Basic Cap NT

Introduction

The 'Basic Cap' was first created in 2019. Its lightweight and simple design suited any occasion and was supported by many. Through repeated re-productions, it has now established itself as one of RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's iconic products. Thanks to many people wearing it in both mountains and cities, this cap has become a symbol of the brand.

In early summer 2023, an opportunity arose to bring a new vibe to the 'Basic Cap.' Nicetime Mountain Gallery, an outdoor select shop in Tachikawa, Tokyo, which has been carrying RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR products for many years, gave us a special request.

"Nicetime Mountain Gallery is celebrating its 5th anniversary in July 2023, and we would like you to produce a special version of the RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR cap. For the material, we would be delighted if you could use COOL DOTS®, which is used in your brand's staple 'Basic Long Sleeve Shirt.'"

The moment I received the request, a "joy of co-creating a cap with special meaning" welled up, and at the same time, I realized the difficulty of further evolving the existing 'Basic Cap.' However, believing that this challenge would create new possibilities, I embarked on the production.

The prototype was completed after much trial and error. I can still vividly recall the sensation the first time I held it in my hands and put it on my head.

"This is amazing..."

I couldn't hide my surprise at the words that spontaneously came out of my mouth. Its light fit, excellent breathability, and a simple yet undeniable presence. While genuinely satisfied with the comfort that enveloped my head, a sense of regret also arose: "Why didn't I realize this sooner?" Amidst the mixture of感動 and regret, I immediately contacted Nicetime Mountain Gallery and still vividly remember sharing the success of this new endeavor.

This is how 'Basic Cap NT' and 'Enough Hat NT' were born. By adding the special story of Nicetime Mountain Gallery's 5th anniversary to the brand's classic 'Basic Cap,' they became products with new value.

The 'NT' in the name combines "Nicetime" from the store name and "Newtype." This name is not merely a souvenir but symbolizes new challenges and evolution.

The material used is COOL DOTS®, which offers excellent breathability and elasticity. This choice ensures a cool and comfortable fit even under the hot summer sun. Furthermore, its lightweight and compact foldable properties make it suitable for a wide range of uses, from daily wear to outdoor activities.

The 'Basic Cap NT,' born from this special collaboration, represents a new step that connects RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's past, present, and future. We invite you to experience its evolved comfort for yourself.

RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's "Basic" Series

At RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR, we imbue products named "Basic" with special meaning. As the name suggests, the "Basic" series is a line of products that pursue essential elements for daily life and outdoor scenes. This series embodies the design philosophy of "stripping away the unnecessary and leaving only what is truly essential."

【Essential Simplicity and Functionality】

The name "Basic" encapsulates the principle of eliminating ornamentation and focusing on necessary functions. Its simple and sophisticated design is intuitively easy to handle and reduces the burden on the user. Furthermore, its design allows for effortless use in both outdoor and daily life, embodying the importance of being "basic." Essential functionality is deeply ingrained within its simplicity.

【Adaptability to a Wide Range of Uses】

The "Basic" series is not intended to be limited to specific scenes. Rather, it is characterized by its versatility, naturally blending into various situations, from daily life to active outdoor pursuits. It flexibly adapts to the user's style and purpose, aiming to be "usable not just on special occasions, but everyday." This series will undoubtedly become a trusted item in a wide range of situations.

【Timeless and Durable Design】

Another characteristic of the "Basic" series is its timeless design, unaffected by trends or fads. We prioritize designs and material selections that will be loved for a long time, without being swayed by temporary trends. Moreover, with a design that emphasizes durability, it is intended to be an item that accompanies the user's daily life. Therefore, rather than from the moment of purchase, attachment deepens with continued use, and it becomes an item that naturally integrates into one's lifestyle.

The name "Basic" implies more than just simplicity. It plays the role of a "foundation" that supports the user and allows them to be natural in any environment. The RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR "Basic" series, as its name suggests, continues to exist as a reliable "foundation" in every moment.

Design

The body of the cap features a basic 6-panel design. In contrast to cycle caps, which have a shallow body and short brim, we aimed for a comfortably deep body and a brim of just the right length to provide sun protection without being overly affected by wind.

Prior to production, I tried on several outdoor manufacturer caps, but all of them felt too shallow for me, not quite reaching the base of my ears. In strong wind situations, it was very stressful to constantly worry about the cap blowing off. This is due to my slightly larger head size, and it is not a criticism of those products.

