The Definitive Guide to GORUCK Backpacks, Bags, and Vests

Last update:

There are a lot of bags out there that market themselves as “rucking backpacks” or as something similar. Between the plethora of both well-known and random brands and an overabundance of “industry jargon”, when it’s time to finally pick a bag, analysis paralysis inevitably sets in.

Even when you try to narrow things down to a specific company, things don’t get much easier. I mean, just look at how many “training rucksacks” and “travel rucksacksGORUCK currently has available:

…and this doesn’t even include its speciality bags!

If you’re like us and you’re a fan of the brand (or at least heard good things about it), but don’t know where to start with your GORUCK backpack search, we got you covered.

We’ve put hands on and shoulders under each of the most popular GORUCK backpack, ruck, weight vest, and plate carrier offerings and have consolidated our experiences into one mega-post here.

With links to full, individual reviews for almost all of the GORUCK backpacks and other bags in this post, we can’t guarantee that we can “fix” your analysis paralysis, but at least you’ll be more informed as you endlessly rehash every pro and con!

Also, if you’re interested in GORUCK footwear offerings, check out our definitive guides on the GORUCK boots and GORUCK shoe lines!

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the…

Best GORUCK Backpacks, Bags, and Vests

Bullet

87

Numerous size and structure compact ruck options
210D Cordura is non-irritating on exposed skin
GORUCK’s most affordable ruck option
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR0

80

Shorter length and overall bulk create ideal dimensions for small-statured ruckers
Efficiently designed and compact engineering
Durable laptop protection pocket is standard in all versions
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR1

88

GORUCK’s “flagship” bag, refined over a decade
Perfectly functional as a “training ruck” as well as as an EDC bag
Standard frame sheet for stability and comfort when rucking with a plate
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR2

85

Most models offer a higher overall load capacity than the GR1
Built-in field pocket for smaller item organization
Out compartment pockets actually substantive enough for regular use
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR3

87

“Largest possible carry-on rucksack, sized to fit in the overhead bin of all major airlines”
Side handles are functional for both travel and dynamic rucking
210D Cordura is less irritating on areas where skin is most likely to be exposed
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

Rucker 4.0

83***

Dedicated, heavily-padded ruck plate pocket is ideal for all types of rucking
Numerous size and capacity options
Possesses all necessary “dynamic” rucking components without the added weight of larger bags
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

M23

85

Very well-engineered for EDC and light travel
Side compartment opening for additional ease of loading and unloading
Unique top-loading system
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

Kit Bag

90

Lightweight relative to load capacities
Included shoulder strap makes it easy to carry
Exterior pockets allow for easier organization
Read more on GORUCK Read our VS Review

Training Weight Vest

86

Significant load capacity, sufficient for just about every athlete
Dual-Cordura fibers maximize functionality and comfort
Waist belt can double as a hip belt
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

Ruck Plate Carrier

90

Can be used as a substitute for a dedicated ruck bag
“Long” option can accommodate a 45-pound plate
Inexpensive relative to most vest/plate carrier options
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

NOTE: We included a few pictures with each of the rucks on the list for illustrative purposes. If you want more “action-y” shots with the bags, check out the linked full induvial reviews.

Melanie is ~5’2″; Tom is ~ 5’8″

GORUCK Bullet

Best for New Ruckers: 87/100

The GORUCK Bullet is a versatile, compact bag that is the epitome of the “gateway” or “introductory” ruck. Multifunctional, it is capable at facilitating a number of different rucking activities at a price point that is accessible to just about everyone.

Marketed as a “travel” ruck (as opposed to as a “training ruck”), it holds up better than it should during “traditional” rucking ventures of even when incorporated into “dynamic” rucking training.

The Bullet’s limited load capacity and overall size somewhat limit its top-end utility as a GORUCK backpack. As such, opting for it as a first ruck likely ensures that it won’t be your last ruck.

