I know some ruckers might not agree, but I’m a big fan of weight vests. I’ve tried cheap ones, tactical ones, adjustable ones, and some I wish I’d never wasted money on.
So, it probably won’t surprise — I was very excited to try the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0. As you likely know, the entire RuckingBasics team loves GORUCK products, but that doesn’t mean we’re giving them a free pass. In fact, we tend to be especially tough on GORUCK reviews because our expectations are sky-high.
Keep reading and find out how the Training Weight Vest 2.0 performed in the rain, through heatwaves, and during Murphs in hotel parking lots.
The GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 is available in Black and DCU Camo.
Key Features of the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0
- Dual Plate Weight Capacity: The GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 is designed with two dedicated plate slots, allowing you to load weight on both the front and the back.
- Padded Shoulder Straps: One of the standout features of this vest is its thick, molded shoulder padding that contours naturally around your traps and shoulders.
- Interior with 210D CORDURA® Fabric: Inside, the vest is lined with 210D CORDURA®, a lightweight but durable fabric popular for being soft against the skin.
- Universal Plate Compatibility: The vest is built to fit a wide range of ruck plates, including GORUCK’s own plates as well as most standard training plates on the market.
- Padded Back Handle: At the back of the vest, there’s a reinforced, padded grab handle that’s perfect for quick adjustments, team drills, or buddy carries.
- Ballistic Nylon Velcro Plate Enclosure: Each plate is secured using a Velcro-enclosed flap made from Ballistic Nylon, ensuring your weights stay firmly in place no matter how intense the movement gets.
Why We Decided to Review the GORUCK Training Weight Vest
The first reason — we never skip reviewing GORUCK products. Second, a few friends from the rucking community told me this is “the best weighted vest ever.” With so many vests out there making big claims, I wanted to test this one head-to-head with the competition, see if it lived up to the hype, and see how it matches specific ruck/fitness demands.
Reasons to Trust Our Expertise
You are reading impressions after months of real training, not just a weekend trial. The broad experience helps us recognize what truly works and what just looks good on paper. We know what to expect from gear when it’s pushed hard, and we hold it to a high standard.
How We Tested the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0?
To really understand how it performs, we put it through a wide range of training scenarios. Here’s exactly how we tested it:
- Loaded two 10–20lb plates for rucks of 5–10km, including hills
- Used it during CrossFit-style WODs
- Ran a full Murph with varying plate combos
- Compared it to the GORUCK RPC 3.0 plate carrier and other plate vests
- Gear abuse: sweat, sand, rain, cleaning
Benefits of the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0
- Comfort under heavy load: Those shoulder straps are magic; no digging, no numbness, even after long trials.
- Stable plate retention: Even during fast transitions, plates don’t shift. Feels so solid.
- Durability: Cordura construction resists abrasion and sweat. This thing feels like it’ll last a decade.
- Simplified plate compatibility: Not limited only to GORUCK ruck plates, so you can use other plates as well. Still, I recommend GORUCK plates for the best performance.
- Military-grade warranty: With SCARS coverage, you know they’ll back it up.
Downsides of the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0
- Minimal storage options: No extra pockets on the vest. You have to keep your phone, keys, hydration, and other rucking accessories elsewhere.
GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 Specs
- Primary Material: 1000D CORDURA® (Tropic Multicam is 500D CORDURA)
- Interior Material: 210D CORDURA®
- Velcro Plate Closure (holds plate in place): 1050 Ballistic Nylon
- Weight: 1.65 LBS
- Plate Pocket(s) Dimensions: 9.5″W x 11.6″H
- Dimensions: 17.5″ (top of shoulder strap to bottom of vest) x 10.5″W
- Waist belt straps (2 straps)- 19.5″ each
Who Are the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 Ideal For?
- Ruckers & cross‑trainers: Those who want heavy, front-loaded weight (up to 60lb) will love it.
- Athletes focused on WODs or Murphs: The best weight vest for speed and control..
- Anyone sensitive to shoulder chafe: I agree with many fitness enthusiasts and ruckers who told me that this is the most comfortable vest they’ve used.
- Those who like to use gear long-term: If you are one of those willing to invest in durability and lifetime support, don’t look any further.
Who Should Avoid GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 and Why?
