In a recent video reviewing the Tesla Cybertruck, popular tech YouTuber MKBHD briefly featured the new Ridge carry-on suitcase. Given MKBHD’s reputation for quality tech reviews, his endorsement of the Ridge piqued my interest. In this review, we’ll take a close look at the Ridge’s features, performance, and how it stacks up against competitors.
The Ridge carry-on really shines when it comes to durability. MKBHD highlights the suitcase’s Makrolon polycarbonate shell, which Ridge claims is 30% thicker than standard shells. This German plastic feels incredibly solid and resilient. Based on the testing I’ve seen from other reviewers, it’s practically impossible to crack or break.
Aluminum corner protectors provide an extra safeguard if the bag is dropped. And the dual spinner wheels are wider than average, giving them better stability and a smoother roll over uneven surfaces.
Inside the cavernous main compartment, you’ll find several pockets and straps to keep items secure. The compression panel cinches down your packing to maximize space.
One particularly clever feature is the dedicated pocket for an Apple AirTag or other Bluetooth tracker. This lets you precisely locate your bag if misplaced or lost by the airline.
The structured rectangular shape provides efficient use of storage space. And the durable YKK RC zippers open wide for easy packing access.
Between the water-resistant shell and zippers, plus fully sealed seams, the Ridge carry-on achieves an IPX3 waterproof rating. You can roll it through rain or snow without worrying about your belongings.
The TSA-approved combination lock keeps your valuables protected, while allowing security agents to inspect the bag if needed.
Available in both classic darker hues like black and navy, as well as bolder orange and olive colors, the Ridge suitcase has a masculine aesthetic. The minimalist look and carbon fiber logo plate integrate nicely into the Ridge brand.
At $295, the Ridge carry-on sits at the higher end for hard-shell suitcases. But given the impressive durability and weatherproofing, the price seems justified for frequent travelers.
To really put the Ridge through its paces, I took it on a weekend trip to evaluate the storage, maneuverability, and real-world use.
Thanks to the cavernous main compartment and intelligent organization, fitting everything I needed for a 2-day trip was easy. The compression straps cinch down clothes to save space, and the multiple pockets allowed me to neatly separate shoes, toiletries, chargers, and other essentials.
Once packed, I still had room to spare – so the Ridge could easily handle extended 5-7 day trips too.
Rolling through the airport and navigating cramped airplane aisles, the Ridge handled smoothly on its dual spinner wheels. Pushing it along one-handed was simple, and making tight turns felt effortless.
The wheels held up well over sidewalk cracks and terrain changes where my old bag always got hung up. This made the Ridge much less exhausting to maneuver over long distances.
Packed in the overhead bin, the rigid shell and durable fabrics protected my belongings from the typical in-flight bumps and jostling.
Arriving at my destination, the waterproofing came in handy when I got caught in a downpour on the tarmac. Despite the soaking rain, the inside of the suitcase remained dry.
Throughout the trip, the Ridge kept my clothes neat and wrinkle-free. And knowing my valuables were secured with the TSA lock provided peace of mind.
After putting the Ridge through real-world testing, I’m confident it’s up for whatever adventures you want to take it on. The storage capacity, smooth maneuverability, and protective shell deliver a complete travel experience.
Here’s an overview of how the Ridge carry-on stacks up to some top competitors:
| Suitcase | Price | Weight | Materials | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ridge Carry-On | $295 | 7.5 lbs | Makrolon polycarbonate | Lifetime |
| Samsonite Freeform | $139 | 7.5 lbs | Polycarbonate | 10 years |
| Travelpro Platinum Elite | $314 | 7.4 lbs | MagnaTrac spinner | Lifetime |
| Delsey Chatelet | $380 | 8.2 lbs | Polycarbonate | 10 years |
The Ridge is on par weight-wise with other polycarbonate shells, but is priced lower than premium brands like Delsey while offering similar warranties.
For the features and quality you get, the Ridge seems very competitively priced in the market. The lifetime warranty provides great long-term value too.
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After getting to check out the suitcase up close in MKBHD’s video and seeing the enthusiasm from other reviewers, the Ridge carry-on has won me over.
It really feels like an ideal blend of durability, weatherproofing, slim and sleek styling, and useful organization. For those who take frequent trips and need luggage that can endure heavy mileage, the Ridge is easily one of the top contenders I would recommend.
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The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind on your investment as well. While the Ridge costs more than basic entry-level options, I think the quality craftsmanship and materials make it worthwhile for an everyday travel companion.
Have you tested out the Ridge carry-on yet? Share your thoughts in the comments!
