New Enigma upgrades are live now! New features include a textured faceplate, TWO new leg leash options, and upgraded materials all around. Take a look at the new models, or look at Upgrade Kits for your existing products.
On March 3, we’re releasing upgrades to the Enigma family of products. Since day one, we’ve been making rolling improvements to materials, designs, and components. This time, we’ve substantially changed the faceplates and leg leash—enough to consider it a fresh new version. On March 3rd, we’ll be releasing new photos and media showing all the new features in detail.
To set expectations: these new upgrades are incremental improvements, not huge game-changers. You’ll still recognize the same Enigma you love, but with some new features to improve convenience, consistency, and daily livability. The improvements we’re making are cool, but they’re not earth-shattering.
We’re sharing this info ahead of the launch because we know it sucks to feel “rug-pulled” when you buy a full-priced product, only to have an upgrade come out the next day. This two-week grace period allows for some early warning. And for folks on a budget, it’s an opportunity to purchase a current version Enigma at a steep discount.
The old version of the Enigma will be completely discontinued when the new one launches.
On March 3, we’ll also offer Upgrade Kits for those who want to refresh their existing Enigma. These will contain upgraded parts only, not a complete Enigma system. Heads up, though—if you buy a clearance Enigma in the next two weeks and later purchase an upgrade kit, you’ll end up spending more than if you’d simply waited for the new system.
The upgrade kits will be available for 30 days, from March 3 through April 3. After that, the kit will be discontinued. While in the past, our policy has been that we do not sell Enigma parts, we’re making a one-time, 30-day exception for upgrade kits. We understand that the Enigma is a big investment, and customers may want the new features, but may not want to buy a whole new Enigma. Selling the upgrade kits for a short window helps us bridge the gap for the early adopters who made our brand matter. After the 30-day window, the kits will be gone and the new Enigma will completely replace the old one.
We’ll have comprehensive instructions ready on March 3 for anyone who decides to upgrade. All warranty service from March 3 onward will include the updated parts automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I see the new Enigma?
March 3rd, 2025. We'll be releasing photos and videos of the new Enigma, plus we'll do a livestream to answer all your questions about it.
How much will it cost?
The new Enigma models will be the same price as the previous versions (regular price, not the clearance sale price). We've taken advantage of some new manufacturing efficiencies to include a lot more value without increasing prices.
Is it worth upgrading if I already have an Enigma?
Is the new V2 Enigma upgrade worth it?
If you're happy with your current PHLster Enigma, there's no need to upgrade. The new version has nicer materials and some added convenience features, but the concealment and performance are exactly the same. So there's no need to run out and upgrade if you don't want to. The main advantages of the new version include: more durable faceplate, more comfortable webbing, more comfortable leg leash options, and new quick-adjust leg leash buckles.
What if I just bought an Enigma? Do I have to pay full price for an upgrade?
For 30 days, starting March 3rd, we will be selling upgrade kits to refresh your existing Enigma with new parts. After 30 days, the upgrade kits will be discontinued, and we will go back to selling complete Enigmas only.
We understand it's frustrating when you buy a new product, only to find out later there's a new version. Here are your options:
- Wait and see - once the new version launches on March 3rd, you can decide if you want to upgrade. The V2 is an incremental improvement, we haven't come up with any new concealment magic. If you like your current Enigma, there's no reason to upgrade.
- Buy an Upgrade Kit. The kit will come with all the new V2 parts, which are interchangeable and can be swapped out with your current Enigma. Kits will be sold for 30 days only, starting March 3rd.
- Return your Enigma and wait for the V2 launch. If you are within your 30 day return window and would like to return your Enigma, please fill out the form here. Heads up, though, we cannot refund shipping charges, as those are paid directly to the carrier. We do not keep that money - once it's shipped, it's gone. See our return policy for more details.
- Reach out to us for help. While we try to be transparent and fair, we understand that this announcement will be upsetting to some folks, no matter how hard we try. If you're unhappy, please reach out and let us know. We'll do our best to help you.
Can you retroactively apply the clearance sale discount?
I'm sorry, we cannot apply the sale price retroactively. The purpose of the sale is to clear out our stock of existing products, and give people an incentive to buy after the V2 announcement. It also gives us time to build ahead on new units as the stock winds down to zero. Unfortunately, no matter when we announce the sale, someone will always be the last to buy at full price. We understand it's frustrating, and we'd like to help. Please feel free to reach out to us for a discount on an Upgrade Kit, or if you are unhappy with your Enigma, you may return it as described above.
Can I buy the new parts individually?
We will not be selling Enigma faceplates a la carte; however, for 30 days, we will be selling upgrade kits which will include all the new parts. After 30 days, the upgrade kits will be discontinued, and we will go back to selling complete Enigmas only.
If you're looking for just the new leg leashes, you can buy the leg leashes separately.
Will you be making any more Gen 1 Enigmas?
No, the previous generation Enigmas will be discontinued. After March 3rd, 2025, we will sell only the new versions. All warranty replacements after that date will be served with new parts.
What models are included?
All four Enigma models are included in the upgrade.
- Enigma Express
- Enigma Express Light Bearing
- Enigma OS Standard
- Enigma OS Light Bearing
Tell me about the clearance sale. Can I get the old Enigma for cheaper?
Yes! We're clearing out our old Enigma stock to make room for the new version. If you're on a budget, this is a great way to get an Enigma for cheap. The clearance sale will run from February 17th, 2025 - March 2rd, 2025. After that, the old Enigmas will be discontinued, and the new version will replace them.
Heads up - buying a discount Enigma AND an upgrade kit will be much more expensive than just waiting for the new version. So if you're trying to save money, we do not recommend that plan.
Other PHLster coupons and discount codes (such as military and law enforcement discounts) will NOT stack with the clearance sale.