Pros

Numerous size and structure compact ruck options

210D Cordura is non-irritating on exposed skin

GORUCK’s most affordable ruck option

Con

Not ideal for rucking with larger loads (30-plus pound ruck plates)

goruck backpack

Overall

87

Rucking

77.5

Everday Carry

85

Price

90

Customer Reviews

96

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

The Bullet is oftentimes a new rucking enthusiast’s first ruck, owing to its decent degrees of functionality and versatility along with its affordable (by GORUCK standards, at least) price tag. Designed with everyday carry purposes in mind, it has nevertheless become a popular rucking bag among smaller-statured ruckers and those opting for manuverability over sheer mass.

Ruck: Bullet Ruck – Classic – Reflective Spearhead (15L)

There are a number of different Bullet options to select from with the “classic” being the most affordable while those ricking a laptop compartment are probably the most practical options, especially for those planning to fly with theirs or haul it to work.

Most Bullets provide relatively little utility in the area of “dynamic” rucking and many less expensive options lack a built-in frame sheet. Despite these shortcomings, the bag offers your best (and most consistent) opportunity to pick up one of the brand’s rucks for under $150.

GORUCK GR0

Best for Small-statured Ruckers: 80/100

The GR0 stands out in GORUCK’s line of bags that oftentimes lean towards accommodating average-to-longer-bodies ruckers. For shorter-statured ruckers, this could be the answer they are looking for.

Despite being designed with everyday carry and some lighter rucking activity in mind, the GR0 is nevertheless a legitimate option for “dynamic” rucking with its compact and efficient design ensuring that its 16-liter capacity is maximized.

Although the GR0, like other GORUCK bags, is constructed of high-quality materials, its relatively lower levels of functionality and smaller load capacity limits its value relative to other, similarly sized bags.

Pros

Shorter length and overall bulk create ideal dimensions for small-statured ruckers

Efficiently designed and compact engineering

Durable laptop protection pocket is standard in all versions

Cons

Very expensive relative to its size and total load capacity

Overall

80

Rucking

80

Everyday Carry

90

Price

55

Customer Reviews

94

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

The GR0 probably isn’t the first bag that comes to mind for most GORUCK enthusiasts.

It may not even be the fifth bag that comes to mind.

With that being said, the GR0, like the Bullet, offers a solid option for shorter-statured ruckers who oftentimes feel “overwhelmed” or even “consumed” by “standard-sized” rucks. There is a lot of merit to being able to grab a bag without adjusting it, slip a ruck plate in, and know that it’s going to stay pretty much high and tight for the duration of your outing.

Ruck: GR0 – Cordura (16L)

The GR0’s interior pocket is more robust than most Bullet pockets and its overall bulk makes it more appealing for both “pure” and “dynamic” rucking. If your everday carry needs are on the medium-to-light side, it is also the ideal bag to ensure that you don’t end up like the “giant backpack” kid (you remember the one from school…)

The GR0 takes a major hit due to its, frankly, uncompetitive price. While it is in the range of most GORUCK backpacks, the price is pretty far out there relative to other bags of its size/load capacity, especially given its lack of legit special features.

GORUCK GR1

Best All-around GORUCK Backpack: 88/100

GORUCK’ touts the GR1 as “the greatest (ruck) of all time”; a less-than-subtle moniker from a company that has dubbed itself as “the rucking company”.

Designated as a “travel ruck”, the GR1 nevertheless can used for “traditional” rucking, “dynamic” rucking and to travel the world with (according to GORUCK, it “thrives in Baghdad and in NYC”).

With a multitude of different size, style, and color options and one of the best warranties in the rucking industry, the GR1 truly offers something for everyone.

Pros

GORUCK’s “flagship” bag, refined over a decade

Perfectly functional as a “training ruck” as well as an EDC bag

Standard frame sheet for stability and comfort when rucking with a plate

Cons

Internal pocket is stable, but is not perfectly stable during “dynamic rucking”

Overall

88

Rucking

85

Everyday Carry

95

Price

75

Customer Reviews

96

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

For a brand that likes to throw out rather grandiose, made-up titles about itself, GORUCK’s description of the GR1 might take the cake.

