⭐️ Best Rucking Accessory: 92/100
Despite lacking extensive pockets, any type of internal storage system, or even small areas to stash a water bottle, cell phone, or keys, this training accessory easily accommodates enough weight (30 or 45 pounds, depending on the size) to mimic a “typical” rucking load.
Unlike even more compact ruck options, the Plate Carrier is probably best suited as an accessory item when you just have to make your bodyweight (and other) movements a little more challenging.
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.
Pros
Can be used for both “traditional” and “dynamic” rucking
Heavy duty Cordura can take a beating
Inexpensive
Cons
If you actually need to lug stuff around, this won’t suffice
Plate can only be loaded on one side (back)
Must use GORUCK plates (or plates of very similar dimensions) for “best results”
Before we get started, we invite you to check out our definitive guide to GORUCK backpacks, bags, and vests. If the plate carrier turns out not to be the item for you, maybe one of the other 9 in our guide will work out for you!
Also, if you’re interested in GORUCK footwear offerings, check out our definitive guides on the GORUCK boots and GORUCK shoe lines!
Despite what all of the wannabe John Wicks of the world will tell you, a plate carrier probably shouldn’t be your first investment when you’re getting started with fitness gear. Unless you’re really into bodyweight work (which, if you are, that’s cool…but pick up a barbell sometime, wouldya?!) you’re going to be pretty limited with the overall ceiling you have with one.
That said, plate carriers have a very large amount of relative value and can immediately be strapped on to make just about any “normal” workout a heck of a lot harder.
The GORUCK Plate Carrier in particular is a solid option as one of these…”difficulty multiplier” options as it combines robust materials and deliberate engineering with a very reasonable price point in relation to other options.
I’ve taken on a few of the top bodyweight workouts with this thing on (so I guess they weren’t technically bodyweight WODs when I did them, but you get the point) and have incorporated it into my standard rucking regimen. Now I’m gonna tell you all about it.
Sizing (unscored)
I want to provide a few special pictures of the plate carrier to give an idea of sizing. For reference, I’m ~5’8″ and Mel is ~5’2″:
Table of Contents
Rucking
For some reason or another, “rucking” has traditionally been associated with yuge, stuffed bags.
I mean, stop and think about it for a second; what is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about…rucking? What image is in your head right now?
Probably not a weight vest…or a plate carrier.
…but can you think of any reason why you couldn’t use a plate carrier for rucking? Or even as your primary “ruck”?
I’ve been asking myself this as I have been rucking solely with the GORUCK Plate carrier and, in all honesty, haven’t really been able to come up with a reason, especially given my own rucking activities and priorities.
For one, I’m generally not going too heavy with my “everyday” ruck outings. Sometimes I’ll go closer to 40 pounds, but I normally top out at the “designated for GORUCK events“-mandated 30 pounds. With GORUCK’s plate carrier, I’m able to slide a 20 or 30-pound plate (GORUCK plates, only!) in and cut down on excess weight (it weighs ~1.2 pounds whereas something like the GR1 weighs closer to 3.3 pounds).
In terms of how the plate actually sits on my back, I have found that not only can I position it to replicate where it would sit in my ruck, but I have a bit more optionality if I want it to hang slightly lower. I have found that I can loosen the tightening straps and lean back (causing the plate to fall a bit) and retightening in the new position.
This position isn’t ideal, and the weight slightly jabs my back when it is positioned in this manner, but it can be a good way to switch things up over longer periods where I want to give my upper back some short-term relief.
Like the majority of GORUCK’s bags, the heavily padded shoulder straps provide an extra degree of comfort, especially during longer rucks, than other, non-padded straps. However, there is something about the plate carrier’s straps that feel slightly less comfortable, even though they are about as thick as the ruck’s straps. Regardless, I don’t find myself desperately trying to adjust them, even during longer outings.
These things considered, your GORUCK Plate Carrier could become your new “ruck sack”…right?
