Which GoRuck Backpack Should You Buy?
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I very rarely sound evangelical about anything, but a GoRuck backpack can change pretty much everything about how you carry and live your life. The company makes some of the toughest backpacks we've tested. They're all well-made, comfortable, and durable, which makes choosing one difficult. Do you want the original GoRuck GR1? The bigger GR2? Or perhaps the smaller Bullet? And what is the Rucker?
To help you make the right choice, we've rucked, traveled, hiked, and schlepped GoRuck packs around our neighborhoods and the world to figure out which are the best. Don't see exactly what you need? Check out the rest of our buying guides, including the Best Laptop Backpacks, the Best Totes, and the Best Carry-Ons.
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What Is GoRuck?
GoRuck was founded by former Army Special Forces soldier, Jason McCarthy, who wanted to create the toughest possible consumer backpack that works like the ones used in the military. It's roughly based on a tactical medic pack, which you can find used on eBay, and like military equipment, it's built to work in a lot of different environments.
GoRuck packs are famously overbuilt, using heavy-duty 1,000-denier Cordura (which is so heavy-duty that it destroys T-shirts it rubs against, leading GoRuck to back off a bit to 210D Cordura for the back of its packs). GoRucks are often described as bombproof, which is a strange word to use on a pack built by someone who knows better than most people that they are not actually bombproof, but it gets to the point. These are tough packs, built to last, with a lifetime warranty to match. The zippers are all heavy YKK zippers and the paracord pull tabs are the best pull tabs I've ever used. The pull tabs are so good that I reverse engineered them and made similar versions for my other backpacks.
What makes GoRuck a little different than most backpack companies, and what inspires fans to a vaguely cultlike adoration, is that McCarthy didn't stop with making packs. He also wanted to show people how to travel and train in some of the harshest environments in the world. This has led to everything from the company's famous rucking events to GoRuck's Tribe 'N Training program. A GoRuck can be a great pack if that’s all you need, but it can also be a life-altering purchase, if that’s what you need instead.
What Is Rucking?
Rucking is what the military calls backpacking—walking with weight on your back. Since no one outside the military needs as much gear as a soldier, fitness rucking substitutes weights for all that gear. You need a pack, some weight, and then you just go outside and walk. That's rucking.
Chances are, you already “ruck.” Carrying books around campus? Rucking. Carrying that thick stack of papers and a laptop into the office? Rucking. You can ruck with GoRuck's fancy metal plates, but you can also get a 20-pound bag of rice from the store and throw it in whatever backpack you have. The general recommendation for starting out is to carry 10 to 20 percent of your body weight. Once you have some weight in your pack … walk. Enjoy the Zone 2 cardio workout.
While you can get started that simply, as you increase the weight you'll find two things to be true: Most packs can't actually carry that much weight, and it's more comfortable (and your posture is better) when the weight is closer to your back. This is where rucking-specific packs come in. GoRuck's packs can stand up to the weight, and the weight plates keep the weight against your back. If you love rucking, a GoRuck pack makes sense, but which one? Read on to find out.
- Photograph: GORUCK
Still the Best GoRuck
GoRuck GR1The GoRuck GR1 (7/10, WIRED Review) is the pack that launched the company, and it’s still the best and most versatile of the GoRuck lineup. The GR1 comes in two sizes: 21L and 26L. I have both, but if I had to pick only one, it would be the 21L. This is the perfect size for rucking, everyday carry, and weekend trips if you pack light. I have even lived out of the 21L bag (with a shoulder bag for my camera gear) during a weeklong trip. It was a squeeze, but it worked. The 21L GR1 is deceptively large and always seems to swallow more gear than I think it can.
My favorite thing about the GR1 is its versatility. I have used this pack for plane travel (as a carry-on), rucking, hiking, hauling camera gear, and more. I even strapped it to the back rack of my bike for an overnight bike-packing trip. The only caveat I have is that if you use it for rucking (or hiking, or whatever you want to call it) you will sweat, and that sweat will soak into the pack. Eventually it will get stinky. This is easy to fix by washing with soap and water and then hanging it to air dry (never put the bag in a washer or dryer), but it does take a while. Be sure to plan ahead if you've been rucking a lot and don't want stares at the airport.
The GR1 consists of three compartments. Against your back there’s a well-padded, rigid laptop compartment (or ruck-plate holder when you’re rucking). On the front outside of the pack there's an angled zipper pocket for frequently accessed items. This does get tight if you've really packed out the interior, but it's useful for wallet and passport and the like. The inside is one big compartment accessed by a U-shaped zipper so that the "lid" folds completely out of the way and you can load it out like a suitcase.