Referred to as “The Original Ruck” which also happens to be “The Greatest Ruck of All Time”, it’s obvious that the company’s marketers aren’t all that concerned with subjective vs. objective labels or rewriting history, but at the end of the day, the ratings don’t lie; the GR1 is our highest-rated GORUCK backpack.

More of a “do-everything” kind of bag than a speciality bag, the GR1 is the kind of bag you buy and close the chapter on ruck purchases (I know how cute this sounds in theory, but just go with it).

Ruck: GR1 USA – Cordura (The Original Ruck) (26L)

If you want to throw a plate in and get moving or do some swings, it works.

If you want to pack a weekend’s worth of stuff and stuff it under the seat in front of you, it works.

If you want to stash your laptop in it and be the “cool (cliche) still wear a backpack to work” guy, it works.

Heck, if you just want to haul your (dirty) gym clothes and (smelly) training shoes in it, it works.

Now, I wouldn’t suggest doing all of these things simultaneously (that wouldn’t work, btw), but you get the point. If you’re going to get just one ruck (lulz), the GR1 is it.

GORUCK GR2

Best Bigger Version of the GR1: 85/100

The GORUCK GR2 is the second iteration of the company’s flagship GR1. With most models essentially being the “big brother” to its older brethren, the GR2 offers a few interesting additions to set it apart.

Going up to 40 liters, the GR2’s load capacity is enough for most “carry-on” only trips, with inclusion like the built-in field pocket serving as a makeshift dopp kit, easily organizing things like chargers or toiletries.

The GR2 isn’t the kind of bag that is suited for common “dynamic” rucking movements like ruck swings (especially the larger bags) or carries, but for those who love the GR1 and just wish it was bigger, it’s the obvious choice.

Pros

Most models offer a higher overall load capacity than the GR1

Built-in field pocket for smaller item organization

Same overall structure and feel of GR1

Cons

Larger sizes can be overwhelming for shorter-statured ruckers

Overall

85

Rucking

80

Everyday Carry

90

Price

80

Customer Reviews

90

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

The GR2 is a much-loved bag in the GORUCK backpack lineup. Viewed by many as a “bigger and better” upgrade to the GR1, it certainly lives up to the former moniker. However, I personally fail to see how much “better” it is and find the bag to be a bit…not so much “overrated” as much just…kinda “blah”.

Ruck: GR2 (40L)

For those only considering the 26-liter variety, you may as well go with the GR1; only those looking for a larger load capacity should give it a serious look. The built-in field pocket is an interesting and quite valuable (figuratively and literally; the GORUCK standalone field pocket goes anywhere from $50(!) to just under $100(!!!)) addition, but may not be worth the higher price point.

The GR2 doesn’t have much “dynamic rucking” capabilities to speak of, but certainly works as a slightly larger bag for rucking. It’s just got serious “middle child” syndrome.

GORUCK GR3

Best Large “Traditional” Ruck: 87/100

Of GORUCK’s line of travel rucks, the GR3 offers the largest load capacity. For ruckers who prioritize travel and/or stuffing their bag for daily outings, this is the bag that best facilitates these desires.

Despite being a larger and more “specialized” bag, the GR3 offers a decent degree of “dynamic” rucking utility, with side handles that can be used for farmer and/or suitcase carries, among other movements.

“Base” models are on the highest end of GORUCK’s price range and for a bag that would most likely demand a padded hip belt, the GR3 is not compatible with the company’s offering. However, it is a very interesting option for certain types of enthusiasts.

Pros

“Largest possible carry-on rucksack, sized to fit in the overhead bin of all major airlines”

Side handles are functional for both travel and dynamic rucking

210D Cordura is less irritating on areas where skin is most likely to be exposed

Cons

Not compatible with GORUCK-branded hip belts

Overall

87

Rucking

82.5

Everyday Carry

85

Price

90

Customer Reviews

92

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

The GR3 is the “big hoss” of the GORUCK’s rucks with its largest variations sporting a 45-liter load capacity. This is by no means the largest of all of the company’s bags (that honor goes to the larger Kit Bags) and I wouldn’t say it’s the company’s best travel bag, either (gotta go with the M23), but it is one of the most versatile options.

