If you’ve been deep in the rucking world for a while or even just getting your boots dirty, you’ve likely heard about the GORUCK GR2. It’s that kind of rucksack.
You hear about it in rucking Facebook groups, see it on the backs of serious GORUCK Challenge veterans, and spot it at airports strapped to the shoulders of folks who clearly know how to pack for life on the move.
I’ve used everything from budget Amazon bags to military surplus packs over the years, and I wasn’t sure if the GR2 would actually bring anything new to the table besides a hefty price tag. But one thing is for sure — I was so eager to test it. After spending several months putting it through everything, I’ve got a much clearer picture of what this pack is… and who it’s really for.
I’ll walk you through what stood out, where it fell short, and whether it’s the right ruck for your kind of activity
Let’s start!
The GORUCK GR2 – Cordura is available in 7 color patterns: Ranger Green, Black, Dark Sea Blue + Armor Grey, Armor Grey, Black Frogskin Camo + Orange, High Risk Red, and Star Shrapnel. (Not every color is available for every size.)
Key Features of the GORUCK GR2
- Quick access zipper pocket under the top handle (Orange QAP featured on: Dark Sea Blue + Armor Grey, Black, Ranger Green, Armor Grey, Black Frogskin Camouflage + Orange): This top pocket is ideal for grabbing small items fast like your wallet, passport, or keys without digging through your gear.
- Extra padded straps and top handle to carry heavier loads more comfortably: These aren’t your average backpack straps, actually they’re thick, supportive, and distribute weight really well. Even under a heavy ruck plate or travel load, the pressure on your shoulders and hands remains manageable.
- YKK zippers with silent, glove-friendly zipper pulls constructed from parachute 550 cord: These zippers don’t jingle when you move, which is a huge plus during stealthier training or nighttime travel. The 550 cord pulls are reliable and easy to grip even with gloves or sweaty hands.
- Waterproof YKK AquaGuard quick access pocket and laptop compartment zippers (Only featured on Dark Sea Blue + Armor Grey): This is a big win for rainy climates or outdoor events where keeping gear dry is a must.
- Primary Material: 1000D Cordura w/ 210D Back Panel: The 1000D Cordura makes this bag virtually bombproof — it resists tears, abrasions, and years of hard use. The softer 210D back panel reduces friction and improves breathability against your back.
- A removable, hard plastic frame sheet stabilizes the laptop compartment and allows you to carry more weight comfortably: It keeps the ruck structured and stops your gear (or a laptop) from digging into your back. If you prefer a softer feel or want to cut some weight, you can take it out.
- 2 Compartments: Inner compartment with 3 pockets and outer compartment with 3 pockets and a built-in field pocket: Organization is very good, so you won’t be endlessly fishing for cables, socks, or snacks.
- 4 rows of external and internal MOLLE webbing let you customize GR2 how you want: This gives you endless attachment points for pouches, patches, or add-ons like hydration carriers.
- Includes adjustable and removable Training Sternum Strap (except for 26L Dark Sea Blue + Armor Grey): The strap helps balance the load and keeps shoulder straps in place during high movement activities. If you don’t like it, just remove it.
- Scars Lifetime Guarantee: The best on the market: If something breaks, GORUCK will fix it—no questions asked. This kind of support is rare, and it backs up the brand’s confidence in its gear.
Why We Decided to Review the GORUCK GR2 Backpack?
Jason and I tested a lot of rucking gear over the years. Some of it holds up under pressure, and some of it… well, let’s just say the marketing doesn’t always match the product quality.
We are sure that won’t be the case with the GORUCK GR2 because we know what standards GORUCK stands for. Also, whenever I was talking with experienced ruckers, the GR2 always entered the conversation as a “buy once, cry once” kind of ruck.
That phrase stuck with me. I wanted to see for myself if this backpack could actually back up its premium price tag.
With more people blending fitness with functional living (rucking to work, training outside, or backpacking light), I knew it was time to dive deep into a detailed review.
Reasons to Trust Our Expertise
Between competing in rucking events, coaching athletes through endurance prep, and constantly testing different rucksacks, I’ve experienced firsthand how packs perform under real pressure.
I’ve tested more than my fair share of bags, so even though you will find some affiliate links in this review, I’m not here to repeat marketing fluff or manufacturer promises. What you’ll get here is honest, unfiltered feedback based on actual miles.
How We Tested the GORUCK GR2 Rucksack?
In short, we didn’t baby the GR2. It faced the kind of challenges that real ruckers experience every day. Here’s how we tested it:
- Urban Rucks: We took it for weighted walks and runs through city streets, navigating public transport and running errands. This simulates the everyday grind for anyone who uses their rucksack to get around urban environments with some added weight.
