that served as a woollen signature of local identity. The most celebrated design, the Marius pattern, emerged in 1953 when Unn Søiland Dale created it for Olympic skier Marius Eriksen, swiftly becoming Norway's unofficial national jumper.b Whether worn by modern adventurers or urban (Oslo) fashionistas, each Norwegian sweater continues to tell a story of resilience, tradition, and not in the least; a love for outdoor life. It's why I am wearing them all the time.
There exists quite a variety of brands, from which I've chosen to highlight five. I'll also provide some tips at the end on how to acquire unique pieces whilst travelling through Norway. Let's begin, shall we?
1. Dale of Norway
Dale of Norway is arguably the most renowned brand for traditional Norwegian jumpers. Established in 1879 in the village of Dale, it has become synonymous with high-quality knitwear. The brand is celebrated for its intricate patterns and use of 100% Norwegian wool. Dale jumpers are often considered heirloom pieces, designed to last for generations.
What's truly fascinating is that for each Winter Olympics, a special pattern in various colours is developed. This tradition has more or less been in place since 1956 when Norwegian ski athletes chose Dale of Norway to design and create jumpers for the team. It's a marvellous tradition, and many of the older jumpers have now become genuine collector's items.
I myself possess a Dale of Norway jumper from 1992 in my wardrobe. And it's not merely because it's a collector's item; I still wear it whenever it gets a little chilly in the mountains. An interesting fact is that such vintage jumpers can be worth up to 300 dollars, which corresponds to the current retail price. Isn't that splendid? A jumper that appreciates in value, rather than depreciates? Do keep that in mind when you acquire your first Dale of Norway jumper.
2. Rauma Collection
Founded in 1927, Rauma Collection is known for its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques, including the use of 3D knitting technology. While slightly less recognised globally than Dale, Rauma offers a variety of wool jumpers that reflect authentic Norwegian designs and are available throughout Norway.
I must admit that I don't yet own a Rauma jumper. I've often gazed at them longingly when I've chanced upon a Husfliden shop. Despite Rauma enjoying considerably less fame than Dale, for instance, one can confidently say that this company is steeped in history and tradition, having been established in 1927 when 25-year-old Erling Digernes founded Rauma Ullvarefabrikk (Rauma Wool Factory) in the small town of Veblungsnes.
One of their most famous jumpers is the Marius sweater, in a beautiful combination of dark blue, bright red, and white. Designed by Unn Søiland in 1953, the Marius pattern has become the most frequently hand-knitted pattern in Norway. The jumper was named after Marius Eriksen, a war hero and actor who wore the design in a film, which significantly boosted its popularity. Today, the Marius sweater is considered a national symbol of Norway.
You'll find it impossible to miss when you visit Norway. You'll see coffee cups, key rings, and even dog bodywarmers adorned with the pattern. But please, do opt for an original Marius sweater. Not all that touristy nonsense.
3. Devold of Norway
With a history dating back to 1853, Devold specialises in outdoor and really quite functional knitwear. The brand is known for its durable jumpers that incorporate traditional Norwegian patterns alongside more contemporary 'interpretations'. Although their production has moved to Lithuania, their commitment to Norwegian heritage remains strong (and keeping their collection kind of affordable).
Devold of Norway, founded in 1853 by Ole Andreas Devold, has a rich history in textile production. The company began in Ålesund, Norway, when Ole Andreas returned from Germany with advanced knitting equipment. In 1868, Devold moved production to Langevåg, where he built not only a factory but also one of Norway's first hydroelectric power stations.
Devold's success grew alongside the first major polar expeditions of the late 19th century. The company provided warm woollen clothing for famous explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. This association with polar expeditions helped establish Devold's reputation for quality and durability in extreme conditions. I mean, come on, they're world famous...in Norway.
One of Devold's best-known jumpers is the Nordsjø sweater. It has been regarded as the original Norwegian knitted sweater for over a century. Recently redesigned to include a women's model with an oversized and feminine fit, the Nordsjø sweater continues to be one of Devold's most famous products, embodying the brand's commitment to traditional Norwegian knitwear with a modern twist.
And you've probably guessed it, I have one in my wardrobe. It might well be my favourite jumper of all time. Made from a very thick quality wool, and oh so comfortable. A true built-for-purpose jumper. I often wear it when I go cross-country skiing, and even last year when it was minus 20 degrees here, I needed nothing more than thick woollen underwear and my Devold Islender jumper to keep me warm during 4 hours of cross-country skiing.
4. Oleana
Founded in 1992, Oleana focuses on blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional motifs, primarily targeting the women's market, but if you're a chap or somewhere in between, you'll find something to your liking here too. The brand emphasises ecologically sustainable practices and produces its garments entirely in Norway, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship.
What I find wonderful about this brand is, of course, the fact that local and sustainable production is held in such high regard, but also the exuberant use of colour. It almost reminds one of the iconic Finnish brand Marimekko, but that parallel will probably not be appreciated from either side. In any case, they have a beautiful collection where knitwear takes centre stage. You needn't come here for a classic Norwegian woollen jumper, but that's precisely why this brand has earned a place in this list.
5. Skappel
A newer addition to the Norwegian knitwear scene, Skappel gained popularity through social media and is known for its modern, baggy designs. The brand has shifted to using locally sourced Norwegian wool, creating stylish yet comfortable jumpers suitable for various occasions.
Skappel is a Norwegian knitwear brand with a relatively recent but impactful history in the country's textile industry. The brand's story began in 2012, founded by the Skappel family, specifically Dorthe Skappel and her daughters Marthe and Maria[1].
The brand's origin can be traced back to a simple jumper that Dorthe Skappel knitted during a holiday at a friend's cabin. This jumper, which became known as the "Skappel sweater," quickly gained popularity when Dorthe's daughters wore it and were photographed in fashion magazines. The turning point came when Maria, who ran a blog at the time, posted the jumper's pattern online in response to numerous reader requests. This led to an unexpected surge in popularity, with the alpaca yarn used for the jumper selling out in stores across Norway.
And in more recent times, namely during that utterly bonkers pandemic, I dare say that Skappel contributed to all of Norway taking up knitting. Indeed, I can still vividly recall the long queues at the wool shop around the corner from me in Majorstuen. The knitting needles were quite literally flying off the shelves.
Jumper to conclusions
And with that last point, I'd like to conclude my little article on the best brands for Norwegian sweaters. For it should be clear by now that knitwear, patterns, and knitting are a very important part of Norwegian culture. And you'll encounter it one way or another when you visit Norway. I hope it has inspired you, and do send me a photo of your acquisition in a lovely (Norwegian) setting!