The clear, cold days started well before Christmas and the temperature has been sinking steadily: -10C today at midday. We (Alessandro, Ariana - a Czech friend - and I) went to a lake a 20 minute drive east of Uppsala where today's ice report indicated 9 cm thick ice. With the cold temps and no snow at all, the whole lake was skateable. The white stuff is ice crystals which didn't interfere with skating although it was easier skating in the clear, dark streaks that criss cross the lake. The streaks are where the ice cracked and refroze.
The skating equipment is designed for long distance trips such as going around the islands of the archipelago. A basic set consists of long blades attached to cross country ski shoes (although this can get more or less specialized). Poles are used much in the same manner as for skiing. The orange ice picks are essential safety epuipment and are worn aroung the neck for easy access should you fall through the ice and would like to climb out again. A soft pad for breaks is a nice luxury item I like to have, too.
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