Road Test | GORUCK GR 1
Over the past month or so there have been a lot of people searching for reviews on the GORUCK GR 1 and getting directed to Carryology. We figured with so many people looking for it, we may as well oblige and give you the review!
Fortunately we found that one of our readers, Greg Nelson, has had a long relationship with his GORUCK via the ‘What backpack do you use?‘ post and Greg was able to offer us a very detailed review that should answer all your questions, so click on for a review of the GORUCK GR 1.
When the need arose for a heavy duty, solidly constructed backpack that could withstand the rigors of heavy loads and harsh environments, I began to research some of the larger military carry manufacturers. I even purchased several just so I could field test them personally. They were mostly well built, functional and strong, and despite the diversity of design and manufacturing standards, they all had one thing in common. They looked tactical. Which isn’t so bad when you’re out in the field, but not the most amazing look when you’re in a suit walking to your office.
Military bags are designed to be deployed in harsh environments. Unfortunately they are too overt for the casual carryologist. Thereʼs no doubt theyʼre solid and bombproof; and they look it. Which is why the GORUCK GR1 caught my eye with its clean lines, sharp edges and simple colorway.
The GR1 was larger than I expected, but thatʼs a welcome surprise. Externally, the pack is about minimalism. No bottle holders or pouches, save the front drop pocket hidden beneath a zipper flap. The MOLLE webbing, betraying its military heritage, is done in a way that’s unobtrusive and subtle. The webbing on the straps serves a practical design purpose, allowing them to bend to the wearer. Lift one of the straps and open the 90-degree YKK zipper to reveal the laptop or hydration compartment. Versatility that’s yours to determine.
I carry a 13-inch MacBook uncovered that slides in with ease and a 17-inch would also fit without trouble. The hydration bladder tends to bulge in the compartment when the pack is full but it’s not a huge problem, considering you will deplete the contents as you go.
The lack of external compression straps has not impeded the load-carrying capability. The zippers always close easily, no matter the bulge. Elastic cord or webbing can always be added to the MOLLE attachments too if needed.
The absence of a sternum strap is inconsequential. A protective and structural rigid sleeve inside the back panel means the pack rests high on the shoulders. Even when fully loaded it doesnʼt pull on the straps. When running and cycling itʼs comfortable and it stays put.
When new, the pack showed some distortion of the 1000D Cordura fabric. Kind of like heat blisters, I believe this was just the material wearing in as Iʼve not had a repeat nor has it compromised the appearance of the bag.
In a nice touch, the top can be opened and folded halfway if you only want to access the top part of the bag – particularly useful when it’s leaning upright. The hard reinforced frame of the bag,while not padded like a dedicated camera case, still affords some protection and allows compartmentalised packing of gear.
This pack’s pedigree just demands abuse. Itʼs built to last and it dares you to prove otherwise. So how does it stand up? Itʼs been exposed to heavy rain for long periods and the contents have stayed dry. I wouldnʼt call it waterproof in a literal sense but it holds up to unexpected downpours and sprays effectively. Itʼs been dragged over rough surfaces with nary a mark. Iʼve stuffed it with heavy winter clothing and still found room for my boots. Cameras, batteries and other photography gear stay securely in place and emerge unscathed.
Now for the crunch; the GR1 doesnʼt come cheap. $295US for the flagship of the brand, but to witness the thoughtful design, craftsmanship and attention to detail and the bag’s practicality and durability is to realise good value. I have no regrets about the expense as I feel confident the GR1 will meet a variety of needs for a long time.
The weight of the unloaded pack is hefty too, topping the scales at 1.5kg, but that’s to be expected with the 100oD Cordura material used. For me the GR1 is simple, it’s low profile, it holds a ton of gear and it moves with me. It looks good, it doesnʼt draw attention by screaming military or camera gear and it takes abuse without complaining. It has the military pedigree without the overt tactical appearance.
Unlike other carry relationships and one-trip stands Iʼve had, this ruck will go with me for life. Iʼm already coveting the GR2, but that’s another story. For more info, head over to the GORUCK website where youʼll find more information on the company and its expanding range in the news section.
Leather
Latest posts by Leather (see all)
- The Arc’teryx Brand - May 10, 2013
- Bags. Locations. Looks. - April 30, 2013
- QWSTION 1-for-2 Weekender - February 7, 2013
Subscribe via RSS Feed
Awesome review Greg. It’s great to finally get a Carryology review of what is considered a real classic in the backpack world.
