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Best Backpacks for LDS (Latter-day Saints) Missionaries | Elders

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Although this article is geared to the reasons why LDS missionaries should choose the 21L GORUCK GR1 backpack, you can also watch my video review below on why the GORUCK backpacks are worth the money. I’ve had one since 2015 and use it all the time. It’s my only travel bag when flying.

When I think of people who use backpacks daily, missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) come to mind first, probably because I was one and used a backpack (crappy one that I’ll discuss later) Every. Single. Day.

A few months ago, I polled 22 current and returned missionaries serving all over the world in every climate and multiple terrains. 90% of them used or use a backpack or satchel and reported they wish they’d had a better backpack that was more comfortable and lasted longer. Some of these elders served 25+ years ago (like me) and still remember their crappy backpacks. I’m late to the game now, but below is a great solution for you and your missionary.

Before I go any further, I know that the current official guidance for LDS missionaries states: Backpacks may be used for luggage but not for daily missionary activities.  But, l think there are many missions throughout the world that allow backpacks for daily use, aka: proselyting. They are the best option when carrying weight and/or multiple items b/c your hands and arms are free and you’re walking upright w/out a bag bouncing off your hip or rear.

As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), heading on a mission is an incredibly significant journey. Whether you’re going to a bustling city or a remote village, your backpack becomes more than just a vessel for carrying belongings—it becomes a trusted companion on your mission. In this post, I’ll explain why the GORUCK GR1 stands out as the ideal backpack for LDS missionaries, especially Elders, or young men.

GORUCK GR1 open
Opens flat for easy access to everything.

Stealth and Professionalism

In many mission environments, maintaining a low profile and projecting professionalism are crucial. The GORUCK GR1’s sleek and understated design allows you to blend in seamlessly while exuding an air of professionalism and preparedness. Its discreet appearance and lack of external branding make it ideal for situations where drawing attention to yourself may not be desirable. Whether you’re teaching a lesson, attending a meeting, contacting on the street or simply navigating daily life in your proselyting area, the GR1’s stealthy design helps you maintain a professional demeanor while carrying all your essentials with ease and in comfort.

Durability and Reliability

One of the most crucial aspects of any mission backpack is durability. LDS missionaries often find themselves in various environments, from urban settings to rugged terrain. The GORUCK GR1 is built to withstand the demands of these diverse landscapes. Constructed from military-grade materials and boasting a bombproof design, the GR1 can handle whatever challenges come your way. Its tough Cordura fabric, robust YKK zippers, and reinforced stitching ensure that it can endure the rigors of daily use, keeping your essentials safe and secure throughout your mission.

It will also be a backpack you’ll use when you return home–whether it’s for college, work, or every-day carry. Plus, with the Scars Lifetime Guarantee, you break it, they fix it. They are meant to be used and used often. It’s the best manufacturer guarantee on the market. I’ve used it so I know firsthand.

Plus, how often do missionaries get caught out in the rain? The GR1 is water resistant and cleans up easily when it gets dirty or muddy. And if you take a fall while riding your bike down the street at 20 mph, it probably won’t damage your GR1–it’s tough. If it does rip, they will fix it.


Versatility and Functionality

Versatility is key when it comes to mission backpacks, and the GORUCK GR1 excels in this aspect. With its thoughtfully designed compartments and organizational features, it offers ample storage space for everything you need to carry, from an extra jacket or raincoat to snacks to Books of Mormon and Bibles to study materials, pepper spray and electronic devices. The main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate bulky items like books, while the interior and exterior pockets provide convenient access to smaller essentials like pens, notebooks, keys, and water bottles. Additionally, the MOLLE webbing allows for customization with additional pouches or accessories, adapting to your specific needs and preferences. In addition, the Bombproof Laptop Compartment next to your back is extra reinforced and has a false bottom so that when you set your ruck down, your laptop (or tablet) won’t even notice.

