Basic Cap Extra

History

RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR began selling the familiar product "Basic Cap" in 2019. It is now a product that is loved by many customers. This product was made with the aim of creating a cap that would fit comfortably for me, who thought I had a relatively large head.

At first, we were considering offering different sizes. We thought, "Maybe it would be better to make three sizes, S, M, and L..." The current Basic Cap is probably equivalent to the L size of a regular commercially available cap. Of course, there are many people with small heads, so we were worried about what to do, but when we had my wife and a female acquaintance try it on, we noticed that when people with small heads wear this size, there is a blouse at the back of the head, which gives a different look.

I believe that clothing such as shirts and pants need to be available in a range of sizes to suit each person's body type, but when it comes to head size, where there is not much difference in size, we decided to simply offer one size, and have been selling it in one size ever since we first started selling it.

A larger version of the Basic Cap has been released.

Requests from "Big Headers"

Soon after we started selling the Basic Cap, we began to receive inquiries like the following:

"I want to wear the Basic Cap, but it's too tight for my head. It's a shame I can't wear it..."

One of the things we were particular about with the Basic Cap was that there wasn't a wide range of sizes, so we thought at first that it couldn't be helped if some people couldn't wear the Basic Cap... When we first started selling the Basic Cap, RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR was also very small, so to be honest, we didn't have the capacity to offer a wide range of sizes.

Even so, we regularly received inquiries from various people saying, "The hat doesn't fit my head size."

"I have no choice but to make this!" I thought to myself, so I finally got up the nerve to make the "Basic Cap Extra", which is one size larger than the regular Basic Cap.

*We will affectionately call those with large heads who have persistently made repeated requests to RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR "Big Headers."

Big Headers Kakki tries on the "Basic Cap"

We asked Kakki, one of our "Big Headers," to try on the regular "Basic Cap" and the "Basic Cap Extra."

Kakki is a staff member at "SUNDAY MOUNTAIN", which stocks RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR, and we met while hiking about 10 years ago. Kakki had previously commented, "I want to wear the Basic Cap, but it won't fit..."

Just to be sure, I tried on the regular "Basic Cap". It seemed a bit tight...

As you can see in the image above, it got stuck halfway and I couldn't put it on any more.

Kakki's head circumference is 62cm. The red line in the image above is the head circumference. It is the measurement from the forehead to temples to the back of the head, measured around the tightest point, for one week.

Big Headers Kakki tries on the "Basic Cap Extra"

Next, we had them try on the "Basic Cap Extra."
Kakki, whose head circumference is 62cm, was able to wear it comfortably without any worries.

Kakki has a lot of hair so she was worried about whether the hat would fit, but it still seemed like there was a little room left in the size.

Size comparison

*Please note that there may be an error of about ±1cm in the finished product size.
It will expand slightly when actually worn and used.

If your head circumference is larger than the product size or you are in a situation where you are susceptible to wind, you can easily adjust the size by pulling the plastic tab at the back to tighten the elastic. This adjustment function improves the fit when worn and ensures a stable fit even in windy environments. It is particularly effective in outdoor scenes where strong winds are expected, such as mountain tops and ridges.

RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's "Basic" series

At RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR, we put a special emphasis on products named "Basic." As the name suggests, the "Basic" series is a group of products that pursue the essential elements of everyday life and the outdoors. This series is embodied in the design philosophy of "stripping away the unnecessary and leaving only what is truly necessary."

[Essential simplicity and functionality]

The name "Basic" embodies the idea of ​​eliminating decoration and focusing on necessary functions. Its simple and sophisticated design is intuitive and easy to use, reducing the burden on the user. In addition, its design allows it to be used comfortably both outdoors and in everyday life, embodying the importance of being "basic". The essence of functionality is firmly embedded in its simplicity.

[Ability to handle a wide range of applications]

The "Basic" series is not intended to be limited to a specific scene. Rather, it is characterized by its versatility, which blends naturally into a variety of situations, from everyday life to active outdoor activities. It is flexible to the user's style and purpose, and aims to be "usable not only for special occasions but also for everyday use." This series will become a trusted item in a wide range of situations.

Universal and long-lasting design

Another feature of the "Basic" series is its timeless design that is not affected by trends. We focus on designs and materials that will be loved for a long time, without being swayed by temporary trends. Furthermore, with a design that emphasizes durability, it is intended to be an item that will continue to accompany the user's daily life. Therefore, the attachment to the product deepens not from the moment of purchase, but as you continue to use it, and it becomes a product that naturally blends into your lifestyle.

The name "Basic" means more than just simplicity. It is a product that is close to the user and serves as a "foundation" that allows the user to be natural in any environment. As its name suggests, the RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR "Basic" series will continue to exist as a "foundation" that can be relied on at any moment.

Material

The cap is made of 100% nylon material, Toray's Stunner®, which is water-repellent, windproof, and highly breathable. This high-performance material provides excellent protection from the elements, while reducing sweat and discomfort, allowing you to maintain a comfortable fit.

The biggest feature of Stunner® is its excellent durable water repellency. It can withstand light rain as well as sudden changes in weather, and its water repellency will last for a long time. In addition, it is windproof and prevents cold air from entering, so you can keep warm even on chilly days. On the other hand, its high breathability allows excess moisture to escape, maintaining comfort even during intense activity.

