The Norse Goddess of Winter

Njörðr and Skaði by Wilhelm

Skaði was born a frost-giant and became the Norse goddess of winter through her marriage to the sea god, Njoror. She is associated with bowhunting, skiing, mountains, and snowshoes. A masterful hunter, archer, and skier, she is often depicted with a shield, bow, and a pair of skis.

Though Skaði is fierce and her name translates as ‘harm,’ she is considered a benevolent patron with a magical ability to control the weather. In ancient times, people would pray to her for mild winters, and hunters would seek her guidance. 

Carl Fredrik von Saltza (1893)