The bag doesn’t look that heavy. Is there a lot of hidden foam or structure, or is it really just some heavy fabric?
Thanks ando. Compared to the load it can carry, it’s relatively light. There is a hard thin foam sheet between the back panel and the laptop/hydration compartment and a thicker piece of solid foam in the base. Both inserts can be accessed and removed but I don’t see the need to ever do so. They both contribute to the structural integrity of the bags shape and don’t noticably affect the weight. Without them, I think the pack would lose it’s form and protection and not sit comfortably on the upper back.
Yes the bag is made out of 1000D cordura which would explain the 1.4kg of weight. They could have done it lighter, but certainly not as durable. Goruck is about durability and ‘make it work’ type of design.
Just to chime in on your comments. I am on the smaller side, 5’7 140lbs. I took the hard plastic liner out to have the bag form tighter to my back. Since I my torso is not as long as the average person I would say the upper portion didn’t form to my shoulders as well as others. Once I took that piece out it shapes my back very well. While still holding its overall shape. I would say this is the best ruck I have ever owned and highly recommend it.
I agree there is no limit to what this ruck can carry. Also to add with the shape no articles inside shift either, which is a big bonus.
Fantastic review Greg. GORUCK does indeed make fantastic gear. I’ve been using a GR1 for my traveling for several months already (and I am taking the GORUCK Challenge with it as well) and I can only say good things. I also own an Echo for my everyday, go-to essentials backpack and it’s awesome.
I too am thinking about getting a GR2.
I think these packs should be seen as investments since they will last for a lifetime.
your words encouraged me to buy Goruck GR1 this 2012, thanks.
I came across GORUCK just a few months ago and have been lusting after a GR1 ever since. Well, this year for my birthday, my wife surprised me and gave me the green light to order one.
I live in Northern Virginia but work in DC and noticed that Jason is from the Georgetown area. So I wondered if the GORUCK offices were also in DC. Only a few tweets and emails later, I found myself on my way to their offices to pick up my bag.
And for those keeping score at home, yes, the bag I ordered online is on it’s way to my house but the GORUCK crew said that when it arrived I could just bring the new one to their office. How cool is that?! (Can you tell I was a ‘little’ excited about getting it?)
While at the GORUCK office I got to meet some of their crew and most importantly, Java. What a great dog! I also was able to snag a couple of patches because I forgot to order them online. I wasn’t able to stay long because I had to get to work but it was pretty cool seeing all the bags from a past challenge that needed to be cleaned.
I arrived with the Timbuk2 Hemlock (wich I liked well enough but it doesn’t even begin compare with the GR1) and left with the GR1. Actually, when I left, I shoved the Hemlock inside of the GR1 and it fit perfectly! And that’s with a 17 inch MacBook Pro, iPad and tons of other little doo-dads floating around in my gypsy camp of a bag (love that term).
From the moment I slung the GR1 over my shoulders it felt amazing. I’m sure it only gets better as it becomes mine by both transforming and conforming to my body and my travels. It’s been less than a day that I’ve had ownership of this incredible bag (or should I refer to it as a ruck?) and I’m already blown away.
I can’t wait to see what adventures are in store for my GR1 and I.
Pingback: Road Test | Domke F-5XB Camera Bag | Purses & Bags & Luggages 2011
I have a GORUCK Radio Ruck for sale. It’s about two months old and is in great shape. I want to upgrade (GR1 or GR2) but I have to get rid of this one first. Small apartment small budget you get the idea. Any ideas where I could post it to get some hits? I’m thinking $180 including shipping. Thanks
Rick,
we don’t have any sort of second hand carry market set up. I know ebay and Craig’s list get lots of carry action. And if any of our readers are interested, they’re welcome to get in touch and we’ll forward your email on to them…
Hey Ando
Could forward my email to Aaron below. Thanks so much. Great work on the blog.
Hey Rick!
You still got that Radio Ruck!? I’m really interested! How does it handle on your back? to wide? why you getting rid of it?
thanks
Hey Aron
I do have it. It handles great, actually better than some bags I’ve used with more complicated suspensions systems. I initially thought I’d add a sternum strap but it’s not needed at all. I’ve used it for overnight trips with my laptop, for daily office carry, and for a few fly fishing road trips. I’m 5’9″ with a 40 inch chest and it fits fine. The main reason it’s up for grabs is that with my new job I don’t carry as much stuff (way less stuff actually), and I think I’d prefer to get the GR2 for longer trips. If you’re interested I’ll have the site admin send you my email.
