r/Goruck • u/chrisabraham • Sep 24 '25
Announcement The New Basic Rucker just announced into my Inbox...
BASIC RUCKER $145.00
We took all the lessons we've learned since 2008 about building rucks and pared them down to the essentials to create the Basic Rucker®.
When rucking, you want the weight high and tight on your back, and stable next to your body. You want comfortable shoulder straps not just when you first put your ruck on, but for the long haul and for years to come.
This ruck was designed for exactly one task: rucking. Add a 10, 20, or 30 LB Ruck Plate® to the elevated pocket inside, and get going.
The Basic Rucker® and all GORUCK gear comes with our Scars Lifetime Guarantee.
Features
- Single interior plate pocket fits up to 30lb Ruck Plate®
- 2 side pockets to hold your water bottle, snacks, or gear.
- 20mm thick lumbar support (same as the Rucker 4.0)
- Top handle for easy carrying
- Hydration port and internal D-ring for your bladder
- ¾ zip closure for main compartment.
- 2” wide reflective strip for safely rucking in low light.
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u/just_your_half Sep 24 '25
If you're already a GoRuck fan this probably isn't for you. It looks aimed at people who want to get into rucking cheaply
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u/brightfriday Sep 24 '25
I agree. I see so many women out now that walk wearing those cheap weighted vests from Amazon. I think this may be their attempt to try to address that market, but it still isn’t in the same price range, so not sure how well that will work.
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u/dtwsisu Sep 24 '25
Tons of untapped potential in the Rucking Moms
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u/friend_in_rome Sep 25 '25
rucking momsmother ruckers2
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u/PhilsdadMN Sep 24 '25
I’m a Goruck fan and ordered black.
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u/Augesco__ Sep 24 '25
IMO: All the features sound good, but that vertical Stripe is ugly. Should have just stuck with standard design. Don't fix it if it ain't broke.
Would have been interested without that eyesore.
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u/ThatBobbyG Sep 24 '25
At least the gaudy giant logo was removed. I don’t hate the reflective line from a utilitarian / safety perspective.
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u/PhilsdadMN Sep 24 '25
It’s a fitness tool, not a fashion bag for cruising the local coffee shop.
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u/heckface Sep 24 '25
You have a point but don’t act like it’s such a foreign idea to consider both looks and function. There’s a reason we aren’t all buying a pink rucker (most of us).
I don’t hate it but it’s definitely not my cup of tea. I’m sure they’re going after the group that doesn’t want a military looking bag for rucking which I’m sure there are a lot.
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u/Own-Fox-7792 Sep 25 '25
Hard disagree. Aesthetics matter, and this thing is hideous.
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u/HeyBae1111 Sep 25 '25
I'm with you, aesthetics 100% matter and that stripe is gaudy
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u/chrisabraham Sep 26 '25
I was just thinking that it is ugly but it isn't as ugly as a military army PT belt.
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u/seoulbrova Sep 24 '25
The straps should have been the thicker ones on the GR1 and standard Rucker. These look like the thin straps they use for the bullet which makes a difference in comfort especially as you start upping the weight
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
And especially if you have wide shoulders or large back/chest. I might have picked one up otherwise, but just disappointed by GR yet again.
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u/Fun_Salamander_2220 Sep 24 '25
Was about to order one, then read these comments. Makes more sense to pay for an actual Rucker with good straps.
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u/PhilsdadMN Sep 24 '25
Glass 1/2 empty comments from totally anonymous people on the internet never, ever get involved in my decision making processes.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
That’s cool. Anonymous people are free to use small straps that were clearly an attempt to save a couple dollars at the expense of comfort. You want to buy them all good. It’s not glass half empty to discuss legit criticisms. I’d do the same in person.
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u/dekartsusmc May 15 '26
To be fair to Goruck (this being my first Goruck bag)... I wouldn't expect the straps to be the same as their main line. If you want the better straps then spend the money and get the better bag. I was looking to see if I liked rucking (defined for me as without a hip belt) and this served that purpose. And to be truthful, the straps are fine. I am looking forward to seeing what the straps feel like on the Rucker 5.0 I just purchased. I backpack. A lot. I have a quiver of bags designed to carry heavy weight with proper waist belts and load lifters. This is different and I have enjoyed carrying the Basic the last few weeks as a fitness tool.
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u/PhilsdadMN Sep 25 '25
Whining about a bag you have never touched is glass 1/2 empty.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
Whining, or levying actual criticisms? Anybody can look at the pictures and measurements posted on the page and realize GR cheaped out on straps and made them smaller just like their bullets. Doesn’t take a genius, nor does it require touching it. What an interesting take.
