Sizing Rucks and Drinking Beers in Bozeman, Montana
June 8th, 2012 | Categories: Gear Explained | by jason
I love drinking beers with my buddies, and I love talking gear. “Photo shoots” — not so much, but we’ve gotten some requests for sizing pics. So we brought enough beer to kill a small army and took over some random red barn outside some random brick building in Bozeman. And here’s how it went.
Jack wanted to “look cooler.” Enter: sunglasses.
So, I lost the bet. Jack stacked them — all four — and then wanted to gloat about it. But he broke rule #1 by way of two empty hands.
Back up like 2 hours to the GORUCK Garage. I don’t know how to photoshop, so I fixed the hairs on John’s neck before we left. Notice in all the pics how perfect his hair line is, thanks to my OCD. Thank you Drill Sergeant Hester.
John’s dog Chloe never comes. He has no control and she might as well be rabid.
The tripod. So, I have one. People tell me I should use it, but I really don’t know how to sit still for long enough to set it up and keep one spot. But it makes an improvised coaster if you need it.
Jack’s laughing about an Echo on John even though he not so secretly wishes he were 6’2″. If you’re 6’2″ like John, the Echo is too small for you. If you’re 5’10″ like Jack, the Echo works just fine.
In my former life, I learned how to stalk. Now it comes in handy and they make fun of me for it on twitter nation. And good on them.
Sometimes you gotta wait around. Drink a beer, let the light change, walk around, drink another beer, take your shades off, drink another beer and wait for a rabid dog to show back up somewhat tamed.
We have four rucks. Likely more someday. But if you have to pick one, GR1 is always the right answer.
64 Comments to “Sizing Rucks and Drinking Beers in Bozeman, Montana”
June 8th, 2012
@ 9:49 am
love the post… all the pics are great, but the humor in this one puts it over the top!
keep up the great work.
June 8th, 2012
@ 10:03 am
Right on! Excellent post Jason. Now I can point the people asking me how big (or small) the rucks are to this post. No long I will need to grab my famous stash of GORUCK gear to show everyone what each ruck looks like my short and tiny frame.
Thanks Jack and John for keeping rule #1 too.
June 8th, 2012
@ 11:07 am
Great post and thanks for pointing out that my Echo is too small for my 6’8″ frame – I’m pretty sure it’s a violation of rule #1 for me to keep using it so I’ll pass it along to my son or wife. The upside is my GR1 fits me about the way the Echo fits Jack…but I still think I need a Radio Ruck to replace the Echo and then I’ll have all four. Good thing I’m signing up for Trek so I can get it on discount!
June 8th, 2012
@ 1:09 pm
Great post and awesome commentary. I’m 5’3″ and large in the shoulders and I thought the RR would be a good fit for my height. When I put it on my back and looked in the mirror I thought, “Gee, looks a little small even for my height.” So, what’d I do? I bought a GR1 as well! What great fit! As Jason put it, when in doubt go with the GR1.
June 8th, 2012
@ 1:38 pm
Nice post. At 5’9″ and scrawny, I could probably have gone with the Echo or RR. But, I like having the “just in case space”, so the Gr1 hit the spot as my do it all bag.
June 9th, 2012
@ 4:25 am
The best thing I have ever bought GR1. Great post,great to see all the sizing
June 10th, 2012
@ 10:33 pm
I have the GR2 and the brick bag and so far I’ve only used the brick bag for liquid bricks and real bricks. I keep the brick bag stashed in my GR2 as an extra bag if needed. I’m 5’10 200 pounds and the GR2 fits really nice. I use it as my everyday carry and the compartments help keep everything organized so I’m not going through the bag looking for things as I have with my other bags. Those bags are stored in my closet waiting to be donated. My next purchase will be the GR1. My army reserve roommate saw my GR2 and knew exactly what it was too!
June 11th, 2012
@ 4:02 pm
The best sizing post ever! Great job keeping it fun.
