Matilda Söderlund

Tell us about your background. A general overview for people on the site to get to know who you are and how you ended up where you are today.
I’m a 28-year-old professional climber born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden. The first time I tried climbing was at a birthday party when I was 11 years old. I didn’t know anything about climbing but something just “clicked” – a very cool feeling that I remember to his day. A few weeks later I entered my first competition and after that I was completely hooked. At my second climbing competition, the Swedish Youth Championship, I finished in second place. After that all I wanted to do was climbing so I quit all the other sports I was doing. From there I went on to do all national competitions, the European Cup, World Cup, World Championships and World Games. When I decided to move on from my competition career I started studying at Stockholm School of Economics. I thought it was time to get a grow up and get a “real job”, however, after graduating I realized that climbing is my biggest passion in life and I want to build my life and career around that – best realization and decision I’ve ever made. Now I’ve been climbing full time for 4 years and I love it and feeling very grateful that I get this opportunity!

Craziest adventure or experience so far?
Climbing my first 9a, The Elder statesman in Frankenjura (Germany), a huge dream coming true and a big milestone in my climbing.

Bucket list or dream trip?
Climbing in Yosemite.

Why did you want to become a Haglöfs ambassador?
I’m feeling incredibly happy to begin this journey with Haglöfs. Hagslöfs has been a dream partner to work with for years. Amazing products, great values and a strive to always improve. Super excited to kick this off!

Favorite Haglöfs gear?
Nordic Mimic Hood, Whooly Hood and Morän pants

A quote you live by! Could be made up by you or from someone else.
'’Follow your passion, work really hard and have fun along the way :)’'