The Right Gear Makes Rucking Easier (But You Don't Need Much)
Start with what you have . . . Upgrade When You're Ready.
Start Here...
You can begin with a normal backpack and household weights (water bottles, books, or sandbags).
Once you fall in love with rucking, here’s how to level up your kit.
Rucksacks (Backpacks)
Now you know how Rucking got it's name...
What makes a ruck different?
Durable - If you get into Rucking Challenges, this pack is going to go through hell and back, you want one that is built to withstand the punishment.
Padded Straps - You're carrying weight, sometimes substantial weight, on your shoulders, you want to be comfortable as possible without the straps digging into your shoulders
Reinforced Bottom - You're adding weight to this pack, often in the form of cast iron weight plates, but could be bricks, water bottles, anything. If your pack can't take the weight, you're carrying that $#!t back in your hands.
Recommended Packs
GoRuck Rucker 4.0 Shown
Pro Tip: At some point you will likely switch from water bottles and bricks wrapped in towels to Weight Plates. Get a pack designed to hold the weight plates as close to your back as possible. This will make for the most comfortable ruck keeping the weight high and tight to your back reducing the strain on your shoulders. Having a chest strap and waist strap for your pack will also make for a more comfortable ruck.
Weights
Yes4All Ruck Plate 20Lb Shown
Options for Adding Weight
Ruck Plates - 5 - 30 Lbs
Sandbags
Dumbbells or bricks wrapped in towels
If you bought a pack that's designed to hold ruck plates, then as soon as you can, add some ruck plates to your shopping list. Now GoRuck packs are the gold standard of Rucking. They're proud of their products. (Read: You're going to pay for them) And their Ruck Plates are no different. However the plates are just cast iron and will likely never see the light of day, so there are less expensive alternatives out there. Double and triple check the size of the plates you're buying to make sure they fit in the plate sleeve(s) in your pack. John has a GoRuck Rucker 4.0 pack and uses the Yes4All Plates you can find on Amazon for less than 1/2 GoRuck Plates.
Footwear
Good shoes prevent injuries.
Trail running shoes or hiking boots work best.
Waterproof for PNW weather recommended
Your feet do the work — treat them right. The best rucking shoes or boots offer support, traction, and durability without being overly stiff or heavy. Start with what you already own: comfortable running shoes or hiking boots with solid arch support. As your mileage increases, look for footwear that balances cushion and stability, keeps your feet dry in wet PNW weather, and fits snugly enough to prevent blisters. Remember: comfort > brand names. A pair that feels good at mile one should still feel good at mile five.
GoRuck Ballistic Trainers Shown
Pro Tip: Rotate your shoes if you ruck several times a week. Letting them dry and rebound between sessions extends their life and keeps your feet happier.
Accessories
Yes4All Ruck Plate 20Lb Shown
Additional Gear To Make Life Easier...
Once you’ve got your pack and shoes dialed in, a few small accessories can make every ruck more comfortable and efficient. A hydration bladder keeps water handy without breaking your stride, while reflective straps or a headlamp make early morning and evening rucks safer. For longer distances, consider rucking gloves to protect your hands and a dry bag or rain cover to keep your gear protected in classic PNW weather. These simple add-ons don’t just make rucking easier — they make it more enjoyable.
Get Stronger.
Go Farther.
Together.
Have Questions about Rucking or Joining the Crew? We'd Love to Hear From You!
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