The Culmination of Years of Innovation! The Karrimor Classic Backpack "Ridge" Evolves Even Further

The season to fully enjoy outdoor activities finally begins, spanning from Golden Week to summer and autumn. While walking in nature, it's interesting not only to admire the scenery but also to observe the gear of other visitors. The "Karrimor" classic backpack, loved by many users, the "Ridge," boasts a beautiful silhouette that makes the wearer look elegant while walking.
 
This season, the "Ridge" has arrived as a renewed model with upgraded design and functionality. I visited karrimor International Ltd. and spoke with Kota Matsunaga from the product team about the backpack's development.

When hiking in the mountains, medium to large backpacks often have a vertically elongated design. Recently, even smaller models seem to be increasingly adopting this vertical shape, but what are the benefits of a tall backpack beyond just looking sleek?
 
"When carrying a load of considerable weight, the center of gravity greatly affects the strain on the body. Even with the same capacity, a vertically long backpack that fits the body is generally more stable than one that sticks out to the sides or back.
 
"Currently, many backpacks have a cylindrical or rectangular shape, but for the 'Ridge,' which has been loved by climbers and travelers for many years as Karrimor's flagship model, efforts have been made to bring the center of gravity closer to the body's axis. This is what we call the 'High Back Shape.'"

If the backpack is wide on the sides, the body tends to sway left and right and easily hits trees or rocks. A design that protrudes at the back can tilt the center of gravity backward, making it easy to tire when trying to support it with the core. In contrast, a vertically long shape that fits the body minimizes swaying in both lateral and forward/backward directions. This is intuitively understandable.
 
"By angling the bottom, the center of gravity moves closer to the body's axis, achieving higher stability. Furthermore, when descending steep rocky areas, the bottom of the backpack might hit the rocks, so angling the bottom is effective in reducing that danger."

"'Karrimor' backpacks are generally designed to support weight primarily at three points: the pelvis and the left and right shoulder blades. This design philosophy focuses on supporting with bones to reduce the burden on the muscles."
 
It's easy to notice the updates in the areas that come into contact with the body, such as the back panel and hip belt (especially the inner structure). These areas might not be very visible, but once you hear the details, it's easy to nod in agreement.
 
"Based on the design philosophy of supporting weight at the three points of the shoulder blades and pelvis, the backrest area, aside from the shoulder scapula pads and lumbar pads, previously offered increased airflow and space for heat dissipation in the old 'Ridge.' With this renewal, we've incorporated mesh fabric to adjust the contact with the body, resulting in an enhanced fit while maintaining both breathability and heat dissipation performance.
 
"We also refined the shape of the 3D-designed hip belt to ensure it minimally interferes with the muscles around the waist when walking. It might seem subtle, but you can feel the difference when you actually load it up and use it."
 
The muscles around the waist are the source of propulsion during walking, so the less interference from the hip belt, the easier it is to walk. While supporting weight with the pelvis, it doesn't hinder the movement of nearby muscles. This aspect could be considered the true essence of the "Ridge," which continues to evolve through years of innovation.

Details Loaded with Functionality to Adapt to Various Situations While Hiking

While focusing on stability and ease of movement, I have discussed mainly the lower part of the backpack, but it seems there are thoughtful designs in the details at the top as well.

As the capacity of the backpack increases, the design's upper position rises, making it easier for the head to hit when looking up. In situations like rocky areas where you would wear a helmet, there is a risk of stress or danger from repeatedly hitting your head.
 
"Not only can you extend the volume by stretching the upper rain cover, but this rain cover is also designed to be shifted to the front side, allowing for more space at the back of the head. Many people purchase the 'Ridge' because of the advantage of ensuring head movement range.
 
"When not using a helmet, it can be stored in the front pocket of the main body. It is also possible to carry the helmet between the main body and the rain cover. Additionally, when carrying gear held by the rain cover, it comes standard with loops to secure it, preventing it from falling when opening the rain cover."

Furthermore, many may appreciate the user-friendly arrangement of pockets. It's reassuring that a dedicated rain cover is included. It's also convenient that you can access the main compartment from the bottom of the main body. If you're curious about the new "Ridge," which has a sense of thorough consideration, I recommend checking it out in-store.