Comfort and Support

You may be on your feet or bicycle for 9 hours/day so comfort is essential. When I was a missionary, I used a Jansport backpack. I’d load it up with books to give out and with my heavy scriptures (quad). The weight sat low on my back, not high. The straps were thin. There was no padding between my back and what was inside my backpack. Many missionaries had back pain b/c they had horrible backpacks that weren’t meant for carrying weight, especially for extended periods of time.

The GORUCK GR1 is engineered for maximum comfort, with extra padded shoulder straps, a cushioned back panel, and a sternum strap (sold separately) that distributes weight evenly and reduces strain on your shoulders and back. It’s designed to carry the weight high on your back, therefore more comfort and you can carry more weight. Whether you’re navigating crowded city streets or hiking through rugged terrain in a remote village in Brazil, you can rely on the GR1 to provide the support you need to stay comfortable and focused on your days tasks.

Additional Info

-You can personalize with a patch–maybe of the country or state where you’re serving, or your initials, CTR, JC, a scripture, or anything else. If you’re in a sketchy area or in a foreign country, you may not want a bright USA flag patch. The locals may take to you more if you sport something local to the area, like their flag.


I just got these 3″ x 2″ velcro patches in stock. Mark 16:15 reads: “….“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”


If you want these for your GR1 or any other bag or backpack, you can order from my Etsy shop:

https://jupiterpatchboards.etsy.com

Note: these have the velcro hooks on the back, so you’ll need the loops to attach it to. All GORUCK backpacks come with the loops for patches.

Note: the small pack that I put my Bible into in this video above is a 3L Shadow Pocket. It has infinite uses–especially for traveling (organize gear, dopp kit, electronics, cords, books, medicine, etc).

https://jupiterpatchboards.etsy.com

A more subdued look

-You can and will use it after your mission. It will last no matter the abuse you put it thru.

-Price is high–starting at $335 for the 21L GR1. Why? All GORUCK gear and clothing has sticker shock, but it’s b/c of the quality and lifetime guarantee. Try it out.

Conclusion

GORUCK has several backpack/rucksack options. I have the GR1, GR2 and Bullet Rucker. I single out the 21 liter GR1 here b/c I think it’s the best option for Elders/missionaries b/c of the size and simplicity. The GORUCK GR1 is the ultimate backpack for LDS missionaries, offering unmatched durability, versatility, comfort, and professionalism. With its rugged construction, thoughtful and simple design, and lifetime guarantee, the GR1 isn’t just a backpack—it’s a trusted companion on your journey for the next two years and beyond.

If you’ve found a better backpack option for your mission, please share. It’ll be hard to convince me there is one with better quality than the GORUCK line, but hey, I’m open to hearing what you’ve used.

*Also, if backpacks aren’t allowed in your mission or if you don’t need to carry many books/items, I will be reviewing a sling bag/belt bag soon since many missionaries are using these.

The simple design of the GR1 goes well with a professional/business look

Please send me pictures of you or someone you know with your GR1 (or other GORUCK rucksack or kit bag) on your mission. I’ll share them here. Email: thad@patriottothecore.com

I also wrote an article on the best pants for LDS missionaries. You can read that here.

GORUCK Field Full Zip Hoodie Review

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This is my in-depth, to-the-point review of the GORUCK Field Full Zip Hoodie jacket. These are things I’d want to know if I were considering ordering it or if I wasn’t sold on GORUCK apparel already. In addition to my written review, you can watch my video review below:

Sizing:
Take GORUCK’s advice on this. The Field Full Zip is an athletic fit, we recommend one size up from your usual size. I agree 100% with this. I’m normally a large. I got a large in this, but probably should have gone up to an XL. I’m a 42 suit jacket and 34-35 sleeve length, if that helps you.

Dries Fast:
Material is 90% polyester and 10% cotton. It’s very soft on the inside. Dries very fast. Overnight is more than enough time (hang dry only).

Neck/Throat Coverage:
Zips up higher on the neck to protect from wind. I’ve never had a hoodie zip this high, but I really like it when in cold/windy weather.