Not necessarily…
As alluded to before, unlike an interior ruck plate pocket (or even just a general internal sleeve) that is designed to accommodate a particular plate/plate size, but can reasonably handle plates of many different sizes, you really gotta be deliberate with picking out your weights for GORUCK’s plate carrier. In my “standard”-sized piece, a “long” plate of any type won’t fit at all while a smaller, non-branded 10-pound plate fits, but is really clunky.
If you’re going to go this route, expect to invest a little bit more into GORUCK-branded plates (their sand plates, which are quite a bit cheaper than the metal plates, are options, although they top out at 15 pounds of capacity).
Also, I’m not really a “long range rucker” and have topped out at about 4 hours of continuous rucking. I’ve completed the 12-mile ruck “trial” without reaching for food or water, but over this distance (especially if it’s hot and/or you’re moving slowly) and you’re gonna need to hydrate and/or have a bite to eat. Without storage capacity (besides where you stick the plate) or pockets, you don’t have any options for lugging anything extra with you.
It’s just you…and your plate.
Again, for my shorter ruck ventures, this hasn’t been a problem at all. If you head out for similar distances, you could probably make it work as well. However, the GORUCK Plate Carrier simply cannot be your primary rucking “tool” if you ever go for distance.
Overall, I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how well the Plate Carrier holds up during my ruck outings and, in some aspects, would consider using it with much greater regularity. However, for all of you distance ruckers…well…you know best what you actually need to get you through!
Rucking Score : 85
“Dynamic” Rucking
Truth be told, before I got the GORUCK Plate Carrier, if I ever needed to do some type of…weighted vest workout, I would just wear a “traditional” weight vest (usually the type where you can add a bunch of small, weight plates to). I’ve, of course, used rucks for these types of workouts before…but…we know they’re not quite the same…
So, what better way to test out my (then) new plate carrier for the first time than with some Memorial Day Murph action!
I was actually slightly apprehensive, wondering if it would be a good idea to do…that workout with not only a brand new piece of equipment, but with equipment I had never really used before. However, not even halfway into the first mile run, I felt very good about my decision.
Despite the difficulty of the workout itself, I found that the Plate Carrier worked out well for all 4 of the primary movements of the workout (run, pull-ups, push-ups, squats). Although I partitioned the workout (I started and ended with the mile run with “Cindy” in the middle (20 sets of 5 pull-ups, 10 push-ups, 15 squats)) I managed a respectable time (42:22).
Most importantly, despite the 20 extra pounds I was working with throughout the workout, I didn’t find the plate carrier/plate to be intrusive, annoying to deal with, bashing into me, etc. at all.
Regarding this lack of “intrusiveness” I think this largely comes down to the lack of a robust back panel (alluded to in the previous section). Where this is a slight detriment during “pure” rucking (the back panel helps to maintain a good, upright posture), when running (where a slight, forward lean is preferred) there isn’t hard piece of plastic essentially “forcing” you up.
Granted, this can work against you, particularly if the Plate Carrier is not tight enough since the less robust backing is slightly more pliable and will smack you in the back (constantly) throughout the workout. However, as far as how it impacts my running, the presence of the added weight/resistance is the only real detriment (which is how it should be).
As far as the stationary bodyweight movements, the Plate Carrier is even less intrusive than it is when running. This even extends to (legless!) rope climbs which, although they are quite challenging with an extra 20 pounds on my back, aren’t hard because of some awkward implement.
Of course, you could use the Plate Carrier for more…creative ventures (plate carrier swings(?), overhead squats, etc.), but I would say that the vast majority of people are going to use it to make running and bodyweight movements harder. However, it isn’t ideal for these activities, especially in comparison to something specifically designed for these exercises (like the Rucker 4.0).
With that being said, it does have a conveniently placed handle on top, making it easier to lug around and use to perform things like swings and (light) farmer’s carries if that’s what you’re looking to do.
Overall, the GORUCK Plate Carrier has surprised me with its overall effectiveness for dynamic rucking activities. I PR’d my “vested” Murph time in it…so…it’s gotta be pretty good, yeah?!