Thanks
Rick
Interested
“First name”ruff @ gmail
Hey Rick,
I definitely am very interested and ready to make a move on your radio ruck.
Once you email me I will promptly send you my number.
Thanks, Aaron
hey rick
is the radio ruck still for sale?
thanks,
theo.
Sorry but the gentleman above ended up buying it.
Hey Theo,
I’m seriously thinking about selling my radio ruck to get a gr1. I am a biology (premed) major, soccer coach, father of 3(4 any day now)… This bag is superb, but I am really thinking I need a bigger bag! Get my email!
Aaron
aaron
i am interested. could you give me a shout via my email? it’s heavydoom@gmail.com
thanks,
theo.
would love to buy one, but not keen on paying US$140 for shipping -.-
Does anyone happen to still have a GR1 they would be happy to sell? Looking to buy one! Email me at kan.huang@live.com.au
check the goruck website. I think they are selling used bags from goruck challenges.
I am also after a radio ruck or the GR1 email me at seanrorie@hotmail.com
I’ve been comparing lately the GORUCK GR1 to it’s new “arch-rival”: TAD Fast pack litespeed, will anybody here compare these 2 bags on durability, versatility, comfort of use, “toughness”, water-resistance, lifetime -warranty,,,etc…Thanks for anyone who will comment. I’m gonna decide next year which will i get.
did anyone ever answer this guy? i’d love a comparison of the 2.
These look like great bags, but shipping costs for International are ridiculous
i agree. the shipping to canada alone was $40 via usps and this was not a very fast service. for $30 i got a bag delivered within 3 days from the states from another company.
you’re referring to the Goruck GR1?
@theo I see your $40 and i raise you $70 ($140 is you want it “faster”) to Australia. I ended up getting a different backpack from http://www.layerxlayer.com/ for $12 shipping
This is a good quality backpack, handmade or handcarfted in the USA & less cost/price as compared to Goruck GR1 but i still like the GR1
what do you GR1 owners think about the the gr1 for a student. I am now a bio major, and my radio ruck is just to small. Do you think that the GR1 can handle a bunch of heavy books, or should I go for a gr2?
all thought appreciated
the gr1 is the perfect choice. it would take your books and your laptop and a light jacket very easily. the gr2 is too big for your needs as a student. the gr2 is perfectly suited for traveling or a week of traveling with room to spare if you pack light.
Your opinion really help me decide what will i buy this 2012; the GR1, thanks hodor
+1 to @hodor comment.
I also ended up getting the gr1, it’s awesome. definently the best value in my book.
what is the width of gr1 in the top half of bag?(trying to figure what
I can fit in the top part of bag which I will need to fill with books etc.
i got the GR1 too & it seems very sturdy & worth the money to last a lifetime
https://www.goruck.com/products-page/rucksacks/gr1/
the gr1 from top to bottom starts narrower than the bottom. it’s a very slight degree but i can say that the width of the top of the bag and the bottom of the bag is not the same.
The stated width is 10″ across but I find the bottom can expand to around 12″.
Does anyone know where to buy good quality (preferably the same cordura as Goruck) MOLLE accessories? I’d like a phone pouch to attach to the straps in the front, and maybe some slightly larger pouches for the back and sides.
goruck.com has pouches for sale now. Both bag and pouch have MOLLE for easy attaching.
thom
go here and ask where to get cheaper molle attachments for the goruck bags :
http://packlite.tumblr.com/
I WILL buy your GR1, or if you need to downsize i will trade for my Radio Ruck + $$. I love it but it’s a little to small because I am back in school(premed with many big books…)
You guys really need to do a head to head comparo with the TAD FastPack EDC! I was ready to pull the trigger on the TAD when the GoRuck caught my eye. Its a bit cheaper & seems just as versatile & bombproof.
The only thing stopping me is the lack of chest & waist straps, as I plan to run with this bag as well. I understand that people do run with it, ala goruck challenge, but how much movement does it have? How could it be as stable as a pack with the 2 straps?
Thanks for a great site!
S.
Hi, I am going overseas this summer for a six weeks and was wondering if the GR2 could pass as a personal item on a plane? I have a Red Oxx PR5 for my main carry on, and right now i’m trying to decide if the GR1 or GR2 would be my best supplemental luggage and daily pack?
