Been using my GR1 since 2017, I live in South America but I always bring it on my trips back to the US, also took when I went to China for a few weeks. Very very good, simple design, totally happy with my purchase. The only consistent annoyance sometimes is when the bag is heavy and I’m in an area with warm climate, my back gets sweaty. Other than that, I love it, have no complaints about it. Glad I made the jump.
I have a GoRuck. I used it to travel to the Philippines for a medical mission in Jan 2019. The material they have used for GoRuck is so durable and reliable.
I don't mind paying money for a quality product, but watching GR struggle to keep inventory then raise prices by 25% without any product improvements makes me feel like I'm paying an extra 100 dollars for a hot brand, not a quality product. I'm sure there are legitimate challenges like tariffs, cost of labor, costs associated with holding such diverse inventory, etc. that make keeping the cost low on their product but the optics of it don't feel that great as a consumer who thought the original price was a stretch for what the product provides.
That's awesome, bjarne martens! We're glad you're still digging your GR1, it really is a trusty travel companion. Thanks for sharing your experience with us. 😊🙌 - Rebecca
LOVE my gr1 26. The zippers, the materials, it just feels quality. One thing that caught me off guard was the weight. Empty is about 4-5lbs. I was also frustrated on some recent flights that it did not fit under the aisle seat on some of the new planes.
I fell in love with my GR1. Got the 26L and it fits far more than I expected. You get 25% for military, first responders, teachers, students, which was great for me. Rock solid and I ain’t afraid to put it through its paces
For a simple pack it’s way overpriced. U.S made packs like Tom Bihn, Recycled Firefighter, Topo Designs, DSPTCH and Inside Line Equipment are much cheaper and great quality. Rocking the DSPTCH daypack right now.
Another great review. I have had issues in the past spending a lot of money on items. However, as I get older and know more about the terrible things in the world I am starting to buy more expensive well made products from great companies. Out with the fast fashion and in with durable products. I personally don't have a need for a 26L pack at this time but their products look very well made. The price is high but with the SCARS program that you mentioned isn't that enough to justify the price?
I have a GR1 that required some attention from SCARS. I will attest they exceeded my expectations. I bought a used GR1 and the previous owner wore a small hole about the size of a pencil eraser in the bottom corner. I emailed SCARS with pictures explaining I bought it second-hand. They didn't hesitate to honor the warranty and return it within a week. I have full confidence in their products and my experience with SCARS reinforced my investment in their products, owning one GR2, two GR1s, and various accessories.
TheToeKnee216 - Thank you! We completely agree, 'out with the fast fashion and in with durable products'! Nicely put. And yes, we'd say the SCARS program is enough to justify the purchase-it's a pretty incredible program if you're looking to get away from fast fashion, too! Adam - Great to hear you've had a good experience with the SCARS program. We have no doubt they will uphold their end! -Hannah
R U reading my mind? Have just started looking into this bag, as I found I have a gap among my bags for shorter trips. But I CANNOT justify 395 bucks. That is just crazy.
There are so many really great bags out there for $250-$300. I think the price increases diminished the bags value a lot. I thought some day I might buy one but no longer feel that way and the price point on the GR2 is way out there.
I know this is late as hell but they have walked that price back to $335 and I've found a 10% off coupon so you're looking at almost exactly $300. Still a LOT for a relatively simple bag, but it IS American-made...
I also have a 10L bullet ruck. Built well, but there is definitely color fading after 2 years. That was disappointing. I don’t think these bags are “lifetime” packs, as they will definitely show their age over time.
Hey Zbehr - we're glad to hear that the Rucker is working so well for you! The Rucker was specifically built for Ruck Plates, whereas the GR1 is aimed more towards travel and EDC with the added laptop compartment and false bottom. So, it really does come down to you and your travel style. But, we get what you're saying with the big price jump for these features. 😊 - Rebecca
Hey Zbehr - we hear you, the biggest difference between these two packs is the laptop compartment and false bottom on the GR1, so if you're carrying around a laptop with you, this will help to keep it more protected. Both packs are also made from 1000D CORDURA®. Capacity can also make a difference, so it may also be worth working out how much you prefer to carry so that you can find out which size pack will suit your travel style. Hope this helps! 😊 - Rebecca
The fabric used is too abrasive. I only wore the pack for about two weeks and I already started to see piling on my shirts. Unfortunately, the pack will be heading to eBay. Just picked up an Evergoods CPL24. The Goruck is probably slightly more durable, but the fabric used on the Evergoods is much, much better.
