The forest is Icebug's heart. It's our home turf. We make shoes for the forest, and we try to spend as much time as possible in it. That's why we have our office right next to a nature reserve in Jonsered. The forest provides energy, joy, and tranquility to everyone who spends time in it. Here, we gather tips on the very best the forest has to offer. Welcome to join us.

Seek out really old and tall forests

What type of forest suits you best? Depending on who you are, the answer may vary. But there are actually some indications of "good forest" according to research. The forest that is considered the best for rehabilitation purposes is really old forest. It should be at least 70 years old and 16 meters tall.

As little as 20 minutes a day in a forest has a positive impact on stress, blood pressure, and pulse.

The fact that the forest gives us a sense of calm is not just something we believe – it's proven. There is a wealth of research going on about the positive health effects a moment in the forest can have. And there are many! The best part is that it's neither complicated nor requires extensive preparations. Here are 6 good and simple things the forest provides – completely free!

Columnar halls are worth seeking out - and enjoying if you find them.

What type of forest suits you best? Depending on who you are, the answer may vary. But there are actually some indications of "good forest" according to research. According to studies, the best type of forest for rehabilitation purposes is really old forest. It should be at least 70 years old and 16 meters tall.

Many of us have a small glade or place in nature that we particularly enjoy. A place we like to return to. The question is how we choose these favorite spots and what it takes for a place to qualify as "calm and pleasant."

Thick undergrowth may not be something you think about right now. And you're not alone. Dense undergrowth is the type of forest that people like the least. According to Anders Lindhagen, a researcher at SLU, it is even better to have clear-cut areas than dense undergrowth.

So, what's the most preferred type? According to Lindhagen, it's mature and thinned columnar halls. Columnar halls are places in the forest with tall trees, such as pines, that filter light down to the ground. According to several surveys, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful things. Do you have a columnar hall near you? You might not have realized it, or perhaps you didn't know it was called that. In any case, it might be worth looking for one - and enjoying it if you do find one.

Shorelines are also popular

Columnar halls rank high in other research on similar topics. Participants in a study at Umeå University's Forest and Health program have been given the opportunity to spend time in the forest for better well-being since 2006. There were eight different locations to choose for their rehabilitation. What was most popular? A shoreline by a lake. This was followed by forests with large rock outcrops and sparse pine forests, as well as columnar halls.

After these places, forests with tall spruce trees came next. A bit like classic enchanted forests in fairy tales. That kind of forest gives a sense of shelter.

77% of Sweden is forest

According to researcher Elisabet Sonntag Öström, who is interviewed in connection with this study, these choices may have to do with how humans have lived throughout history. Having an overview, protection, and access to water. It's not surprising that many people nowadays are attracted to living near water, preferably a bit higher up and with some trees around the house to provide privacy.

Research on the possibilities of the forest for health continues. What it will result in is still unclear, but you don't have to wait for that. The statement that most of us feel good in the forest is something that doesn't really need the approval of research. Approximately 77% of Sweden's area is actually covered by forest. So go out and enjoy – the whole country is full of opportunities.

Here are some sources:
skogsfors.se - kunskapsbank

The Nature Heritage

The Nature Heritage Foundation aims to purchase valuable old-growth forests. Icebug has been collaborating with the Nature Heritage Foundation for some time. Would you like to help too?

Read more about their work here.

We use our business to do good

At Icebug, we’re committed to making better shoes that help you get out every day – no matter the conditions. Also, we have decided to change our industry by taking responsibility for our footprint. Our goal is to make footwear with great durability, low CO2 emissions and respect for people and planet. Part of the money that you invest in us, we give back to the planet by donating to organizations that, for instance, work to preserve old-growth forests.