GORUCK Shadow Ruck 25 (SD25)
1525ci 25L
$95


More info: http://goruck.com/en/sd25#.U09HCVVdXug


The GORUCK SD25 is part of GORUCK’s lowest end line of packs, they call them their “book bags that don’t break”, and it is just that. I picked this up because I ended up with a gift card but it left me far short of the $300+ price tag of most of GORUCK’s packs. The SD25 is stripped of a lot of the features from the other GORUCK pack lines; no laptop pocket, really basic straps, no MOLLE (internal or external) and a few other areas that are lighter in material. The SD25 is still well built and comes with GORUCK’s scars guarantee, it’s a well made “book bag” for sure.


Likes:
Organization – even though the shadow line has no MOLLE GORUCK didn’t skimp on the pockets, there is a large pocket on the front of the front panel and two additional pockets on the backside of said panel.
Size – 25L is a great size, its right in the zone of 1-2 day pack.
That GORUCK look – it looks like a GORUCK which to some people (myself included) it’s a gear whore badge of honor. Things like their signature zipper pulls (paracord with heat shrink) and the cool backwards flag sown into the loop on the front. Just little things that make the look of the pack standout.


Dislikes:
Support – I have a hard time being negative with this pack simply for the fact that GORUCK aren’t selling this as anything more than a Tacticool book bag. But the pack with any weight likes to sag bad, it actually makes it very uncomfortable. However if used for its intended purpose the books would probably act as a frame sheet, or just adding a frame sheet might help too.
Straps – I love and hate the straps, no sternum strap (or good/easy way to add one) makes them make less than ideal for long distance carrying, but they are well padded and a nice width.


Overall the GORUCK SD25 is an ok bag; it is what they say it is a “book bag”. It’s built like a tank but it’s missing a lot of features that I think are needed in a serious use pack. If you happen to be in the market for a school/book type backpack that has that GORUCK look and some good organization this might be an option.