- Trail Rucks: From mixed elevation hikes to technical terrain, we loaded it with up to 45 lb ruck plates to see how it handled the stress of natural obstacles. We wanted to know how it performed on rocky paths and up hills.
- Travel Use: I had a business trip, so I used it to test, and Jason took it on a road trip with his family.
- Durability Tests: We didn’t hold back here. The GR2 was tossed in and out of cars, dragged across gravel, soaked in heavy rain, and even used as a DIY sandbag during training.
Benefits of the GORUCK GR2
- Durability: I’ve beaten this pack up and it doesn’t flinch. No loose threads. No busted zippers. This thing has taken abuse that would destroy most backpacks and still looks solid.
- Smart Organization: The internal compartments make packing a dream. There’s a place for everything: electronics, gym gear, toiletries, snacks, you name it. And it all stays put, even when you’re on the move.
- Comfort Under Load: The padded straps and tight profile hug the back well, even with 30+ lbs. It distributes weight evenly so you’re not getting those brutal shoulder hot spots mid-ruck.
- Versatility: I’ve used it for ruck training, long weekend trips, and even as a daily work bag without it feeling out of place.
- No Loud Branding: Clean look, subtle logo. Looks professional if you’re not into the “gym bro” aesthetic. Also, you can walk into a meeting or hop on a plane and it doesn’t look like you’re coming back from war.
Downsides of the GORUCK GR2
- Price: It’s expensive. No getting around that. But if you use it every week (or even every day) it pays off in durability and reliability.
- Heavy When Empty: Because of the thick material, you’re starting with more weight even before you load it. It weighs from 3.9 to 4.5 lb empty. That extra toughness comes at the cost of lightness, and it’s very noticeable if you’re coming from a cheaper nylon bag.
GORUCK GR2 Specs
GR2 – Cordura
- Primary Material: 1000D Cordura
- Back Panel: 210D CORDURA®
- Underneath Shoulder Straps: 210D CORDURA®
- 26L Dimensions: 12.5″W x 18″H x 7.25″D
- 26L Weight: 3.9 LBS
- 34L Dimensions: 12.5″W x 20.5″H x 9″D
- 34L Weight: 4.1 LBS
- 40L Dimensions: 12.5″W x 22”H x 9”D
- 40L Weight: 4.5 LBS
- Laptop Compartment: 26L: 11.5″W x 16.5″H / 34L: 12″W x 18.5″H / 40L: 12″W x 19.5″H
- External Slant Pocket: 26L: 11″W x 9.5″H / 34L: 11″W x 11″H / 40L: 11″W x 11″H
- Internal Elastic Pocket: 26L: 12.5″W x 10″H / 34L: 12.5″W x 12″H / 40L: 12.5″W x 13″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 1: 26L: 11″W x 9.5″H / 34L: 11″W x 11.5″H / 40L: 11.5″W x 14″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 2: 26L: 10.5″W x 12.5″H / 34L: 11.5″W x 12.5″H / 40L: 12″W x 14″H
- Outer Compartment Cordura Pocket 1: 26L: 9″W x 5″H / 34L: 9″W x 5.5″H / 40L: 11″W x 12″H
- Outer Compartment Cordura Pocket 2: 26L: 10.75″W x 5.5″H / 34L: 10″W x 5.5″H / 40L: 12″W x 13.5″H
GR2 – Waxed Canvas
- 26L Dimensions: 12.5″W x 18″H x 7.25″D
- 26L Weight: 4.5 LBS
- 34L Dimensions: 12.5″W x 20.5″H x 9″D
- 34L Weight: 5.3 LBS
- Laptop Compartment: 26L: 11.5″W x 16.5″H / 34L: 12″W x 18.5″H
- External Slant Pocket: 26L: 11″W x 9.5″H / 34L: 11″W x 11″H
- Internal Elastic Pocket: 26L: 12.5″W x 10″H / 34L: 12.5″W x 12″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 1: 26L: 11″W x 9.5″H / 34L: 11″W x 11.5″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 2: 26L: 10.5″W x 12.5″H / 34L: 11.5″W x 12.5″H
- Outer Compartment Cordura Pocket 1: 26L: 9″W x 5″H / 34L: 9″W x 5.5″H
- Outer Compartment Cordura Pocket 2: 26L: 10.75″W x 5.5″H / 34L: 10″W x 5.5″H
GR2 – Ripstop ROBIC® – Michael Easter
- Primary Material: 420D ROBIC® Ripstop Nylon
- Back Panel & Shoulder Strap Underside Material: 210D HT (High Tenacity) CORDURA®
- YKK AquaGuard Zippers
- Size: 40L
- Bag Dimensions: 12.5″W x 22”H x 9”D
- Weight: 4.1 lbs.
