Two very popular EDC (Every Day Carry) bags from end high manufacturers that are approximately the same price with very different design philosophies. I’ve started to field test the GoRuck GR1 and the Triple Aught Design Fast Pack EDC.
Left to right, GoRuck GR1 and Triple Aught Design Fast Pack EDC
The contrast between these bags are visually apparent. The GoRuck is largely a slick pack with minimal PALS webbing for attachment points, single external slash pocket for storage, and no compression straps. The TAD Gear is covered in PALS webbing, multiple external zippered pouches, compression straps and even a removable “Transporter Tail” to store a jacket or even a rifle.
The differences are also clear when it comes to the straps. The GoRuck GR1′s wide reinforced shoulder straps are heavily padded but can only be adjusted for length. The TAD Gear Fast Pack EDC’s shoulder straps are more streamlined and not as thickly padded but have multiple adjustment points. The GoRuck has no sternum strap or waist belt. The TAD Gear has an adjustable sternum strap and waist belt that can be removed if desired.
Which design do I prefer in these mid-sized packs? I honestly don’t know yet and won’t know until I’ve spent more time carrying them. There is much to be said for the simplicity and clean aesthetics of the GoRuck GR1, which makes it suitable for recreational and office use. I like the thickly padded shoulder straps but I wish they were more adjustable because everyone’s frame is different. I don’t think it would have been too much to ask for GoRuck to include a removable sternum strap, which helps keep the shoulder straps in place when on the move or under heavy load. A waist belt is a debatable feature in a pack this size but if it’s removable then what does it hurt?
As for the TAD, there’s a lot going on with this pack. The modularity is the best I’ve seen to-date but with that comes complexity and a very tactical appearance, which isn’t always appropriate in every environment. Some of the extras can be removed to help streamline things like the transporter tail, sternum strap, and waist belt so that does help. Also, there are a lot of straps and buckles which tend to get in the way, but the Fast Pack EDC is highly adjustable so that anyone wearing the pack should be able to dial it in for comfort.
Overall, I feel like I’m getting more for my hard earned dollars with Triple Aught Design. It’s easier to justify the cost of the Fast Pack given it’s features. But, that doesn’t necessarily make it the better bag. If you’re interested in either of these packs then stay tuned. Full reviews on both are coming soon.
The post GoRuck GR1 and TAD Gear Fast Pack EDC: Contrasts in Bag Design appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.