When it comes to rucking, GORUCK makes some of the best backpacks, but they can be expensive. The Rucker is designed for fitness, tough events, and even Hero WODs, making it a favorite among Ruckers. Meanwhile, the original GR1 is a versatile rucksack, perfect for daily use, light travel, and as a carry on. My wife even uses her GR1 as her one bag for trips lasting over a week long. With thousands of positive reviews, both bags are fantastic, but if you want a rugged pack for the gym, Crossfitting, or serious training, the Rucker is the better choice. However, if you need a reliable OG bag for hiking, travel, or an all-around flagship model, the GR1 is still worth the high price tags. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.
GORUCK GR1 vs Rucker
When it comes to the best rucking backpack, choosing between the GORUCK GR1 Backpack and the Rucker can be tricky, but it all comes down to your needs. The Rucker is a more compact and comfortable option, making it a great choice for those focused on fitness and rucking. Its design is built for movement, perfect for those who want a gym on their back while carrying their gear. On the other hand, the GORUCK GR1 Backpack offers greater versatility, serving well for EDC, travel, and heavy carry. If weight isn’t an issue, the GR1 is the pick for an all-around bag, as it’s designed to handle any load throughout the day. But if you’re after something more specialized for specific situations, the Rucker wins due to its build focused on movement. Both backpacks can be modified to suit your needs, but sometimes the right choice is knowing how to use them, and I’ll show you that shortly.
1. Price
The Rucker costs around $245-265, and you can sometimes get it 20% off, making it a solid deal for a backpack designed to ruck. The GR1, on the other hand, starts at $335 for the 21L and $345 for the 26L, which is a big jump in price. But with that increase, you get extra storage, added security, and a more complete design that’s built to handle anything. The final choice comes down to size and what you need—if you want something streamlined for fitness, the Rucker is the best option, but for all-around use, the GR1 is worth the investment depending on your needs. Adding a Ruck Plate to either can enhance the experience.
2. Size, weight, and volume
The Rucker is a smaller, compact backpack designed specifically for rucking, available in 3 sizes—15L, 20L, and 25L—giving you good options based on your needs. If you want to purchase something more versatile, the GR1 comes in two sizes, 21L and 26L, making it a better fit for everyday carry. While the numbers might seem close, these backpacks diverge in key areas like storage, price, and how they relate to overall size and usability. Choosing the right one depends on whether you need a fitness-focused pack or a more all-purpose rucking bag.
3. Storage and organization
The biggest difference between the GORUCK Rucker and the GR1 is their storage and organization. The GR1 is designed as a versatile EDC or work bag, featuring an internal laptop compartment, multiple pockets, and mesh sections to keep everything safe. The Rucker, built for fitness, skips the laptop space but includes more MOLLE webbing for customizing with accessories. Both backpacks have a solid front pocket, external storage, and side areas for a water bottle, making them great for traveling or the field. If adding gear and packs is a priority, the Rucker’s outside attachment points make a huge deal.
4. Details
When selecting the best backpack for rucking, the details matter. The Rucker stands out with sturdy handles on the outside of the bag, making hauling and carrying heavy weight easier. Built for fitness, it supports the Sand Ruck Plate and even a sandbag for advanced training. A reflective strip on the front keeps ruckers visible to cars, a feature that is almost mandatory for night GORUCK events. If you purchase the Rucker, you also get reflective straps for added safety.
The GR1 has different advantages, such as drain holes at the bottom, which prevent water from pooling when it gets wet. It also includes workout handles and extra MOLLE for added customization. Both bags come with the Scars lifetime guarantee program, ensuring long-term durability and reliability.
5. Ruck Plate Sleeve
One of the most importantly designed features in the Rucker is the Ruck Plate Sleeve, which keeps the weight secure and properly positioned near your shoulders. This design makes the bag more stable and carries weight comfortably, ensuring it doesn’t sag during a ruck. The pouch has a Velcro cover for a perfect fit, preventing the plate from moving around. Unlike the GR1, which has no sleeve and relies on the rear laptop compartment, the weight inside can feel unsecure since it doesn’t close completely. This makes it more likely to shift and dig into your back during PT, bear crawls, and burpees, making the ruck uncomfortable.
