Hoka’s Mafate X Hike blends cushion, carbon, RECCO tech, and more
A max-cushioned hiking shoe built for long-haul adventures, with Vibram megagrip, carbon propulsion, and integrated search-and-rescue reflectors.
If you’ve ever wished your favorite gear box was just a little more travel-friendly, say, compact enough to slide under a truck drawer or fit into a van build without sacrificing durability, RUX just answered that wish.
The new RUX 40L Gear Box is the latest addition to RUX’s modular storage ecosystem, bringing the same waterproof construction, carry versatility, and smart features of the RUX 70L (reviewed here), but in a more compact form factor.
We have a RUX 40L in for testing, so expect an in-depth review soon! Subscribe to our Newsletter to ensure you don’t miss it.
At 40 liters, this one’s designed to go places the bigger box can’t, making it a serious contender for road trips, overlanding, camp kitchens, and even air travel.
What is the RUX 40L Gear Box?
Like its larger sibling, the RUX 40L is a hybrid between a rugged tote and a high-end duffel bag.
It’s waterproof, dustproof, collapsible, and built for serious use, just in a shorter silhouette that’s easier to stash and carry.
At just 5.7 lbs, it’s light enough to travel with and collapses down to under 3 inches tall when empty. That means you can slide it under a seat, into a drawer, or stash a spare in your van without taking up valuable real estate.
Whether you’re organizing gear in a Sprinter van, hauling essentials to a backcountry basecamp, or replacing the chaos of traditional duffel bags with something far more orderly, the 40L is built to simplify how you move.
Key features of the RUX 40L
- Volume: 40L
- Weight: 5.7 lbs (2.6 kg)
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 19.5 x 7.9 in
- Compresses to: 3 inches when empty
- Price: $250 at rux.life
Materials and durability
- 840D TPU-coated waterproof nylon bag
- Compression-molded PE foam base for durability and grip
- TPU Press Seal Lid for waterproof, fast-access protection
- Composite rails, nylon webbing, and aluminum E-hooks for secure lashing and attachment
- Lifetime warranty for peace of mind
Smart design details that set it apart
Press Seal Lid
Unlike your average tote, the new Press Seal Lid snaps closed with a watertight seal, offering real protection from the elements, without the fuss of roll tops or zippers. It’s ideal for quick access on the go.
Comfortable carry
The upgraded padded straps have a silicone backing for grip and comfort. You can use them backpack-style, over-the-shoulder, or just grab the handles and go.
Modular compatibility
It plays perfectly with the rest of the RUX modular system, including packing cubes, short organizer panels, and RUX lash accessories.
It’s slatwall and L-track compatible, too making it ideal for garages, boats, and vans.
Built for real use
From ATV racks and boat decks to overhead bins and under-bench storage, the 40L was purpose-built for environments where size matters but durability can’t be compromised.
How the 40L compares to the 70L
| Feature | RUX 40L | RUX 70L |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 40L | 70L |
| Weight | 5.7 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| Height | 7.9 in | 13.8 in |
| Compressed Size | 3 in | 5 in |
| Best For | Travel, compact kits | Big haul missions, basecamp gear, garage storage |
So while the 70L still reigns supreme for full-blown expeditions or garage gear storage, the RUX 40L is better suited to travel, daily use, or smaller vehicles, especially when every inch of space matters.
Who is the RUX 40L for?
- Vanlifers and overlanders needing modular gear that fits tight spaces
- Campers wanting a camp kitchen kit or recovery box that’s organized and waterproof
- Boaters and off-roaders looking for strap-down-ready storage
- Frequent travelers who want to ditch the soft duffels for something more durable and protective
- Anyone who loved the RUX 70L, but found it too big for certain scenarios
Final thoughts
RUX calls the 40L Gear Box their “half-height hauler,” but there’s nothing half-measure about it.
It’s a highly considered addition to the RUX lineup, designed for people who pack with purpose and want their storage to be as tough, adaptable, and beautiful as the adventures they’re heading out for.
If you’re the kind of person who gets joy out of a clean, modular gear setup, you’ll probably want one of these in your rotation.
Available now for $250 in Black or Bronze at rux.life
🔗 Also coming soon to select retailers including REI and Backcountry
We awarded the RUX 70L our Editor’s Choice for good reason, and the 40L is shaping up to earn a place right alongside it.
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