Definently go with the gr1 if your primary use of it will be as a daily pack. The “airplane” part of your trip is only a few days, the gr1 holds a lot of stuff but is also very lean and agile. What will you be doing on the trip? I hear the GR2 is huge anyways, if you were only bringing one bag, then bring a gr2!
you should get either the echo or the radio ruck as your supplemental luggage. other goruckers put the echo or the radio inside the gr2. this is the perfect combo. you are lucky if you get the radio or the echo packs : they are now larger than the older versions.
i would look into either patagonia or tom bihn if you want to have a day pack that you can stuff inside the gr2 that is also very light and packable. patagonia has the ultra light bag systems and tom bihn make bags using the very strong and light dyneema fabric specifically made for tom bihn in japan.
So I have used my gr1 for 2months now and it totally fills my pack needs…
So I am looking to sell my Radio Ruck for $200, including shipping.
Hey Aaron is your radio ruck still available? You can send me an email if it is. My email is “name”@gmail.com
Hey David,
I’ve got a RR that I’m looking to sell. Shoot me an email – you can find it on kyledreger.com/contact.
Cheers
KD
Hey guys,
I’m a college student that often bikes to class and I like to go rock climbing, hiking, trail running, etc. I’m looking for a pack that wouldn’t be too much of a burden in day to day school use, but would also be useable during my rock climbing sessions that’re on the slightly more extreme side.
I’ve narrowed it down to the TAD Fast Pack or a Goruck Radio / GR1. Any chance any of you could point me in the right direction or tell me which they think would be better for my needs?
Thanks,
David
recently bought a gr1
absolutely awesome. the pack just feels bullet proof and it holds all my work gear with ease. fits very comfortably on the back and i feel helps support better posture with the straps tightened. the pack does not shift and with the slanted bottom the weight is distributed closer to my pack as opposed to sagging out.
the only downside i have noticed is there is no hook for the hydration bladder. this was an easy fix with some paracord.
the price set me off at first but it was totally worth every penny. being a us made product i couldnt complain that much.
cheers
@Travis, great review since i recently purchased the GR1 too, thanks for the positive comment.
Pingback: Road Test ~ Ignoble Lenore Capsule | Carryology
Sad thing that GORUCKs are not distributed in Germany. $70 for shipping from the USA + taxes… :-/
I feel you mate..
I used this http://www.dutycalculator.com/ and calculated that after shipping and taxes to Europe (Netherlands/Finland) the total costs would be around 370€ which is ~462US$. Now that is a lot of money for a backpack even though as good as Goruck. So with these prices i just cant justify it..
I honestly don’t know what is the legal take on this but i really think they should help us poor Europeans and mark the package’s as a gift so we don’t have to pay the ridiculous taxes! Also i don’t know where they get the international shipping rates…
Pingback: Road Test :: TAD FAST Pack Litespeed Backpack | Carryology
Anyone have one of these rucks for sale? I’m looking for an Echo, RR or GR1.
Thanks!
onebadwagon @gmail.com
I’m very undecided on if I should get a Radio Ruck or a GR1
I’m only 5’6″, 145 lbs, so I am wondering if the GR1 would be too big for me for daily use / commuter bag to keep gym clothes and laptop, etc in, or if I should stick with the RR.
The GR1 is roomy and looks fairly large, but in real life it is pretty slim. If you regularly carry things like clothes, laptop, books, and lunch, I would say it is the right size for that regardless of your height. In real life it is about the size of those ubiquitous LL Bean Monogram backpacks that every other college kid has owned at least once.
The Radio Ruck is more of a half-day excursion size. I know people who used it for school but it is large enough for only a few things, such as a laptop and a few books, but then you wouldn’t be able to carry a change of clothes, etc.
Basically, GR1 is the standard size pack. It is not too large.
Pingback: The Carry Awards – Best Carry On | Carryology
Pingback: 500 Posts In… | Carryology
Pingback: Road Test :: KILLSPENCER Special Ops Backpack | Carryology
Would my thick 15″ Thinkpad fit the laptop compartment of the GR1? It is about the same thickness as two 15″ macbook pros.
Hey Guys, I a few back packs but was looking for something specifically for tough mudder coming up later in the year.
I am 6’4 and 100kg (Aussie so not sure on pounds) and am torn between the GR1 and GR2, im thinking the GR2 might be a litte big to use during the event….any thoughts?
Cheers
GR1 all the way.
It is the flagship Goruck for good reason.
Perfect size for almost everything.
It’s lean, strong and when you need to you can pack the hell out of it.
Anyone know if the GR1 could pass as a “personal item” when travelling? I know someone asked about the GR2 earlier, but that definitely sounds too big for me.