The Ridge DE Pro has been specially designed for paragliding and paramotoring and features: reinforced shoulders and forearms where harnesses or risers might rub; big chest pockets for easy access in flight; a really great high-rise collar that you can zip up to your nose and hide behind; longer arms and thumb loops; no hood (for safety when using a paramotor).
Crowdfunded last year, the now-released production jacket has been designed with input from a former-specialist at Rab. I liked it instantly. It’s very warm (no down, it uses Thermolite Micro non-compress insulation instead – used to a cosy down jacket I was surprised that this kept me properly warm in the icy morning air of the Stubai Cup); it’s water resistant; all the zips and pockets are in the right place; and there are nice details like holes you can thread radio wires or glove elastic through.
The fit is a ‘sports fit’ which means neat and snug against your body – it feels like athletic wear on launch and in the air you’re streamlined. There are five sizes and it’s important to choose the right one – if you are normally an XL, for example, look at their sizing chart online and measure yourself before ordering.
FlyKandy are also producing nice quality hoodies and are expanding their range to develop a technical softshell jacket and trousers.
The big question: will people pay the premium? People appreciate and pay for quality, which this is, so fingers crossed for the pilots behind the new company that they will. Nice jacket!
Ed Ewing
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