Rucksack

Ruck Plate

A flat, rectangular steel weight (typically 10-45 lbs) designed to slot into the back panel of a rucksack. Sits flat against the spine for ergonomic load distribution, unlike round Olympic plates which would shift and bruise.

Weighted Vest

A torso-worn garment with pockets for steel or sand-filled weights. An alternative to a backpack for adding load — distributes weight more evenly around the trunk but limits maximum load (typically 20-40 lbs) and runs hotter than a pack.

Hydration Bladder

A flexible water reservoir (1-3 liters) with a drinking tube, designed to fit inside the back panel of a backpack. Hands-free hydration during longer rucks.

Sternum Strap

A horizontal strap connecting the two shoulder straps across the chest. Pulls the shoulder straps inward to stop them sliding off the shoulders, especially useful with heavier loads.

Hip Belt

A padded belt attached to the bottom of a backpack that transfers load from the shoulders to the hips. Critical for loads over ~30 lbs and over longer distances. Most rucking-specific packs have either no hip belt or a thin removable one — pure rucking favors shoulder-loaded carries.

Frame Pack

A backpacking-style pack with an internal or external frame, designed for multi-day loads of 40+ lbs. Generally NOT recommended for rucking — too tall, too wide, ride low on the back. Rucking-specific packs are flat, compact 20-25L volumes.