Who writes our guides, how we choose products, and how we make money.
Rucking Basics exists to help you pick the right gear and train safely. This page explains who writes our content, how we choose and review products, and how we make money, so you can decide how much to trust what you read here.
Most articles are written by Filip Maric, an ISSA Elite trainer certified as a Personal Trainer, Nutritionist and Strength & Conditioning coach. Every guide is then reviewed by Jason Vaught, an ISSA-certified Master Trainer with more than 20 years of training experience, before it is published.
We start with what ruckers actually use: the packs, plates, footwear and accessories that come up again and again in rucking clubs, events and owner reviews. For each category we compare:
When we have carried a product on our own rucks, the review says so and describes the conditions: distance, load and terrain. When a recommendation is based on research, specifications and verified owner feedback rather than our own miles, we say that too. We would rather be clear about the difference than overstate our experience.
Training, injury and health articles are written by certified trainers and cite published research where it exists. They are educational and not a substitute for advice from your doctor or physical therapist, especially if you have an injury or a medical condition.
Gear changes quickly. We revisit our buyer’s guides and reviews regularly to replace discontinued products, update prices and features, and fix anything readers point out.
Rucking Basics is reader-supported. Some links on the site are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Brands cannot pay for placement or a positive review, and a commission never decides what we recommend. See our disclaimer for details.
If you spot an error, disagree with a recommendation or have used a product we cover, we want to hear about it. Contact us and we will review it and update the page if needed.