The internal sleeve in the Rucker completely solved this issue by keeping the weight high and stable. It’s a great solution for anyone who’s ever been bothered by shoving a plate into the main compartment, only to have it move around. This intentional build is what makes the Rucker the perfect choice for those who are craving versatility and a problem-free experience. If you’ve ever felt the weight shifted, become unsecured, or even torn through weaker areas of a bag, this built-in feature is an easy solution. It’s one of the biggest advantages over the GR1, proving that a well-thought-out design can make all the difference. Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll cover another must-have feature.
Why does that matter? Is a brand’s OG product always the best?
Some companies keep improving their products with constant updates, but others, like GORUCK, build something so good that it doesn’t need serious changes. The GR1 is the perfect example—it has remained nearly the same for years because it was designed to be the only bag you’ll ever need. With plenty of space for light travel, EDC, and even hardcore rucking or hiking,
it stands out for its comfortable, sturdy, and durable build. Made with buy it for life quality and strong construction, this backpack has lasted me over 10 years with no need for a replacement. It still rucks securely with my 30 lbs Ruck Plate, proving why it remains a favorite among serious users.
The GR1 was originally built to meet the tough demands of Army Special Forces training and operations, and its goal was clear—to be an indestructible bag that works anywhere, in all conditions. It brought an elite product to average people who simply wanted a good backpack. The results speak for themselves—GORUCK succeeded, and the thousands of positive reviews prove just how impressive the GR1 still is.
While the Rucker is a smaller, lighter, and more compact option, perfect for fitness challenges, it’s hard to argue against the GR1 as the ultimate all-purpose pack. There’s nothing against the Rucker—it’s a sleek design that performs awesome for tough workouts—but when it comes to an all-around choice, the GR1 and its bags remain supremely comfortable and reliable.
Easy Custom GR1 Ruck Plate Sleeve
If you love customization but don’t want to do a lot of work, there’s a simple solution for your GR1. A guy in Oregon named Shaddox Tactical sews and sells a handmade weight plate pocket that can be installed using MALICE Clips. This upgrade makes the GR1 functionally similar to the Rucker by allowing the Ruck Plate to sit high near your shoulders, making the ruck feel highly comfortable and secure. Plus, it offers extra storage with an internal pocket, giving you more room for pouches or other gear.
Many GORUCK fans are impressed by the quality and construction of this affordable upgrade, and it works well even on the larger GR2. The Shaddox gear feels almost indestructible, making it a great way to enhance your rucksacks without sacrificing durability. If you have a 26L pack, this setup allows for the best balance of weight and organization while keeping the Special Forces-inspired flagship backpack as versatile as ever.
Whether you need an extra free pocket or just want to add a padded section, this setup is ready to go. Just start with some MOLLE webbing, install it properly, and you’ll have a ruck that’s built for anything.
What exactly do I need to ruck comfortably with a GR1?
To start rucking with a GR1, you first need to decide how much weight you want to carry. A standard setup includes Ruck Plates of 10 lbs, 20 lbs, or even 30lbs, depending on whether you’re training hard for strength gains or just aiming for a good workout. If you’re looking for muscle gains or preparing for a long trip, you might go up to 45 lbs, but make sure your rucksack has a large, padded pocket to keep the Ruck Plate stable.
A GORUCK GR1 works well with internal MOLLE webbing, allowing you to add a Shaddox pocket for extra organization. If you prefer something bigger, the GR2 offers plenty of space, making it great for backpacking, hiking, or even travel. Whether you want to train for endurance or build raw strength, the right rucking setup can turn any walk into a serious challenge.
1. A backpack with internal MOLLE webbing, like a GR1 or GR2
A versatile bag like the GORUCK GR1 or GR2 is great for rucking and even one bag travel. If you want something larger, the GR2 packs more but still carries weight comfortably. The Rucker is another solid option, but both backpacks work well if you choose a model with internal MOLLE webbing. This allows you to add a Shaddox plate pocket for better organization and Ruck Plate stability.
