GORUCK is no stranger to extreme activities. In 2008, Jason McCarthy’s brand launched the GR1 rucksack inspired by Special Forces backpacks, and has catapulted the idea of rucking into ubiquitous parlance. It has since evolved into a multi-hyphenated company that also hosts its GORUCK Challenges public endurance events, where participants go through military training-inspired obstacle courses and the like.
In terms of sporting activities, skateboarding is one of the most extreme you’ll find, and fits right in with GORUCK’s ethos. Recently, the brand has teamed up for the second time with one of the most legendary skaters ever in Mike Vallely on a new backpack purpose-built for your board and gear.
A Better Foundation
The original Skate Ruck was built upon the 26-liter GR1, which proved too bulky for daily skating sessions. This second iteration smartly pivots to GORUCK’s 18-liter Dual Compartment Bullet Ruck as its base — a more streamlined option that still maintains the brand’s tactical DNA with a 1,000D Cordura shell. The capacity reduction doesn’t compromise anything, offering enough room for essentials without the unnecessary heft that plagued its predecessor.
Military-Grade Board Storage
The defining feature here is the ultra-tough Nylon Skate Straps system. Unlike the original’s thinner plastic-buckled version, these beefier straps employ what appear to be military-inspired quick-release buckles — possibly similar to the AustriAlpin Cobra variants used by Special Forces. They’re designed to lock down your deck securely in the front but release fast when it’s time to ride. The system is versatile enough to handle snowboards, yoga mats, or towels, though its primary purpose is right there in the backpack’s name.
Tactical Organization
Inside, the dual-compartment design follows GORUCK’s proven formula. The bombproof laptop compartment sits against your back with a false bottom that absorbs impact when you drop the bag. It accommodates a 13-inch MacBook Pro or most 14-inch laptops comfortably. The lay-flat opening makes packing intuitive — a design borrowed from Special Forces medical rucks.
Storage is distributed across two compartments: the inner features two pockets while the outer contains three pockets plus a built-in field pocket. There’s also a discreet quick-access stash pocket beneath the top handle for keys or sunglasses. YKK AquaGuard zippers with silent, glove-friendly pulls constructed from parachute 550 cord keep everything secure and accessible.
Carrying Comfort
GORUCK addresses the punishment your back takes while skating with extra padding on the shoulder straps and lumbar support tailored to your spine’s natural curve. An internal frame sheet maintains the pack’s structure under load, distributing weight more effectively than typical skate backpacks.
Mike Vallely’s Legacy
Vallely’s involvement runs deeper than a typical endorsement. The skateboarding Hall of Famer — who turned pro in 1987 and helped pioneer modern street skating — has been a GORUCK participant since 2011. His iconic elephant graphic from his World Industries days inspired a limited-edition signature tee available alongside the pack.
Spec Sheet
Model: Skate Ruck (Second Edition)
Capacity: 18L
Dimensions: 11.75″ × 18.5″ × 7″
Weight: 3.25 lbs
Primary Material: 1000D Cordura
Back Panel/Straps: 210D High Tenacity Cordura
Laptop Compartment: Fits 13-14″ laptops
Pricing & Availability
The GORUCK Skate Ruck is available now at $275 in all five colorways through GORUCK’s website. The Mike Vallely Signature Tee retails separately for $25.
Recap
Goruck Skate Pack
GORUCK teamed up with skateboarding legend Mike Vallely again for a second-generation Skate Ruck, this time built on the more compact 18-liter Bullet Ruck with upgraded military-grade nylon straps and quick-release buckles to secure your board.