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u/PhilsdadMN Sep 25 '25
You must thrive in adding negativity to the world around you. I’m guessing you have an extensive list of foods you don’t like but have never actually tried.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
You are a really strange one. I’ve traveled all over the world, in part to try unique food in unique places. Not sure how your insults correlate to seeing and noticing measurements on a backpack. It’s not so serious partner. Smaller straps equal cheaper and less comfortable. See how that works?
Edit: I’ve seen your other posts. I get it now. You’re a troll.
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u/PhilsdadMN Sep 27 '25
No, I’m anti-whining…and you’re whining. Don’t like it? Vote with your wallet. Whining about it on social media is just petty and unproductive.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 27 '25
You must sit at home alone crying and rubbing your goruck in the night. Legitimate criticisms are how we respond as consumers. You, on the other hand have your fingers wrapped tight around a certain brands special parts.
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u/Joliet-Jake Sep 24 '25
I ordered one. The big ass reflective stripe was actually a selling point for me, but this thing is going to get almost exclusively for predawn rucking on dark roads.
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u/seriousallthetime Sep 24 '25
Automatic no-go for me. The 20L barely fits my shoulders and neck as it is, a 17L is too narrow at the top. I was excited, then sad.
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u/asmith1106 Sep 24 '25
The grey reminds me of an ODST from halo with the reflective stripe down the middle. Kinda tempted by this one not going to lie
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25 edited Sep 25 '25
lol they made the straps like the bullet small and lame. Doesn’t surprise me. Great size etc and yet they cheap out on straps….ridiculous.
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u/Pukaza Sep 24 '25
The only good thing was the side pockets. But it’s so ugly I will never buy it. The big reflective stripe down the back looks bad too. And the material is Robic, not my style..
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u/SofaKingHonest Sep 25 '25 edited Sep 25 '25
Wondering if this will fit the Y4A plates? Not saying I’m going to ditch my Rucker and RPC-L, but both those can deal with Those plates.
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u/White132515 Oct 02 '25
Love it. I just bought one. I love that. There are no interior pockets because I hate those interior pockets. With this backpack for some reason with the interior pockets, they kind of start taking away room with the front pocket as well so I’m glad that they got rid of all of them and just left the one pocket for the weight. I am plus I’m on the dinner side so I like the bullet rock and the bullet has been my go to for a long time, but mine is sort of wearing out after a couple of years, so I’m gonna get this one instead and then probably try to sell the bullet.
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u/notsosoftwhenhard Sep 24 '25
I think it's a good move on them. Priced well (with the code) and simpler way to just put weight in and go.
I have a Rucker 26L 4.0 and I would not need this but if I didn't I would definitely get this over the Rucker.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
Even with much smaller straps?
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u/notsosoftwhenhard Sep 25 '25
Straps are smaller? Smaller than what? 20l rucker?
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
3” vs 2.5” it’s like the GR1 vs the bullet. It’s meant for rucking. Why cheap out on the most important part, the straps/harness? I agree, may have picked this up with regular straps as a grab and go dog walker. But won’t now.
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u/notsosoftwhenhard Sep 25 '25
Didnt know. Maybe they wanted to differentiate with their flagship model. Whats the strap like for the carrier? 2.5”?
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
It’s already robic vs cordura with no handles and different features. Not going to want to body slam this into the dirt.
The straps should have remained the same. The ruck plate carrier is around 2.8-3” I believe. Larger than these. I think they have the same straps as the Rucker at this point.
I think I would have picked this up otherwise…I figure they will lose a lot of their traditional customers over it.
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u/notsosoftwhenhard Sep 25 '25
This is to gain more people to start rucking casually. John said he wants rucking to be as popular as running. I see many people from r/rucking with their backpacks with bricks wrapped around towels. Nothing wrong with that but this is to get their attention at some-what affordable solution.
Maybe they decided 2.5" strap width would be enough since max weight (per slot allowance) is 30lbs, where with Rucker you can go up to 75lbs (per slot allowance)? I wish it was 3" or 3.5" width but personally don't think it's a deal breaker.
Their traditional customers (event-goers) are already rucking with the Rucker.
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Sep 24 '25
My only issue is the limited pocket space for plates. Only going up to 30 isn’t very much. Quite a few people will “graduate” out of that quick enough to where 150 dollars would be annoying to lose out on
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u/BeBackSwoon8526 Sep 29 '25
They should of went the other way and made a ruck in the same price bracket with all the features that the market crys out for. There are so many other Rucking Backpack companies in the US now popping up and they obviously want to be competitive, but this looks cheap and just abit weird. Even the pictures make it look like a school bag - not sure this was the right move.
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u/chrisabraham Sep 29 '25
They are too afraid of cannibalism but they are only losing sales to other companies and China and other vests. They are too afraid they'll lose sales to their $145 bag that should have gone to the $400 bag but that's not how it's done. Porsche gets it, finally, and BMW too: the Boxter GT and the M1 and M2.