The 'Basic Cap NT' was designed with the goal of creating a cap that I, with my somewhat larger head, could wear without stress and with confidence. Therefore, the head size is slightly more relaxed compared to typical caps.

By pulling the plastic tab at the back, the elastic tightens, allowing for easy size adjustment. This adjustment feature improves the fit when worn, providing a stable feel even in windy conditions. It is particularly effective in outdoor situations where strong winds are expected, such as on mountain summits or ridges.

When worn by a man with a typical head size (head circumference), it fits perfectly or is slightly cinched at the back.

When worn by a woman with a slightly smaller head circumference, the back will have a soft, puffy look.

A unique feature is how the cap's appearance changes depending on the wearer's head circumference.

Material

This product uses COOL DOTS®, a 4-way stretch fabric with elasticity in both vertical and horizontal directions. COOL DOTS® is a high-performance material developed by Komatsu Matere Co., Ltd., made of 100% polyester with countless microscopic air holes. The characteristics of this material are its excellent stretchability and breathability.

Its excellent stretchability allows it to flexibly adapt to all movements, reducing stress when worn. It naturally conforms to body movements, maintaining comfort during sudden movements while hiking or in active daily situations. Furthermore, the high breathability provided by the microscopic air holes suppresses stuffiness even during long periods of wear, keeping you cool. You can stay comfortable even in summer or during strenuous activity.

Breathability and Water Repellency

A special weaving method creates countless microscopic pores (micropores) in the fabric, achieving excellent breathability. This technology allows air to flow efficiently from inside the shirt, reducing stuffiness and consistently maintaining comfortable wear.

Furthermore, the design of these micropores incorporates a mechanism to suppress transparency when worn. Normally, prioritizing breathability can lead to thinner fabric and increased transparency, but this shirt achieves both visual reassurance and functionality. It ensures the necessary breathability for hiking and exercise without compromising comfort or design.

【Air Permeability (cm3/cm2.sec)】
Test method: JIS-L-1096 Method A (Frazier method) → 59.6

【Water Repellency】
Test Method: JIS-L-1092 Spray method → Grade 4

*This material is treated with a non-fluorine (C0) water repellent finish.
Non-fluorine (C0) water repellency is a treatment that repels water droplets and dirt on the fabric surface without using fluorochemicals.
It quickly repels light rain and splashes, but it is not completely waterproof.
The effect will gradually diminish with use and washing, but can be somewhat restored by following the care instructions on the label.

Here's a video demonstrating its water repellency. Please watch it.

Stretch and Lightweight

This material boasts a lightness of 104g/㎡, along with excellent wrinkle resistance. Even if crammed into a backpack pocket or storage space, it quickly regains its shape when taken out. It allows you to maintain the shirt's beautiful silhouette effortlessly.

【Elongation recovery rate and elongation rate (%)】
Test method: JIS-L-1096 Method B-1, Method B 14.7N
Elongation rate → Vertical 31.9, Horizontal 16.6
Elongation recovery rate → After 30 seconds: Vertical 74.9, Horizontal 86.7

【Wrinkle resistance】
Test method: JIS-L-1059-1 Monsanto method 5N
Length direction → 85
Width direction → 78
Wrinkle resistance rate (%)

UV Protection

【UV Measurement (%)】
Test method: JIS-L-1925
Shielding rate measurement wavelength 280mm-400mm→96.8

UPF29.9
UV shielding rate 90% or more

Durability

Friction test of fabric in dry and wet conditions.

【Abrasion (grade)】
Test method: JIS L 0849 (Type II) Dry abrasion Grade 4-5, Wet abrasion Grade 4-5 (Max Grade 5)

Environmental Considerations

Some of the stretch yarns used are plant-derived LYCRA® T400® fibers.

COOLMAX® fabric is used for the sweatband.
This 100% polyester pique material combines moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and UV-cut (UPF 40+) functions.

Spec

Material: Main body 100% Polyester, Sweatband 100% Polyester
Size: One size
Depth approximately 17.5cm (when laid flat), Visor length approximately 6cm, Head circumference approximately 60cm (adjustable with elastic)
*Please note that the finished size of the product may have an error of ±1cm. Thank you for your understanding.
It will expand slightly when actually worn.
Weight: Approximately 34g
Country of origin: Japan
Manufacturer: Shimada Co., Ltd., Kannonji City, Kagawa Prefecture

Color

※About product colors

We strive to match product images to the actual colors as closely as possible, but please note that actual colors may differ depending on your viewing environment and monitor settings.
Additionally, please understand that it is difficult to perfectly reproduce fabric texture and sheen on screen.

