RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR Basic Cap NT Extra

Introducing the Basic Cap NT's larger size version.

Request from "Big Headers"

After selling the Basic Cap for a while, we started receiving intermittent inquiries like the following:

"I want to wear the Basic Cap, but it's too tight for my head size. It's really disappointing that I can't wear it..."

Since a single size was one of the Basic Cap's selling points, we initially thought it couldn't be helped for those who couldn't wear it. When we first launched the Basic Cap, RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR was very small, and honestly, we didn't have the capacity to offer multiple sizes.

Nevertheless, we regularly received inquiries from various people saying, "I can't wear it because of my head size..."

Finally, we decided, "We have to make it!" and took on the challenge. We created the 'Basic Cap Extra,' which is one size larger than the regular Basic Cap.

*We affectionately refer to the large-headed individuals who persistently requested this from RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR as "Big Headers."

Introduction

I first worked on the "Basic Cap" in 2019. Its lightweight and simple design matched any scene and was supported by many people. Through repeated reproductions, it has now established itself as one of RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's iconic products. Thanks to many people picking it up both in the mountains and in the city, this cap has become a symbol of the brand.

In the early summer of 2023, an opportunity arose to breathe new life into the "Basic Cap." We received a special request from Nicetime Mountain Gallery, an outdoor select shop in Tachikawa, Tokyo, which has been handling RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR products for many years.

"As Nicetime Mountain Gallery approaches its 5th anniversary in July 2023, we would like to request a special version of the RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR cap. We would be delighted if you could use COOL DOTS®, the material used in the brand's staple 'Basic Long Sleeve Shirt,' for this cap."

The moment I received the request, a joy of "creating a cap with special meaning together" welled up, but at the same time, I also realized the difficulty of further evolving the existing "Basic Cap." However, believing that this challenge would open up new possibilities, I began production.

After much trial and error, the prototype was completed. I still vividly remember the feeling the moment I first held it and put it on my head.

"Amazing..."

I couldn't hide my surprise at the words that spontaneously came out of my mouth. Its light fit, excellent breathability, and simple yet undeniable presence. While truly 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 emotion and regret, I immediately contacted Nicetime Mountain Gallery and vividly recall sharing the success of this new endeavor.

This is how the "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" (the store name) and "Newtype." This name not only signifies a commemorative item but also symbolizes new challenges and evolution.

The material used is COOL DOTS®, which offers excellent breathability and elasticity. This is a commitment to achieving a cool and comfortable fit even on hot summer days. It also boasts properties such as being lightweight and compactly foldable, making it versatile for both daily use and outdoor activities.

The 'Basic Cap NT,' born from this special collaboration, marks a new step for RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR, connecting the past, present, and future. Please pick it up and enjoy the evolved wearing comfort.

RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's "Basic" Series

At RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR, we pour special care into products named "Basic." As the name suggests, the "Basic" series is a group 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" embodies the philosophy of eliminating ornamentation and focusing on necessary functions. Its simple and refined design is intuitively easy to handle, reducing the user's burden. Furthermore, its design allows for seamless use both outdoors and in 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 everyday, not just for special occasions." 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 that are loved for a long time and material selections, rather than being swayed by temporary trends. Furthermore, its design emphasizes durability, intending to be an item that continues to accompany the user's daily life. Therefore, it is not an item that is loved from the moment it is purchased, but rather one that grows on you through continued use and naturally blends into your lifestyle.

The name "Basic" carries a meaning beyond mere simplicity. It fulfills the role of a "basic" that stays close to the user and allows them to be natural in any environment. RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's "Basic" series, as its name suggests, will continue to exist as a "foundation" that can be relied upon at any moment.

Design

The body of the cap features a basic six-panel design. In contrast to shallow cycle caps with short brims, the body is comfortably deep, and the brim is designed to be just the right length to provide sun protection without being overly affected by wind.

Before production, I tried on several outdoor manufacturer caps, but all of them felt too shallow for me, not fitting snugly down to the base of my ears. It was very stressful having to constantly worry about the cap flying off in windy situations. This was due to my own larger head size (circumference), and I'm not criticizing those products.

I created this "Basic Cap NT" with the aim of making a cap that I, with my somewhat larger head circumference, could wear without stress or worry. For this reason, the head circumference is slightly more relaxed than typical caps.

By pulling the plastic tab at the back, you can tighten the elastic and easily adjust the size. This adjustment feature improves the fit during wear and ensures a stable feel even in windy conditions. It's especially effective in outdoor settings where strong winds are expected, such as at mountain peaks or along ridges.

Material

This product uses COOL DOTS®, a 4-way stretch material 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 features of this material are its excellent stretchability and breathability.

Due to its superior stretchability, it flexibly adapts to all movements, reducing stress during wear. It naturally fits the body's movements and maintains comfort during sudden movements on a hike or active daily scenarios. Furthermore, the high breathability from the microscopic air holes suppresses stuffiness even during long periods of wear, keeping you cool. You can stay comfortable even in summer or during intense physical activity.

Breathability and Water Repellency

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

Furthermore, the design of these micro-pores incorporates a clever feature to minimize transparency when worn. Normally, prioritizing breathability can lead to thin fabric and transparency, but this shirt balances visual reassurance with functionality. It ensures the necessary breathability for hiking and exercise without compromising comfort or design.