- Laptop Compartment: 12″W x 18.5″H
- External Slant Pocket: 11″W x 11″H
- External Side Pockets: 1″W x 13.5″H x 4″D
- Internal Mesh Pocket 1: 11.5”W x 6”H
- Internal Mesh Pocket 2: 11.5”W x 12”H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 1: 11″W x 11.5″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 2: 11.5″W x 12.5″H
- Outer Compartment Pocket 1: 9″W x 5.5″H
- Outer Compartment Pocket 2: 10″W x 5.5″H
GR2 – Dyneema
- Primary Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric (CT9Hw6/blkwov6)
- Internal Material: 200D Cordura
- Back Panel and Under Shoulder Straps: 200D Cordura
- Dimensions: 12.5″W x 20.5″H x 9″D
- Weight: 4.03LBS
- Laptop Compartment: 12″W x 18.5″H
- External Slant Pocket: 11″W x 11″H
- Internal Mesh Pocket 1: 11.5”W x 6”H
- Internal Mesh Pocket 2: 11.5”W x 12”H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 1: 11″W x 11.5″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 2: 11.5″W x 12.5″H
- Outer Compartment Pocket 1: 9″W x 5.5″H
- Outer Compartment Pocket 2: 10″W x 5.5″H
GR2 USA Throwback
- 40L Dimensions: 12.5″W x 22”H x 9”D
- 40L Weight: 4.05 LBS
- Laptop Compartment 40L: 12″W x 19.5″H
- External Slant Pocket 40L: 11″W x 11″H
- Internal Elastic Pocket 40L: 12.5″W x 13″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 1 40L: 11.5″W x 14″H
- Outer Compartment Mesh Pocket 2 40L: 12″W x 14″H
- Outer Compartment Cordura Pocket 1 40L: 11″W x 12″H
- Outer Compartment Cordura Pocket 2 40L: 12″W x 13.5″H
Who Are the GORUCK GR2 Ideal For?
- Travelers: Especially those who prefer to carry just one bag when traveling for several days. This ruck holds more than it seems.
- Endurance Athletes: Ruckers who want gear that can survive rain, mud, and multiple challenges. If you’re training for a GORUCK event or doing regular heavy rucks, this is a pack you can count on.
- EDC Minimalists: If you want one backpack to rule them all (commute, gym, travel) this is it. Just swap out what you carry, not the bag itself.
- Tactical Users or First Responders: The build quality can hold up to serious fieldwork. Whether it’s getting tossed in a squad car or carried through rough terrain, it won’t fail under pressure. The MOLLE setup and layout also suit mission-specific setups.
Who Should Avoid GORUCK GR2 and Why?
- Casual Day-Trippers: It’s overkill for light use or school days. Unless you love carrying an ultra-tough, oversized bag for no reason, this pack will feel like too much. There are lighter and cheaper options that make more sense for that kind of use.
Pricing and Shipping Information
The price differs compared to the size, and the price differences are very small, much smaller than the differences in sizes:
- GR2 26L – $375.00
- GR2 34L – $385.00
- GR2 40L – $395.00
While the GR2 is definitely a premium backpack, don’t expect free shipping like you get with GORUCK footwear. However, if you’re part of Tribe n’ Training, you qualify for FREE No-Rush Shipping anywhere in the U.S. — a nice perk for members. For everyone else, especially international buyers, standard shipping rates apply based on your location. The good news? If you’re in the U.S. and the pack doesn’t meet your expectations, you’ve got 30 days to return it and GORUCK covers the return shipping.
Testimonials From GORUCK Customers
Exploring Different GR2 Editions
GORUCK has dropped a handful of unique GR2 editions over the years, each with its own twist on materials, vibe, and use case. If you’re after something a little different (or just collect packs like some of us do), these versions are worth a look.
GR2 – Dyneema
The GR2 Dyneema edition is all about durability. Dyneema® is 15 times stronger than steel and 40% stronger than its main rival Kevlar. This also gives it a crazy high tear strength, around five times higher than a like-for-like fabric made using HT-Nylon. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the high-tech upgrade.