Internally there are three rows of Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) webbing at the top for adding pockets and organizers, along with three internal pockets: a large elastic pocket on the back and a zippered mesh pocket and a small solid pocket on the lid. The outside of the back is made of very heavy-duty 1,000D Cordura. The back panel and shoulder straps are 210D Cordura. The lighter-weight back fabric is easier on less sturdy (but awesome) fabrics like merino wool. There are three rows of MOLLE webbing on the outside front and sides. This allows you to strap on extra compartments and organizers. (I keep a Vanquest water bottle holder, which fits a Nalgene, on the side of mine. See below for more organizers and accessories.) You can also use that side MOLLE to attach a padded hip belt. The top handle is not only strong but also comfortable enough to carry the GR1 for quite a ways. You can pull out the plastic framesheet in the back of the pack if you want the back to be less stiff, but I have never felt the need to do this.
If you're over 6 feet tall or just need more room in your pack, the 26L version is also a great pack and does have a very nice extra zippered pocket at the top of the bag where you can stash your wallet, keys, and other small items.
- Photograph: Scott Gilbertson
The Best Travel Backpack
GoRuck GR2If I were going to live out of a single bag—say, traveling the world for an extended period; say, for the rest of my life—this is the bag I would choose. The GR2 is a gear-hauling monster with a ton of built-in organization options. And yes, it can double as a rucker, though there are better options if that's your main use case.
I primarily tested the 34L GR2, which is big enough to fit everything I need for a seven-to-10-day trip (for me, that's the same as living indefinitely out of it) but not so big that it's unwieldy. There is also a massive 40L version, which still manages to qualify as a carry-on bag for US flights. However, if you're really doing the world-travel thing, smaller domestic airlines abroad (like Ryanair in Europe or Jet star in Asia) may not let you bring the 40L as a carry on. I tested the Heritage model, which is identical to the Cordura model but made of waxed canvas (the heaviest waxed canvas I've ever tested). I liked the fabric, but it does get dirty easier. For world travel I'd consider the Dyneema version, though the original Cordura is a solid option.
Where the internal organization options of the GR1 are limited, GoRuck went a little nuts with the GR2. There are zippered pockets and pouches everywhere, allowing your organizational fantasies to run wild. The GR2 has two main compartments. The larger internal compartment is very similar to the GR1, with two internal pockets—one large mesh zippered pocket, and one elastic pocket. Capacity-wise, this compartment is roughly the same as the same-volume GR1. On top of that main compartment there is an outer, zippered compartment with four internal pockets: two large mesh, zippered pockets; one small pocket; and one built-in GoRuck field pocket. It's enough to make sure everything has its place.
- Photograph: Kat Merck
The Perfect EDC/Rucker Combo
GoRuck BulletI was first inspired to try rucking last year after reading this New York Times article, which suggests “if you have anything that weighs anything in your house, put that inside [a] backpack and simply go for a walk.” One hike with a cookbook-stuffed JanSport and an injured rhomboid muscle later, I found myself researching proper rucking backpacks. A $255 Rucker not being in my budget, I settled on GoRuck’s 15L bullet.
Billed as a daypack, the Bullet has the same 210D Cordura back panel and under-shoulder straps as the Rucker but a slimmer profile and less weight capacity. It can still fit a Ruck Plate in one of its three interior pockets, or a 20-pound or 40-pound sandbag in the main compartment, which helpfully opens flat. (I use a 20-pound bag of rice from Walmart.) There’s no hip belt, so I probably wouldn’t attempt to go above 20 pounds, but for an average-size woman in her mid-forties, I’ve found the Bullet to be perfect for short to moderate hikes. Weight feels evenly placed, the padded straps don’t dig in or shift, and there’s a D-ring inside to attach a hydration bladder, as there are no water-bottle pockets. It’s also the perfect size to double as a regular backpack for school or travel, and for $35 more you can spring for a version with a laptop compartment to make it a work bag. —Kat Merck
- Photograph: GoRuck
The Monstrous Gear Hauler
GoRuck GR3The GR3 is available in either 35L or 45L sizes, with the latter being the largest possible bag that's still TSA compliant. Perfect for travelers that haven't yet learned how to travel light, the GR3 can carry everything you need for two weeks on the road (or a lifetime if that's more your style). The GR3 is made of the same materials as the other GR series packs and, like the GR2, has two compartments. They're just much bigger compartments. It is in fact difficult to convey just how big this bag is except to say that if you're like me—under 6 feet tall—you will look slightly ridiculous with the GR3 on your back. For that reason, and the fact that I don't need this much space, I much prefer the GR2, which, despite being nearly the same capacity, is much more svelte.
One nice feature of the GR3 that the GR2 lacks is side compression straps (with buckles). These make the GR3 somewhat compressible, keeping it more manageable when it's not completely full, but even with these, and even on the 35L version, this is still a big pack, and there's no hiding that. That said, if you need the room, the GR3 is the pack to get. GoRuck, should you read this, please consider a GR2 with compression straps.