A good ruck requires smart weight distribution, and a well-placed Ruck Plate makes long rucks less comfortable if not secured properly. The GR1 and GR2 handle up to 35lbs easily, but if you’re adding a kettlebell, bricks, towels, or other gear, make sure it’s wrapped well to keep things seamless and comfortable. This setup distributes weight evenly, improving longevity and overall fitness—exactly what you need for your next challenge.
2. GORUCK Ruck Plate
When you’re thinking about the best rucking backpack, you might not need a Ruck Plate to begin your journey, but it’s definitely something GORUCK recommends for getting started. I recall when I first began rucking in 2016, I used a Kelty Redwing 50L hiking backpack filled with bricks wrapped in tape and even added pool noodles to help distribute the weight more evenly. While that worked, it wasn’t ideal for the long term. A Rucker or GR1 is built to fit a Ruck Plate seamlessly and securely, making them the better option for consistent use. If you’re after extra stability, a Shaddox pouch helps keep the weight locked in place, ensuring your load packs perfectly for any GORUCK Tough event.
3. Shaddox Tactical Padded Weight Plate Pocket
When I found my first GR1 rucksack on Craigslist, I wasn’t sure if I should invest in shiny new gear or go with something pre-owned. Eventually, I bought it and realized that with GORUCK’s buy-it-for-life quality, this pack would be my own forever. But to make it even better, I made an approved purchase—the Shaddox Tactical Padded Weight Plate Pocket, which is handsewn in Oregon, USA by a friendly rucker named Clay.
This durable pocket attaches inside your backpack, turning a larger Rucker into a perfectly balanced pack. It keeps the Ruck Plate in place so the weight sits high on the shoulders, making every ruck more comfortable. Unlike jamming weights into the laptop compartment or an internal sleeve, this dedicated pocket ensures a secure fit. Whether you use a GR1 or a GR2, this upgrade makes a huge difference.
4. MALICE Clips
If you need a strong way to attach gear to your MOLLE webbing, MALICE Clips are the answer. These heavy-duty clips make it simple to secure a Shaddox pocket inside your GR1 rucksack, keeping your setup organized and stable. If you’re new to using them, fear not—they are inexpensive, easy to use, and last forever. I made a purchase of 4 long clips from Shaddox, and they work perfectly. If you need extra security for your gear, these are a must-buy.
How to attach your Shaddox Pocket to your GR1
If you bought a Rucker or a bigger bag for more organization, then attaching a plate pocket is a smart move. There’s no shame in getting help, and Clay from Shaddox Tactical can even send a short instructional video if needed. I found it very easy to do with MALICE Clips, and it only took 5-10 minutes. If you have skipped this step before, now you have everything you need to get it done easy and right.
1. Push MALICE Clips through plate pocket webbing
To secure the Shaddox plate pocket, take the long MALICE Clips and slide the open end through the MOLLE webbing at the top of the pocket. Make sure the ends are fully pushed through the open square at the center before weaving them back into the plate pouch. I used 4 rows of MOLLE and carefully fed the clips, ensuring they lined up with the black rows for a tight hold. If you need help, check photos to count the correct attachment points.
2. Start the bottom end of the MALICE Clips through your rucksack
Take the bottom end of the MALICE Clips and pass them through the lowest row of MOLLE webbing on your backpack. Make sure they go through the rucksack MOLLE and into the plate pocket securely. Then, bring the clips back up to the top end and lock them in place. This part requires lots of weaving, but if you follow the first photo, it will make sense how the actual clip secures everything again.
3. Weave the clips through the third row of plate pouch MOLLE
Using MALICE Clips can be hard, but they make your setup durable and rugged. Carefully feed the clips through the third row of MOLLE on the plate pouch, ensuring they go all the way through. Then, pull them together at the top to tighten the connection. Make sure to wrap them securely around the rucksack so the plate pocket stays in place.
4. Keep weaving!
In the first image below, you’ll see I went back under the rucksack webbing again. Keep threading the clips through each row until you complete your weave and align them at the very top. This secures the setup, ensuring the Shaddox pocket fits inside a GR1 perfectly for a tight and stable hold.
