After writing about the benefits of rucking for combat sports, one of the most common questions that comes up is:
“What gear do I actually need?”
The short answer is:
Not much.
Rucking is one of the simplest and most accessible conditioning tools you can add to your training. You don’t need a full setup, and you definitely don’t need to spend a lot of money to get started.
That said, a few small choices can make a big difference in comfort and consistency.
Here’s what I’ve found works.
You Don’t Need Much to Start
Before getting into specifics, it’s worth emphasizing:
This isn’t a gear-heavy activity.
If you have:
- A backpack
- Some weight
- A decent pair of shoes
You’re ready to go.
Everything else is optional
Backpack vs. Ruck: What Should You Use?
When I first started, I just used a regular backpack.
And honestly, for most people, that’s enough.
A Regular Backpack (Best for Beginners)
- Easy to find
- No additional cost
- Works perfectly for lighter weights
The only thing to watch for is structure. If the bag is too soft, the weight can shift around and become uncomfortable.
Upgraded Rucking Packs (Optional)
If you stick with rucking long-term, you might eventually want something more purpose-built.
A dedicated ruck:
- Holds weight more securely
- Distributes load more evenly
- Tends to be more comfortable over longer walks
But this is absolutely optional. There’s no need to start here.
If you choose to use a dedicated rucking pack, there are many excellent solutions available on Amazon. The gold standard for rucking equipment is GORUCK, and the GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 is streamlined and ergonomic, and pairs perfectly with the GORUCK Ruck Plate. There are other excellent budget options, which I’ll link to later in this post.
What to Use for Weight
This is where people tend to overcomplicate things.
You don’t need anything fancy.
Weight Plates (My Preference)
I’ve been using a simple 10-pound plate.
It’s:
- Compact
- Easy to load
- Stable inside the backpack
This has worked really well for my 20–60 minute walks.
Other Simple Options
If you don’t have a plate, there are plenty of alternatives:
- Books
- Wrapped dumbbells
- Small sandbags
The key is making sure the weight is:
- Secure
- Evenly positioned
- Not shifting around as you walk
Footwear: Keep It Comfortable
This isn’t the time to overthink footwear.
You don’t need specialized boots unless you’re doing long-distance or heavy-load rucking.
For most combat athletes:
- A good pair of walking or training shoes is fine
What matters most:
- Comfort
- Stability
- No hotspots or friction
If your feet are uncomfortable, you’re not going to stay consistent—and consistency is where the benefits come from.
Optional Add-Ons (Nice, But Not Necessary)
Once you’ve been rucking for a bit, you might consider a few small upgrades.
Hydration
If you’re going longer than 30–45 minutes, having water helps.
Simple Padding or Towel
If the weight presses into your back, a small towel can make things more comfortable.
My Current Setup
I’ve kept things very simple:
- 20–60 minute walks a few times per week
That’s it.
No specialized gear. No complicated system.
And honestly, that’s part of the appeal.
It doesn’t interfere with my boxing training.
It doesn’t add fatigue.
It just quietly builds conditioning in the background.
Final Thoughts
One of the biggest advantages of rucking is how accessible it is.
You don’t need perfect conditions.
You don’t need expensive equipment.
You just need to start.
If you’ve been thinking about adding rucking into your routine, don’t get stuck overanalyzing gear.
Use what you have. Keep it simple. Stay consistent.
That’s where the real benefit comes from.
Related: Why I Started Rucking for Combat Sports
If you haven’t read it yet, I break down exactly how rucking has improved my conditioning for boxing and overall training:
Why Rucking Is the Perfect Conditioning Tool for Combat Sports Athletes Over 40
To view the GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 on Amazon, click here.
To view the GORUCK Ruck Plate on Amazon, click here.
To view the Polyfit Rucking Backpack 2.0 on Amazon, click here.
To view the Yes4All Attachable Rucking Weight on Amazon, click here.
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