Ruck: GR3 (35L)

The larger load capacity combined with its ability to (when packed “properly”) fit into overhead bins makes the GR3 a legit carry-on bag option. With a decently robust interior pocket and side handles (which are included moreso to facilitate the travel aspects, but whatever) mean that all types or rucking are on the table.

The larger, bulky overall size of the GR3 can be problematic for even “average-sized” ruckers, especially when the bag is filled out, but in terms of “bang for your buck”, it doesn’t get much better (at least as far as GORUCK backpacks go).

GORUCK Rucker 4.0

Best for Pure and Dynamic Rucking: 83***/100

The GORUCK Rucker 4.0 is the most recent in the company’s “Rucker” line of bags and is currently the only training ruck available.

The Rucker 4.0’s padded and secured ruck-plate pocket perfectly accommodates GORUCK-branded ruck plates, ensuring perfect stabilization during all types of rucking activities. The top, bottom, and side handles further facilitates all forms of rucking activity.

Similarly sized bags are normally a little less expensive (especially the 15-liter variety) and everyday carry utility is slightly limited, but it’s hard to beat the Rucker 4.0 for general ruck training purposes.

Pros

Dedicated, heavily-padded ruck plate pocket is ideal for all types of rucking

Numerous size and capacity options

Possesses all necessary “dynamic” rucking components without the added weight of larger bags

Cons

Certain elements (ex. hip belt) do not come standard with all bag size and color options

Overall

83***

Rucking

95

Everyday Carry

75

Price

80

Customer Reviews

N/A

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

***The Rucker 4.0 suffers from the exclusion of the Customer Reviews score metric. Because reviews for all iterations of the Rucker are lumped into this score on the GORUCK website, it has been excluded. If this score was available and it was in line with other GORUCK bags, the Rucker 4.0’s overall score would likely be comparable to that of the GR1.

The Rucker 4.0 is, at the time of this writing, GORUCK’s only “training ruck” available for purchase. The ever-involving iteration of the classic “make your bag your gym” ruck, it is the kind of bag that most people probably think of when they think of “the rucking company”.

Ruck: Rucker 4.0 (15L)

Inclusions such as the heavily-padded and secured dedicated ruck plate pocket, multiple side and top handles (on larger models), and drainage holes make the Rucker 4.0 a unique entry among numerous other capable, but by no means ideal “do-everything” rucks. Although these features are a big superfluous, if not minor hindrances for everyday carry pursuits, they are much more difficult to replicate in bags where they aren’t present.

There are compromises to be made with the Rucker 4.0. Larger options lack features like the bonus hip belt while smaller options are not nearly as competitive, pound-for-pound, in regard to price. However, this bag remains my personal favorite and is, in my opinion, GORUCK’s best current offering.

GORUCK M23

Best for Travel-focused Ruckers: 85/100

The GORUCK M23 has the look and feel of “traditional” rucks, with the features of more modern bags. With its top-loading system, dedicated laptop and other storage compartments, and magnetic buckling system the M23 has an argument for the most versatile of GORUCK’s offerings.

Although the M23 does sport a decently robust large interior pocket, the placement of this pocket isn’t totally conducive to hauling a ruck plate around for miles with.

In regards to travel and EDC, the M23 may be GORUCK’s most functional, mid-sized bag, making it more of a dedicated carry-on and backpack than anything else.

Pros

Very well-engineered for EDC and light travel

Side compartment opening for additional ease of loading and unloading

Unique top-loading system

Cons

No “dynamic” rucking capabilities

Overall

85

Rucking/Travel

85

Everday Carry

90

Price

70

Customer Reviews

96

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

The M23 starts the “odd object” portion of the discussion. It is has a lot of similarities with “traditional” GORUCK rucks (as well as “traditional rucks” servicemen from yore hauled around) as well as a number of unique attributes.

