There’s nothing more frustrating than investing in a rucksack that promises everything but fails to deliver in the key areas: comfort, durability, and performance.
This brings us to the Centr Rucksack. Marketed as a versatile, durable, and affordable option, it has caught the attention of many in the rucking community. It claims to be the perfect blend of comfort, style, and performance, but as with any product, it’s essential to go beyond the marketing. So, I decided to put it to the test myself. I’ll break down what makes the Centr Rucksack stand out so you can make the best possible decision.
The Centr Weighted Rucksack is available only in one color: black.
Why We Decided to Review the Centr Rucksack
If you’ve spent any time rucking, you know how critical it is to have a rucksack that performs well in all conditions. The right bag can make or break your rucking experience. A poorly designed rucksack can lead to serious issues — think back pain, imbalanced weight distribution, or straps that dig into your shoulders.
Over the years, the RuckingBasics team used bags that couldn’t stand up to the challenge: zippers breaking mid-trail, materials that wore out after minimal use, or designs that awkwardly shifted weight and threw off posture. These experiences drove us to find and evaluate options that deliver durability, comfort, and performance.
With rucking gaining traction as a popular fitness activity, there’s an increasing need to identify premium gear. The Centr Rucksack caught our attention because of its reputation for versatility and quality. It promises to meet the demands of both casual users and hardcore fitness enthusiasts, but we weren’t about to take those claims at face value. That’s why we decided to dig deeper and see whether the Centr Rucksack lives up to the hype — or if it’s just another overhyped bag that misses the mark.
Reasons to Trust Our Expertise
When it comes to rucking (and most other things in life), experience matters — and we’ve been at it for years. We’ve tested dozens of rucking backpacks in every scenario you can think of: from grueling long-distance hikes with heavy loads to quick-paced urban workouts and even unpredictable weather conditions. We’ve seen the best of the best and, unfortunately, the worst of the worst. Some bags blew us away with their durability, comfort, and design, while others failed spectacularly. Every misstep taught us what separates a good rucksack from one that’s just not up to the task.
What sets us apart is our practical, no-nonsense approach to testing gear. We use rucksacks exactly as they’re intended — on the trail, on the streets, and under real-world conditions. There’s no fluff or bias here. Our recommendations are based on personal experience, not flashy marketing promises or untested claims. When we say a rucksack is worth it (or isn’t), it’s because we’ve put it through the wringer ourselves.
How We Tested the Centr Rucksack?
To give you an honest and thorough assessment, those are tests we put it through:
- Weight Testing: We loaded the bag with 10, 20, and 40 pounds to evaluate how it managed weight distribution and maintained comfort. Whether carrying lighter loads or pushing the limits with heavier gear, we looked for signs of strain on the straps, seams, and our shoulders.
- Terrain Testing: The bag was tested on a variety of surfaces. We wanted to see how it performed in terms of stability and balance during both controlled and unpredictable conditions.
- Weather Resistance: We exposed the bag to rain, mud, and damp environments to assess how well the materials repel moisture and dirt. Beyond just staying dry, we checked if the zippers and compartments remained functional and secure in challenging weather.
- Daily Use: The rucksack wasn’t just for rucking — we incorporated it into everyday life, using it for gym and short errands. This helped us evaluate its versatility.
Benefits of the Centr Rucksack
- Comfortable fit: One of the standout features is the adjustable straps and well-padded back panel, which work together to reduce strain on your shoulders and back even when carrying 50 lbs. The bag sits comfortably and evenly, keeping you comfortable and preventing excessive fatigue.
- Lightweight build: Despite its rugged appearance, the Centr Rucksack doesn’t weigh you down. It’s built with durable materials that feel strong without adding unnecessary bulk. This is crucial for rucking, as the last thing you want is an already heavy load combined with a bag that adds more weight than needed.
- Durable materials: The Centr Rucksack is constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear, even when faced with rough conditions. This rucksack holds up without showing signs of damage or deterioration.
- Compact yet spacious: This bag strikes a great balance between size and capacity. It’s compact enough to avoid feeling cumbersome but spacious enough to hold all your essentials plus weight or ruck plates. You can easily fit your gear, water, and any extra layers without it becoming uncomfortably bulky.
Downsides of the Centr Rucksack
- Not specialized: The Centr Rucksack is a solid all-rounder, but it doesn’t come with some of the advanced features you’d find in rucksacks designed specifically for hardcore rucking. For example, it lacks the specialized frame, extra padding, and advanced hydration systems that some high-performance rucksacks offer.
Centr Rucksack Specs
- Color: Black
- Box Contents: 1 Rucksack (Weight plate sold separately)
- Product Dimensions: 13″ x 2.4″ (flat) x 18.9″ / 330 mm x 60 mm (flat) x 480 mm
- Dimensions Internal Pockets for Weights: 2 x Big (13.5″ x 10″ / 342.9 mm x 254 mm); 2 x Small (11″ x 5″ / 279.4 mm x 127 mm)
- Product Weight: 2.63 lb. / 1.194 kg
- Shipping Weight: 3.69 lb. / 1.673 kg
Who Are the Centr Rucksack Ideal For?
- New to rucking and need a reliable starter bag: Its simple yet effective design makes it easy to use without overwhelming you with unnecessary features. It’s comfortable, functional, and durable.
- Someone who appreciates minimalist designs: If you’re someone who prefers clean, simple gear with no extra frills, the Centr Rucksack’s minimalist approach will likely appeal to you. Its sleek look and no-nonsense design make it easy to use and pack, while still offering practical storage and functionality.