Hood Size:
A simple feature that may or may not be intentional is the hood isn’t so big that it bulges out on the sides and blocks my view–especially peripheral view. It also isn’t too small where it restricts head movement. Small thing, but very noticeable to me.

goruck field full zip hoodie

Zippered Pockets:
Both of the outside pockets have zippers. There are also two pockets on the inside, just opposite where the outside pockets are, that are deep. These do not have zippers.

Elastic on Wrists and Waist:
About 50% of the circumference of both wrists has elastic. And most of the waist has this. I show it in my video review. GORUCK says it’s half elastic, half self-fabric cuffs and hem for comfort. I haven’t seen a positive or negative for this so far. The good thing is when the hoodie is zipped up and I raise my hands above my head, it doesn’t pull up and show my belly. This means the elastic band around the waist isn’t tight, which I like.

Not Stretchy:
This is a different kind of material than the other GORUCK items I wear. It doesn’t stretch much. If you want to slide or pull up the sleeves, they just won’t do that. It’s possible the sleeves would be a little looser if I’d gotten the XL, so know this material, other than the wrists and waists, isn’t very stretchy.

Interesting and Random Fact about this hoodie:
The zipper insert is on the right side, which means it’s made for a left-handed person (I think). I don’t really know if this means anything, but my guess is since it’s made in Madagascar, that’s why it’s opposite all other shirts and jackets I’ve ever owned–whether GORUCK or any other brand. Maybe GORUCK wanted to mix it up, or maybe they never specified to the manufacturer. If you know, share with me. But, I also recognize it’s an almost meaningless observation.

Conclusion:
The GORUCK Field Full Zip hoodie is a great-looking hoodie. I wore it to coach my sons’ basketball games today. I wear it rucking, around the house and to work. It’s warm and provides great cover around my neck and head. Last week, it was low 30’s and I used this for my hoodie instead of a beanie. It was perfect.

Check it out here. It’s currently $75 on GORUCK’s site. If you use my link, it will not cost you any extra, only gives me a small commission. This helps me buy more GORUCK gear so I can try to look cool and not die while working out in the elements!

Thanks for taking the time to read. If this wasn’t helpful enough, let me know what I missed.

GORUCK 24.7 Commando Pullover Review – Merino Wool Hoodie

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The GORUCK 24.7 Commando Merino Wool Hoodie is a simple, lightweight and versatile pull-over that is great to wear by itself or as a base layer. I often wear it as a base layer under the GORUCK Polartec Grid Fleece if it’s under about 40 degrees and especially if it’s windy.

GORUCK has added a layer of their Indestructible training fabric to the shoulder and elbow area that won’t pill under any circumstances. Along with abrasion resistance, this layer also provides additional structure to help the shirt hold its shape under long periods of stress, like with a ruck sack. It’s not stiff or rough feeling.

For more details, see my YouTube video review here:

I’ve loved wearing the Merino Wool Hoodie this winter. I wore it as a base layer while rucking a steep incline in 35 degree weather. By the time I got to the top of the 500′ climb, my hoodie was a little wet from sweat. By the time I descended to the bottom, it was dry. Merino wool is surprisingly warm considering how thin this hoodie is.

It’s comfortable b/c it’s thin and has incredible stretching ability; additionally, it looks good.

Wearing as a base layer under the GORUCK Polartec Grid Fleece-Half zip

Sizing:

I wear a large in almost all tops, and this one seems to be the same. I have a large and it fits well, only a little snug. I’m 6′ 1″ and the torso length is good.

You can read more about it here and/or purchase.

And it comes with the GORUCK Scars Lifetime Guarantee. There is no better apparel guarantee out there. Period.

More on Merino Wool from GORUCK’s site:

Merino wool is a natural material, it doesn’t come from man made plastics or synthetics. It’s lightweight, breathable and soft to the touch. It wicks away moisture and odors, and it helps regulate body temperature. Merino wool shirts are the best answer to base layer and travel clothing in the world – they’ve been in use for hundreds of years and have proven themselves over and over again.

