Erica, 32, Climbs Kebnekaise in Sandals: 'Wanted to Prove It's Possible'

Erica Nilsson, 32, climbed Kebnekaise in sandals, and after a post on TikTok, many still don't believe her.

Erica Nilsson, 32, sits atop Kebnekaise with her sandals in the snow.

Her toes are covered with bandages.

– I had the bandages on even before the trip started, Erica explains.

When she posted a picture on social media, it sparked mixed reactions. Many didn't know the bandages were there from the start, and few believed Erica actually made it up the mountain in just sandals.

The trip up and down the mountain took Erica six and a half hours.

– It's a slow pace. It's about 22 minutes per kilometer, but it's above average, says Erica.

Wanted to Prove the Doubters Wrong

Erica's adventure became a TikTok post that has now garnered over 300,000 views. And that's where it all started.

– It began with me posting a clip asking which shoes were good for climbing Kebnekaise. I listed four options, including my sandals.

Since it was supposed to be so warm, Erica thought it would be a good idea, but many disagreed because it's such an extreme environment.

– But then I thought I have strong feet and have used the shoes a lot. So I wanted to prove that it actually works.

'Oh, That Was an Unusual Shoe Choice'

The sandals are not ordinary but a sportier variant that Erica is used to wearing.

– Many commented: 'Oh, that was an unusual shoe choice.' But there were also many positive comments. In the end, when there was snow, several people looked questioningly.

During the last kilometer, it got cold, and in some places, her feet sank into the snow. By then, Erica had come so far that she felt it was unnecessary to switch from sandals to shoes.

– I thought if I've come this far with them, I might as well make it to the top with them.

Some argue it was dangerous and that Erica shouldn't inspire others to do the same.

– In a way, I can agree, she says.

– If you're not used to it and have never been in that type of environment, yes, it can be dangerous. But I was fully aware, had done it before, and had an extra pair of shoes and extra clothes in case it got cold.

A Favorite in Repeat

It was Erica's first time climbing Kebnekaise – but not the first time she climbed a mountain in sandals. Not the last either.

– Last year, I was in Norway and climbed Galdhøpiggen. I had other shoes on, but since it got so warm, I switched to sandals and walked part of the way with them.

The question is which peak the shoes will aim for next.

– Kilimanjaro would be cool sometime in the future, says Erica Nilsson.