How to Decide Between the Front Range® and Front Range® Flex Harnesses
For over 30 years, we’ve continually raised the bar on ourselves as we’ve strived to enhance everyday exploration and freedom of movement for our dogs. Now, with the release of the new Front Range® Flex harness, collar, and leash, we’ve created a fresh take on a classic collection you may already know and love.
Made with the same proven durability as the original Front Range® gear but with an added twist, the Front Range Flex collection features a new engineered knit material that’s designed to move, flex, and breathe so that it feels almost weightless.
The original Front Range Collection is still here to stay, and of course the original Front Range Harness isn’t going anywhere, either. That’s why it’s worth taking a deep dive into the differences between the OG Front Range harness and the new Front Range Flex. While similar in name and shape, these harnesses are each designed with some distinct materials and benefits.
A Harness For Every Purpose
When you’re headed outdoors for an adventure, what kind of footwear do you choose? If you’re going for a quick jog on a neighborhood path, you might grab a pair of running shoes that are breathable and light. But if you’re planning on doing a 10-mile hike that involves navigating loose rock and tougher conditions, you might opt for something with a little more structure and support.
The same goes for dog harnesses, which is what differentiates the OG Front Range from its Front Range Flex counterpart. Both provide durable, comfortable, long-lasting support—but with some unique strengths between them.
The New Front Range Flex Harness
The Front Range Flex harness is built from engineered knit inspired by athletic footwear. Because of the way the knit is constructed, this harness has fewer seams than the OG, less material stack-up, and certain features (like the light loop) are knitted in—as opposed to sewn on. This integrative, minimal-seam process gives the Front Range Flex a more flexible, breathable profile that conforms to your dog’s body on the first day of wear.
That breathability and flexibility gives this harness an extra dose of comfort that’s perfect for dogs who are sensitive to gear, spend a lot of time off-leash, or deep chested dogs, like Weimaraners, Greyhounds, German Shepherds, and more. And because engineered knit scales down cleanly in a way that traditional layered construction can’t, the Front Range Flex harness is available in a XXXS size.
The Original Front Range Harness
The OG Front Range Harness is a Ruffwear mainstay and one of our most popular pieces of gear. It’s easy to clean and it’s comfortable for dogs to wear. Made from 300D polyester ripstop and foam padding, it has a more structured feel that molds to your dog’s body over time. That little bit of extra rigidity makes it a great harness for heavy pullers, or canines who prefer additional support.
It’s worth noting that the size range of this harness is XXS through L/XL, which means it isn’t available for the tiniest of pups.
Adjustability and Strong Connections
Both harnesses feature similar profiles and leash attachment zones, with a V-ring placed at the dog’s back and reinforced webbing on the chest. Four points of adjustment help customize the fit to your dog, and side-release buckles make them easy to get on and off.
Built-in reflectivity and a light loop are included on both harnesses, and you can’t go wrong with either as a trusted daily driver.
A Few Subtle Details
If you find yourself torn between the OG and the Flex, here are some fine details that might help you narrow things down:
- If you’re in and around water a lot, both of these harness dry quickly—but Front Range Flex dries faster.
- The Front Range OG has a small break-in period, after which it is molded to fit your dog. The Front Range Flex has no break-in period and conforms immediately to your dog’s shape.
- The Front Range OG is constructed with 300D ripstop fabric, making it a little more rugged and abrasion resistant.
- The Front Range Flex features a minimalist structure—helpful for dogs who resist wearing harnesses.
OG Front Range = Extra durability/extra structure/extra abrasion resistance
Front Range Flex = Extra breathability/extra flexibility/extra comfort
Shop Front Range® Flex Harness