The Best Pants for LDS (Latter-day Saints) Missionaries | Elders

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BLUF (Bottom line up front): If you already want these pants, purchase from GORUCK Here.

You can also watch this review I did on YouTube:


Whether you’re still waiting on your mission call or have received it and are researching what your assigned mission is like, you will need to purchase many items of clothing and gear for your mission. The list is long and probably a little expensive. This is where I believe QUALITY is KING.

There are some items that you will not know that you need or don’t need until you get to your assigned area. However, pants are something you need immediately and I’ve found what I think are the best and most versatile pants for missionaries serving in just about any place in the world.

Embarking on a mission as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) requires careful consideration of various aspects, including attire. GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants emerge as a top choice for missionaries due to their exceptional features and suitability for the demands of active missionary life.

In this article, I list five reasons why the GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants stand out as the best option for LDS (also sometimes referred to as Mormon) missionaries.


1. Durability: GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants are infused with Nylon.  This ToughDry material is made to be fast-drying, abrasion resistant and lightweight.  Renowned for their robust construction, this makes them ideal pants for elders facing diverse environments. Crafted from high-quality materials, these pants are designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear, ensuring longevity even in challenging conditions.

In addition, they come with the Scars Lifetime Guarantee – you break it, they fix it! I’ve put my oldest pair to the test and sent back one time for repair, which was quickly fixed and returned. There is no better lifetime guarantee on the market.

Whether you’re riding a bike every day, walking, or sitting in a car, they are made to be worn often and hard.


2. Comfort and Flexibility: Comfort is a prerequisite for anyone, and GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants deliver on this front. Full-time missions involve long hours and varied physical activities. The thoughtful design includes a comfortable 2-way stretch fit that allows for ease of movement without compromising style. Whether navigating crowded streets, walking long, dusty or muddy roads, or engaging in physical activities from an impromptu basketball or soccer game, these pants provide the flexibility required for diverse tasks.


3. Professional Appearance: While functionality is paramount, GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants do not compromise on style. The clean and minimalist design ensures that wearers can seamlessly blend into diverse cultural settings without sacrificing a polished appearance. This makes these pants a versatile and suitable choice for Elders all over the world. I wear them to the office and they are my go-to for overnight travel.

I realize most missionaries can’t wear sport coats, but there are many times (and in some missions all the time) that you will not be wearing a suit coat; only needed are your dress shirt and pants. These fit the description of what you’ll need. From Guidelines for Elders: slacks should be conservative in color and may have small, simple, and subtle patterns such as pinstripes or checkers. Choose dress slacks that are professional and wrinkle resistant.


These are called simple for a reason–they don’t have hidden or zippered pockets, only two front and two back. They also don’t have any visible logos.


An additional note: if you prefer skinny pants, these are probably not for you. These are for movement and style. So your calves will not bulge in these b/c they have a straight cut at the bottom.

4. Easy Maintenance and Care: Missionaries often find themselves in situations where access to laundry facilities may be limited. Or, your time is very limited on P-day, therefore you’d rather skip doing all the laundry. GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants simplify the maintenance process, as they are designed to be easy to clean and very quick to dry. These pants want to be worn often and even multiple times between washes. And they do not require ironing. Just wash in cold water, air dry and wear (they will easily dry overnight); allowing for a shorter turnaround time between washing and wearing again. It can’t get any easier, I promise.

5. Moisture Wicking and Water Repellant: GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants are equipped with moisture-wicking properties, ensuring that wearers stay dry and comfortable even in humid or wet climates. My YouTube review shows me wearing the pants in the shower with the water rolling right off.


I wore the Simple Pants mid-weight for our annual Mark Forester 28 Mile Ruck in 2021. It was sunny the entire day, with the humidity of north Alabama, and temp in the 80’s (Fahrenheit). I had no issues with sweating or being too hot or restricted in movement. They provided protection so my legs were one less part of my body that could get sun burned since it took us 11 continuous hours.