- Users doing chest mobility exercises: The vest’s snug front can restrict during pull-ups or similar exercises.
Pricing and Shipping Information
The GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 comes in one size and is priced at $195.00.
Unlike some GORUCK gear like their shoes, this item doesn’t ship free by default, but if you’re part of the Tribe n’ Training membership, you’ll qualify for FREE No-Rush Shipping within the U.S.
For everyone else, shipping fees depend on your location and chosen delivery speed. U.S. buyers can take advantage of GORUCK’s 30-day return policy, and they’ll even cover return shipping if the vest doesn’t meet your expectations.
Testimonials From GORUCK Customers
Best GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 Alternatives
There are a few solid alternatives out there worth considering. Here’s how they compare:
GORUCK RPC 3.0 (Ruck Plate Carrier)
We tested GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier and if you prefer back-only loading or want something a little more minimalist than a full vest, the GORUCK Plate Carrier 3.0 is your best bet. It’s designed to carry weight on your back only, which allows for full chest mobility. That is a big plus for breathing, pull-ups, push-ups, and high-rep work.
Rogue Plate Carrier Vest
The Rogue Plate Carrier is a minimalist, low-profile alternative to the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0. It’s lighter, more breathable, and sits higher on the torso. You will appreciate that during activities where mobility and ventilation matter. Compared to GORUCK’s heavier-duty build, the Rogue vest feels leaner but less sturdy.
5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier
For those looking for a broader training vest that’s both durable and tactically styled, the 5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier is a longtime favorite in the fitness community. Originally made for military and tactical use, it found its way into gyms thanks to events like the CrossFit Games. The TacTec features front and back plate pockets, adjustable straps, and breathable mesh panels. It handles 5.11’s weight plates or similarly shaped plates. Keep in mind it’s a bit more expensive.
Our Final Verdict on the Training Weight Vest 2.0
It’s clear the GORUCK Training Weight Vest 2.0 was made by people who know what serious fitness and dynamic rucking are all about.
Build quality (which is every bit as tough as GORUCK claims) is not the only feature that impressed me. Unlike many other training vests, this one didn’t shift with every stride or thump my ribs when I dropped to the floor for push-ups. It stays in perfect position like it was custom-built for my frame.
On the other hand, I think it is important to acknowledge that this vest is not for everyone. If you’re planning to do a lot of overhead work where chest mobility matters, you might feel a bit boxed in. It’s also not the cheapest option out there, yet that’s expected considering the quality.
For ruckers who train hard and expect their gear to keep up, the Training Weight Vest 2.0 is a rock-solid investment.
Are weighted vests safe for running and sprint intervals?
They can be, if used correctly and with moderate weight. Running with a vest places more stress on joints, especially knees and ankles, so it’s important to ramp up slowly. Sprinting with heavy vests is not for beginners and should only be done with excellent form.
What types of workouts benefit most from a training weight vest?
Bodyweight daily workouts like push-ups, squats, lunges, pull-ups, and planks all benefit from the added load. Conditioning circuits, stair climbs, and even walks become more challenging with a vest. It’s a great way to increase workout intensity without adding equipment.
Are there any risks of using a weight vest for bodyweight exercises?
Yes, if used improperly. Jumping, twisting, or deep bending with poor form becomes more dangerous under load. The key is starting light and moving with control.
How do you clean and maintain a training weight vest properly?
Wipe it down after sweaty sessions and let it air dry. Don’t throw it in a washing machine unless the brand says it’s safe. If it has removable plates or inserts, take those out before cleaning. Check straps and stitching regularly for wear and tear.
References
Normandin E, Yow D, Crotts C, Kiel J, Beavers KM, Nicklas BJ. Feasibility of Weighted Vest Use during a Dietary Weight Loss Intervention and Effects on Body Composition and Physical Function in Older Adults. J Frailty Aging. 2018;7(3):198-203. doi: 10.14283/jfa.2018.17. PMID: 30095153; PMCID: PMC6489119.
Nicklas BJ, Chmelo E, Delbono O, Carr JJ, Lyles MF, Marsh AP. Effects of resistance training with and without caloric restriction on physical function and mobility in overweight and obese older adults: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015 May;101(5):991-9. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.114.105270. Epub 2015 Mar 11. PMID: 25762810; PMCID: PMC4409692.
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.