Put that GR1 through a GoRuck Tough or two and it’ll be nice and broken in. These packs are designed for rugged use. They look and feel better once they’ve been used.
@@JordanCrowderFilms I have a bad ankle, bad knees, and a not so great back from many real life "toughs". My days of rolling around in the mud for hours on end are over. I just need a well made bag to carry my stuff back and forth to work, and I would prefer that bag not to destroy my cloths.
Hey Jonathon! We haven't had our hands on the Aer Duffel Pack yet, but if anything changes we'll keep you updated over our social channels. And, if you want to check out the Aer products we've reviewed so far, you can use this link here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/ 😊 - Rebecca
Been doing a lot of research and still undecided on the best daypack to get. Currently leaning towards the osprey talon 22 since majority of my travel consist of casual stroll around and loads of hiking. Anyone know of any other decent backpacks ?
Hi bob-loads to choose from! Here's a link to all the backpacks we've reviewed: packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/backpacks/ Hope that helps! -Hannah
Just the GR2 for 2 years! Here's a link to the list that started it all: medium.com/pack-hacker/everything-you-need-to-travel-the-world-in-one-backpack-fab5e138af1c - Tom
You should do a poll on your instagram account on whether or not the "swoosh" in/out sound is SUPER, SUPER, ANNOYING. At least turn it down? Otherwise solid production quality. Please consider :(
Pack Hacker i was gifted a PacSafe VentureSafe 25L G2 and use it with full carry (15-20lbs). In the +2 years of use no rips tears. I think there can be a good inbetween of edc and tactical materials without being an overpriced piece of gear. Still searching for that pack
Add a comment above and let us know what you think of the GORUCK GR1. Would you like one? Or is there anything else you prefer?
Can't believe that you guys hadn't reviewed the GR1, considering you've reviewed everything else from Goruck!
Hey Karan-we finally got around to it! 👍🎒
-Hannah
Been using my GR1 since 2017, I live in South America but I always bring it on my trips back to the US, also took when I went to China for a few weeks. Very very good, simple design, totally happy with my purchase. The only consistent annoyance sometimes is when the bag is heavy and I’m in an area with warm climate, my back gets sweaty. Other than that, I love it, have no complaints about it. Glad I made the jump.
The 21l version was my very first video review in the bag world. So there is lots of nostalgia and love for this bag. Great video. 😉👊
A solid bag, indeed. 👍🎒 Thanks, Bo!
-Hannah
I have a GoRuck. I used it to travel to the Philippines for a medical mission in Jan 2019. The material they have used for GoRuck is so durable and reliable.
I don't mind paying money for a quality product, but watching GR struggle to keep inventory then raise prices by 25% without any product improvements makes me feel like I'm paying an extra 100 dollars for a hot brand, not a quality product. I'm sure there are legitimate challenges like tariffs, cost of labor, costs associated with holding such diverse inventory, etc. that make keeping the cost low on their product but the optics of it don't feel that great as a consumer who thought the original price was a stretch for what the product provides.
Hey ImagineerCam, great points here 👍
Bought my Goruck GR1 back in 2013. My first expensive pack but I still use it and love it. And it still looks like new.
That's awesome, bjarne martens! We're glad you're still digging your GR1, it really is a trusty travel companion. Thanks for sharing your experience with us. 😊🙌
- Rebecca
LOVE my gr1 26. The zippers, the materials, it just feels quality. One thing that caught me off guard was the weight. Empty is about 4-5lbs. I was also frustrated on some recent flights that it did not fit under the aisle seat on some of the new planes.
Great to hear, gonefishingapodaca! The durability and quality end up adding some weight-let us know how your journeys with it continue 👍
-Hannah
They say 3.2 pounds on the site. Also how can a 26L NOT fit under the seat?
The GR1 Urban Grey is currently on sale for 195 right now!
Yep I got it. I’m a tad pissed because now they’ve got a navy blue one on sale for $165
I fell in love with my GR1. Got the 26L and it fits far more than I expected. You get 25% for military, first responders, teachers, students, which was great for me. Rock solid and I ain’t afraid to put it through its paces
Awesome, Zachary! Great to hear you're loving it.
-Hannah
I got the Gr2 36L for $300 with a sale going on and LEO discount
Wahou the price increase is painful. Still one of the best bag out there!
