The GoRuck GR1 (7/10, WIRED Review) is the pack that launched the company, and still the best and most versatile of the GoRuck lineup. The GR1 comes in 2 sizes: 21L and 26L, I have both, but if I had to pick only one, it would be the 21L. This is the perfect size for rucking, everyday carry, and weekend trips if you pack light. I have even lived out of the 21L bag (with a shoulder bag for my camera gear) during a week long trip. It was a squeeze, but it worked. The 21L GR1 is deceptively large and always seems to swallow more gear than I think it can.
My favorite thing about the GR1 is its versatility. I have used this pack for plane travel (as a carry-on), rucking, hiking, hauling camera gear, and more. I even strapped it to the back rack of my bike for an overnight bikepacking trip. The only caveat I have is that if you use it for rucking (or hiking, or whatever you want to call it) you will sweat and that sweat will soak into the pack. Eventually it will get stinky. This is easy to fix by washing with soap and water and then hanging it to air dry (never put the bag in a washer or dryer), but it does take a while. Be sure to plan ahead if you’ve been rucking a lot and don’t want stares at the airport.
The GR1 consists of three compartments. Against your back there’s a well-padded, rigid laptop compartment (or ruck plate holder when you’re rucking). On the front outside of the pack there’s an angled zipper pocket for frequently accessed items. This does get tight if you’ve really packed out the interior, but it’s useful for wallet and passport and the like. The inside is one big compartment accessed by a U-shaped zipper so that the “lid” folds completely out of the way and you can load it out like a suitcase.
Internally there are three rows of MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment) webbing at the top for adding pockets and organizers, along with 3 internal pockets: a large elastic pocket on the back, and a zippered mesh pocket and a small solid pocket on the lid. The outside of the back is made of very heavy duty 1000D cordura. The back panel and shoulder straps are 210D cordura. The lighter-weight back fabric is easier on less sturdy (but awesome) fabrics like merino wool. There’s 3 rows of MOLLE webbing on the outside front and sides. This allows you to strap on extra compartments and organizers if you like (I keep a Vanquest water bottle holder, which fits a Nalgene, on the side of mine. See below for more organizers and accessories). You can also use that side MOLLE to attach a padded hip belt. The top handle is not only strong, but comfortable enough to carry the GR1 for quite a ways. Also, you can pull out the plastic framesheet in the back of the pack if you want the back to be less stiff, but I have never felt the need to do this.
If you’re over 6 feet tall, or just need more room in your pack, the 26L version is also a great pack, and does have a very nice extra zippered pocket at the top of the bag where you can stash your wallet, keys, and other small items.
