AO Review: GORUCK GR2 Travel Rucksack in Ripstop ROBIC – Part 2
Patrik Orcutt 07.17.25
Welcome to Part Two of this review on the GORUCK GR2 Travel Rucksack in their Ripstop ROBIC material. If you have not read Part 1, I would highly recommend doing so prior to reading the remainder of the review below on the GORUCK GR2 Travel Rucksack in Ripstop ROBIC. Part 1 can be found HERE.
Backpack Coverage on AllOutdoor
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- AllOutdoor Review – Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15 EDC Backpack
Built to Survive Flight School and Beyond
From the moment I slung the GR2 over my shoulder, I knew it was something special. The 420D Ripstop ROBIC Nylon is lightweight at just 3.1 pounds empty, yet tough enough to withstand the chaos of flight school. The ripstop grid pattern adds tear resistance, which is a lifesaver when I’m tossing it into the back of a truck or dragging it through dirt during a ruck march. I’ve put it through Alabama’s unpredictable weather—think sudden downpours and summers so humid/Hot you will be wishing you were stuck in a freezer. The water-resistant coating keeps my flight manuals, laptop, and uniforms bone-dry. After months of heavy use, it still looks pristine, with no frayed seams or wear marks. GORUCK’s claim of “rainproof” holds up, and I’ve never worried about my gear getting soaked.
The GR2’s Special Forces-inspired design is a game-changer for organizations for those who have never used a bag like this. It opens flat like a clamshell, making packing and unpacking a breeze, whether I’m prepping for a day in the woods, or the beach, or a weekend flight home. The two main compartments, plus a slew of internal pockets, let me keep my kneboard, pens, snacks, and publications neatly separated. No more digging through a mess to find that one item I’m in need of.
I’ve put the GR2 Rucksack through its paces during rucking workouts, and its comfort is a standout feature that keeps me coming back to it. The padded shoulder straps are fantastic at distributing the weight of a 40-pound load evenly across my shoulders, even during longer outings through town or the woods. The straps are wide and cushioned, preventing digging or chafing, which is a relief when I’m pushing through a sweaty, multi-mile ruck. The back panel, while not as ventilated as some dedicated hiking packs, molds comfortably to my back, providing solid support without feeling bulky. The GR2’s boxy, stable design keeps the load close to my body, minimizing sway and making each step feel balanced, even when I’m hauling heavy gear. While it’s not specifically built for dynamic rucking like GORUCK’s Rucker, the GR2’s thoughtful ergonomics make it surprisingly comfortable for long-distance carries, letting me focus on the mission rather than my gear.
The bombproof laptop compartment, with its false bottom and extra reinforcement, is a standout. My 14-inch MacBook stays secure, even when I drop the ruck after a long day of Flying or Classes.
As someone who’s constantly hopping on flights for work or quick trips home, the GR2’s carry-on compliance is a godsend. At 12.5″W x 18″H x 7.25″D inches for the 26L version, it fits perfectly in overhead bins on every commercial flight I’ve taken, from cramped regional jets. It is also incredible the amount of stuff you can fit in the Ruck. While only being 26Ls, its very easy to stuff a whole 4 days of travel items in this ruck. The organized pockets and clamshell design definitely help make this happen. I flew to Maine a number of times for family visits, and the GR2 handled everything—clothes, toiletries, study materials, and even a pair of boots—with room.
Likes and Dislikes of the GR2 – Ripstop ROBIC
Likes
- Built to outlast you and be something you can pass down to your children (no really).
- Comes with Scars Lifetime Guarantee on all GORUCK-built gear
- Lightweight and well-organized internal storage
- Super comfy
Dislikes
- Make in Vietnam (Not the USA)
- Commands a steep price of $405.00
- Orange internal accents may not be for everyone (even though I like them for visibility)
- Needs to be offered in more color options in the GR2 sizing.
Wrap Up
In wrapping up, the GORUCK GR2 Ripstop ROBIC Rucksack has proven to be an exceptional companion life as an Army flight school student and frequent traveler. Its rugged 420D Ripstop ROBIC Nylon construction, smart organization, and carry-on-friendly design have seamlessly handled everything from rainy rucks to crowded airport terminals. The comfort of the padded shoulder straps and the security of the bombproof laptop compartment make it a reliable choice for hauling heavy gear or navigating TSA checkpoints. While the price and minor quirks like back panel ventilation are worth noting, the GR2’s durability, versatility, and lifetime warranty make it a worthwhile investment. Whether I’m trekking across town or boarding a flight, this ruck has my back, and I’m excited to keep using it for every adventure my aviation career throws my way.