June 17th, 2012
@ 2:49 pm
Great info! GR2 was perfect for a 5-day trip to OBX, NC with beach/wod gear. Plus it doubled as a cooler for the 2 gallons of booze the 10 of us took almost everywhere.
It was too much for the GRC on my 5’8″ (choked me on crab walks), and as a mow/run ruck it hits my hip and neck at the same time. I guess I just have to do another GRC and choose a GR1/RR/Echo to compliment my GR2. Not a bad problem to have!
Might have went another way had this post been available at the time of my challenge, but overall I’m VERY pleased with my GR2.
July 5th, 2012
@ 3:50 pm
im going on a 3 months trip to southeast asia from oct to dec. surfing the web for suitable backpacks i stumbled upon the gorucks and since then cant get them out of my mind:)
im planning on travelling in a minimalistic manner, im a beginner in that kind of travelling though.
i think the GR2 suits my needs very well.
but i think i still need a separate daypack. my question is, is it possible to carry both a GR2 and RR for those times when i dont leave the GR2 in the hostel? on bus travel, when going from one place to another, etc?
any ideas are greatly appreciated!
im 6’1” btw
greetings from cologne!1
July 5th, 2012
@ 6:20 pm
I’m 5’4″ with broad shoulders and I’m having trouble deciding between the RR and Echo, I keep thinking the GR1 would be too big for my small frame.
July 6th, 2012
@ 11:47 am
Hey Chris, when I shot ‘GR2 Travels’ I had a Radio Ruck with me. It takes a little volume from the inside of the GR2, but if you’re into minimalism, it’s the way to go and it works great.
July 6th, 2012
@ 11:49 am
My best guess is that the Radio Ruck would be best for you, especially because you have broad shoulders.
July 8th, 2012
@ 11:24 pm
I am 5’8″ and weigh about 150 lbs.
I want a daypack and to use as a carry-on. I cannot decided between the Echo and Radio Ruck.
Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
July 9th, 2012
@ 8:49 pm
Hey Ken, I’d probably gauge it off of your laptop size and how much other stuff you have. If it’s a true carry-on you want, meaning that you have a laptop, a book, some magazines, and some peanut M&M’s (or whatever your preference), I’d say go with the Echo. If you want a daypack as well, go with the Radio Ruck. Hope this helps.
July 14th, 2012
@ 5:07 pm
I’m 5’8″ and 200 lbs. I initially got a Radio Ruck for daily use for work and as a carry on. It looks small so I added the GR1. So far The RR takes neverything I put in there with room to spare. It is a great carry on, being streamlined it fits under the seat with plenty of foot space. I still have the GR1 in case I would need a bigger bag.
August 8th, 2012
@ 3:54 pm
Sorry to interupt your obvious love for male models… Any chance you could include a few shots of the various Rucks on some female bodies please?
August 8th, 2012
@ 5:01 pm
You got me there, angela. I’ll put it on the list, scout’s honor.
August 20th, 2012
@ 1:24 pm
Whatcha got that will fit me? Female, 4’11″. U.S. Air Force vet.
August 20th, 2012
@ 6:38 pm
Stacey — thanks for your service. As for the rucks, I guess it depends what you’re looking for but my best guess is that the Echo or the Radio Ruck would work. In wearing the rucks, my preferred technique is to cinch way down on the straps and have it ride higher on my back. It distributes the weight across my entire back instead of just my lower back. Let me know what you think if you get one.
August 24th, 2012
@ 5:48 pm
I’m 6’4″ / 230# and I use the RR as an EDC bag and carryon. I look a bit like Dora the Explorer with both straps cinched up, but it’s a great size for a small laptop and I typically have only one strap slung over my shoulder anyway. Having a smaller pack helps me be more of a minimalist and I’ve really pared down the amount of stuff I carry, so I’m very happy with it. Now I’m deciding between GR1 & GR2 to use as luggage for pleasure trips. Is anyone using the RR inside the GR2 to take along as a day pack and leave the big’un in the room? Would that work with a GR1?