Definitely a solid pack! 🎒
-Hannah
For a simple pack it’s way overpriced. U.S made packs like Tom Bihn, Recycled Firefighter, Topo Designs, DSPTCH and Inside Line Equipment are much cheaper and great quality. Rocking the DSPTCH daypack right now.
Solid alternatives, Collin. We'll have to checkout the DSPTCH daypack 👍
Topo is made in Vietnam now. Some packs are still made in America but that’s definitely not gonna last.
Thank you for the suggestions. DSPTCH seem solid. I will check them out
Another great review. I have had issues in the past spending a lot of money on items. However, as I get older and know more about the terrible things in the world I am starting to buy more expensive well made products from great companies. Out with the fast fashion and in with durable products.
I personally don't have a need for a 26L pack at this time but their products look very well made. The price is high but with the SCARS program that you mentioned isn't that enough to justify the price?
I have a GR1 that required some attention from SCARS. I will attest they exceeded my expectations. I bought a used GR1 and the previous owner wore a small hole about the size of a pencil eraser in the bottom corner. I emailed SCARS with pictures explaining I bought it second-hand. They didn't hesitate to honor the warranty and return it within a week. I have full confidence in their products and my experience with SCARS reinforced my investment in their products, owning one GR2, two GR1s, and various accessories.
TheToeKnee216 - Thank you! We completely agree, 'out with the fast fashion and in with durable products'! Nicely put. And yes, we'd say the SCARS program is enough to justify the purchase-it's a pretty incredible program if you're looking to get away from fast fashion, too!
Adam - Great to hear you've had a good experience with the SCARS program. We have no doubt they will uphold their end!
-Hannah
Did you made a review on GORUCK GR1 21L BACKPACK?
R U reading my mind?
Have just started looking into this bag, as I found I have a gap among my bags for shorter trips. But I CANNOT justify 395 bucks. That is just crazy.
🙊... It's an expensive pack for sure but GORUCK's durability and SCARS program are difficult to come by!
-Hannah
Pack Hacker... but there are several other American brands that have awesome warranties that aren’t priced nearly as high. For example, Red Oxx...
@@Jazzmusiek We'll check them out! 👍
-Hannah
Nice review! Love my GR1!
Where do you get your patches made?
Hey xderiwx-thanks! Glad to hear you're digging your GR1 👍
It's a secret.. 🙊
-Hanah
There are so many really great bags out there for $250-$300. I think the price increases diminished the bags value a lot. I thought some day I might buy one but no longer feel that way and the price point on the GR2 is way out there.
Thanks for sharing, james! A hefty price but their SCARS program is pretty solid, in addition to incredible durability 👍
I know this is late as hell but they have walked that price back to $335 and I've found a 10% off coupon so you're looking at almost exactly $300. Still a LOT for a relatively simple bag, but it IS American-made...
Have you compared the 21L vs the 26L? Thanks!
Do you like the gr1 original that you reviewed or the slick version?
Excellent review! Thanks!
You got it!
- Tom
I also have a 10L bullet ruck. Built well, but there is definitely color fading after 2 years. That was disappointing. I don’t think these bags are “lifetime” packs, as they will definitely show their age over time.
We'll have to check out the Bullet Ruck 👍
-Hannah
The 26 L was too big for me, and the 21L fits perfect.
Great to hear, R Ww!
-Hannah
Whats your height?, I havent decided between 21 and 26L.
Hello. Please review the Outlier Strong Dungarees.
(My english bad, sorry.)
Thank you.
Hey Orhan - we're big fans of the Outlier Slim Dungarees (packhacker.com/travel-gear/outlier/slim-dungarees/) so we'll look into these! 👍👍👍
- Rebecca
@@PackHacker Outlier I bought Slim Dungarees pants. I'm thinking of buying Outlier Strong Dungarees. Please Strong Dungarees review.
It's on the list Orhan, but it's not in the immediate pipeline! 😊 👍
- Rebecca
Ridiculous price,I would go with maxpedition. Good review. Thanks
@BoneThroneTriumph not really, and goruck are more stylish for city life
Its worth the price when you consider how much longer they last (mine lasted me 5 years of daily use before bring passed on to a friend)
This backpack is amazing, do you think the laptop back fits a 11.25" x 16.25" laptop?
Hey! We just measured and it won't fit in the GR1, but it would fit in the GR2 or GR3. Hope this helps!
-Hannah
Thank you!
Anytime!
-Hannah
How tall are you? Just curious on size
6'2"! Also, keep in mind this is the 26L version, not the 21L.