- Primarily rucking in urban or moderately challenging environments: The Centr Rucksack performs exceptionally well in urban settings and on moderately challenging terrains. The bag provides the right level of stability and comfort for urban rucking, treadmill rucking as well as rucks in nature. If you’re not often dealing with extreme conditions, this rucksack is the perfect option for your needs.
- Wanting a bag that doubles as an everyday backpack: One of the key benefits of the Centr Rucksack is its ability to function as both a rucking bag and a day-to-day backpack. If you need a bag that can easily transition from fitness gear to everyday carry, the Centr Rucksack is a no-brainer.
Who Should Avoid Centr Rucksack and Why?
- You plan to carry specialized equipment requiring extra compartments: If your rucking sessions involve carrying specialized gear such as climbing equipment, additional hydration systems, or technical tools, the Centr Rucksack may not meet your needs. Its minimalist design works well for basics like water, snacks, and clothing, but it doesn’t have the numerous compartments or organizational features required for carrying diverse equipment.
Pricing and Shipping Information
The price of the rucksack is $49.99. All orders are typically processed within 1-2 weeks after payment is received. Processing times may be longer during holiday closures or periods of high order volume.
Centr offers free shipping on all orders from the official website. Smaller items are delivered via FedEx, UPS, or DHL, while larger items are shipped using trusted freight partners. Centr ships to locations within the U.S., including U.S. Territories and APO/FPO/DPO addresses, with the exception of Hawaii and Alaska. Currently, the company does not offer shipping outside of the contiguous United States.
Testimonials From Customers
Best Centr Rucksack Alternatives
Depending on your needs, you might prefer a rucksack with specialized features or a different design suited even more for fitness. Here are some top alternatives.
GORUCK Rucker 4.0
The GORUCK Rucker 4.0 is built specifically for rucking workouts. While it has a smaller overall capacity than the Centr Rucksack, it’s designed with dedicated compartments for ruck plates, a hydration bladder, and reinforced padding, making it ideal for intense training sessions. The 1000D Cordura construction and upgraded lumbar support ensure it can withstand heavy use, whether on trails or during high-intensity ruck workouts. Unlike the more versatile Centr Rucksack, the Rucker 4.0 is a hardcore rucking pack, built purely for performance.
GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0
For those looking to add resistance to bodyweight workouts, the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 is a top-tier option. Opposite of the Centr Rucksack, which is designed for carrying loads on your back, this vest evenly distributes weight across your torso for exercises like running, push-ups, and squats. It’s more secure for high-intensity training and allows for better mobility, but it lacks the storage and multipurpose use of a rucksack. If you’re focused on strength and endurance training rather than carrying gear, this vest is a strong alternative.
GORUCK GR1 USA
The GORUCK GR1 USA is an elite rucksack known for its bombproof durability and lifetime guarantee. It’s made with military-grade materials, has a sleek design, and offers superior weight distribution. It’s equally good for gym, rucking, or any other time you need a rucksack. Compared to the Centr Rucksack, the GR1 is a true premium option, which is also reflected in the price — it is incomparably more expensive. So, it’s an excellent investment for those who demand top-tier performance over affordability.
Our Final Verdict on the Centr Rucksack
The Centr Rucksack is a dependable option for both beginner and intermediate ruckers. It strikes a solid balance between comfort, durability, and versatility, making it an excellent all-rounder. It’s also a great option for those who want a bag that doubles as a daily backpack.
However, if you’re an advanced rucker or someone who needs a rucksack tailored for heavy-duty expeditions or endurance events, this bag might fall short of expectations. The Centr Rucksack does not offer the specialized features or capacity that more seasoned ruckers may require. For those who regularly load up heavy gear or tackle extreme terrains, there are GORUCK options designed to meet those specific needs.
In the end, the Centr Rucksack earns a solid thumbs-up from us for its minimalist design, comfort, and practicality. While it excels in areas like comfort and versatility, there is definitely room for improvement in terms of advanced features. If you’re looking for an affordable and functional rucksack for general rucking, it’s a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a rucksack suitable for both gym use and trail rucking?
A rucksack designed for both gym and trail rucking needs to balance durability, functionality, and comfort. Look for features like reinforced stitching, multiple compartments for organization, and a design that transitions well between indoor and outdoor environments.
How do I choose the right rucksack size for rucking?
Choose a rucksack size based on the amount of weight you plan to carry and the duration of your rucks. A 20-30L capacity works for shorter sessions, while a 40L or larger is better for extended trails or heavier loads.
How much weight should I carry in my rucksack for optimal rucking?
Start with 10-20% of your body weight for beginner rucks, gradually increasing the number of weight plates as your fitness improves. Experienced ruckers often carry 30-50 pounds, but the ideal weight depends on your goals and physical condition. Avoid overloading to prevent injury.
How can I prevent shoulder and back pain while using a rucksack for rucking?
To prevent pain, ensure your rucksack fits properly with padded straps adjusted to distribute weight evenly. Use a hip belt to shift weight to your hips and maintain good posture during your ruck. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can also help.
References
Genitrini M, Dotti F, Bianca E, Ferri A. Impact of Backpacks on Ergonomics: Biomechanical and Physiological Effects: A Narrative Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 May 31;19(11):6737. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19116737. PMID: 35682317; PMCID: PMC9180465.
Mallakzadeh M, Javidi M, Azimi S, Monshizadeh H. Analyzing the potential benefits of using a backpack with non-flexible straps. Work. 2016 Apr 8;54(1):11-20. doi: 10.3233/WOR-162293. PMID: 27061701.
Abaraogu UO, Ugwa WO, Onwuka E, Orji E. Effect of single and double backpack strap loading on gait and perceived exertion of young adults. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2016;29(1):109-15. doi: 10.3233/BMR-150605. PMID: 26406186.
