GoRuck GR1 Review: Best for Walking, Rucking, Gym, and More

As we find out outside the house, busy with tools WIRED comments team writing about our favorite bags and EDCs. Today, comment Scott Gilbertson he enjoys his GoRuck backpack. You can also search for more Bag Check issue to THE WIRE writers share everything they love.

GoRuck’s US-made GR1 is the best backpack I’ve ever used, full stop. The 26-liter model is big enough to hold everything I would need for a several-week trip. It can also work as a camera bag, gym bag, hiking bag, and, yes, backpacking.

The GR1 costs more (per bag), but for its usability and durability, I’d say it’s worth every penny. I’ve been using mine for three years now, and it still looks like it did the day I got it.

I became interested in the GoRuck GR1 because I hate running. I like to walk, ride a bike, and ride a bike. But running? No thanks. Even so, I’m willing to admit that running is probably the cardio exercise that prevents entry. Other than new shoes every year or two, you don’t need anything. Just walk out the door and torture yourself, er, I mean, run away.

Fortunately for me, I found them droppingwhich is known as a military term for carrying a heavy bag. In recent years, rucking has become popular among ordinary people, coming on TikTok and by Silicon Valley researchers. The best definition of rucking I’ve ever seen come from Michael Easter The Comfort Crisiswhich describes riding as “cardio for people who hate running.” Sounds like me, right?

Rowing involves carrying heavy loads while walking (some people jog, some jog, I don’t). Basically, regardless of your speed, the extra weight in your pack will make your body feel even higher. But if you’ve ever worn a pack to go hiking, you’ve probably learned the hard way that most backpacks aren’t up to the task of carrying heavy loads. Thin shoulder straps cut cheese on your shoulders, fabric sags, and items in your pocket dig into your back and tailbone.

That’s when my editor said, “Oh, I’ve got a GoRuck GR1 – riding is what it’s all about.” produced do.” After a little research, I soon had my GR1. Made from super durable and water resistant 1000D Cordura, it wears a T-shirt on your back before anything happens. And the zipper pulls—perhaps the most overlooked feature of GoRuck packs—are fun. They are large and easy to hold, even with thick gloves.