Ruck: M23 – Ripstop ROBIC – Seaspray + Speed Tan (26L)

I personally refer to the M23 as the go-to bag for travelers who rucks (as opposed to being a bag for ruckers who travel) as it is uniquely situated to facilitate all types of wants and needs for those going on an extended “carry-on only” type of trip. This utility extends into everyday carry needs, although its excess size is probably a bit much for lugging to the office.

The M23’s larger size relative to its load capacity can be a bit overwhelming, especially for shorter-statured ruckers and those seeking a bag to get some “dynamic” rucking in with have too look elsewhere. Also, price is pretty hit or miss; you’ll find some great-value variations and some bags that…aren’t such great value.

GORUCK Kit Bag

Best Non-ruck GORUCK Bag: 90/100

The GORUCK Kit Bag is one of the brand’s bags that does not have rucking “capabilities”, instead exclusively serving as an EDC or travel bag. Despite this, it is a welcome addition to the line-up and is capable in its own right.

The shoulder-supported strap is sufficient for hauling a full 32 liters of gear with multiple exterior pockets to ensure the efficient organization of work materials, travel essentials, or gym gear.

Larger models can be slightly overwhelming with the (currently unavailable) 57-liter model being sufficient for most people and the 84-liter model being necessary for only the longest hauls.

Pros

Lightweight relative to load capacities

Included shoulder strap makes it easy to carry

Exterior pockets allow for easier organization

Cons

Only functional as an EDC and travel bag

Overall

90

Everyday Carry

90

Load Capacity***

100

Price

80

Customer Reviews

90

Read more on GORUCK Read our VS Review

How we test & score products

The GORUCK Kit Bag variations probably have the most variance of any other GORUCK product. With load capacities ranging from 32to 84(!) liters, the bag works for everything from a compact gym bag to an extended travel, shoulder-hauling pouch.

Bag: Kit Bag – Ripstop ROBIC (32L)

Unlike most other company offerings, the Kit Bag is exclusively designed for EDC and travel. Unless you get really creative, you’re not going to be able to do any kind of “pure” rucking in it and you’d have to be into some crazy kinds of workouts to do any kind of “dynamic” rucking.

This isn’t the most unique bag on the market nor is it by any means inexpensive, however, for GORUCK enthusiasts, any of the Kit Bag options (sizes and materials) could make an interesting addition to a (probably constantly growing) collection.

GORUCK Training Weight Vest

Best Dual-plate Carrier Weight Vest 86/100

GORUCK’s Training Weight Vest 2.0 is arguably the brands most popular non-bag, non-shoe item. It provides a more compact alternative to the brands larger bags and a different type of training utility.

The weight vest’s higher-quality materials draw a higher price point than many other competing weight vests and, in many aspects, it might be difficult to justify the added expense.

The loading, unloading, and tightening processes can take some getting used to, but the added utility of the waist belt/hip belt sets it apart in a somewhat crowded weight vest space.

Pros

Significant load capacity, sufficient for just about every athlete

Dual-Cordura fibers maximize functionality and comfort

Waist belt can double as a hip belt

Cons

Superfluous extra material makes “classic” “dynamic rucking” activities more difficult to facilitate

Overall

86

Rucking

82.5

Load Capacity

90

Price

75

Customer Reviews

95

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

GORUCK vests/plate carriers aren’t exactly bags, but are close enough (and, for most ruckers, serve the same or similar purposes) to legitimize their inclusion on this list. The GORUCK Weight Vest is actually my least favorite of these (two) options, but possesses enough unique functionality to make it appealing for certain types of ruckers and/or athletes.

Vest: Training Weight Vest 2.0

A 60-pound load capacity isn’t the highest, but it’s more than enough (and by enough, I mean realistic) for the vast majority of people who are looking to do functional fitness workouts under load. It is possible to ruck with this amount of weight, but 30 pounds on your chest for an extended ruck outing isn’t all that pleasant (I find that having the weight on my chest for even a few minutes gets pretty annoying).

