When you’re deep into rucking, it’s only natural to start wondering how to get the next generation involved. You want your kids or your friends’ kids, or the ones you see crushing trails with tiny rucks on their back to have gear that actually works for them.
I don’t have kids myself, but I’ve talked to enough parents in the rucking community (including Jason) and seen plenty of young ruckers out there to know this is a real need.
From what I’ve heard, handing a kid an adult-sized ruck is a fast track to bad form, sore backs, and a whole lot of frustration.
Since there are not many kids rucking backpacks on the market, we decided that after testing the GORUCK KR1 we also need to do the GORUCK KR1 2.0 review, which is not just a shrunken version of the GR1.
The GORUCK KR1 2.0 – Kid Ruck is available in four color patterns: Black + Java, Bright Green + Orange, Seaspray + White, Black Frogskin + Red.
Key Features of the GORUCK KR1 2.0
- Shoulder straps are extra padded to carry heavier loads more comfortably: The thick padding on the shoulder straps helps evenly distribute weight across smaller shoulders, reducing pressure points during longer walks or rucks. It’s designed so kids can carry heavier loads like books, water, or even small weight plates without strain.
- Top loop handle: The grab handle on top makes it easy for kids or parents to pick up the ruck quickly. This detail is small but super handy.
- Padded back: The padded back adds another layer of comfort, preventing sharp edges or awkwardly packed items from pressing into your child’s back.
- 2 external side water bottle pockets: These deep side pockets are perfect for water bottles, but they also fit snacks, gloves, or similar things.
- Front kangaroo pocket for storing pencils, toys and snacks: The front pocket is just the right size for grab-and-go items.
- Exterior and Interior pockets are lined with velcro to customize with as many patches as you want (Only the interior of the Seaspray + White features lined velcro): Kids love showing off their personality, and the Velcro lining lets them do just that with patches.
- Internal sleeve for a tablet or books: This internal sleeve is snug and secure, perfect for safely storing a tablet and reading material.
- Scars Lifetime Guarantee: The best on the market
Why We Decided to Review the GORUCK KR1 2.0 Kid Ruck
The reason is simple — we were already impressed with the original KR1, so testing the KR1 2.0 just made sense. We saw how well it held up, and when GORUCK released this version, we were excited to see what changes/improvements they made. Since more kids are joining rucking events and training, we wanted to put the KR1 2.0 through its paces and share what we learned with you.
Reasons to Trust Our Expertise
We don’t just review gear ourselves. In this case, we’ve handed the KR1 2.0 off to Jason’s kids and watched how it performed in actual use.
From weekend rucks to school days and spontaneous backyard workouts, we saw how this kid-sized ruck handled it all. And yes, we checked how it felt when loaded and empty, with both plates and regular items.
How We Tested the GORUCK KR1 2.0 Kid Backpack?
We put the KR1 2.0 through realistic testing:
- Light ruck workouts (0.5 to 1.5 miles)
- Active play and obstacle courses
- Used as a school backpack (books, lunch, water bottle)
- Load testing with 10LB Ruck Plate
We made sure the test kids moved naturally (running, jumping, climbing) just like they would during a normal day. We also monitored wear and tear over a few weeks.
Benefits of the GORUCK KR1 2.0 Rucksack
- Kid-Sized but Built Like the Real Thing: It’s compact and fits kids properly, but it’s not a toy. The construction is just as solid as adult GORUCK bags.
- Encourages Good Movement Patterns: Because it sits higher on the back and doesn’t swing around, it promotes better posture and safer movement.
- Ideal for Light Training Loads: You can easily drop in a 10LB Ruck Plate or a sandbag to introduce your kid to loaded carries.
- Works for School Too: Plenty of kids we tested ended up using it as their daily school backpack.
- GORUCK’s Warranty: Let’s be honest — kids can break anything. But with GORUCK’s lifetime repair guarantee, you don’t have to worry about durability.
Downsides of the GORUCK KR1 2.0
- Limited Interior Organization: There’s no separate zippered pocket inside, which can be annoying for smaller items like pencils, headphones, or snacks. That said, it keeps things simple and uncluttered.
GORUCK KR1 2.0 Specs
- Dimensions: 14.5”L x 10.75”W x 4.75”D
- Weight: 1.3lb
- Primary Material: 1000D Cordura
- Back Panel & Back of Shoulder Straps: 210D Cordura
- Front external kangaroo pocket: 6.75”L x 10.5”W x 1.25”D
- Internal top front pocket: 10.25”L x 6.75”W
- Internal back pouch: 9.25”L x 10.5”W
Who Are the GORUCK KR1 2.0 Ideal For?
