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Most of us at TheKiteMag are also snowboarding fanatics, so we couldn’t help but be excited by the release of Ride Engine’s new Hyperlock, a snowboard-style rachet system. We got Gary Siskar, Product Line Manager and Marketing Director on the line to find out more.
Like snowboard bindings, is Hyperlock adjustable on the move? And does this give it an advantage over your previous harness systems?
Hyperlock is heavily inspired by snowboard ratchets, but we quickly realized that adapting this concept for a kite harness required significant modifications to suit the unique conditions and demands of kiting. While the Unity System we introduced five years ago has been a fantastic innovation, Hyperlock takes harness functionality and performance to the next level. One major advantage of Hyperlock is its full adjustability, even on the water and while in motion. Beyond that, it features a system of four redundant ratchets and ladders, providing unmatched adjustability, secure spreader bar hold-down, reliability, and safety.
Who was involved in the design and testing, and ensuring all that plastic holds up in a salty, sandy environment?
Ratchet systems have been tested on harnesses for over seven years by the Hydrocinch team, from whom we’ve licensed this technology. Building on their foundation, we invested an additional 1.5 years of intensive testing with alpha and beta testers across diverse locations, including Cape Town, the Netherlands, Tenerife, Hood River, Australia and Maui. This rigorous testing process guided our efforts in engineering, design and material selection, ensuring the harness could withstand the intense forces of kiting and endure the demanding environmental conditions where the equipment is used.
And what would you say to any customers worried about Hyperlock holding up in extreme Big Air conditions?
Nylon ratchets are a proven solution for handling high tension loads, as seen in snowboard bindings. Hyperlock builds on this concept with a redundant 4-ratchet and nylon strap configuration, meticulously designed with geometries tailored specifically for kiting applications. Additionally, we’ve reinforced the system with a re-engineered spreader bar hook using premium stainless steel of an industry-leading 8mm stock thickness. This makes it the strongest spreader bar available on the market, ensuring durability and performance of this critical component in the toughest conditions.
There’s a lot of tech gone into this! What else have you done to make your latest harnesses super comfortable and durable?
At Ride Engine, we’re passionate about material science, and that dedication shines through in the development of Hyperlock. From the precise composition of the nylon used in the ratchet teeth and ladders to the premium stainless steel for the spreader bar hook, every detail has been engineered to prevent elongation, deformation or failure under extreme conditions. But our innovations don’t stop there. We’ve completely redesigned the Elite Series shell, creating what we call the Step-2 Shell. Using advanced biomechanics and data-driven ergonomics, this new shell delivers unmatched comfort and support by better contouring not just to the lower back but to the entire lower torso. The Elite Series now offers two distinct flex profiles to suit different riding styles. Elite Carbon Type 1 is the stiffest harness in all axes. Elite Type 2 provides the same vertical support as the Type 1 while allowing more torsional flex. With Hyperlock and the Step-2 Shell, we’ve set a new standard for comfort, performance, and durability.
So, Hyperlock is compatible with the Elite Step-2 Shell. Which other of your harnesses, and how should a customer decide which option to go for?
Hyperlock is available on the Elite Carbon Type 1, Elite Type 2 and Lyte harnesses, offering options tailored to personal preferences in hard-shell flex patterns. The Elite Carbon Type 1 is the stiffest harness in the lineup, ideal for riders who prioritize maximum support. Big Air enthusiasts, freeride kiters and foilers seeking long-session comfort will gravitate toward this model, as it excels at holding down significant power. The Elite Type 2, while offering the same vertical Lumbar Lock support as the Type 1, introduces more torsional flex, allowing for greater freedom of movement. This flexibility is perfect for freestylers or wave riders. True to its name, the Lyte is exceptionally lightweight, both on land and in the water. It features a Curv material hard shell with slightly more overall flex and a closed-cell thermoformed liner that repels water to stay light during sessions. The Lyte is an excellent choice for freeriders and wave chasers seeking a balance of performance and agility.
While we have you on the line, do you have anything else in the pipeline at HQ?
We take great pride in delivering innovative products to our wind and water-loving community, spanning kiting, winging and all aspects of foiling. Currently, we’re developing some truly unique gear that blends performance and safety in groundbreaking ways. We can’t wait to unveil these exciting new products soon – stay tuned!
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