Since functional training and rucking have become practically mainstream, the market has been flooded with various equipment that is supposedly made to be suitable for the demands of these activities.
And many products deliver the durability we want, but also many others fall apart after just a week. Others might be fine for a few workouts but end up leaking sand, tearing at the seams, or just feeling awkward to use. If you’ve ever wrestled with a floppy, poorly balanced sandbag mid-workout, you know exactly what I mean.
That’s why the GORUCK Sandbag caught my attention. I’ve tested a lot of gear over the years — as a coach, rucker, and someone who trains athletes regularly — and it’s rare that something earns a permanent place in both my own training and the programs I build for others. Did the GORUCK Sandbag make it to that exclusive list?
Let’s get into it.
The GORUCK Simple Training Sandbag is available in two color options: Black and Black + Teal
Key Features of the GORUCK Sandbag
- 2 Heavy-Duty Padded Handles (Not Rubberized): These handles are reinforced with neoprene padding and purposely left uncoated, so they won’t get slippery or tear like rubber handles often do.
- Double-Pass Stitching at Every Seam: The seams are stitched twice, not once, making the bag much more resistant to ripping or splitting.
- Made from 1000D CORDURA®: This is military-grade fabric: abrasion-resistant, weather-tough, and made to last through years of training.
- Triple Velcro Closure Filler Bags: The internal filler bags use three layers of Velcro plus reinforced nylon webbing to lock in sand securely, without leaks or mid-rep shifting.
- Weight Embroidered on the Exterior: You can see exactly what you’re grabbing. Super useful in group settings or switching quickly between weights.
- Filled Using Dry Florida Sand (Not Included): GORUCK calibrates their weights using dry beach sand from Florida for consistency, but you’ll need to fill your own bags. Stick to sand only, not gravel or other fillers.
- Not Designed as a Slambag: These bags aren’t made to be slammed like a honey ball. Slamming can shorten their lifespan.
Why We Decided to Review the GORUCK Sandbag?
As coaches, ruckers, and people who live and breathe functional fitness, we get asked about gear all the time. Clients, friends, even folks online often hit us with the same question: “What’s the best sandbag for serious training?”
That’s what pushed us to finally dive into a proper review of the GORUCK Sandbag.
After cycling through a handful of other brands that couldn’t keep up, we figured it was time to review a GORUCK product because we’ve always had great experiences with their footwear, backpacks, and other equipment. We know GORUCK doesn’t mess around when it comes to quality and toughness. So, it only made sense to test it out ourselves.
Although you will find affiliate links on our blog, this review (nor any other) isn’t sponsored, and we’re not here to push a product. We’re just here to give honest feedback from real testing.
Reasons to Trust Our Expertise
I’ve been coaching athletes for nearly a decade and rucking/hiking/backpacking for even longer. My background isn’t just in strength and conditioning, but in practical fitness as well. Over the years, I’ve led group rucks, designed programs for tactical athletes, and built functional training plans for everyone. Jason also has extensive experience in fitness, both from the personal and business side.
Sandbags have always been a part of my training, not because they’re trendy, but because they work. I’ve had a few good ones, but a lot more that fail mid-session. That’s not just frustrating, but it’s disruptive to training and a waste of money.
This review reflects that hands-on experience, and we only stand behind the gear we’d actually recommend to our own clients.
How We Tested the GORUCK Sandbag?
We didn’t baby it. Here’s exactly how we tested it and why it matters:
- Loaded and unloaded the bag dozens of times: We wanted to see how easy (or frustrating) it was to get the filler bags in and out.
- Tossed it, dropped it, dragged it: We didn’t hold back. We tossed it for distance, dropped it from shoulder height, dragged it across turf and concrete. We watched for tearing seams, busted zippers, and loose stitching. None of that happened.
- Used it in rucks and HIIT-style circuits: We incorporated it into a variety of training formats. In rucks, it rode on the shoulder or cradled in a bear hug for extended distances. In high-intensity workouts, we cycled it through squats, cleans, presses, carries, and ground-to-overhead reps.