Quiet Grey

Wearing Quiet Grey

Sky Haze

Wearing Sky Haze

Sage Dust

Wearing Sage Dust

Saffron Mustard

Wearing Saffron Mustard

Coast Grey

Wearing Coast Grey

Solid Black

Wearing Solid Black

Size Guide

※Please note that the finished size of the product may have an error of ±1cm. Thank you for your understanding.
It will expand slightly when actually worn.

The recommended head circumference is approximately up to 60cm. The head circumference refers to the measurement taken around the forehead, temples, and back of the head, at the widest point, as indicated by the red line in the image above.

Collaborateur

In Collaborateur, we introduce the people who produce our products.

Shimada Co., Ltd. handles all of RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's headwear.

Shimada Co., Ltd. is located in Toyohama-cho, Kannonji City, Kagawa Prefecture.
Founded in 1935, they started by making straw hats and have continued to be a hat manufacturer committed to handcrafted hat making by skilled artisans.

Even if it's "a hat," its specifications vary widely. At Shimada, they employ two cutting methods, CAD-CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Manufacturing) and metal dies, choosing the method best suited for each product. For products that cannot be handled by these two methods or for small-lot production, artisans individually create patterns and cut the fabric. They always proceed with their work by choosing the best method for the hat and the customer.

Sewing is handled by experienced artisans who support our commitment to made-in-Japan hat production. They carefully sew each item, applying their extensive experience, knowledge, and techniques to maintain consistently high quality. This includes choosing between lockstitch and chainstitch, which have different elasticities, based on the material, intended use, and desired finish.

In apparel (clothing) sewing, a seam allowance of about 1cm to 2cm is common, whereas for hats, it is usually about 4mm. The seam allowance for hats is very small, requiring high precision in sewing.

However, a small seam allowance means that variations in the finished product can be reduced. Therefore, hat manufacturing, though manual, results in minimal individual differences, allowing for the production of almost identical products.

Shimada's goal and fundamental philosophy is to create products that they themselves "want to use," achieving a level, skill, and ingenuity that cannot be imitated anywhere else. Furthermore, through product creation, they hope to bring the "countryside artisans" who have diligently worked behind the scenes, supporting Japanese manufacturing, into the spotlight.

"With the desire to share 'all made in Japan' products, conceived and produced in Japan, from our town of Toyohama to all of Japan and the world. We will continue to create high-quality products, pouring in all our skills, knowledge, experience, and heart."
RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's headwear is made by such artisans.

Shimada Co., Ltd. is a hat manufacturer committed to made-in-Japan quality, providing excellent hats through a meticulous craftsmanship spirit. It began as a family business manufacturing and selling straw hats for agricultural use.

Then, a few years after the current owner, Kazuhisa Hoda, took over the family business... a certain president of a hat shop in Osaka, who was on a Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage, got lost while following his navigation system and stumbled upon the company. This encounter prompted Hoda to attempt entering the fashion world amidst the shrinking agricultural straw hat business, leading him to train for about half a year at the president's hat company. After that, the current business model began...

Having started with straw hats, the company possesses rare experience, skills, and equipment in Japan. Furthermore, it has evolved to encompass a wide range of production, from felt molding to woven fabric sewing, primarily receiving offers from brands committed to high-quality Made-in-Japan products.

At Shimada, our goal is to create products that are unmatched in terms of high-level technique, ingenuity, and a desire to use them ourselves – products that are unique and desired by people not only in Japan but worldwide.
We also hope to bring attention to the "countryside artisans" who have always worked behind the scenes, supporting Japanese manufacturing, by bringing them to the forefront.
And from the tranquil town of Toyohama in "Udon Prefecture," surrounded by sea and mountains, we continue to create high-quality products with passion every day, with the desire to disseminate "all Made-in-Japan" products, conceived and produced in Japan, to the world.

Shimada Co., Ltd.
1876-1 Wadaotsu, Toyohama-cho, Kannonji City, Kagawa Prefecture, 769-1603
https://www.shimada-oem.com/

Attention

We recommend placing the item in a laundry net when washing.
Dark-colored products may bleed, so please wash them separately from other items as a precaution.
Do not use detergents containing fluorescent brightening agents or chlorine bleach.
Avoid tumble drying.
When ironing, always use a pressing cloth and iron from the reverse side.
The core of the brim is soft, so it will not break if folded, but excessively folding the brim can cause wrinkles, and it will take time for it to return to its original state. Please avoid intentionally folding it.