The weight vest’s wait belt actually makes for a pretty nifty hip belt, although to really derive this benefit, you have to the vest cinched up pretty tight (which, if you have a front plate loaded, gets really uncomfortable). The GORUCK Weight Vest isn’t all that cheap either; if you’re going this route, I’d just suggest you opt for the…

GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier

Best GORUCK Accessory Item: 90/100

The GORUCK Plate Carrier (3.0) is the most “minimalist” (outside of hauling sand balls around) option for those looking to getting moving under a heavy load.

The “no frills” design lacks any type of storage capabilities, but can easily accommodate loads that the vast majority of athletes will be more than satisfied with (30 or 45 pounds).

There aren’t a lot of downsides with GORUCK’s plate carrier offering. Just don’t expect to rely solely on it if you have more substantive rucking aspirations or if you actually want to bring some food or drinks with you on your ruck outings.

Pros

Can be used as a substitute for a dedicated ruck bag

“Long” option can accommodate a 45-pound plate

Inexpensive relative to most vest/plate carrier options

Cons

Must use GORUCK Plate-sized ruck plates or very similarly-sized plates

Overall

90

Rucking

87.5

Load Capacity

90***

Price

90

Customer Reviews

94

Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

How we test & score products

The GORUCK Plate Carrier is, according to my calculations and experiences, the company’s best non-bag, non-shoe product i.e. the company’s best “training product”. For those seeking out a weight vest/plate carrier, it is in almost every way superior to the GORUCK Weight Vest (less expensive, larger single-side load capacity, more comfortable).

Vest: Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 (standard)

Although the “long” option plate carrier’s 45-pound load capacity i.e. it easily fits a 45-pound “long” ruck plate, is a nice option, most people will find that the 30-pound capacity of the “standard” option is more than sufficient (remember, workouts like Murph “only” require 20 pounds). The way the plate carrier’s weight sits on the back makes it uniquely suited for running WODs.

Trying to stick a non-GORUCK plate (or a plate that isn’t very similar in size) into the plate carrier is going to lead to…problems, but with the money saved on going this route, it’s easier to splurge on a nice plate to complement the “best” accessory.


What to Look For in GORUCK Backpacks, Bags, and Vests

After that rundown of 10 different GORUCK items, you may wonder how we came to different conclusions about each along the way. Here are the main things we look at when assessing a bag, especially in the early stages as these are factors that just about everyone will be interested in as they’re sizing things up:

Rucking

We know that (for some crazy reason), not everyone is trying to source a GORUCK backpack for rucking (whether in the form of “pure” or “traditional rucking” or for “dynamic rucking” purposes) …but if you’re reading this, you probably are. Because of this, “rucking” gets top billing.

For this category, we combine the aforementioned rucking categories (‘pure” and “dynamic”) into one score. We know that the latter of these is a bit more niche, however, for those looking to participate in events like a GORUCK Light, Basic, Tough, or Heavy, you pretty much need to know if you’re going to be able to throw your bag around a bit.

In regard to the types of rucking that most people are interested in, some bags are simply better than others. All of those pictures showing bag sizing are intended to give you an idea of how and where that ruck plate is going to sit on your back, which, if you’ve ever rucked with a ruck plate, has a significant impact on the experience.

Load Capacity

This is probably the most straightforward factor to consider (and category for us to assess). Point-blank: how much stuff can you haul in your bag?

It’s hard to put a top end on this since bags can get pretty big, but we base our scores on, more or less, different common “levels” (ex. 0-15 liters, 15-26 liters, etc.). If you look closer at our full reviews for the bags, you can more clearly see how this translates, most notably into EDC potential.

P.S. If you have trouble with liters, just start a Mountain Dew habit (a 26-liter bag should hypothetically be able to accommodate 13 of those deliciously awful, mind and teeth-rotting bottles).

Price

Our price ratings for GORUCK gear are relative to other similarly-sized bags. I don’t blame you if this is the most important thing to look for in a ruck; it’s certainly something that everyone should consider.

If you’re at all familiar with GORUCK backpacks (or any of their gear, to be honest), you’re likely well aware that the company’s gear veers on the pricey side of things. While it’s not difficult to find decently suitable rucking backpacks on popular retail websites for under ~$70, you’re going to have a very tough time finding any bag other than the Bullet or Kit Bag (we’ll throw in the Plate Carrier, too) for less than $150.