4. Close the clips and put your Ruck Plate in. You’re ready!
Close the clips securely at the top, locking everything in place. Now, slide in your Ruck Plate, and your bag is set for proper rucking. This setup feels good, keeping the weight stable in your Rucker while leaving enough space for extra storage. It’s like magic when everything fits just right!
Off you go! Rucking with a GR1
The GR1 is GORUCK’s flagship backpack, known for being iconic and tough. It’s a favorite for EDC, a reliable carry-on, and perfect for rucking. With a Shaddox modification, the pack becomes even more comfortable and secure, keeping the weight well distributed in the plate pocket. Whether you’re using a Rucker or one of GORUCK’s other bags like the GR2, rucking helps you cross train for running, workout routines, hiking, backpacking, and even travel. It’s a great way to build endurance while strengthening your back, shoulders, and legs through training that combines cardio and strength.
With a good pack and some weights, rucking is also a time to enjoy free moments—walking your dog, using language learning apps, planning adventures, or even jotting down thoughts in a Rite in the Rain notebook. Who knows? You might even find yourself writing poems along the way!
Best GORUCK Bag for Everyday Carry
When looking for the perfect bag for EDC, the GORUCK GR1 stands out due to its functionality and durability. Available in 15L, 21L, and 26L sizes, this bag provides ample space for carrying notebooks, laptop, files, pens, plugs, and other misc essentials. Many users recommend the GR2 if more compartments are needed, but for a compact option, the GR1 is often preferred as it shrinks down when empty, making it a reasonable choice for daily ruck use. Based on my review, the GR1 is an excellent balance between practicality and ruggedness, fitting seamlessly into both work and adventure settings.
Best GORUCK Bag for Rucking
The GORUCK Rucker is the best choice for serious ruck workouts and Tier events, offering a rugged build and smart design. Available in 20L and 25L version, it provides extra space for a weight plate, water bladder, jacket, snacks, and anything else you need for Long Range training. Unlike the original backpack, the Rucker is designed without a laptop compartment, making it better for packing list efficiency and compartmentalizing gear. My review found that adding mods like a framesheet or using yoga blocks for added structure improves day-to-day use while following proper instructions ensures maximum comfort.
Best GORUCK Bag for Travel
The GORUCK GR2 is an amazing bag for travel, offering TSA carryon compliant design with smart compartmentalization to keep everything organized. Available in 40L and 26L size, it provides enough space for weekends, overnight trips, or even a 10-day overseas adventure. The GR1 is a solid choice for lighter packing, but the GR2 truly converts into the ultimate backpack for both the airport and exploring town. My wife and I tested the Heritage pack, and it worked well for a minimal setup while still fitting essentials like shoes and gear.
Best GORUCK for EDC and Rucking
The GR1 is the best bag for EDC, while the Rucker is built specifically for rucking, making them both excellent choices depending on your needs. From an esthetic perspective, the GR1 looks sexier and blends well in a work setting, while the Rucker is designed to handle intense training without worrying about sweat and odor, as it soaks up less and doesn’t stink over time. Both perform fine for daily use, but if rucking is the priority, the Rucker is the way to go.
Best GORUCK bag for Travel and Rucking
When it comes to finding the best rucking backpack for both travel and rucking, the GORUCK GR2 is a solid recommendation. It offers ample space for your trip and is perfect for long-haul adventures, while the Rucker is built for tough rucks and demanding workouts. If you’re looking for a go-to bag that combines the best of both worlds, the GR1 is a great option, offering a mix of versatility and durability. For Long Range journeys, the GR2 provides superior packing options that meet all your needs, and if you’re looking for a bit of extra challenge, training with a Sandbag adds a funk factor to your workout. However, using the wrong bag can be risky, so it’s important to choose wisely. For those riding motorcycles and needing a sturdy bag for the road, the GORUCK bags are a great fit due to their tough design. Determination is key for challenging your limits while keeping things simple.
One Ruck to Rule Them All
The GORUCK GR1 is the flagship bag that many recommend as the king of rucksacks, thanks to its classic design and durability. Built to handle anything, it has been used in tough environments, from Baghdad to NYC, proving its reliability for both urban and rugged adventures. You can’t go wrong with the GR1, as it adapts to everyday carry and hardcore rucking alike, making it the ultimate all-in-one choice.
