Nestled in the snowy expanses of Finland, where cross-country skiing is not just a sport but a way of life, comes Lyly, a groundbreaking product designed by skiers for skiers. This is the story of Seija and Antti, a retired couple whose lifetime dedication to cross-country skiing and deep family ties inspired a solution that has resonated with skiers everywhere.
Meet the Creators: Seija and Antti
Seija and Antti, lifelong enthusiasts of cross-country skiing, have shared their passion with their children and now their grandchildren, instilling a love for this traditional Finnish sport across generations. Their involvement in skiing isn’t just a pastime; it’s a family bond that’s as strong as the Finnish winter.
The Problem They Faced
For decades, every winter season brought with it the cumbersome task of organizing and transporting their family’s skiing gear. The challenge was always the same: ensuring every ski, pole, and boot was packed, not to mention keeping them in order throughout the season. This logistical headache was something that Seija and Antti knew all too well, both as parents and now as grandparents.
The Birth of Lyly
It was during one particularly challenging packing session that Seija and Antti realized they needed a better system. They envisioned a product that could simplify the storage and transportation of cross-country ski equipment, making it easier for families like theirs to enjoy the beauty of skiing without the stress. From this vision, Lyly was born—a meticulously designed organizer that makes managing ski equipment effortless.
Final prototype testing at Ylläs, spring 2024. Picture by one of the daughters and son-in-law helping with testing.
There has been many prototype of Lyly before the final product, since Seija and Antti wanted to ensure that every detail was perfected to meet the specific needs and expectations of the cross-country skiing community. After doing research with LAB University of Applied Studies, testing the product in use and getting feedback from other skiers, they were able to refine the design to maximize functionality and durability, ultimately creating a product that not only met but exceeded the rigorous demands of active skiers.
Uniquely Finnish, Universally Needed
True to its Finnish roots, Lyly is a product born from necessity and a profound understanding of life in a ski-loving nation.
It reflects the practical, straightforward Finnish approach to problem-solving. Designed with a deep appreciation for the tranquility and rhythm of cross-country skiing, Lyly addresses the specific needs of this sport’s enthusiasts.
Seija skiing at Äkäslompolo, 2018. Photo by Antti.
A Legacy of Love for Cross-Country Skiing
Lyly is more than just an innovation — it’s a continuation of Seija and Antti’s lifelong passion for cross-country skiing and a gift to the community that shares this passion. Their invention is not just about making skiing easier but about enriching the skiing experience, ensuring that the focus remains on the joy of the sport and the beauty of the Finnish landscape.
As the snow begins to fall and the trails call, consider how Lyly can enhance your cross-country skiing experience, much like it has for its creators and numerous other enthusiasts. With Lyly, you’re not just ready to ski; you’re ready to embrace the full beauty and peace of the sport.
Antti skiing at Himos in Jämsä, 2018. Photo by Seija.