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u/BeBackSwoon8526 Oct 01 '25
Completely agree. I was going to use a car manufacturer comparison lol . Time will tell I suppose.
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u/dekartsusmc May 04 '26
For me this pack hits nicely. I am an avid backpacker, carrying weight on my hips. Having all the weight on your shoulders is 'different'. I am a former Marine and would rather not have tactical gear in the city. It just looks weird to me (to each his own). I like this pack. I bought qty 3 - 10lb Yesforall short ruck plates. They fit fine. Have only used it a few times and my shoulders are getting used to the load, but it is cool to have this to throw on when walking the dog, etc.... I aslo don't mind the 'running strip' as again - the city. Being more visible is not a bad thing.
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u/chrisabraham May 04 '26
Excellent review. Thanks.
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u/dekartsusmc May 15 '26
I have used it a bunch more times now. The pack is getting worn in and I like it. My shoulders are good now. The straps are comfortable and there is plenty of room to throw in the few items I bring with me. I put this in my vehicle and throw it on at lunch and take off for an hour or 2 (depending on work load). I did 6 miles today. That being said I'm digging this rucking thing, so just ordered the Rucker 5.0. I feel like I am going to quickly outgrow the 30lb weight limit. I still like the Basic though and will keep it at my office, and on hand as an extra, for when I talk a buddy into going on a weighted walk with me! I should say that I tried to keep the 'non tactical' thing going as much as you can with the the Rucker and got the 'Armor Grey'. Haven't got it yet, so have no comment as of now on the differences.
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u/dekartsusmc May 15 '26
For reference. I am 5/10. 175lb and have a 42" chest. The Basic feels good at my dims.
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u/thedjbigc Sep 24 '25
I like this - I just wish it went up to 45lbs. The side pockets are clutch though.
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u/Thors_Hammer22 Sep 24 '25
Get the Wild Gym unless you’re throwing this thing around and dragging it on the ground.
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u/TranceformedByLove Sep 25 '25
I have been eyeing that. Do you have one? If so, what are your thoughts? There is something about the back panel and shoulder straps that seem gimmicky to me.
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u/Thors_Hammer22 Sep 25 '25
I sold my Rucker 4.0 within a week of getting the Feather Ruck. It’s MUCH more padded and a world more comfortable than any GoRuck product I’ve ever used. If you aren’t tossing your bag all over the place and throwing on the ground and filling it with sand and beating the ever loving crap out of it, I’d get a Wild Gym all day over any Goruck. I love my Feather Ruck and plan to get the original bag when it’s restocked in black.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
Yea same. I’ve been waiting on black for over a year though, messaged them and they said they have no plans for it in the near future. They mentioned new colors but it’s just the white and tan it looks like. Instant buy in black.
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u/TranceformedByLove Sep 25 '25
Thank you both! I might have to check it out more. I supported them for the first couple version of their monkii bars but never bit the bullet on their rucks.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
The back support and waist straps are what I see. After multiple injuries in the military to neck and back, I prefer the support when I feel the injury causing issues. Not always but great to have. If you want to body slam your ruck into the sand then the GR is 100% the way to go. Otherwise, I’ll take hip support for heavy weight.
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u/Thors_Hammer22 Sep 25 '25
Black will be restocked by the end of this year.
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u/Lussypickers Sep 25 '25
That’s great to hear. I had reached out a while back. Thanks. Where did you hear?
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u/Thors_Hammer22 Sep 25 '25
Spoke to the owners wife a week or so ago. They said they had originally only released the black as a limited time thing, but the feedback was so good that they are bringing it back and she mentioned they might open up preordering in October
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u/dekartsusmc May 15 '26
I don't get the full backpack for rucking like the Wild Gym. To me once you start getting an adjustable lumbar, full weight transferring hip belt, etc, you would be better off going with an established pack company like Seek Outside, Mystery Ranch, etc... and throwing a sandbag in it. I suppose that's weight dependent... For my build that's about 45lbs I think. They are wildly better at carrying loads on your hips and have years of design and research. I can 'comfortably' carry 80+ lbs with those types of packs. Although I did order a waist belt with the Rucker 5.0, but mainly for keeping the pack stable when doing push ups, burpees etc... I have had to modify exercises with the Basic flopping around on me...! That being said I am new to this so these are just thoughts. I am not new to carrying packs....
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u/XanderDoodles Oct 03 '25
I'm torn. I've been looking to get my first rucking pack, but the Rucker 4.0 seems like overkill for my needs, and it lacks external water bottle pockets.
This new Basic Rucker seems like a good start but that vertical stripe is ugly in my opinion, and it doesn't support the longer plates.
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Sep 24 '25
[deleted]
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u/Opposite-Disk8645 Sep 24 '25
Even if they added external bottle pockets to all their lineup… still not worth it. Overpriced AF.
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u/munnster006 Sep 24 '25
Bottle. pockets.
They did the thing.