- Kids ages 6–12 who want to ruck like mom or dad
- Youth athletes needing a rugged backpack for sports and movement
- Parents looking for a one-and-done school bag that lasts for years
- Families who spend weekends on trails, in parks, or doing outdoor events
- Kids attending camps or overnight trips who need a tough, compact pack
Who Should Avoid GORUCK KR1 2.0 and Why?
- Kids under 5 or with extremely small frames because it might still be too large.
Pricing and Shipping Information
The GORUCK KR1 2.0 Kid Ruck is priced at $65.00.
Shipping within the U.S. is calculated based on your location, and while backpacks don’t qualify for free shipping like some other products, Tribe n’ Training (TNT) members still get the benefit of No-Rush Shipping. If you’re not completely satisfied with your full-priced purchase, returns are simple and free within 30 days. Keep in mind, sale items and charity donations are excluded from this return policy.
Testimonials From GORUCK Customers
Best GORUCK KR1 2.0 Alternatives
If you’re considering alternatives to the GORUCK KR1 2.0, the best option is probably the KR1 which is similar, but with some differences your kid may need.
However, if you’re looking for something a little more affordable and suitable for younger or less demanding kids, the Osprey Daylite Jr. might be a good fit. It’s great for day-to-day use, but it’s not really designed for rucking or serious outdoor activities. On the other hand, if you want a much larger backpack for camping or long outdoor excursions, the Deuter Fox 40 Backpack is a good choice, but it’s pricier and way too big for everyday use.
Our Final Verdict on the GORUCK KR1 2.0 Backpack
The KR1 2.0 13L is a legit ruck made for smaller frames during different activities, so much more than just a kid’s version of an adult bag. You can tell it was designed by people who understand what kids actually do with their gear.
I’ve heard from other ruckers (moms, dads, coaches) who swear by the KR1 and KR1 2.0 as the only backpacks their kids haven’t destroyed in a few months. And Jason told me a few days ago that the kids are just as impressed with the KR1 models as they were on the first day. For him and all other parents, it’s also important that he won’t have to buy new ones in a month.
If you believe in raising capable, confident kids who enjoy sports after school, rucking, and going to the local park with friends, the KR1 2.0 will not disappoint you, on the contrary.
Your kid will want to use it, and more importantly, they won’t be able to break it.
What makes a kids’ rucksack truly “rucking-ready” compared to a regular school backpack?
A rucking-ready kids’ rucksack is built to handle movement, load, and wear far beyond classroom needs. Unlike most school backpacks, the KR1 2.0 provides balance and durability over storage compartments and design.
How much weight should a child carry in a rucksack like the KR1 2.0?
A good rule of thumb is 10–15% of a body weight. For example, a 60 lb kid shouldn’t carry more than 6–9 lbs, including the bag itself. But it’s individual, so think about your child’s overall fitness level.
Can rucking be part of a structured kids’ training plan or sport development?
Even light rucking a couple of times a week can support overall athletic development. It’s especially helpful for kids in martial arts, hiking clubs, or team sports.
At what age is it appropriate to introduce rucking to kids?
Kids as young as 6 or 7 can begin light rucking under supervision. It’s important to make it fun, like nature walks or casual strolls rather than structured workouts.
Can the KR1 2.0 be used as a carry-on for family travel?
Yes, since it’s compact enough to slide under most airline seats and tough enough for the overhead bin. It works great for holding travel essentials.
References
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Skaggs DL, Early SD, D’Ambra P, Tolo VT, Kay RM. Back pain and backpacks in school children. J Pediatr Orthop. 2006 May-Jun;26(3):358-63. doi: 10.1097/01.bpo.0000217723.14631.6e. PMID: 16670549.
Alami A, Tehrani H, Lael-Monfared E, Moghaddam FS, Boghsani GT, Jafari A. Ergonomic factors of school bags and their adaptation to the weight of students. Work. 2020;65(4):809-820. doi: 10.3233/WOR-203133. PMID: 32310211.
Perrone M, Orr R, Hing W, Milne N, Pope R. The Impact of Backpack Loads on School Children: A Critical Narrative Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2018 Nov 12;15(11):2529. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15112529. PMID: 30424517; PMCID: PMC6267109.
