November 1, 2026 By Thad Forester

GORUCK Challenge Pants Review: Lightweight, Comfortable & Built for Action

You can also watch my full GORUCK Challenge Pants review on YouTube:

If you’re looking for a pair of pants that can handle rucking, workouts, hiking, and everyday wear, the GORUCK Challenge Pants meet all these categories. Designed for demanding physical activity, these pants combine lightweight construction, flexibility, durability, and practical storage.

GORUCK built the Challenge Pants with its ToughDry® fabric, designed to be abrasion-resistant, quick-drying, and comfortable. They’re made for people who want pants that can keep up with an active lifestyle without sacrificing everyday versatility.

Lightweight, Durable & Quick-Drying

One of the standout features of the GORUCK Challenge Pants is their lightweight ToughDry® material. The fabric offers two-way stretch while remaining tough enough for demanding activities.

Whether you’re out on a long ruck, working out, hiking, or traveling, the quick-drying material is a welcome feature. They’re designed to handle sweat, water, and plenty of movement.

Related post I did on the quick-drying material: https://www.thadforester.com/goruck-vs-lululemon/

Comfort & Range of Motion

GORUCK incorporated several features to make these pants comfortable during physical activity:

Diamond gusset: Provides additional room and flexibility in the crotch/inner thighs for squats, lunges, and high steps.
Articulated knees: Improve mobility and reduce restriction during movement.
Two-way stretch: Allows the fabric to move with you.
Curved waistband: Designed to provide a better fit.

These features make the Challenge Pants more than just another pair of everyday cargo pants.

Extra material in knees for ease with squats, lunges, high steps, climbing steep hills, etc.

Functional Pockets & Everyday Versatility

The Challenge Pants feature traditional front pockets, two rear pockets, and zippered cargo pockets. The cargo pockets include drainage holes and provide secure storage for items you want to keep close.

They also have a relatively understated appearance, making them suitable for more than just rucking and workouts. They’re a practical option for travel, outdoor activities, and everyday wear.

I love the side leg pockets. I use them as a coach and when I’m going to be on my feet for long periods of time and need my wallet, phone, keys and other EDC items. The extra pockets are very handy when attending a college football game and will be away from my car for many hours, when I need quick access to my notes during a football or basketball game, or when I need easy, quick access to my ear pods while sitting on a plane.

Sizing and Fit

-Sizing. They run true to GORUCK size. I wear 36×32 in most all brand of pants, and that’s what I wear in these. I’m 6′ 1″ and weigh 210 lbs.

-Fit. This size is a little loose on me, but I couldn’t go any smaller. Plus, I want a little extra room to move easily. If you’re looking for skinny pants, these aren’t for you. The thighs have room for larger legs and the lower legs are not tapered.

Are GORUCK Challenge Pants Worth It?

The GORUCK Challenge Pants combine lightweight comfort, durability, flexibility, and useful features into a versatile pair of technical pants.

If you’re a rucker, outdoor enthusiast, or someone who appreciates functional gear, these pants deserve a look. They’re designed to transition from a demanding workout to everyday activities without requiring a change of clothes.

If you’re considering adding another pair of technical pants to your gear lineup, the GORUCK Challenge Pants are worth checking out.

Affiliate note: I am a GORUCK affiliate, so I get a small percentage commission with each sale if you purchase GORUCK products from my links. This does not cost you any additional money–the prices are the same for buyers. I do this b/c I have a weird obsession with good gear and clothing. I have used GORUCK products since 2015 and have been impressed with their quality and versatility. I don’t do this to make a living, only to help support my habit of buying high-quality items from GORUCK and other American companies.

Keywords:

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https://www.thadforester.com/goruck-challenge-pants-review/

GORUCK ToughMesh Sun Hoodie // Compared to 5.11 Tactical Sulli UV Hoodie

September 6, 2026 By Thad Forester

man wearing goruck sun hoodie on boat — GORUCK Sun Hoodie on a hot day on the water

You can watch my short review here, with a few more details not covered in this article:

I’ve owned both the GORUCK Men’s Sun Hoodie – ToughMesh and the 5.11 Sulli Hoodie for more than a year. Instead of just wearing them occasionally, I wanted to put both through a full summer of heat, sweat, rucking, workouts, and everyday wear.

My goal was simple: Which one is the toughest and most versatile? I wanted a hoodie I could work out in, ruck in, sweat in, get wet in, and still wear casually without looking like I just came from the trail or practice field.

After putting both through the test, I have a clear favorite for year-round wear.

Fit and Comfort

Both hoodies are comfortable, but they have noticeably different feels.

The GORUCK ToughMesh is extremely lightweight and breathable. It almost disappears when you’re wearing it, which is a big advantage when you’re moving in hot weather. The fabric stretches well and does an excellent job moving moisture away from your skin.

