Kenneth & Ann-Marie x Farmerrain

Kenneth, 69 years old, is a man with both feet firmly on the ground. He is a versatile person with extensive knowledge of forestry and agriculture, as well as traditional crafts. It’s no coincidence that Kenneth has Ardennes horses. For several generations, it has been a tradition to use Ardennes or larger draft horses for farming and forestry. This long-standing family tradition has shaped Kenneth’s life and work.

– For me, it was natural to grow up among horses. Unfortunately, my father wasn’t much of an animal person, so he didn’t teach me much. But there were many in the neighborhood who could teach me everything about horses as a boy.

At just 15, Kenneth began driving his own horses. His interest in horses was sparked early, and despite the introduction of new technology like tractors and machines in the 60s, which led to a drastic decrease in the use of Ardennes horses in farming in the area, Kenneth held on to his passion.

– My interest was there from an early age. But during the 60s, a lot of new technology came, tractors and machines, which drastically reduced the use of Ardennes horses in farming here in the area. It was sad. Then, during the 70s and 80s, there was a revival, and we started again.

His wife, Ann-Marie, also shares his interest in horses, strengthening their joint commitment to the animals.

– As a child, I rode the neighbor’s Fjord horse. I no longer ride, but of course, I help with everything around the stable or when we are training young horses.

The horses are mainly used for farming and forestry, but only for their own use. Despite today’s modern alternatives like forestry machines, Kenneth chooses to stick to the tradition of using horses. One might wonder why, in 2024, he chooses this option, but Kenneth knows exactly how to respond.

-The horses are incredibly good at getting through places where machines can’t reach. Of course, a horse can’t compete with a machine, but it’s a good complement. For example, in thinnings, my horses can get through without destroying or affecting the environment. A typical horse pulls about its own weight, but my Ardennes mare Brosita can pull up to 3 tons, so that’s not bad.

Besides their work contributions, Kenneth’s horses have also had successes in competitions. This reflects both the quality of the horses and Kenneth’s skill as a trainer and driver.

– My Ardennes horse that I had a few years ago came second in the national exhibition for Ardennes horses in all of Sweden. One of the geldings has also received a breeding diploma. I have also competed in horse driving.

But Kenneth’s skills extend far beyond the world of horses. Shooting, hunting, and the production of high-quality leather equipment are also close to his heart.

– I have competed in shooting and even won in that discipline as well.

Despite his age, Kenneth doesn’t let that stop him from continuing with his many interests and activities. He is determined to keep going as long as he can, but with an awareness of knowing when it’s time to stop.

– So far, it’s going well. But I’ve told those around me that they have to let me know if I start to slip up, they must ‘watch’ me. It’s important to stop at the right time!

With many years of experience in the horse world, Kenneth knows exactly what type of horse he wants and needs. He emphasizes the importance of the horses’ temperament and psyche, as well as their physical capacity.

– The most important thing when you have workhorses is their temperament and psyche. I want pleasant and willing horses to work with. Hoof quality is also very important because they need to last. And they need to have a broad chest so you know their lung capacity and heart are strong enough to handle hard work.

Just as Kenneth knows what kind of horse he wants, he also knows what he requires from his work clothes. For him, functionality and quality are crucial.

– It has to be convenient and easy to work in. It has to be good quality and durable! These rain pants are incredibly comfortable and soft. Just as they should be.

Working with forestry and horses means being prepared for all types of weather. Kenneth emphasizes the importance of training the horses under various conditions so they can handle both summer and winter environments.

– A horse is never trained in the stable. That goes without saying. Many try to train the horses when the weather is good—but that doesn’t work. You have to get up early in the morning even if the weather is bad, and then it’s good to have Farmerrain in those moments.

Kenneth laughs and continues:

– The only species on earth that are so dumb they work voluntarily are horses and humans. I had a horse that got on the transport on its own because it was so eager to work.

Kenneth has known about Farmerrain for a long time, but since he values using his existing clothes, he hasn’t had the chance to try many new products.

– Finding the right material must be difficult. It’s like when I look for leather for my equipment, I know exactly what I want and how it should feel in my hand. I prefer Dutch or Swedish leather. There’s a certain feel to the material, and it must be the same when you’re sourcing material for rain gear. You have to take care of your equipment, if you don’t oil your leather, a single rain shower can ruin it.

Quality is key for Kenneth. He is also impressed by Jonas and Carola, who have built the company Farmerrain from the ground up.

– Restarting a company and moving from farming to selling rain gear can’t be easy. But they were energetic, and creating your own company drives Sweden’s development forward, says Kenneth

We humbly thank you for taking the time to speak with us, Kenneth and Ann-Marie!