vettvangsins

Vettvangsins, also known as *vettvangsinsjön* in Swedish, refers to a traditional Swedish folk practice involving the use of a wooden plank or sled-like device, often called a *vettvång*, to transport goods or people over snow and ice. The term originates from the Swedish words *vett* (meaning "way" or "path") and *vång* (meaning "track" or "pathway"), reflecting its historical use for creating temporary routes across difficult terrain.

The practice dates back to medieval times when it was commonly used in rural and mountainous regions of Sweden, particularly during winter. Vettvangsins were manually pulled by one or more people, allowing for the movement of heavy loads such as firewood, grain, or even livestock. In some cases, they were also used for transporting people over long distances, especially in areas where roads were impassable due to snow.

The design of a traditional vettvång typically included a long, flat plank with runners or skids attached to its underside, enabling it to glide smoothly over snow. Some versions incorporated a harness system for securing cargo or passengers. Over time, the method evolved alongside advancements in transportation, though it remained a practical solution in remote areas where modern infrastructure was lacking.

Today, vettvangsins are largely considered a historical practice, though they occasionally appear in cultural demonstrations or reenactments of traditional Swedish winter activities. The technique reflects the resourcefulness of early Swedish communities in adapting to harsh climates and limited tools. While no longer widely used for practical purposes, the concept remains a fascinating example of folk engineering and survival strategies in Scandinavian history.