The 5.11 Sulli feels a little more substantial while still being lightweight. I really like the fit, and it works equally well for workouts, outdoor activities, or casual wear.

For me, the Sulli gets the edge because it feels a little more like an everyday shirt while still performing like technical gear.

How Do They Handle Water?

Both perform well when things get wet.

The GORUCK ToughMesh is particularly impressive because it dries incredibly fast. Even without much wind, the fabric can go from soaked to dry surprisingly quickly.

The 5.11 also handles sweat and moisture well thanks to its wicking finish. It does not dry as fast as the GORUCK Sun Hoodie.

If you’re looking for something that gets wet and dries quickly, GORUCK has the advantage.

Functionality vs. Aesthetic

This is where I think the two hoodies really separate themselves.

The GORUCK is designed around performance. The ToughMesh fabric breathes, wicks, stretches, and packs down incredibly small. It’s an excellent choice when you’re focused on rucking or working out.

The Sulli does all of those things while looking a little more like a normal everyday hoodie.

That’s one of the reasons I’ve found myself wearing the 5.11 Sulli year-round. It doesn’t look out of place whether I’m working out, traveling, hiking, or just wearing it around town.

Which One Is the Most Stretchy?

Both have plenty of stretch, but the GORUCK ToughMesh feels more flexible and lightweight.

Depending on the color, the GORUCK is made from either 80% nylon, 15% elastane, 5% polyester or 85% nylon and 15% elastane. The elastane gives it plenty of stretch while the ToughMesh fabric keeps it incredibly light.

The 5.11 Sulli uses 100% polyester pique with a wicking and anti-odor finish.

For pure stretch and freedom of movement, I’d give this one to GORUCK.

Sun Protection

Both offer solid sun protection, but 5.11 wins on paper.

GORUCK ToughMesh: UPF 35
5.11 Sulli: UPF 50+

If maximum UPF protection is your priority, the Sulli is the better choice.

Material

GORUCK uses its ToughMesh fabric, which is designed to breathe and wick moisture aggressively. It dries quickly and packs down to practically nothing. The fabric is milled in the foothills of the Italian Alps and is one of the biggest reasons this hoodie feels different from a traditional sun hoodie.

The 5.11 Sulli uses 100% polyester pique with a wicking and anti-odor finish. It’s not quite as ultra-light as the GORUCK, but I think the material contributes to its versatility and everyday appearance.

My Pick

If you’re buying strictly for maximum breathability, minimal weight, stretch, longevity and fast drying, I easily choose the GORUCK ToughMesh Sun Hoodie.

If you want one hoodie that can handle some workouts, rucking, summer heat, travel, everyday wear, and year-round use, I’m choosing the 5.11 Sulli Hoodie.

After more than a year with both and a full summer and winter of putting them through their paces, the Sulli is simply the one I find myself reaching for more often, but I mostly use it for everyday wear, not for rucking or exercising.

If you know me, I rarely choose another brand over GORUCK, but in this case or this specific piece of clothing, I like the 5.11 over the GORUCK Sun Hoodie.

What about you? What is your preferred sun hoodie? There are lots of options, so what brand do you like? or is the GORUCK Sun Hoodie the best you’ve used? Or are you only interested in price? If so, 5.11 is the cheapest.

Affiliate Note:

I am a GORUCK affiliate, so I get a small percentage commission with each sale if you purchase GORUCK products from my links. This does not cost you any additional money–the prices are the same for buyers. I do this b/c I have a weird obsession with good gear and clothing. I have used GORUCK products since 2015 and have been impressed with their quality and versatility. I don’t do this to make a living, only to help support my habit of buying high-quality items from GORUCK and other American companies.

I am not a 5.11 Tactical affiliate. I applied to be one, but they turned me down. This review has nothing to do with whether I’m an affiliate or not–I like testing out gear and clothing and these shirts are two that I wear often in different environments.

https://www.thadforester.com/gr-sun-hoodie

https://www.511tactical.com/sulli-uv-hooded-long-sleeve.html?sku=888579720471&country=us&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=G_Shopping_Brand&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw7dm-BhCoARIsALFk4v-BC-FXwca_78xM48BqLLyXBoDePGGT7cHTYF_gfn6oU8lowLdzzGUaArjmEALw_wcB

GORUCK Rucker – Long Range Review: Built for Longer Rucks

August 28, 2026 By Thad Forester

The GORUCK Rucker – Long Range is designed for ruckers who want to carry more weight, cover longer distances, and have a little more room for their gear. It takes the familiar Rucker concept and adds features aimed at longer training sessions and more demanding rucks.

Note: You can watch my review on YouTube here. It covers some different areas that I write about in this article.