- Tom
You guys should review the tocayo pack, from yeti. It's like a more budget friendly version of the gr1
We'll check it out 👍
-Hannah
I would love to see why I need this over a rucker. The laptop compartment the only difference? But its $150 more for the GR1?
Hey Zbehr - we're glad to hear that the Rucker is working so well for you! The Rucker was specifically built for Ruck Plates, whereas the GR1 is aimed more towards travel and EDC with the added laptop compartment and false bottom. So, it really does come down to you and your travel style. But, we get what you're saying with the big price jump for these features. 😊
- Rebecca
Pack Hacker I don’t have a rucker. I’m trying to figure out which one I need. I just really don’t get why it’s $150 more...
Hey Zbehr - we hear you, the biggest difference between these two packs is the laptop compartment and false bottom on the GR1, so if you're carrying around a laptop with you, this will help to keep it more protected. Both packs are also made from 1000D CORDURA®. Capacity can also make a difference, so it may also be worth working out how much you prefer to carry so that you can find out which size pack will suit your travel style. Hope this helps! 😊
- Rebecca
Is there any another back like this to put a bottle
The fabric used is too abrasive. I only wore the pack for about two weeks and I already started to see piling on my shirts. Unfortunately, the pack will be heading to eBay. Just picked up an Evergoods CPL24. The Goruck is probably slightly more durable, but the fabric used on the Evergoods is much, much better.
Hey Blipalot71, thanks for the feedback. Let us know how the Evergoods CPL24 holds up for you-we've been hoping to get our hands on one soon!
-Hannah
Put that GR1 through a GoRuck Tough or two and it’ll be nice and broken in. These packs are designed for rugged use. They look and feel better once they’ve been used.
@@JordanCrowderFilms I have a bad ankle, bad knees, and a not so great back from many real life "toughs". My days of rolling around in the mud for hours on end are over. I just need a well made bag to carry my stuff back and forth to work, and I would prefer that bag not to destroy my cloths.
It's definitely a solid pack. Tom traveled around the world with his GR2 for two years and it's held up great.🎒
-Hannah
Can you review the Radio Ruck from Go Ruck? TIA 🙂
Thanks for the suggestion, Lea! I will pass it along to our managing editor 😃
-Eric
How do you like this bag compared to the Aer Duffle pack 2?
Hey Jonathon! We haven't had our hands on the Aer Duffel Pack yet, but if anything changes we'll keep you updated over our social channels.
And, if you want to check out the Aer products we've reviewed so far, you can use this link here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/ 😊
- Rebecca
Been doing a lot of research and still undecided on the best daypack to get. Currently leaning towards the osprey talon 22 since majority of my travel consist of casual stroll around and loads of hiking. Anyone know of any other decent backpacks ?
Hi bob-loads to choose from! Here's a link to all the backpacks we've reviewed: packhacker.com/travel-gear/category/backpacks/
Hope that helps!
-Hannah
Check out Red Oxx. More affordable, extremely durable, American made, and amazing warranty (on par with Osprey).
Where do you get those nifty "pack hacker" patches ;)
It's a secret! 🙊
-Hannah
Haha ;)...Fair enough!
What is the size of the ykk main compartment zipper?
Make a 24l grl please
Anyone know if the 17inch Alienware laptop will fit in the laptop compartment?
Hey Daydreamer - the GORUCK GR1 holds laptops up to 15". 😊👍
- Rebecca
The one with the cupholders?
Thank you.
You got it Orhan - thanks for watching! 👍
- Rebecca
You say that you've traveled the world for 2 years with both the GR2 and the GR1?? Doesnt make sense
Just the GR2 for 2 years! Here's a link to the list that started it all: medium.com/pack-hacker/everything-you-need-to-travel-the-world-in-one-backpack-fab5e138af1c
- Tom
You should do a poll on your instagram account on whether or not the "swoosh" in/out sound is SUPER, SUPER, ANNOYING. At least turn it down? Otherwise solid production quality. Please consider :(
diredesire - very strong opinions about swooshes! Thanks for voicing them.
- Tom
no reason for a backpack to cost 400?????? what the... smells fishy
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, EezyPeezy. What's your current go-to backpack? 👍
- Rebecca
Pack Hacker i was gifted a PacSafe VentureSafe 25L G2 and use it with full carry (15-20lbs). In the +2 years of use no rips tears. I think there can be a good inbetween of edc and tactical materials without being an overpriced piece of gear. Still searching for that pack
so expensive
Expensive for sure but incredibly durable, too! 👍
-Hannah