Dynamic Rucking Score: 90
Load Capacity
As far as plate carriers go, the GORUCK Plate Carrier holds up pretty well. Most plate carriers’ capacities fall in the range of accommodating between 10 and 50 pounds while GORUCK’s offering can handle a 30-pound plate (or up to a 45-pound “long plate” if you go with the “long” option.
Now, I include a double asterisk here because not only do you need the “long” option (which is only $20 more than the “standard” option I have, but still) to garner the “excellent” capacity plate carrier, but you also pretty much have to use a GORUCK plate (or one of very similar size).
Having very specific plate dimensions isn’t uncommon with plate carriers, but it does add another thing to think about and plan for to ensure that comfort and capacity are maximized.
Load Capacity Score: 90**
Materials and Construction
Although Cordura is by no means a material that is exclusive to GORUCK, you’d be pretty hard pressed to find a product of theirs (outside of shirts and things like that) that don’t include a bit of the tough ballistic nylon in their construction.
Their plate carrier is no exception. It’s close to 100 percent Cordura.
While this may seem slightly insignificant to some since you’re not really throwing your plate carrier or vest around in the same way you might with a ruck, I always consider how I take mine off after that final rep or run…
There is no taking it easy on those drops and if my gear were made of something less robust, I wouldn’t be surprised if it busted pretty soon into my plate carrying career.
As you might expect, the lumbar (back) support material is a (light) padded foam material (EVA) which is pretty much the only part of the Plate Carrier that isn’t exclusively Cordura.
One especially important point to consider if you happen to be a shirtless runner or rucker is that the Cordura on the back panel and shoulder straps is 210D HT as opposed to the more standard 1000D. This material variation is much less abrasive on bare skin, making it much less likely that you’ll suffer friction burn from the Plate Carrier. I find this inclusion to be a very smart and empathetic engineering touch by GORUCK.
Materials and Construction Score: 100
Price
When we talk about GORUCK gear, we’re normally at least slightly lamenting each item’s respective price tag. Not known for putting out the most inexpensive gear, there is usually some variation of the disclaimer “…but they’re great bags” either before or after the price discussion.
When it comes to the GORUCK Plate Carrier things are…different(?!?)
While it’s not the absolute, most affordable plate carrier, it holds its own pretty well. In the realm of dedicated plate carriers (specifically those for fitness training purposes, not for running around and getting shot at), there are some truly “budget” options, a big open area (with no options), and then the GORUCK Plate Carrier.
Overall, I think $115 (at the time of this writing) is pretty easy to stomach for a solid training accessory.
Price Score: 90
Customer Reviews
Customer Reviews get a little interesting when it comes to the GORUCK Plate Carrier. It undoubtedly scores quite well on its official GORUCK webpage, clocking in with a collective 4.7 out of 5 with close to 1400 reviews (at the time of this writing).
Although GORUCK gear doesn’t show up on Amazon, a lot of it can be found on Rogue. The Plate Carrier doesn’t do nearly as well with Rogue’s audience, currently “enjoying” a collective score of 3.4 out of 5 (granted, the sample size is only…5 people).
It appears as though the biggest complaint has to do some discomfort with the Plate Carrier during longer, “pure” ruck outings and the desire for some type of hip belt attachment to better distribute the weight.
I haven’t really experienced any significant discomfort with the Plate Carrier, although I will contend that most rucks (which people compare the Plate Carrier to, despite it being ~half the price) are more comfortable over longer distances.
…and if the people need the hip belt, a universal one (which can easily be detached and re-attached to the ruck or vest of their choice) can be had for only $35. Problem solved!
Customer Reviews Score: 94
Customer Service
Despite a few minor frustrations (which have resulted in minor inconveniences as opposed to any substantive problems), I have had very good interactions with GORUCK. This has included assistance with returns, special circumstances refunds (occurring outside of the usual refund window), and direct communication with staff members who could best advise me on various equipment topics.
I appreciate that when I interact with GORUCK personnel that my inquiries are promptly addressed and that I get a human (generally a rather pleasant one, at that) and not a nightmare A.I. Chatbot.
