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The Independent Guide to Rucking
How to start, train and stay injury-free, with scored gear reviews and ruck clubs near you.
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Tested on the trail, scored on one scale
Joel Kelly carries the packs, wears the vests and puts the shoes to work on weighted walks. Gretchen tests women's walking vests. Each review names the use behind its score, and most come with a filmed review.
GORUCK Rucking Weight Vest
7.5/10A secure 20 lb carry, with less fit adjustment left than I'd like.
GORUCK Spy Ruck Women's Weighted Vest
8.8/10Comfortable enough to get on with my walk. Choose the weight carefully.
Watch the review · 3:50
GORUCK Achilles Weighted Vest
8.1/10The 30 lb vest I reach for when I want to get out the door.
Watch the review · 5:20
GORUCK Mackall 45
7.6/10A dense, supportive sole in a shoe that works with jeans.
Watch the review · 1:38
GORUCK GR2
8.0/10The pick when you carry more than a plate: two full compartments.
Watch the review · 3:47
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Complete gear setups
Pick a kit for your kind of ruck
Each kit is built for a specific training goal, season, or event and updated as gear availability changes.
Featured nowCool-Weather Training
Fall Training
The plate comes back, sunset comes earlier, and wet ground changes the kit.
First Ruckers
Beginner Starter Kit
What to buy first, what to skip - and where the cheap stuff still holds up.
Women-Specific
Women's Rucker
A women's-fit pack and shoes, with layers that work under load.
Weighted Walking
Weighted Walking Kit
A vest-based setup for adding weight to regular walks.
Age 40+
Longevity Athlete
A lower-impact setup for strength, bone health, and steady aerobic work after 40.
Event Day
GORUCK Event Day
Tough, Star Course, Selection - the kit that survives the day.
New and updated
Recent guides and useful updates for the miles ahead.
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