- Photograph: GoRuck
The Best for Working Out
GoRuck Rucker 4.0The Rucker is a purpose-built rucking bag. It's very close to the GR1 in size, layout, and fabrics. The Rucker adds more handles, one on each side. The handles are so that the Rucker can be used as a weight (or kettlebell) in workouts. The interior has a Ruck Plate pocket for holding weight (the 20L version can handle up to 3-pound plates while the 25L can do up to 45-pound plates). The interior pockets are the same as the GR1, but instead of zippers, you get Velcro closures. You also lose the internal MOLLE found in the GR1 and GR2.
Other differences from the GR1 include a high-visibility reflective stripe across the back, which is nice if you're doing a lot of road running, and a slightly larger lumbar support pad toward the bottom of the pack's back. Given the similarities to the GR1, and the missing features, especially the internal MOLLE, the Rucker ends up a fine but less-versatile pack. If you want a dedicated workout ruck, this is the best of the bunch, but if you want something more versatile, I think the GR1 is a better option.
- Photograph: GoRuck
The Rucksack for Kids
GoRuck KR1The KR1 is the GR1 for kids. GoRuck recently updated the KR1 and significantly lowered the price, which is good because as much as I like the KR1, it was too expensive. The new model is much more affordable, and it's still made of 1,000D Cordura with 210D on the back and straps. The term "kids" is vague. There is some leeway depending on your child's size, but generally speaking, the KR1 is ideal for kids age 6 to 10. The original version worked great for my kids until they were 10, at which point it felt a little small, and the GR0 would have made more sense.
If you're tired of your kids wearing out packs, this is the pack for you. The 2.0 version adds some additional organizational options, which makes the pack a little more versatile and better suited for school. It's still a totally viable rucking pack, though, and GoRuck has an entire workout program for kids that's well worth the price. For just $10 a month, your kids get a workout plan and reading recommendations, and whenever they complete that month's workout they get a patch, which can be added to the interior velcro panel of the KR1. It's a great way to get your kids outside and moving. There's also a program for teens/preteens.
Other GoRucks
M23 (Cordura, $225): GoRuck's take on a more traditional-style, top-loading backpack. Available in either 21L or 26L, with a back that's roughly the same as the GR1, down to the laptop sleeve, the M23 definitely shares the GoRuck pedigree. I have not tested this pack, but if you prefer the top-loading style of pack this is worth considering.
Packable Bullet Ruck (Ripstop Robic, $65): A GoRuck for when your GoRuck is too big. GoRuck recently launched this handy little stowable version of the Bullet Ruck. The price is great, and it looks fabulous, which might explain why it sold out so fast that we've yet to get our hands on one. It looks like a good option for a day pack to haul around stuff without bringing your main bag. (Walking around town with a GR2, for instance, is overkill.) The downside here is there's not much padding, so you're not going to want to load it up too much. I have a very similar stowable pack from Mystery Ranch, and 8 pounds is about the max you can comfortably carry. I'll update this guide once I'm able to try this one.
GR0 ($275): Originally named the Echo, the GR0 is essentially a 16L GR1 designed for smaller frames and minimalist EDC (everyday carry). If you're under 5'6" and the smaller GR1 feels too big, this is the pack to get.
Customizing Your GoRuck
It wasn't until I learned the ins and outs of MOLLE webbing that I really understood the appeal of the GoRuck. Sure it's comfortable and very durable, but the one huge internal pocket of the GR1 did not initially grab me. That's where MOLLE comes in. You can attach all sorts of pouches, pockets, organizers, and more via MOLLE, allowing you to customize the organization of your GoRuck exactly how you want it. Here are a few things I've tried and like.
- GoRuck GR1 Field Pocket for $50: This pouch is great for everything such as cables, spare hard drives, other tech gear, a med kit for hiking, and a sock stash when you're traveling. It's pricey but well worth it in my experience. There's also a larger GR2 field pocket for $60.
- Vanquest Water Bottle Holder for $31: This is the only external thing on my GoRuck. It's perfect for holding a Nalgene or similar-size water bottle, but it can be used for other things. I've used it, along with a strap at the top, to carry a tripod.
- 5.11 6x6 Tactical MOLLE Pouch Tech ($34): This is very similar to the GoRuck Field Pockets, which I like better, but the shape of this 5.11 was better suited to carrying a couple of lenses I wanted to protect.
- Drawstring MOLLE Water Bottle Holder for $10: These knock-off brand pouches have held up surprisingly well, but to be fair I have only used them inside my GoRuck. These are great for water bottles, though I use mine to carry a small telephoto lens.
- MOLLE Key Ring for $12 (4-pack): I don't actually use this to hold keys, but it's a handy addition to the top handle that allows you to quickly clip things to your GoRuck. For example, I hook the straps of my Xero Z-trek sandals to it when I get to the beach.
- Scorpion Gear MOLLE Hook and Loop Mount for $15: Sometimes MOLLE isn't the best thing for the job. This insert adds a hook-and-loop panel over the MOLLE, allowing you to attach just about anything with a hook-and-loop patch on it.
There are hundreds of pouches, admin pockets, and other organizers on Amazon, far more than we can ever hope to test. If you've found something that works for you, drop a note in the comments below.
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