August 25th, 2012
@ 12:49 pm
Eric — when I shot GR2 Explained I was in China — and I brought the Radio Ruck for the exact purpose you’re talking about. I left GR2 in the hotel room and used the Radio Ruck as my ruck around town and for a day trip to the Great Wall. You could do this with a GR1, you’re just sacrificing a little more space in the GR2.
September 7th, 2012
@ 8:39 am
Still pondering the RR vs the GR1 for myself… just afraid the GR1 might be a bit big for my slightly under 5’6″, 145 lb frame. Hm, hm hm.
September 11th, 2012
@ 6:23 pm
Shaz – I’m 5’6″, 130 and the GR1 is perfect. It doesn’t look too big at all, and it’s the perfect size inside. I’ve never not had enough room for a weekend trip, let alone daily activities.
September 18th, 2012
@ 5:15 am
Hi Jason, I am considering between the Radio ruck and the GR1. I am 5’7″ 130lbs. Basically, i am just worried the GR1 will be too long for my back, or the radio ruck will be too wide for my shoulders. Want to get it as a EDC. carry a 13″ laptop, ipad, a book, magazine, sunglasses etc. which would you recommend?
September 18th, 2012
@ 10:04 am
Sam Ho – both are great for EDC, it’s just a question of the fit. At your size, I would usually say the Radio Ruck. I don’t think that it’ll be too wide for your shoulders, only because I haven’t heard that complaint to date. The way the shoulder straps come up and over your shoulders seems to work well. All that said, nobody ever returns GR1.
September 18th, 2012
@ 6:31 pm
Jason – thanks for the prompt reply. comparing the both rucks, as stated 24l and 26l for the capacity of radioruck and gr1 respectively, would you say the amount of items and weight i can stuff into these bags is roughly the same? e.g at days where i want to carry more, and fully load the rucks for a trip.
September 18th, 2012
@ 10:52 pm
Sam — despite the volumes being similar, GR1 feels like it carries more. My best guess is you can’t go wrong with it. I’ve used both, I always find myself grabbing my GR1. But that’s just me.
October 2nd, 2012
@ 5:27 pm
Question: So I got my GR1 – it’s solid, and seems awesome and durable as hell.
I shoved a bunch of stuff in there to try it on and see what it was like to wear it, and make sure it fits me. Once concern, as I mentioned above – I’m pretty short and even when cinched up the bottom sits at / below my waist level, and if I stand straight up, the bag seems to hit/rest on my hips/belt, and there is a big gap between hips / shoulders where much of the bag is not touching my back (I can fit a hand in there).
Is this normal, or does this mean the bag is too long for my torso (and thus I should size down to a RR)?
October 2nd, 2012
@ 10:41 pm
Shaz – ultimately, fit is a body-type thing, which is individual. Bottom line is that the ruck should be comfortable. It’s gonna be hard for me to go through all the what if’s and more specific sizing questions I would ask in this comments section. Can you please send a note to info@goruck.com and ask one of our guys to give you a call to discuss – please reference this back and forth with me. We’ll get you sorted out. Thanks, man.
October 3rd, 2012
@ 6:45 pm
Thanks Jason, I’ll shoot an e-mail out.
October 12th, 2012
@ 10:51 pm
I’m 6’1″ and 195. I want a work bag for my 15″ laptop and files, but the Echo looks tiny. RR and then I could double use it for day hiking?
October 15th, 2012
@ 9:50 am
I think the RR would be about right, Deane. As you guessed, the Echo may be a little small.
October 18th, 2012
@ 4:56 am
Did Shaz finally size down to the RR? He had about the same size and weight.
October 21st, 2012
@ 6:34 am
Just to muddy the waters a little, I’m probably the only person who found the RR too wide. I’m the skinniest 5’11 guy you’ll ever meet and I had the original full zip RR.