Conclusion: Missionaries seeking comfortable pants, while committed to making a lasting impact, GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants prove to be an indispensable necessity on your journey. In fact, I strongly believe that you’ll like them so much that you’ll continue to wear them after your mission. These aren’t the kind of clothes that you’ll want to burn or leave in your apartment before returning home after 2 hard-working years.

Their robust construction, versatile design, and built to last ToughDry fabric make them the go-to option for those seeking reliable and adaptable clothing. In addition, they roll up to the size of a can of Coke for easy packing for your transfers and return trip home. No worries about wrinkles.

These pants easily fit the Dress and Appearance requirements on the church’s website where clothing should be:

-free of wrinkles
-durable, easy to care for, and suitable for your mission’s climate; and
-easy to pack and fit in luggage.

I’ve been wearing the gray/charcoal Simple Pants Midweight for over 3 years, so this is an informed review. I’ve worn the coyote Simple Pants Lightweight for over 2 years. I ruck with them, travel in them, wear to work, cut my grass, hike and even exercise in them–especially when it’s cold and I need tough pants. These really are the hidden gem in the GORUCK catalog. They will last for years and still look new–mine do.

By choosing the GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants, you can confidently navigate the day-to-day activities of your mission while maintaining a polished and put-together appearance, reflecting the professionalism and dress code of the church and your mission president.

These pants come in lightweight (about $105) and midweight (about $115). The obvious difference is lightweight is thinner, better for hot temperatures. I have both and use both, but prefer the midweight for colder weather. However, I’ve not found myself in a situation where the midweight was too hot in the summer. If you’re a missionary in a very hot and humid climate, I’d recommend the lightweight.

This may seem expensive, but for pants that are this versatile, easy to care for and will last, they are worth every penny. Here is another article I did explaining why they are worth the money.


Oh, and sizing…. they are true to size in my experience. I wear the same size in GORUCK that I wear in all other pants.

I’d love to hear from missionaries that have worn them on their missions. Where did you serve? How did they perform?

Here is my recommendation based on climate in the United States (FYI, I didn’t serve in extremely hot or extremely cold climates; I served my mission in Salt Lake City, UT long before pants like these existed): I’d get the lightweight and midweight for serving anywhere in the US, except maybe Hawaii and possibly southern Florida (then lightweight only). Even in these areas the midweight will probably not be too hot.

If serving in the far northern USA and Alaska, I wouldn’t bother with lightweight; only get midweight. This is just my two cents. If you wear them and find that my recommendation is way off, let me know, thad@patriottothecore.com. I’ll put them against any pants on the market right now.

You may want other tough, fast drying and versatile clothing from GORUCK for P-day and service projects. If so, check out what else they have. I wear GORUCK apparel almost every day.

Note: In full disclosure, I have the Lululemon ABC and Commission pants that feel great and that I love. I got these years ago before GORUCK’s Simple Pants existed. The limitation with them is I’d never wear them in the woods or get muddy. They would fray with the first briar stick and stain (and probably rip) the first time my knee hit the ground. Yes, they are stretchy and feel great, but the benefits stop there. And GORUCK Simple Pants are cheaper than Lululemon!

GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants Review: Are They Worth the Money?

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Introduction:

Are they worth the money? Yes! Click here if you want to buy.

For my breakdown as to why, read on below and you can watch my video review here too:

The older I’ve gotten, the more I wear comfortable clothes. Bottom line, I want clothing that is versatile–that I can wear to work, exercise in and wear casually around the house or town.

For my needs, there are several options, but I’ve found what I believe are the most versatile pants available – the GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants. They offer a unique blend of functionality, durability, and style.

Here is a deep dive into 6 reasons the 24.7 Simple Pants are the best for men, therefore worth the money:

  1. Durable Construction: GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants are infused with Nylon.  This ToughDry material is made to be fast-drying, abrasion resistant and lightweight, with 2-way stretch.  Renowned for their robust construction, this makes them ideal pants for anyone facing diverse environments. Crafted from high-quality materials, these pants are designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear, ensuring longevity even in challenging conditions. In addition, they come with the Scars Lifetime Guarantee – you break it, they fix it! I’ve put my oldest pair to the test and sent back one time for repair, which was quickly fixed and returned. There is no better lifetime guarantee on the market.

