[WarriorDiplomat]

Originally Posted by Hawkman

I've searched around the forum for some information on whether or not a waist strap is beneficial/necessary part of a ruck (to be used for SFAS preparation). I came across a thread entitled 'Rucking - Cutting Waist Strap' where the general consensus is a waist strap does offer support and can prevent injury, even though some have rucked without one with no consequences.

Now to GORUCK, their events have been popular for the past few years, and they sell high-quality rucks...without waist straps. From the website, these packs look very good, and can take a beating. GORUCK does recommend one their brand of packs for their events. It is important to note that Jason McCarthy (founder of GORUCK) was a 10th Grouper.

So my question is this: How necessary is a waist strap for rucksack marching? If the answer is 'very necessary' where does that put GORUCK rucks? Are these packs truly meant to be rucked in, or are they more of a 1-day pack/BOB?

Not trying to stir up any dissention--I think GORUCK is an great brand and organization. I am simply interested in your thoughts.

Thanks for the input!

Those that claim to ruck without waist straps with no consequences are delusional. Putting 65-120 pounds on your shoulders and consequently on your spine is begging for long term back issues and most that retire have them. Putting a majority of the strain and weight of the ruck on your waist/hips is your best practice. Your legs will get stronger and your feet will harden just the same. Carrying a ruck for miles until your arms/shoulders go numb isn't just a sign of mental toughness but it is also a sign of pinching of nerves blood deprivation and neck strain. Wearing a waist belt on a heavy ruck is not non-tactical patrolling as some used to say and being a former SUT instructor can say it is idiotic to argue the value of having a waist strap tucked away for speed when taking it off when it is simply one more quick release over the physical longevity of an infantryman or future Ranger or SF guy.

Enough of that rant GORUCK is simply another company making money and from what i have seen their rucks are not for serious backpackers. They are selling a brand name they are currently still building with their GORUCK challenges. If I am doing serious packing, mountaineering etc....not my choice.

If a future Ranger or SF candidate is seeking to train in preparation I am a huge proponent of using the ruck you will be using. Using a specially designed ruck with ruck plates is totally different in design and feel than the real thing and keeping true to muscle conditioning methodology your stabilizer muscles you develop will be for that ruck not the issue one. Trust me they are different.