These personal anecdotes aside, I can live with the company’s return policies which dictate that not only can you get a refund within 30 days of purchase, but that GORUCK will even pick up the tab to have the item(s) shipped back.
Of course, the company’s Scars Lifetime Guarantee (“You break it, we fix it”) is a true headliner, instilling both trust and a sense of security when purchasing GORUCK’s (relatively…not cheap) equipment. If, in the expected course of heavy use your gear gets damaged, GORUCK will repair it (or replace it if the repairs are deemed to be impossible to facilitate).
I haven’t had to put any items through to Scars at this point (to include the Plate Carrier), but if I do, I’m confident that I’ll be satisfied with the outcome (as others I’ve discussed the process with have expressed to me).
Customer Service Score: 95
Who is the GORUCK Plate Carrier really for?
I’ll admit, a plate carrier wouldn’t be my first option, but I can understand that it really appeals to certain kinds of people.
If you already have GORUCK plates
As we mentioned before, the GORUCK Plate Carrier is, as you might imagine, designed to accommodate GORUCK-branded plates. If you already have a GORUCK “travel ruck” or “training ruck” plus the plates to go with them, you’re already way ahead of those who need to purchase the plate carrier and plates.
“Minimalist” ruckers
You want to go rucking…without a ruck…?
Trust me…I get you!
I think its totally understandable, especially if you’re going on a shorter (less than ~15 miles) outing where all you care about is carrying some extra weight (as opposed to having to pack water, snacks, etc.).
If you’ve got your hydration situation figured out and just need something to hold your plate, the GORUCK Plate Carrier has you covered (literally!)
Not for those who want even weight distribution
If you’re used to rucking this shouldn’t be an issue, but if you’re more accustomed to traditional weighted vests (where you generally have an equal amount of weight in the front and back pockets) it can feel a bit awkward to only have weight on the backside.
If you prefer a “10-10”, “15-15” or even a “30-30″(!) distribution, the GORUCK Plate Carrier might feel a little awkward.
How we reviewed the GORUCK Plate Carrier
I mentioned above that I have worked the plate carrier into applicable CrossFit workouts (most notably this year’s Murph) and have also given it a go on some semi-long (~45-minutes) dedicated cardio sessions (keeping it one for runs and biking) to get an idea of how comfortable it is when moving at a decent pace.
GORUCK Plate Carrier Alternatives
To be honest, you don’t have that many plate carrier options that either A. aren’t designed for events involving shooting B. aren’t of “budget” quality. Thankfully, our suggested alternatives are pretty legit:
Rogue Plate Carrier
The Rogue Plate Carrier is somehow even less expensive than GORUCK’s offering. The load capacity isn’t as high, but it can still easily accommodate 40 pounds worth of plates and is constructed of the same durable (Cordura) materials.
Pros
Elastic bottom waist strap for comfort and easy tightening
Same high-quality Cordura as GORUCK’s offerings
Less expensive
Cons
Not huge load capacity
Not ideal for everyday carry
5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier
5.11 Tactical gear is what you’ve seen the old-school CrossFit Games athletes wearing during Murph events. Their TacTec Plate Carrier is one of the most well-respected in the industry with and advanced tightening system.
Pros
Compatible with cast-iron and laser-cut plates
High storage capacity
Close to 500 almost universally perfect reviews on Rogue
Cons
Complicated sizing and tightening system
Expensive
GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0
The GORUCK Weight Vest is, more or less, the same thing as the GORUCK Plate Carrier…just with an extra plate pocket (on the front). If one 30-pound (or one 45-pound) plate just isn’t enough, opt for the weight vest.
Pros
Double the capacity of the GORUCK Plate Carrier
Constructed of tough Cordura material
“Scars” Lifetime Guarantee
Cons
Not inexpensive
Unlike other weighted vests, can only accommodate very specific plates
Frequently Asked Questions
Picking up a plate carrier is an…interesting proposal. Let’s take a few more questions…just to be sure…
How viable is rucking in the GORUCK Plate Carrier?
Very
If I was a "serious" rucker and was putting in 50-plus miles each week, I would go with an actual ruck. However, if you're into shorter (1-3 miles) sessions where you won't be reaching for water or a snack, it's great.
