Backpacks that last forever.

From hiking trails around South Africa to your travel adventures around the world, we want you to experience what nature has to offer with comfort and security. All of our products have been designed to provide peace of mind that your belongings are in safe hands, even when exposed to the harshest of outdoor elements.

With 350+ years shared experience in the industry we are able to maintain our high level of personal customer service, quick turnaround times plus lifetime guarantees all round.

Each and every one of the products that leave the North Ridge factory floor have been meticulously inspected by our professional staff so you can be rest assured you’re investing in only the finest quality of locally made outdoor gear.

“We are not a team because we work together. We are a team because we respect, trust and care for each other.”
~ Vala Afshar

Paul McLaughlin

Founder & CEO

Soria Wisse

Managing Director

Ruth de Sousa

HR and Administration Manager

Bronwin Asher

Factory Manager

Company History

North Ridge was founded by Paul McLaughlin in 2008, after having worked in the backpack manufacturing industry for over 30 years. He started out with a team of 7 machinists and has grown his business over the years to now support a team of 46 talented homegrown staff, manufacturing backpacks and outdoor gear for 200+ clients around South Africa and internationally. Soria Wisse joined the team in early 2023 as partner and Managing Director as North Ridge spreads its wings further into the global market.