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. In this post, we’ll look at some of the best rucking gear for combat sports, whether you’re just getting started with what you have available or whether you plan to use top of the line equipment. Either will work perfectly fine and will be equally effective.
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, and a decent pair of shoes, you’re ready to go. Everything else is optional. You don’t need anything fancy.
Backpack vs. Ruck: What Should You Use?
When I first started, I just used a regular backpack. For most people, that’s enough. More rucking specific equipment can add some weight options or help to dial in form and function, but a backpack and some heavy books can work just as well.
A Regular Backpack (Best for Beginners)
A backpack is easy to find, often involves no additional cost, and it works perfectly for lighter weight.
The only thing to watch for is structure. If the bag is too soft, the weight can shift around and become uncomfortable. Look for something with padded shoulder straps that are fully adjustable, and if possible, find a backpack for rucking that also has a waist and/or chest strap to help stabilize the weight.
Upgraded Rucking Packs (Optional)
If you stick with rucking long-term, you might eventually want something more purpose-built.
A dedicated ruck will hold the weight more securely, distribute the load more evenly, and will tend to be more comfortable during longer walks. However, 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 to start rucking.
Weight Plates (My Preference)
I’ve been using a simple 10-pound plate. It’s compact, easy to load, and is very 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. You can use books, wrapped dumbbells, or small sandbags. The key is making sure the weight is secure, evenly positioned, and 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 perfectly fine. What matters most is comfort, stability, and no 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 to 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 to 60 minute walks a few times per week
That’s it. No specialized gear and no complicated system. That’s actually part of the appeal. Rucking doesn’t interfere with my boxing training, it doesn’t add fatigue, and it doesn’t take much time. 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 or expensive equipment. You just need to start doing it with whatever tools you currently have available. You can always upgrade later.
If you’ve been thinking about adding rucking into your routine, don’t get stuck overanalyzing gear. Just keep it simple and 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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