Saami craftsmanship
The most popular souvenirs are still Saami handicrafts of remarkable beauty and finesse. Clothing is always practical, warm and comfortable, in keeping with the demands of reindeer herding. Gloves and socks, made of wool or leather and often decorated in traditional Saami colors, are very popular. There's also the traditional "four winds" bonnet, with its four points, or fur and leather chapkas, most often in copper, white or grey-black. The latter are very popular and obviously keep you very warm, a must if you're venturing into these polar lands at the coldest time of year. It's easy to find handmade ones, although of course the price is higher. But if it's a quality product, you can be sure that it won't let you down any time soon! The same goes for traditional shoes with curved toes, made from skin. They're incredibly warm and comfortable, and worth every winter shoe! And don't forget reindeer skins, which start at around 90 euros. Reindeer antlers start at 20 euros each. They can be used as candle holders or wall decorations, for example. They can also be used to make key-rings and all sorts of smaller trinkets. Saami knives are absolutely magnificent and highly prized, adorned with details, sometimes in full color, and stored in their leather sheath. They come in all sizes and for all purposes. A lovely gift, a testament to great craftsmanship. Jewelry is also a Saami specialty, with leather bracelets, reindeer antler pendants and earrings in singular, traditional designs. The price range is very wide, and on the whole, everyone will be able to afford a little souvenir to remind them of wonderful Lapland.
The kolt. This is the spectacular and colorful traditional costume worn by the Sami people. It corresponds to a very precise code. Age, sex, social position and region of origin are all factors to be taken into account when designing and understanding the Sami costume. The habit is worn mainly on Sundays and during traditional festivals. Its colors are, of course, those of the Sami: red, yellow and blue. It remains one of the strongest elements of their identity. The initial common pattern has gradually become more differentiated, and with practice, it's easy to guess the wearer's commune of origin. It consists of a royal blue tunic, edged with colorful ribbons and braids. The belt is often adorned with silver plates. The bellinger and skallers are reindeer-skin pants and shoes respectively. The headdress either matches the tunic or is shaped like a "four winds" cap. The colorful pleated band at the bottom of the women's skirt requires over 30 meters of fabric!
For the gourmets
Local dishes are also a great idea, and can be found just about everywhere. Examples include dried reindeer or elk meat, or typical Norwegian dried fish. Wild berry jams and teas are easy to preserve and match. Gourmet treats such as chocolate berries and arctic honey make great gifts! There are all kinds of sweets and jams in local flavors, not to mention the tea and syrups that fill the shelves.