I was blown away how much I could fit in there, perfect EDC, but I always found too much of the bag stuck out either side. When I picked up an original echo second hand I knew I preferred the width on that, so I sold my original RR for a new model Echo, which is a great fit even if it carries significantly less. The RR did have the ability to fit a pair of shoes horizontally, which was awesome. Good thing I’ve got a GR1 now.
It’s incredibly bad ass but for every day use I think a shorter version that kept the width, triple molle and frame sheet would be great.
The GR1 is incredible if you’ve got the height for it, I think it’s the best one I’ve had so far.
October 22nd, 2012
@ 4:27 pm
Can anyone who has a GR1 comment on how suitable it would be to use for overnight hikes or if I need the GR2? I figure I’d keep tools/snacks in a chest rig, and a sleeping bag in a stuff sack. The bag would be for a 3 liter hydration bladder, compact food for 2 days, a change of clothes, and any other essentials that I can’t strap outside the bag. The GR1 looks to be big enough, I just figured I would see if anyone here could say for sure after having tried it themselves.
October 24th, 2012
@ 12:49 pm
Greg, I have a GR1 and its perfect for overnight backpacking. I fit a book, Nalgene, change of shoes and clothes, food, small blanket and 6 beers in mine just about every time we go out. That all packs it pretty tight but it works well and rides comfortable.
October 26th, 2012
@ 9:34 am
5’8 160lb woman here. Suggestions?
October 26th, 2012
@ 5:26 pm
Hi! I’m about 5’6″ and 140 pounds. I’m rather slim. Is it safe to assume that the Echo is my ideal choice?
October 27th, 2012
@ 3:51 pm
Alexa, either the Echo or the Radio Ruck. Echo is more of a very small accessory ruck or minimalist daypack, Radio Ruck is more of a classic daypack for commuting to work and that kind of stuff.
October 27th, 2012
@ 3:59 pm
Brett — see my comment to Alexa, but it depends on the use. The comparison is typically GR1 vs Radio Ruck because this is a sizing question. With regards to the Echo, it’s more of a function question. The Echo is really minimalist and definitely cannot be an overnight bag (GR1 and RR can be). So I’d say either the Echo or the RR for you.
October 29th, 2012
@ 12:54 pm
Thanks for the reply, Jason!
Just out of curiosity, why do you say that the Echo wouldn’t be an adequate overnight bag? I ask because one of the photos shows it holding a change of clothes, a pair of boots, and a handful of other small items. Seems like that would cover a night for most people, no?
October 29th, 2012
@ 4:51 pm
Brett — very fair point, and well put. You’re right, I’m wrong. If a bag can fit a full change of clothes, including a computer, a pair of boots, and a dopp kit, you pretty much have everything you’ll need for an overnight bag. I must be packing extravagantly or something. Truth is, I always carry so many electronics I space myself out of anything but a GR1. But that’s my problem, not yours. Have a good one man, thanks for checking in and calling me out.
October 29th, 2012
@ 5:20 pm
No worries! We all have different needs, yours are just weird (kidding!).
I just don’t want to overdo it. I feel like when I go bigger the packs just look absurd on me. They also sit odd when I underpack them.
October 29th, 2012
@ 7:36 pm
I just discovered your site and I must say I am completely impressed by your products and attitude! As to sizing, I’m 5’11″ 275+ (I know, I know…I’m working on it!). I’m considering the RR or GR1 for my first GORUCK purchase (or xmas gift). I mainly want to use the bag for EDC (13″ MacBook Air) but I carry a few books w/me as well (grad student). I wouldn’t mind the overnight/weekend capability of the GR1, but I’m not sure if it’s just too much bag. Any tips?
October 29th, 2012
@ 8:09 pm
Michael – GR1. When I was in grad school, GR1 was all I used to carry everything, every day. And every day since, too.