Like most things, you often get what you pay for. In our experience, this relates to rucks, as well, however, there are certainly some low-cost/great value non- GORUCK backpacks as well as GORUCK bags that are, frankly, pretty uncompetitive in this area.

Just keep in mind that we’re only looking at absolute price here and not “value”. If we tried something like this, people would probably be out with the pitchforks!

Customer Reviews

To be frank, the customer reviews category in relation to GORUCK backpacks and other gear carries a bit of an asterisk with it. Unlike many other companies who have their gear available in a number of places, GORUCK gear can’t be found in a ton of different online retail stores.

Until recently, GORUCK wasn’t available on Amazon (even now, selection is very limited) and only a few, select items can be found on Rogue. All of this is to say that if you want to find any one place with GORUCK backpack and bag reviews and a halfway decent sample size, you have to go to GORUCK.com.

For the most part, these reviews are pretty substantive and there are enough negative reviews (in some cases, very negative reviews) to give pause that there is any kind of censorship going on. However, in the interest of full disclosure, this is something to keep in mind when reviewing the scores for this category…

…because at the end of the day, we are confident in our assessments of these bags…

You’ll notice a few other areas that are more niche to different bags/items. Categories like “Travel” are included for bags more likely to see an airport than a ruck a swing. While you certainly can get creative and use your M23 for “dynamic” rucking or your Rucker 4.0 as your “personal item”, we try to stick to the most applicable categories.

Shopping tips for GORUCK Backpacks, Bags, and Vests

We’ve looked at how we rate bags, but it’s also important to discuss things that you should consider and look for when selecting a GORUCK bag. There is a lot more subjective, personal preference thought here than in the previous section (as well as a degree of dealing with circumstances that are oftentimes out of your control).

Just because other people (to include us!) give a bag great reviews, you can load it to the brim, and the price is right doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the bag for you

Intent

Seems simple, but when picking out a GORUCK backpack, you have to think about what you’re actually going to do with it. Something like the Rucker 4.0 is cool and all (it also happens to be my personal favorite of the bunch), but if you’re looking for a spacious travel bag that you might ruck with a few times a year, you’d probably end up disappointed if you bought it.

On our list, we didn’t include an EDC (everyday carry) score (individual reviews include this), but if this is your main priority, something like the Bullet or even the GR1 is going to be much better for you than a Rucker or a larger GR3.

Obviously, if you need an actual “bag”, the vest/plate carrier options are a non-starter (…but you knew that…)

As much as you may want the cool-looking bag with the giant load capacity, think about how all of that size is going to serve your needs before hitting “buy”. You may find that the smaller, more bland looking (this combination happens to be on sale a lot of the time), may be closer to what you need.

Material

Just about every variation of every GORUCK backpack is going to have a Cordura material option. This is more or less the “baseline” material for the company’s gear (even to include shoes like the Ballistic Trainers) and for being the go-to fabric, the combination of 1000D (most common), 500D, and 210D Cordura ain’t bad.

(although, to be fair, more and more companies’ bags are primarily comprised of Cordura so it’s not exactly some unique, “GORUCK ONLY!!!” quality).

Its also pretty easy to find GORUCK backpacks in Ripstop Robic. This material has similar durability to Cordura, but is generally considered to be slightly less resistant to tears and abrasions while also being lighter relative to overall strength.

In most cases, GORUCK’s Ripstop bags have more of their own distinctive looks which some will appreciate more than others.

Personally, I wouldn’t feel comfortable checking a Ripstop bag due to the higher likelihood if it getting scuffed or even torn in the chaotic transit process.

Finally, GORUCK also offers select bags in select sizes in more speciality materials like Dyneema (incredibly durable) and Waxed Canvas (decently strong and looks really nice).

Depending on your intentions, material selection will be anywhere from a top priority to a “whatever is the cheapest” factor in the decision-making process.

Special Features

There isn’t all that much variation in bags like the GR0 and M23. You pretty much have a couple of different material options and that’s it.

