Ride Engine: a revolution in kitesurfing with innovative harnesses

Ride Engine was founded in 2010 by Coleman Buckley, a passionate kitesurfer and entrepreneur from California. Buckley realized early on that the existing harnesses on the market often lacked either comfort or durability. He dropped out of college and had a vision to create a product that combined both and helped kitesurfers reach their full potential. And so Ride Engine was born.

In 2015, the time had come! Ride Engine launched the first harness on the market to feature hardshell backplate technology. This feature changed the way harnesses were used in kitesurfing and contributed significantly to Ride Engine quickly becoming well known and popular.

The history of Ride Engine

2010 – Foundation and vision

In 2010, Coleman Buckley founded Ride Engine to develop a new type of kitesurfing equipment that is both comfortable and high-performance. Within the first few years, it became clear that the company's innovative approach to product development was well received.

2011–2015 Introduction of Sculpted Backplate Technology

Buckley was not satisfied with any of the models on the market, so he spent years tinkering with the result of a first, as he called it, “Frankenstein-like hardshell harness”.

2015 Introduction of Hardshell Backplate Technology

The first hardshell harness comes onto the market. Ride Engine sets new standards in quality and efficiency.

2016 – Expansion of the range

Ride Engine quickly expanded its range and began developing impact vests and wetsuits that were just as innovative and of high quality. These products quickly became popular choices in the kitesurfing and water sports industries, ensuring that Ride Engine was recognized in various water sports disciplines.

2017 – Consolidation and internationalization

Over the next few years, Ride Engine continued to establish itself as a leading supplier of kitesurfing harnesses. The company expanded its market position and expanded into international markets, where its products became increasingly popular. Ride Engine continued its commitment to ongoing innovation, launching new models of harnesses, vests and wetsuits.

Technical achievements and innovations

• Hardshell Backplate Technology:
• Ride Engine's biggest innovation is undoubtedly the Hardshell Backplate Technology used in their harnesses. This technology ensures that pressure is distributed evenly across the rider's back, improving comfort and reducing strain on the spine. The design of the backplate also helps to keep the harness closer to the body, for better control.
• Ergonomic designs:
• Ride Engine is committed to developing products that perfectly meet the needs of kitesurfers. The ergonomic designs of the harnesses and safety equipment ensure a better fit and more flexibility without restricting the kitesurfer's movements.
• Wetsuits, impact vests and travel bags:
• Ride Engine has long since ceased to be a pure harness manufacturer. In addition to impact vests, there is also a range of wetsuits and board bags.

Ride Engine has revolutionized the kitesurfing and watersports industry with its innovative approach to harnesses and safety equipment. With its sculpted backplate technology and a clear focus on comfort and performance, Ride Engine has set standards that have changed kitesurfing equipment worldwide. Continuous innovation and a commitment to the needs of kitesurfers have made Ride Engine one of the most well-known and popular brands in water sports.