Good outdoor clothing has to prove itself where it matters most: out in the field.
Ridgeline has been making hard-wearing outdoor clothing since 1994. Founded in New Zealand, the brand was built around a straightforward idea: make practical, dependable gear for people who spend their days outdoors.
More than 30 years later, Ridgeline clothing is worn across New Zealand, Australia, the UK and Europe. But its roots remain firmly in the New Zealand countryside.
Where the Ridgeline Story Began
The Ridgeline story started in 1993, when founder Peter Maxwell began developing a range of specialist outdoor clothing.
With a background in manufacturing motorcycle and motocross gear, Maxwell understood the importance of durability, comfort and clothing that could withstand demanding conditions.
The first Ridgeline range was launched in the March/April 1994 edition of NZ Guns & Hunting magazine, introducing a new name to New Zealand's outdoor market.
The aim was to produce clothing that offered warmth, protection and freedom of movement, without compromising on durability.
It was a natural fit for New Zealand. Our landscape and climate demand plenty from the clothing we wear, from cold mornings and persistent rain to strong winds and rugged terrain.
Ridgeline quickly established a following among hunters and rural New Zealanders, building a reputation for practical gear that could stand up to regular use.
Built for New Zealand Conditions
New Zealand has always been at the centre of Ridgeline's approach to outdoor clothing.
Life outdoors here comes with its own challenges. Conditions can change quickly, and clothing needs to perform across long days, unpredictable weather and demanding terrain.
For farmers, rural workers and outdoor enthusiasts, reliability matters.
A waterproof jacket needs to provide protection through a wet day in the paddock. Trousers need to withstand constant movement and rough treatment. A good fleece needs to provide warmth without getting in the way of the job at hand.
These everyday demands have helped shape Ridgeline's approach to designing and developing outdoor clothing.
Functional. Durable. Dependable.
The focus has always been on making gear that performs in real conditions, for people who rely on it.
More Than 30 Years of Outdoor Clothing
Since those early days, Ridgeline has continued to develop its range, introducing new fabrics, technologies and designs to meet the changing needs of its customers.
Research, product development and field testing remain an important part of that process.
While materials and manufacturing techniques have advanced considerably since 1994, the fundamentals remain much the same.
Outdoor clothing should be comfortable, practical and made to last. It should offer protection from the elements and allow people to move freely through their day.
From waterproof jackets and hard-wearing trousers to fleece layers and everyday country clothing, these principles continue to guide the Ridgeline range.
From New Zealand to the World
What began as a New Zealand outdoor clothing brand has grown into an internationally recognised name.
Following its success at home, Ridgeline expanded into Australia, where its practical approach to outdoor clothing found a natural audience among farmers, rural workers and outdoor enthusiasts.
In 2007, Ridgeline entered the UK market, bringing its New Zealand heritage to the British countryside.
The brand soon established a following among farmers, gamekeepers and country people who valued the same qualities that had made Ridgeline popular back home.
In recent years, Ridgeline clothing has also appeared on Clarkson's Farm and been worn by members of the Hawkstone Farmers' Choir, introducing the brand to an even wider audience.
From the hills and farmland of New Zealand to the British countryside, Ridgeline's reputation has grown through the same commitment to practical, reliable outdoor clothing.
Proudly New Zealand Since 1994
A lot has changed since Ridgeline's first collection appeared in 1994.
The range has expanded, fabrics have improved and Ridgeline clothing is now worn by people around the world.
But the philosophy behind the brand remains unchanged.
Make good outdoor clothing that works hard, lasts well and offers dependable performance at a sensible price.
For more than three decades, Ridgeline has been part of life outdoors in New Zealand. On farms, in the bush, around the property and wherever the day takes you.
Born in New Zealand in 1994. Still made for life outdoors.