2. Versatility in Design: One of the standout features of GORUCK Simple Pants is their versatile design. There are no logos, extra pockets or anything that even resembles “tactical”. I often find myself in urban settings to rugged terrains to the unplanned pick-up game of basketball or football with my boys. Having pants made for movement and style will not limit you and they seamlessly transition between these environments, offering a practical solution for individuals constantly on the move.

Getting blister work while wearing the GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants for 28 Mile Ruck

I wore the Simple Pants for our annual Mark Forester 28 Mile Ruck in 2021. It was sunny the entire day, with the humidity of north Alabama, and temp in the 80’s (Fahrenheit). I had no issues with sweating or being too hot or restricted. They provided protection so my legs were one less part of my body that could get sun burned since it took us 11 continuous hours.

Simple design with no loud logos on the outside.

3. Comfortable Fit: Comfort is a prerequisite for me, and GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants deliver on this front. The thoughtful design includes a comfortable fit that allows for ease of movement without compromising style. Whether navigating crowded streets, engaging in physical activities or lounging on the couch, these pants provide the flexibility required for diverse tasks.

4. Quick Drying, Moisture Wicking and Water Repellant: GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants are equipped with moisture-wicking properties, ensuring that wearers stay dry and comfortable even in humid or wet climates. Additionally, the quick-drying feature is a game-changer for those caught in unexpected rain or facing the challenge of limited laundry facilities, or just too lazy to do laundry.

Of course, if you’re doing a GORUCK event, these pants are obviously made for them–get wet, muddy, bear crawls, burpees, rucking–you name it–anything. Either these Simple Pants or the Challenge Pants (if you want the side pockets) are go-to’s for GORUCK events.

Water rolling right off in shower.

5. Stylish Aesthetics: While functionality is paramount, GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants do not compromise on style. The clean and minimalist design ensures that wearers can seamlessly blend into diverse cultural settings without sacrificing a polished appearance. This makes these pants a versatile and suitable choice for various active-man contexts. I wear them to the office and they are my go-to for overnight travel. These are called simple for a reason–they don’t have hidden or zippered pockets, only two front and two back.
An additional note: if you prefer skinny pants, these are probably not for you. These are for movement and style. So your calves will not bulge in these b/c they have a straight cut at the bottom.

6. Ease of Care: These pants want to be worn often and even multiple times between washes. And they do not require ironing. Wash in cold water, air dry and wear; allowing for a shorter turnaround time between washing and wearing again. It can’t get any easier, I promise.

Conclusion:

If adaptability, durability, and comfort are crucial to you, GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants are the clear choice. Their robust construction, versatile design, and built to last ToughDry fabric make them the go-to option for those seeking reliable and adaptable clothing. In addition, they fold up (or roll up) to the size of a can of Coke for easy packing and travel.  For those who want tough, comfortable pants, while committed to making a lasting impact, GORUCK 24.7 Simple Pants prove to be an indispensable necessity on your journey.

I’ve been wearing the gray/charcoal Simple Pants for over 3 years, so this is an informed review. I’ve worn the coyote Simple Pants for over 2 years. I ruck with them, travel in them, wear to work, cut my grass, hike and even exercise in them–especially when it’s cold and I need tough pants. These really are the hidden gem in the GORUCK catalog. They will last for years and still look new–mine do.

These pants come in lightweight (about $105) and midweight (about $115). The obvious difference is lightweight is thinner, better for hot temperatures. I have both and use both, but prefer the midweight for colder weather.

Have I missed anything? What questions do you have?

In full disclosure, I have the Lululemon ABC and Commission pants that feel great and that I love. I got these years ago before GORUCK’s Simple Pants existed. The limitation with them is I’d never wear them in the woods or get muddy. They would fray with the first briar stick. Yes, they are stretchy and feel great, but the benefits stop there. And they are cheaper than Lululemon!