- Compared different sizes (30, 60, and 100 lbs. models): We tested three different weights to see how each size performed.
- Let clients and training partners use it during group sessions: It’s one thing for us as experienced athletes to use gear; it’s another to hand it off to a mix of beginners, intermediates, and pros. We had men and women of all experience levels use the sandbag in functional training and rucking-based group sessions.
Benefits of the GORUCK Sandbag
- Unmatched Durability: It’s easily the most rugged sandbag we’ve used. After weeks of heavy use, the seams are solid, the filler hasn’t leaked, and the Cordura is still in great shape. You can drop this from shoulder height without blinking.
- Versatility: You can use it for traditional strength moves (deadlifts, cleans), ruck-based conditioning (sandbag carries, over-the-shoulder throws), or even core work.
- Comfortable, Secure Grip: The handles aren’t just an afterthought. They’re padded, reinforced, and placed perfectly. That makes a big difference when you’re training at high volume or holding the sandbag for longer.
- Ideal for Ruck Workouts: The balance of toughness and comfort makes it perfect for outdoor and indoor use alike.
- Easy to Travel With: If you’re traveling, you can empty the sand out and refill it at your destination.
Downsides of the GORUCK Sandbag
- No Pre-Filled Option: Some people want to just buy and go. GORUCK doesn’t ship them pre-filled, so you’ll need access to clean sand or filler material. Not a huge deal, but worth noting.
GORUCK Sandbag Specs
- Zippers: The burliest, sturdiest YKK zippers money can buy
- Materials: 1000D CORDURA®, Nylon Webbing, Neoprene padding
- 20LB Sandbag: 20″L x 8.5″D
- 40LB Sandbag: 22″L x 8.5″D
- 60LB Sandbag: 28″L x 8.5″D
- 80LB Sandbag: 34″L x 8.5″D
- 100LB Sandbag: 35″L x 8.5″D
- 12 reinforced handles with neoprene padding
- 80 bartacks on 40LB, 88 bartacks on 60LB
- Triple stitched filler bag seams
Who Are the GORUCK Sandbag Ideal For?
- Ruckers who want to mix up their training: If you’re tired of always using a ruck plate or backpack, this sandbag brings a totally different kind of challenge to your sessions.
- CrossFit and functional fitness athletes: The GORUCK Sandbag handles everything from cleans and thrusters to bear-hug carries and over-the-shoulder throws.
- Trainers and coaches who need durable gear: Whether you’re running a bootcamp, strength class, or team session, this bag will be a perfect addition.
- Home gym owners who want a compact, multi-purpose tool: If you’ve got limited space or a minimalist setup, this sandbag does the job of multiple tools in one.
- Military and tactical athletes: This is the kind of gear that mimics real-world challenges — awkward weight, shifting loads, and grip fatigue. It’s ideal for anyone preparing for deployment and tactical readiness.
Who Should Avoid GORUCK Sandbags and Why?
- Beginners on a budget: If you’re new to strength training or rucking and still figuring out what you enjoy, plus you don’t have unlimited resources, the GORUCK Simple Sandbag might feel like too big of an investment. There are cheaper sandbags that can help you get started and later when you need GORUCK’s top-tier quality, you can order this model.
Pricing and Shipping Information
GORUCK Sandbags are priced based on size and weight, starting at $35 for the 20 lb model and going up to $70 for the 100 lb version. You can also buy GORUCK Sandbag Kit (w/ Filler Bag) from $95 for the 20 lb model up to $150 for the 80 lb model.
Shipping-wise, here’s what to expect: While GORUCK offers free shipping on footwear orders in the U.S., that doesn’t apply to sandbags, so if you’re only grabbing a sandbag, regular shipping rates will kick in unless you’re a TNT member. That said, Tribe n’ Training (TNT) members do get free no-rush shipping on sandbags and most other items. It’s a solid perk if you’re already part of the community or planning to join.
