The Skipsleia sweater is a versatile unisex knit, a warm and confident layer with a chunky hand-feel, crafted to endure in both use and expression. Inspired by the classic fisherman’s sweater and the iconic Islender design, it features an all-over stripe pattern paired with a traditional lice motif and a relaxed fit. Rooted in tradition yet comfortable and contemporary, the design is finished with subtle striped ribbing that lends a quiet workwear sensibility.
As a unisex piece, it offers a slightly oversized look for women and a regular fit for men, creating an easygoing and adaptable style.
The sweater is knitted using different yarn compositions depending on the colorway:
- Vanilla Sugar and Natural White: 100% undyed lightweight wool from Uruguay.
- Roth Red and Off White: Combines undyed and dyed lightweight wool from South America.
- Black and Off White: 100% long-lasting Norwegian wool (dyed).
Learn more about the yarn types under “Details”.
- XS – XXL
- Regular fit
- Mid layer, heavy knit
- 870g (size L)
- Crew neck
- Neckline in skin soft merino wool
- Designed and knitted in Norway
- All colorways: Hand wash only
- Women Model height 179cm, is wearing size M
- Male Model height 189cm, is wearing size L
Vanilla Sugar/Natural White colorway (M00): Nature Undyed – undyed lightweight wool: Our undyed lightweight wool is sourced from Uruguay and showcases the natural color variations of the fiber, ranging from darker to brighter tones. These different shades are sorted and blended into mélanges, creating a limited range of natural colors. Since there is no dyeing process involved, the yarn remains 100% natural and biodegradable. The absence of dyeing eliminates the need for the chemicals typically used in this process, while also conserving resources like water and energy. (Fiber diameter: 27 micron). Hand wash only.
Roth Red colorway (K00):Undyed (Nature Undyed) and dyed (Seagull) wool mix: This colorway combines Nature Undyed yarn (described above) with Seagull, our 100% lightweight wool from South American crossbred sheep produced exclusively for Dale of Norway. Seagull is ideal for traditional medium-weight garments that call for a lighter and softer feel. (Fiber diameter: 27 micron). Hand wash only. Black/Off-White colorway (F00)Plover – long-lasting Norwegian wool: A proprietary blend of wool from Norwegian sheep. Norwegian wool is among the world’s most animal-friendly textile fibers, as the sheep graze naturally in the mountains. This yarn offers an authentic appearance, renowned for its uniquely crisp look and exceptional longevity. These qualities have kept this yarn in our collection since 1939. (Fiber diameter: 33.5 micron). Hand wash only.
The Skipsleia sweater draws its inspiration from the traditional Fana sweater. Originating in Fana, a borough of Bergen, the striped sweaters were historically worn by men for everyday use and became a staple of local attire. Known as "Stripetroye," these striped sweaters also served as undergarments for marines, offering warmth and comfort beneath their uniforms. Women in Fana added their own flair to this heritage by wearing Fana sweaters beneath their bodices as part of their folk dress.
Skipsleia is a Norwegian term for the traditional sea route used by ships along coastal waters, known as a “skipslei.” It is a fitting name for a sweater inspired by the classic garments worn by fishermen in harbors and along the Norwegian coast.