What are vested workouts like in it?
Truth be told, they take a little bit of getting used to, particularly if you're used to having weight evenly distributed on your chest and back. However, I didn't find it to be too difficult of a learning curve and took down Murph with it pretty well (new PR!) my first time wearing it!
The GORUCK Plate Carrier…The Best Rucking Accesory?
In a surprise to probably everybody (us included), with a total overall score of 92/100, the GORUCK Plate Carrier is currently one of the highest-rated pieces of equipment on this website. Considering its very reasonable price point, overall functionality, and durability, there really isn’t much not to like about it.
The fact that by only purchasing a supplementary ruck plate that you have all that you need to make any bodyweight workout more challenging and something to get a very decent rucking session (or 10) in with makes this plate carrier and underrated fitness gear item.
It still wouldn’t be my first equipment option (get a barbell first…seriously), but after messing around with it for a bit, it’s way higher on my list than it previously was. I’m glad I have it now…Murph is always just around the corner…
As we finish up, we invite you again to check out GORUCK’s current “Deals”. Knowing what I know about these, there is a good chance that a number of the bags from this guide (among other goodies) are deeply discounted right now!
Also, if you’re interested in GORUCK equipment, you gotta be interested in other rucking gear and workouts, right? Check out our definitive guides on the best dynamic rucking workouts!
Overall Score
92
Rucking
85
Dynamic Rucking
90
Load Capacity
90
Materials and Construction
100
Price
90
Customer Reviews
94
GORUCK Plate Carrier (3.0)
Despite lacking extensive pockets, any type of internal storage system, or even small areas to stash a water bottle, cell phone, or keys, this training accessory easily accommodates enough weight (30 or 45 pounds, depending on the size) to mimic a “typical” rucking load.
Unlike even more compact ruck options, the Plate Carrier is probably best suited as an accessory item when you just have to make your bodyweight (and other) movements a little more challenging.
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.
Pros
Can be used for both “traditional” and “dynamic” rucking
Heavy duty Cordura can take a beating
Inexpensive
Cons
If you actually need to lug stuff around, this won’t suffice
Plate can only be loaded on one side (back)
Must use GORUCK plates (or plates of very similar dimensions) for “best results”
Hi Tom, thank you for informative and very helpful review! I got convinced at last.
I have a practical question: Can you effectively attach a universal hip belt to the ruck?
Cheers!
Hey, Michal,
Glad you enjoyed it. Good news and bad news:
Bad news: I misspoke in the article (I will update it soon); it really isn’t practical to attach a hip belt to the plate carrier, my apologies for the confusion.
Good news: I honestly don’t know when/why you could need it due to how the plate carrier tightens and the effective “weight limit”, particularly on the “standard” models. If you prefer rucking with a hip belt, but don’t want some giant bag, I’d go with the Rucker 4.0 (many of the smaller bags actually come with a built-in hip belt).
If you decide to purchase, and you’re in Europe, please use this link; hope the info was helpful!
https://www.goruck.eu/?oid=39&affid=3031
Hey Tom, I appreciate quick response. You’ve dispelled my doubts. I do not need a hip belt, however I will most likely hit Plate Carrier limit of 45 lbs. I am pretty sure, I will manage without. PC ticks all the boxes in my case, as a very low profile solution for rucking in the urban environment. Simplicity rules. I obviously considered the Rucker 4.0 but I don’t really need funcionality it offers. Thank you for a link – GoRuck finaly made it to Europe 🙂
Hello, Michal,
I’m glad it worked out for you and please let me know how you like the plate carrier!
Regarding GORUCK in Europe, I recently wrote an article discussing differences in shipping and customs costs. In some cases, it can actually be cheaper to purchase from the U.S. store than it is to order from GR Europe! https://garagegymrevisited.com/fitness-shipping-costs/
Also, I’ve included a link to the official GORUCK Europe Facebook group. Not a lot of activity, but still a good source of information on happenings over here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/981290902045692/?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&multi_permalinks=2629129843928448