Although this material is a synthetic fiber, its natural and elegant appearance is a major feature. Its natural appearance allows it to maintain high functionality as outdoor wear while also achieving a design that fits perfectly into everyday life and urban styling.

In addition, a special coating on the back of the fabric gives it a firm and resilient texture. This coating allows the fabric to maintain its shape well despite being a lightweight material, and it is also less likely to wrinkle during use, which is a major attraction.

COOLMAX® fabric is used for the sweatband.
The pique-patterned 100% polyester material is moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and UV-resistant (UPF 40+).

Spec

Material: Main body 100% nylon, sweatband 100% polyester
Size: One size Depth: approx. 18.5 cm (when laid flat), visor length: approx. 6 cm, head circumference: approx. 63 cm (adjustable with elastic)
*Please note that there may be an error of about ±1cm in the finished product size.
When you actually put it on it will spread out a little.
Weight: Approx. 41g
Country of origin: Japan Producer: Shimada Co., Ltd., Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture

Color

※About the color of the product

We strive to make the product images as close to the actual colors as possible, but the actual colors may differ depending on your viewing environment and monitor settings.
Please also note that it is difficult to perfectly reproduce the texture and luster of the fabric on the screen.

Grey

Indigo Blue

Black

Career

Mulberry

Uguisu

Beige

*Please note that there may be an error of about ±1cm in the finished product size.
It will expand slightly when actually worn and used.

Collaborator

Collaborateur introduces you to the people who produce these products.

Shimada Co., Ltd. is responsible for all of RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's headwear.

Shimada Co., Ltd. is located in Toyohama-cho, Kan'onji City, Kagawa Prefecture.
Founded in 1935, this hat manufacturer started out by producing straw hats and has continued to focus on handcrafting hats by artisans.

Even though they are all called "hats," their specifications vary widely. Shimada-san has introduced two cutting methods, CAD-CAM (computer-aided design) and mold-making, and selects the method most suitable for each product. In addition, for products that cannot be handled by these two methods or for small-lot production, craftsmen will individually create patterns and cut the hats. He always proceeds with his work by choosing the best method for the hat and the customer.

The craftsmen in charge of sewing are experienced craftsmen who support the production of hats made in Japan, which is something that we have always been particular about. They sew each hat with care, pouring in the knowledge and techniques they have gained from their experience, such as using lock stitching and chain stitching, which have different elasticity depending on the material, purpose, and finish, to ensure a consistently high level of stable quality.

In apparel sewing, a seam allowance of about 1cm to 2cm is common, but in hats, the seam allowance is usually about 4mm. Because the seam allowance for hats is very small, high precision is required when sewing.

However, small seam allowances mean that there is less variation in the finished product. Therefore, even though hats are made by hand, there are few individual differences, and it is possible to produce almost identical products.

Shimada's goal and basic philosophy is to create products that he himself would "want to use" with a level, technique, and ideas that cannot be imitated anywhere else. He also hopes that through product creation, he can bring the "countryside craftsmen" who have been solely behind the scenes and supporting Japanese manufacturing to the forefront.

"Think in Japan, make in Japan. We want to spread these 'All Made in Japan' products from Toyohama to the whole of Japan and the world. We will continue to pour all our skills, knowledge, experience and heart into making high quality products."
RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR's hats are made by craftsmen like these.

Shimada Co., Ltd. is a hat manufacturer that provides high-quality hats made in Japan with a careful craftsmanship spirit. It originally started as a family-run company that manufactured and sold straw hats for farm work.

A few years after the current owner, Kazuhisa Takada, took over the family business, the president of a hat shop in Osaka, who happened to be visiting the 88 temples of Shikoku, got lost while looking at the navigation system. This prompted Takada to train at the hat shop for about half a year to try his hand at the fashion world as the straw hat business for farm work was shrinking. After that, the current business model began.

Having started out with straw when it was first established, the company has experience, skills, and equipment that are rare even in Japan, and has now evolved to include a wide range of activities, from felt molding to sewing woven fabric, and the company primarily receives offers from brands that insist on high-quality Made in Japan products.

At Shimada, we aim to create unique products that people want, not only in Japan but all over the world, with a high level of technology that cannot be replicated anywhere else, and originality and ingenuity, and products that we would want to use ourselves.
I would like to bring the "country craftsmen" who have previously been thought of as supporting the industry from behind the scenes into the spotlight so that more attention can be focused on them.
And from Toyohama Town, "Udon Prefecture," a tranquil place surrounded by sea and mountains, we will continue to create high-quality products with all our heart and soul every day, with the desire to share 100% Made in Japan products that are conceived and made in Japan with the world.

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

Attention

We recommend putting it in a laundry net when washing.
Dark colored products may transfer color, so please wash them separately from other items.
Do not use detergents containing fluorescent brighteners or chlorine bleach.
Do not tumble dry.
When ironing, always use a pressing cloth and iron from the back.
The core of the bill is soft, so the core itself will not break when folded. However, if the bill is folded too tightly, it will wrinkle and take time to return to its original shape. Please avoid folding it intentionally.