Returns are also simple. If you buy a full-priced sandbag and it doesn’t meet your expectations, you can send it back within 30 days of delivery with free return shipping, as long as you’re in the U.S. Just keep in mind that this does not apply to clearance items or products tied to charity campaigns.
Testimonials From GoRuck Customers
Best GORUCK Sandbag Alternatives
If you’re exploring your options before buying, there are a few worthy alternatives to the GORUCK Sandbag.
One popular choice is the Rogue Fitness Sandbag 2.0. There is no doubt that this is a very good product, it feels a bit more rigid and boxy compared to GORUCK’s more natural shape. Then there’s the Rogue Strongman Sandbag, designed for max-effort lifts and odd-object strength work. There is even a 400lb model. Very good sandbag for strongman competitors.
The REP Fitness Sandbag is another decent option, especially for home gym users looking for something budget-friendly.
Finally, the 5.11 PT-R Weight Kit is built like a tank, with a tactical, military-style design. It’s heavier, pricier, and more for advanced users or those in the tactical world.
All things considered, while these alternatives bring some strong features to the table, none of them quite hit that same balance of comfort, toughness, and versatility that GORUCK has mastered.
Our Final Verdict on the GORUCK Sandbag
If you’re truly committed to rucking or functional fitness, the GORUCK Sandbag is an investment you won’t regret. Look, it’s not the cheapest option on the market, but you get what you pay for.
With the GORUCK Sandbag, you’re getting something that goes far beyond just another piece of fitness gear. This is one of the most reliable and versatile sandbags I’ve ever used.
In my experience, it’s not often that you find a piece of fitness equipment that stands the test of time, can withstand the wear and tear of intense use, plus to improve the quality of your training. But the GORUCK Sandbag does all of that. The materials are tough and the design is well thought out.
Bottom line: If you want a sandbag that works as hard as you do, this is the one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What size GORUCK sandbag should I start with as a beginner?
If you’re new to sandbag training, the 20 or 30lb GORUCK sandbag is a great place to start. It gives you just enough resistance to challenge your body without overloading your form. Once you build strength and technique, you can always scale up to heavier options.
How does sandbag training compare to barbell or dumbbell workouts?
Sandbag training is less about precision and more about total-body effort. It activates more stabilizers and builds grip, core, and real-world strength in ways fixed equipment can’t. Barbell work is great for max strength, but sandbags build grit.
How does sandbag weight distribution affect your workout?
Sandbags shift and move, making your muscles work harder to stabilize. That uneven load builds strength and coordination in a way that static weights simply don’t.
How can I incorporate sandbag training into my rucking program?
Use training sandbags for strength circuits before or after your ruck. You can also carry it during rucks for added load and variety — think bear hug carries, shoulder throws, or front rack marches.
Can you use a GORUCK sandbag as a weighted pack for actual rucks?
Technically yes, but it’s not built like a ruck plate or backpack. It’s better for hand carries or training before the ruck.
References
Chien YH, Tsai CJ, Wang DC, Chuang PH, Lin HT. Effects of 12-Week Progressive Sandbag Exercise Training on Glycemic Control and Muscle Strength in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Combined with Possible Sarcopenia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Nov 15;19(22):15009. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192215009. PMID: 36429728; PMCID: PMC9690442.
Wang X, Soh KG, Samsudin S, Deng N, Liu X, Zhao Y, Akbar S. Effects of high-intensity functional training on physical fitness and sport-specific performance among the athletes: A systematic review with meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2023 Dec 8;18(12):e0295531. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295531. Erratum in: PLoS One. 2024 Feb 16;19(2):e0299281. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299281. PMID: 38064433; PMCID: PMC10707569.
Xiao W, Soh KG, Wazir MRWN, Talib O, Bai X, Bu T, Sun H, Popovic S, Masanovic B, Gardasevic J. Effect of Functional Training on Physical Fitness Among Athletes: A Systematic Review. Front Physiol. 2021 Sep 6;12:738878. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2021.738878. PMID: 34552511; PMCID: PMC8450457.