GR2 – Ripstop ROBIC® – Michael Easter Edition
This special edition GR2 was made in collaboration with author and rucking advocate Michael Easter, using 420D Ripstop ROBIC® — a lighter and slightly more flexible material than traditional 1000D Cordura. It’s ideal for those who want GR2 function without the extra bulk. Plus, the limited-edition patch and branding give it a cleaner, more civilian aesthetic.
GR2 – Waxed Canvas
If you like your rucksack with a vintage feel and a bit of grit, the Waxed Canvas GR2 delivers. Over time, the waxed material breaks in beautifully and develops a patina. It’s heavier than the Cordura version (empty weight is 4.5/5.3 lb) but adds a heritage look without losing toughness.
GR2 – USA Throwback
A nod to old-school military packs and Made in USA craftsmanship, the GR2 USA Throwback edition brings classic colorways and vintage-style labels. This version is for the GORUCK purists, those who appreciate the roots of the brand. The build is classic GR2, but the look is all nostalgia.
Best GORUCK GR2 Alternatives
We have a few more interesting options for you.
GORUCK Rucker 4.0
If you’re focused purely on training and rucking events (not travel), the Rucker 4.0 is your best bet. It’s more streamlined, comes with a built-in frame sheet, and has dedicated plate sleeves.
When we compare it to GR2, it’s better for workouts, worse for travel. No laptop compartment, but Rucker 4.0 is easier on your shoulders and wallet.
GORUCK GR1
The GORUCK GR1 is the original workhorse. At 21L or 26L, it’s more of a daily carry ruck. Still tough as nails, but less storage space. It’s definitely more compact and agile. Perfect if you don’t need the GR2’s extended storage.
GORUCK GR3
This one’s massive, even up to 45L. If you’re serious about long-term travel or need to carry more gear than a normal human, the GORUCK GR3 has you covered. Like a GR2 on steroids. But the biggest model is too big for most rucking events or daily use.
Our Final Verdict on the GORUCK GR2 Backpack
The GORUCK GR2 is not a casual purchase. But if you’re someone who rucks regularly, travels often, or just wants a bag that can handle anything, it’s hard to find a more capable, durable, and thoughtfully designed pack.
But keep in mind that this isn’t gear made to sit in a closet. And yes, the price is steep. But once you get past that, what you’re getting is something built like a tank — stitched and structured to survive serious mileage, unpredictable weather, and rough handling. For me, that peace of mind alone makes it worth every penny over time.
The internal organization is also one of the things I’ve come to truly appreciate. And comfort? For a pack built to haul weight, it does a great job staying comfortable across long distances.
If you’re serious about investing in a rucksack that can go anywhere, do anything, and keep up with you every step of the way, the GORUCK GR2 should be on your shortlist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the GORUCK GR2 too big for beginners just starting out with rucking?
It can be, depending on your goals. The GR2 is spacious and ideal for travel or longer treks, but it might feel like overkill for short beginner rucks. A smaller GR1 or Rucker might be more practical to start with.
How do I choose the right size rucking backpack for my body type?
Look for a ruck that sits close to your back and doesn’t sag below your hips, since fit matters more than liters. Shorter folks usually do better with 21L to 26L, while taller or broader users can comfortably manage 34L to 40L. Try it on loaded if you can.
What’s the best way to clean and maintain a GORUCK backpack?
Brush off dirt with a damp cloth, and use mild soap if needed. Let it air dry completely and never throw it in the washer. A little regular care keeps it looking solid for years.
How do I properly load weight into a rucking backpack like the GR2?
Keep the weight high and close to your back, centered between your shoulder blades. Use a padded sleeve or wrap for weight plates to avoid bouncing.
Is there a break-in period for a GORUCK rucksack like the GR2?
A little, but it’s mostly about you getting used to the feeling. The materials are stiff at first, especially the shoulder straps. After a few rucks or travel days, it softens up without losing structure.
Will a 40L GR2 fit under an airplane seat or only in the overhead bin?
It’s too big for under-seat use unless it’s half empty and squished. It’s made to be carry-on compliant, but plan to put it in the overhead compartment. The 34L, and especially the 26L, versions are more flexible for tight travel spaces.
References
Golriz S, Hebert JJ, Bo Foreman K, Walker BF. The effect of shoulder strap width and load placement on shoulder-backpack interface pressure. Work. 2017;58(4):455-461. doi: 10.3233/WOR-172651. PMID: 29254136.
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.
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.
Faghy MA, Shei RJ, Armstrong NCD, White M, Lomax M. Physiological impact of load carriage exercise: Current understanding and future research directions. Physiol Rep. 2022 Nov;10(21):e15502. doi: 10.14814/phy2.15502. PMID: 36324291; PMCID: PMC9630762.
