GORUCK GR1 Heritage 21L

Over a decade ago GORUCK released the GR1, changing the game for EDC backpacks in the years since. Thanks to its efficient and practical design, which combines the durability and ruggedness of rucksacks used by the Special Forces with the simplicity and aesthetic of a regular EDC bag, the GR1 stands the test of time and extreme use, no matter what or where the mission is.

The GR1 has gone through multiple modifications, updates, and variants through the years to tweak and remix its core design, and the recent Heritage line trades the GR1’s flagship 1000D CORDURA nylon construction for an eye-catching waxed duck canvas and full grain leather construction. The re-imagined aesthetic allows the GR1 to go from a bag that can last a lifetime to one that can tell a lifetime’s worth of stories through its patina and wear. Under the new materials the GR1 remains as practical as ever, sharing the features that make the original bag iconic.

To maintain its sleek appearance, the three rows of MOLLE-compatible webbing on the front of the bag have been removed; however, you still have access to the ones inside its main compartment for any panel or pouch additions you’d like to add. Like the original GR1, the Heritage opens flat for ease of loading and unloading. With 21 liters of total space (there’s a 26L model as well), the Heritage is divided into three sections: the GORUCK signature slash pocket for small, flat items, the main compartment, and a padded laptop compartment in the back which can fit devices up to 16“.

The main compartment features three different pockets for better organization: one canvas pocket with an elastic closure originally designed to carry ruck plates but more than capable of carrying a tablet or other flat essentials, one  large mesh zippered pocket on the back bottom of the front flap, and smaller zippered compartment on top of that for essentials to keep within reach. By design, the leftover space is big and open enough to organize as you please with packing cubes and organizers, giving the bag its versatility. Unique to the Heritage line (and the recent GRXC1 collaboration), a quick access pocket now lies underneath the top handle for storing items you need at a moment’s notice like your phone, sunglasses, earphones, or other essentials.

The Heritage remains as comfortable to carry as the GR1, especially once broken in and the leather worn in with your unique use . Despite featuring heavy padding on both the back panel and shoulder straps, it still leaves enough space for breathability. Since the original GR1 was designed to carry heavy loads for rucking, the Heritage is no different, riding high to make the load easier to bear. It’s sized right to be TSA compliant or stored underneath a car seat, making the bag ideal as a travel companion.

Last but not least, all GORUCK bags come with a SCARS lifetime guarantee. Pick up the Heritage series in one of three colors at the link below, which comes with a unique leather patch for this exclusive Huckberry release.

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