Askelmittarit

Askelmittarit, also known as pinching covers or snatching mitts, are traditional folk clothing worn by women in Finland, particularly in the north and east regions of the country. The word "askel" means "step" or "foot" in Finnish, which refers to the fact that the mitts have a distinctive design resembling a person's foot.

Askelmittarit usually consist of a pair of woolen mittens with a characteristic foot-like design on the palm side. The design typically features a toe, heel, and sometimes even a heel strap or a strap under the toe. The mittens are usually knitted in traditional colors and patterns and are often decorated with embroidery or other forms of traditional Finnish folk art.

Askelmittarit have a long history dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. They were originally designed as part of the traditional Sami and Finnish folk clothing and were often worn by women during their daily activities such as fishing, herding, or working in the household. Over time, askelmittarit became an important part of the Finnish cultural heritage and are now considered a valuable piece of national heirloom.

Askelmittarit are no longer a common part of everyday clothing, but they are still celebrated and worn on special occasions such as traditional festivals, weddings, and other cultural events. Many museums and cultural institutions in Finland have askelmittarit in their collections, and efforts are made to preserve and promote the traditional making and wearing of these mittens.