Other bags like the Bullet have a number of different sizes, material, and feature (ex. dedicated laptop compartment, frame sheet) options.

And some bags hang their hat on their unique inclusions (ex. the 15-liter Rucker 4.0’s included hip belt (selected colors), the GR2’s built in field pocket).

It’s worth closely reviewing each of these features against your take on which of these you actually might use (refer back to the “Intent” portion above) to determine which, if any, of these items most resonates with you.

Availability

As odd as this may be to include, it’s important to note that GORUCK doesn’t have an endless supply of each bag and variation on hand at all times. I would argue that the company actually experiences shortages and sell-outs more often than others although more “mainstream” bags and color combinations are pretty much always in stock (don’t worry; the all-black GR1 you’ve got your eye on is available!)

Some items take longer to restock than others so if your favorite bag is out of stock, but think you’d be pretty pleased with your second choice, you should consider getting it. There’s a chance you could be waiting a while for the other one.

GORUCK backpacks, bags, and rucks…worse analysis paralysis…?

We were trying to make things easier…I promise!

At the same time, I understand that possessing a wealth of information can actually make things more difficult and the decisions that much harder to come to.

The good news? You can do a lot worse than even our lowest-rated GORUCK backpack and, worst case scenario, you’re never going to have trouble off-loading it for close to full price on Facebook Marketplace or somewhere similar.

Regardless, don’t be afraid to take a chance on a GORUCK bag or two. At the time of this writing, I have 13 (and counting) as well as a bunch of other, non- GORUCK backpacks. I don’t regret a thing (but would still suggest you give the Rucker 4.0 a long, hard look…it’s my personal favorite) and still haven’t had to file for bankruptcy!

On a final sidenote, if you’re interested in GORUCK footwear offerings, check out our definitive guides on the GORUCK boots and GORUCK shoe lines!

Bullet

87

Numerous size and structure compact ruck options
210D Cordura is non-irritating on exposed skin
GORUCK’s most affordable ruck option
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR0

80

Shorter length and overall bulk create ideal dimensions for small-statured ruckers
Efficiently designed and compact engineering
Durable laptop protection pocket is standard in all versions
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR1

88

GORUCK’s “flagship” bag, refined over a decade
Perfectly functional as a “training ruck” as well as as an EDC bag
Standard frame sheet for stability and comfort when rucking with a plate
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR2

85

Most models offer a higher overall load capacity than the GR1
Built-in field pocket for smaller item organization
Out compartment pockets actually substantive enough for regular use
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

GR3

87

“Largest possible carry-on rucksack, sized to fit in the overhead bin of all major airlines”
Side handles are functional for both travel and dynamic rucking
210D Cordura is less irritating on areas where skin is most likely to be exposed
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

Rucker 4.0

83***

Dedicated, heavily-padded ruck plate pocket is ideal for all types of rucking
Numerous size and capacity options
Possesses all necessary “dynamic” rucking components without the added weight of larger bags
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

M23

85

Very well-engineered for EDC and light travel
Side compartment opening for additional ease of loading and unloading
Unique top-loading system
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

Kit Bag

90

Lightweight relative to load capacities
Included shoulder strap makes it easy to carry
Exterior pockets allow for easier organization
Read more on GORUCK Read our VS Review

Training Weight Vest

86

Significant load capacity, sufficient for just about every athlete
Dual-Cordura fibers maximize functionality and comfort
Waist belt can double as a hip belt
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review

Ruck Plate Carrier

90

Can be used as a substitute for a dedicated ruck bag
“Long” option can accommodate a 45-pound plate
Inexpensive relative to most vest/plate carrier options
Read more on GORUCK Read our FULL Review
Photo of author

AUTHOR

Tom, CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, ISSA-CPT, PN1-NC, DPA, CAPM has been CrossFitting for over 10 years. He has participated in a number of team and individual CrossFit competitions across Europe and the United States. He was the 2012 Chick-fil-A Race Series champion (North Georgia Circuit) and has put together a few gnarly garage and basement gyms in his time!

Leave a Comment