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

【Water Repellency Rating】
Test Method: JIS-L-1092 Spray Method → Class 4

*This material is treated with non-fluorine (C0) water repellent processing.
Non-fluorine (C0) water repellent processing repels water droplets and dirt from the fabric surface without using fluorine compounds.
It quickly repels light rain and splashes but is not completely waterproof.
The effect gradually diminishes with use and washing, but can be partially restored with care according to the washing instructions.

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

Stretch and Lightweight

This material boasts a lightness of 104g/㎡ and also possesses high wrinkle resistance. Even if crammed into a backpack pocket or storage space, it immediately recovers its shape when taken out. You can maintain the shirt's original beautiful silhouette without any hassle.

【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

UPF 29.9
UV shielding rate 90% or more

Durability

Friction test on dry and wet fabric.

【Friction (grade)】
Test method: JIS L 0849 (Type II) Dry friction 4-5 grade, Wet friction 4-5 grade (max 5 grade)

Environmental Consideration

Some of the stretch components use plant-derived yarns, specifically LYCRA® T400® fiber.

The sweatband uses COOLMAX® fabric.
It is a 100% polyester pique material with quick-drying and UV-cut (UPF 40+) functions.

Spec

Material: Body 100% Polyester, Sweatband 100% Polyester
Size: One size
Depth approx. 18cm (when laid flat), Brim length approx. 6cm, Head circumference approx. 63cm (adjustable with elastic)
*Product finished sizes may have an error of ±1cm. Please be aware of this.
It will expand slightly when actually worn.
Weight: Approx. 34g
Country of origin: Japan
Manufacturer: Shimada Co., Ltd. in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture

Color

※About product colors

We make every effort to bring product images as close to the actual colors 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 the texture and sheen of the fabric 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 Comparison

※The finished product size may have an error of ±1cm. Please be aware of this.
It will expand slightly when you actually wear it.

The recommended head circumference is around ~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.

Collaborator

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, Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture.
Founded in 1935, they started by making straw hats and have continued to be a hat manufacturer committed to handcrafted hats by artisans.

Even within "hats," there's a wide variety of specifications. Shimada-san utilizes two cutting methods, CAD-CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) and molds, selecting the most appropriate method for each product during manufacturing. For products that cannot be handled by these two methods, or for small-lot productions, artisans individually create patterns and cut the fabric. They constantly proceed with their work while choosing the best method for the hat and the customer.

Sewing is handled by experienced craftsmen who support our commitment to Made-in-Japan hat manufacturing. They carefully sew each item, leveraging their past experience and the knowledge and techniques gained from it, ensuring consistently high and stable quality by distinguishing between straight stitching and chain stitching with varying elasticity depending on the material, application, and finish.

In apparel sewing, seam allowances are typically around 1-2cm, whereas for hats, they are usually about 4mm. Hat seam allowances are very small, requiring high precision in sewing.

However, smaller seam allowances mean less variation in the finished product. Therefore, hat production, despite being handcrafted, results in little individual difference, making it possible to produce almost identical products.

Shimada-san's goal and fundamental philosophy is to create products that they themselves "want to use," with a level of skill, technique, and ideas that cannot be imitated anywhere else. Furthermore, through product creation, they hope to bring the "country artisans" who have tirelessly worked behind the scenes to support Japanese manufacturing, increasingly into the spotlight.

"Made in Japan, from planning to production. We want to share such 'all-made-in-Japan' products from here in Toyohama-cho to all of Japan and the world. With this aspiration in our hearts, we will continue to create high-quality products, pouring in all our skill, knowledge, experience, and passion without reservation."
RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's hats are created by such artisans.

Shimada Co., Ltd. is a hat manufacturer that insists on Made in Japan and provides high-quality hats through its meticulous craftsmanship. It started as a family business manufacturing and selling straw hats for agricultural work.

Some years after the current owner, Kazuhisa Takarada, took over the family business... a certain president of an Osaka hat shop, who was on the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage, accidentally got lost and stumbled upon them while navigating. This encounter sparked a move towards the fashion world amidst the shrinking straw hat business for agricultural work. Takarada-san then trained for about six months at the president's hat company. After that, the current business model began...

Having started with straw hats, they possess rare experience, technology, and equipment in Japan. Currently, they have evolved widely, from felt molding to fabric sewing, and mainly receive offers from brands that insist on high-quality Made-in-Japan products.

At Shimada, our goal is to create products that we ourselves want to use, with a level of skill, ingenuity, and ideas that cannot be imitated anywhere else. We aim to create products that people not only in Japan but also around the world desire.
We also hope to bring "country artisans," who have traditionally worked behind the scenes, into the spotlight so that their work can be appreciated.
And from Toyohama-cho in "Udon Prefecture," a peaceful land surrounded by sea and mountains, we are committed to continuously creating high-quality products with passion every day, with the desire to share "all-Made-in-Japan" products, conceived and produced in Japan, with the world.

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

Attention

We recommend putting 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 whitening agents or chlorine bleach.
Do not tumble dry.
When ironing, always use a pressing cloth and iron from the back.
The brim's core is soft, so it will not break when folded, but repeatedly folding the brim too tightly may cause wrinkles, and it will take time for it to return to its original state. Please avoid intentionally folding it.