MAXIMIZE YOUR WORA SKOUTS WITH TREAMLINED PLATE CARRIER
A Ruck Plate Carrier (RPC) is purpose-built for high-intensity workouts, providing better stability than a standard ruck by keeping the plate high and tight on your back. Designed to be worn comfortably without suffocating, it keeps the chest open so you can breathe and push harder during training. The plate pocket securely houses Standard 10LB, 20LB, 30LB, and even 45LB weights, making it ideal for those wanting to add extra resistance as they progress. The ergonomic design features padded shoulder straps, non-abrasive fabric, and a back panel underside that reduces friction burn, even when shirtless. It also includes lumbar support, a top handle, and just the right amount of padding to enhance comfort while carrying heavier loads. Whether you’re just getting started or need a larger challenge for Long rucks, the RPC adapts to your fitness goals.
ZERO IRRITATION WHEN RUCKING SHIRTLESS
Say goodbye to friction burn with the 210D HT High Tenacity CORDURA, designed to prevent abrasive contact on your back panel underside and shoulder straps. Unlike rough materials that chew through delicate skin, this fabric won’t irritate even during long rucks. Pairing it with merino wool apparel adds extra comfort, making rucking smoother without worrying about discomfort.
ERGONOMIC LUMBAR SUPPORT
The bottom section of the back panel features additional 10mm EVA foam padding, which supports the natural curve of your spine and protects against strain. This raised design also reduces friction by covering exposed seams, preventing them from rubbing against your skin, which can be a problem during long rucks.
EXTRA PADDED STRAPS + TOP LID
The shoulder straps are extra padded with 1″ thick cushioning to help carry heavier loads comfortably while reducing strain. With tons of padding, this design helps protect your shoulders during dynamic movements like Bear Crawls and burpees, ensuring a secure fit without slipping. The top lid adds another layer of stability, making rucking smoother and more efficient.
OVERBUILT CONSTRUCTION
The reinforced bottom panel made from 1050D Ballistic CORDURA® ensures durability, even under extreme conditions. Designed to handle a weight plate carrier without adding unnecessary bulk, this ruck takes a beating from tough workouts without showing wear. Whether facing gravity-smoked challenges or pushing limits in a rugged environment, this build keeps up with every tough workout effortlessly.
KEEPS CHEST OPEN
Your chest stays open, allowing better airflow, which means it’s easier to clean and won’t stink even after intense sessions. This design doesn’t beat up your chin while doing pushups, making workouts more comfortable and efficient. Plus, it looks a lot better, following Rule #1: Always Look Cool, ensuring both function and style in every ruck.
EASY TO CLEAN
The Spacer mesh on the RPC helps reduce sweat buildup, so it won’t absorb stink after tough workouts. If it gets dirty, just spray it down with a hose, scrub it lightly with soapy water if needed, and simply hang it to dry—no extra hassle.
What is the best GORUCK backpack for rucking?
Best GORUCK Bag for Rucking
The Rucker is the best choice for rucking and ruck workouts, literally built for durability. I prefer the 20L version, as I rarely need the extra space of the 25L. The Rucker 4.0 offers comfort, and you can check out the full review for details. There were times I carried more, but for most rucks, 20L works best.
Is Goruck Rucker worth it?
I went from nay-saying the need for specific packs to fully appreciated the GORUCK training system. The Rucker 4.0 with Ruck Plates improved my experience immensely, keeping a dense, flat plate secured close to my back for better walking posture and comfort while rucking.
Is the GR1 good for rucking?
The GR1 is a top-tier backpack, made for both hardcore rucking and hiking. It’s comfortable, sturdy, and built with buy it for life quality and construction, meaning you’ll never need another. With enough space for light travel and EDC, it’s a reliable choice for any adventure.
What does 2% mean in GORUCK?
Being a 2-Percenter means taking the stairs every time and saying yes to any opportunity to push yourself. I’ve found ruck meetings to be one of my favorite ways to make training feel natural—just like walking meetings, but better. Choosing the slightly harder path throughout the day builds strength and endurance.
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