What Is the GORUCK Rucker – Long Range?

The Rucker – Long Range is a larger, more capable version of the traditional Rucker. It gives you additional space for weight, water, clothing, food, and other essentials without moving into the much larger GR3 category.

For someone who spends a lot of time rucking, that extra capacity can make a noticeable difference.

Built for Rucking

Like other GORUCK packs, the Rucker – Long Range is built with rucking in mind. The focus is on durability, a comfortable carry, and the ability to handle heavier loads.

The pack is especially interesting for ruckers who have moved beyond shorter workouts and want a backpack that can handle longer training sessions. It has two compartments, like the GR2, both with drain holes.

More Room for Longer Rucks

One of the biggest advantages is the added capacity. Longer rucks often require more than just a weight plate. You may need extra water, snacks, layers, first-aid supplies, or other equipment.

The Rucker – Long Range gives you more room to carry those items while still maintaining the basic design philosophy that makes the Rucker popular.

Comfort and Carry

A good rucking backpack needs to keep the load stable and comfortable over several miles. The Rucker – Long Range is designed around that goal–keeping heavy weight high on your back and close to your body.

As with any rucking pack, proper adjustment is important. A well-fitted pack can make a significant difference once you start adding serious weight and distance.

Who Is It For?

The Rucker – Long Range makes the most sense for:

Ruckers who regularly cover longer distances
People who carry more than just a weight plate
Those training for GORUCK Selection or other long distance and endurance rucking events
Ruckers who find a standard Rucker too limited on space
Anyone looking for a durable pack for demanding use

If most of your rucks are short and you carry only a plate and water, a smaller Rucker is probably the better choice.

Final Thoughts

The GORUCK Rucker – Long Range is an interesting addition to the Rucker lineup. It keeps the focus on rucking while giving you more capacity for longer workouts and bigger loads.

Currently, the only size the Long Range Rucker comes in is 39L. That’s pretty big. I’m 6′ 1″ but it’s not too long for me b/c the design keeps the pack and weight high on the back and pushes much of the volume out instead of length-wise.

For the rucker who wants to go farther without jumping to a much larger backpack, the Long Range could be a very practical middle ground.

Ep 127 | Unbroken Will: Remembering Lance Sijan w/ His Sister Janine Sijan

August 17, 2026 By Thad Forester

Janine Sijan shares the story of her brother, Air Force Capt. Lance Sijan, a Medal of Honor recipient whose courage in Vietnam became a lasting symbol of duty, endurance, and sacrifice. Janine reflects on Lance as a brother and a man, offering personal memories that reveal the character behind the legend and the deep family bond that shaped his life.

The conversation explores the pain and uncertainty of having a loved one go missing in combat, the emotional toll of captivity, and the heartbreak of ultimately learning of his death. Janine also discusses how her family endured the long silence, what his story meant to them then, and why his legacy continues to inspire service members and civilians today.

More than a military history interview, this episode is an effective tribute to resilience, faith, family, disbelief, and the cost of freedom. It honors Lance Sijan not only for how he fought and suffered, but for the example he left behind — one that still challenges cadets and listeners to live with courage, purpose, and conviction. After all, he was a Sijan, and Sijan’s don’t quit!

Look for the release of Lance’s documentary “Sijan” in 2027, narrated by Gary Sinise. It was produced by Janine and we mentioned in this interview. I was able to watch it this summer. It was powerful.

You can also watch this interview on my YouTube channel here.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

GORUCK Rucker 5.0: Men’s Health Just Named It the Best Overall Rucking Backpack

July 9, 2026 By Thad Forester

Men’s Health recently trail-tested the best rucking backpacks on the market and named the GORUCK Rucker 5.0 one of their top picks for anyone serious about weighted walking workouts. In their review, they highlight the Rucker 5.0 as the highest-capacity option that still feels comfortable on longer distances, thanks to its exaggerated lumbar support and heavy-duty, padded shoulder straps. The pack is built to carry up to 75 lbs of weight comfortably, making it ideal for athletes who want to push intensity without sacrificing form or back health.

Why This Matters If You’re Already Rucking

If you’re already using a Rucker 4.0 or older—or any ruck pack that’s started to feel like it’s “working against you” on longer sessions—the Rucker 5.0 is the clearest upgrade path GORUCK has offered yet. The lumbar support alone changes how heavy loads feel at mile 5, 8, or 10, and the magnetic pockets are a quiet but huge daily-use improvement.

I’ve tested the 5.0 extensively and compared it to the Bullet Rucker 4.0 in my full review, but if you want a quick third-party validation, this Men’s Health article is a great one: it confirms the Rucker 5.0 is the category leader right now.

*Oh by the way, it’s now on sale for 30% off.*