Pystytetyt

Pystytetyt are a type of traditional Finnish pulkka, which is a tarred wooden sleigh used for transportation on snow and ice. Pystytetyt are characterized by their distinctive, steeply angled structure, which allows them to navigate rough terrain and deep snow with ease.

Pystytetyt date back to the 16th century and were originally used by the Finish people living in the region of Saimaa, particularly among the inhabitants of the eastern and central parts of the Lake District. The name "pystytetyt" is Finnish for "raised", which is a reference to the sleigh's unique design.

Pystytetyt typically range in size from 5 to 8 meters in length and weigh several hundred kilograms, requiring manual labor to pull them over the snowy terrain. The pulkka's design allows for efficient snow cutting, enabling the user to cut through deep snow and navigate uneven terrain more effectively. As a result, pystytetyt were particularly popular among Finnish winter travelers, including fishermen and traders, who relied on them for transportation between settlements and communities.

Throughout the centuries, the design of pystytetyt has remained relatively unchanged, with the material used and structural details refined over the years. The pulkka's construction typically involves traditional Finnish woodworking methods, with ash or willow trees being used for the frame and spruce or fir wood used for the runners. As a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Finnish people, pystytetyt continue to be used today by enthusiasts and historical reenactors interested in the country's rich cultural heritage.