The Rucker 4.0 is our best option to get started if you also want something to carry more than just a ruck plate as it offers extra space in the main interior to hold other items.
If you are under 6' tall, we recommend going with the 20L but if you are 6' or over, the 25L is a great fit and offers a little more room. If you only plan on using your gear for rucking, the 20L is a better fit for anyone regardless of height since it will keep your weight more elevated than the 25L will as it is a shorter pack. The Rucker is great as an everyday carry bag as well as it offers plenty of room to pack items needed for a quick day trip or your daily work commute.
- The Rucker 20L (both versions) can hold one 20 or 30lb Rucker plate securely in the elevated plate pocket.
- The Rucker 25L offers the ability to beef up your weight more than both versions of the 20L. It includes 2 ruck plate compartments and if you have a longer torso, the hip belt included will sit lower towards your hips as opposed to around your core when worn with the 20L. The 25L can hold a 45lb plate in the back plate pocket, unlike the 20L versions which can only fit a 20 or 30 Rucker plate. Keep in mind, if you place a 45lb plate in the 25L, only a 20lb Rucker plate will fit in the second pocket.
You can check them out here: https://www.goruck.com/collections/rucker
If you do not need to carry any other items, then the Ruck Plate Carrier is the best option for you and you can check those out here: https://www.goruck.com/products/ruck-plate-carrier-2-0
If you're of average build or used to rucking with a 20L Rucker, we recommend the Standard RPC. Smaller frames, go with the Small RPC. If you're bigger or used to rucking with a 25L Rucker, go with the Large RPC. The size of the actual plate pocket is the same on all Ruck Plate Carriers, with the straps being the only difference.
Don't overthink it, we've found that the Standard RPC will work best for most people if you choose to go with one of those.
As for ruck plates, they are sold separately. The 20 or 30lb Rucker Ruck Plate will fit (the GR1 versions will not fit) in the elevated pocket of both versions of the Rucker, but we recommend starting with 20lbs and if you choose to move up in weight, that you go with either a 30lb plate or moving up with just another 10lb weight. 10lb increments is a steady and good rule to follow when increasing weight should you choose to do so.
You can check those out here: https://www.goruck.com/ruck-plates-20lb-30lb/
Our Ruck Plate Carriers (2.0 and 3.0 versions) are compatible with the Rucker Plate for the Rucker/RPC 10LB, 20LB or 30LB only. Our 45lb plate will fit in the Ruck Plate Carrier 45LB, however. Keep in mind, the Ruck Plate Carriers can only hold one plate at a time.