A Top Name in Military-Inspired EDC and Outdoor Bags Just Overhauled Its Most Fundamental Pack

GoRuck is best known for its exceptional, “bombproof” GR1 backpack. And that makes sense, as it’s the brand’s founding offering.

That said, it could be argued that another bag, the Rucker, better encapsulates the GoRuck’s overall identity and ethos, as it was the brand’s first bag designed specifically for the physical form of exercise known as “rucking,” from which the brand derives its name.

Since its launch in 2016, that bag has seen a whopping four redesigns. And now, with the launch of the GoRuck Rucker 5.0, it has gotten a fifth. And there’s no question: it’s the best version yet.

GoRuck

Rucking awesome

The core of this bag remains intact. Like the four iterations that came before this one, it’s designed to be tough as nails, durable as hell and bear a lot of weight.

Of course, its use in rucking is only part of the equation. This is, after all, a useful bag beyond just its rucking plate compatibility. To that end, its available in either 20- or 25-liter sizes, which are actually only a liter smaller than the GR1 sizes.

GoRuck

So what’s the real difference, then? Well, the GR1 is made more like a Special Forces pack, with a heavy focus on its toughness and durability. While the Rucker is plenty tough, it has much more of a focus on fitness use and, therefore, ergonomics.

To that end, the brand has redesigned its dual-density straps to be more comfortable and has overhauled the lumbar support to better conform to the curvature of the human spine. That means, even under a load as heavy as 75 pounds, it wears comfortably and won’t bog you down and mess up your posture.

GoRuck

Do-it-all pack

While the focus of the Rucker is largely on, well, rucking, that doesn’t mean it can’t do other stuff. In fact, I’d suggest that its purpose-driven build actually makes it more versatile than you might anticipate.

For instance, it has a dedicated rucking plate sleeve up against the back pad. Incidentally, it’s also the ideal size for laptop computers, and the padding helps protect your delicate tech.

It also has plenty of space (and pockets) beyond that sleeve in its generous main compartment for a bunch of other gear. Furthermore, those internal pockets have had their zippers and velcro swapped for strong, convenient magnetic closures.

GoRuck

And if that’s still not enough, it has MOLLE webbing outside for modular attachments.

It also gets grab handles on all four sides, which make it super convenient in travel situations where you need to grab your bag and go quickly.

Truly, this is the best Rucker the brand has ever built. And that’s saying a lot.

GoRuck

Availability and pricing

The GoRuck Rucker 5.0 pack is now available on the brand’s site for $265 apiece in four different colorways.

GoRuck

GoRuck Rucker 5.0

The Rucker 5.0 is GORUCK’s purpose-built rucking pack — and its most refined yet. Constructed from 1000D CORDURA and stress-tested at over 400 lbs, it carries up to 75 lbs across dual elevated plate pockets that keep weight high and tight to lock in posture. Version 5.0 swaps the 4.0’s Velcro interior pockets for recessed magnetic closures and adds 30mm dual-density EVA lumbar foam, making it the go-to pack for serious ruckers and weighted fitness training alike. Backed by GORUCK’s SCARS Lifetime Guarantee.

• $265 at GoRuck

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