October 31st, 2012
@ 2:23 am
Jason-
Thanks for the quick reply! Looks like the GR1 it is. Maybe xmas will come early this year!
Cheers!
-Michael
November 4th, 2012
@ 7:51 pm
Are your boots Iron Rangers in this photos? I’m digging them.
Anyway to make this more Goruck oriented, I just got my GR1 and already took it out on a 2 day hike and it is a truly special bag.
November 18th, 2012
@ 2:56 am
I want a GR1 but first I need to know how many beers fin in there? >12oz can.I need to know.
November 18th, 2012
@ 2:58 am
Maybe you can size all of the bags by how many beers fit in each one?
November 19th, 2012
@ 12:58 pm
Ed – it’s absolutely on the list, man. Thanks for the suggestion – it’ll certainly be fun to do.
November 28th, 2012
@ 6:21 pm
Hey guys I will be Hiking up Kilimanjaro next year. Having tried hiking day bags, they just didn’t do it for me. I think I found a bag that does, your GR1 seems to be right for the trip nice size etc with being able to add bits on using the MOLLE. And using it for my cycling to work bag as I need to take 3 changes of clothes for work.
At 5 8″ is the GR1 to big for my frame?
Sorry for lengthy explanation
November 29th, 2012
@ 12:06 pm
Hey Thomas, GR1 seems to fit just about everyone pretty well. If you like the volume, I’d say it will serve you well till the end of time. Good luck getting up Kilimanjaro.
December 6th, 2012
@ 6:31 pm
Hi! Love the rucks! I am trying to decide between an echo or radio ruck. I am 5’8″ around 130? I usually carry a 13″ laptop and one spiral bound notebook on campus. Any suggestions on which I should go for? Thanks, Cason!
December 15th, 2012
@ 10:57 am
Hi Jason, Im on the fence of whether I should get the GR1 or GR2. Im a college student that would be using it for an EDC however I do travel quite a bit for leisure and was wondering which would best serve me.
Thanks, great products, Alejandro
December 22nd, 2012
@ 9:10 pm
What would be best for me? I am a student and may also use the bag for hikes. I am 6’1″, 195
December 24th, 2012
@ 7:22 pm
Connor – GR1 and you can’t go wrong.
January 15th, 2013
@ 11:03 pm
The GR1 holds an Eagle Creek Pack-it 18 like a glove. Which means you can carry a suit thru the mud and it will come out wrinkle free.
March 8th, 2013
@ 7:54 pm
Jack looks like Dane Cook…
March 20th, 2013
@ 7:34 pm
I’m 5’7″ and 150. I want a checkable pack for long haul travel and the GR2 looks perfect, but is it too big for me?
May 3rd, 2013
@ 9:08 pm
Now that the Radio Ruck is slightly smaller (specifically the SK20 aka slick RR) will it be too small for a solidly built 6’2″ guy? Love my GR1 but I’m looking for something a little smaller for my summer job.
May 5th, 2013
@ 8:45 am
Hi! I’m wanting to do a challenge at the end of this year. I’m debating between the Echo and the RR though.. I’m 5’1″ 125lbs (female).. I’m also a medic in the army currently so I want to use it as my daily ruck. Just not sure if the Echo would be too small for the challenge or if the RR would be too big.
May 5th, 2013
@ 9:11 am
Hey Tiler, I always recommend getting the ruck you think you want for life, not just the one you want for your specific event. The Echo is a little small for the Challenge. However, it will hold your 4 bricks and some water. You really don’t need anything more than that.
May 5th, 2013
@ 9:14 am
Ryan – I think it goes more into the liter count you’re looking for. I know plenty of big guys who have an Echo, but they don’t use it as their daily carry – it’s more of a break-away ruck from a GR2 or something. That said, 6’2″ is pretty tall. I’d recommend the 20L RR. The 24L Radio Ruck is too similar in size to GR1, which you already have.