Thad Forester's official site

Shorts Review: GORUCK Challenge Shorts vs. Prometheus Design Werx Raider Field Short TRS ATB

By


In addition to this written review, you can watch my video review here with more details:


GORUCK and Prometheus Design Werx (PDW) are two companies that produce high quality clothing and gear. I have tremendous respect for them both.

The purpose of this review is to compare their material, fit, sizing, how well each repels water and how quick they dry. These shorts do not have the exact same uses–the PDW Raider Field Shorts are more technical–have more pockets and options. The GORUCK Challenge Shorts are more simple. So, I’m not comparing their uses/functionality, only the material and fit.

Sizing

Prometheus Design Werx Raider Field Shorts runs big in the waist. I wear a 36″ in the waist for all GORUCK shorts and pants (pretty much in every brand of pants). But, with these PDW shorts, I had to return the 36″ waist and get 34″. The 34″ fit perfect–just like 36″ in everything else.

How Do They Repel Water?

The above video covers this in detail, with video of getting them wet. The GORUCK Challenge Shorts definitely repel water better than the Prometheus Design Werx Raider Field Short. Neither is water proof, but the PDW get wet almost instantly, where the GORUCK repel initially.


How Quick do they Dry?

In the video, I soak both shorts in water, wring them out and hang to air dry outside. After 2 hrs 15 mins, I checked them both. The GORUCK Challenge Shorts were completely dry. The PDW Raider Field Shorts were all dry except the front pockets. Still wearable, but not completely dry.

Fit and Feel

GORUCK: 10.5″ inseam. I’m 6′ 1″ and the 36″ waist shorts come to top of my knees. Legs are a little bigger in the thighs. Despite the PDW Raider Field Shorts being more stretchy, I’ve never had any limitations while exercising or doing any activities in the Challenge Shorts (or Simple Shorts). They stretch too, just not as much as the PDW.

PDW: 10″ inseam. I’m 6′ 1″, the 34″ waist shorts come just above my knees, slightly shorter than the Challenge Shorts. Legs are a little smaller than on the Challenge Shorts. The material stretches well, better than the GORUCK shorts.

Overall

You can’t go wrong with either shorts, but they each have different benefits. For instance, if you want shorts to workout outside, get wet, muddy, sandy, dry fast, abrasion resistant, etc, then the GORUCK Challenge Shorts are the best option (really any GORUCK shorts, like the Simple Shorts too).

If you want shorts to work outside without restrictions, abrasion resistant, have plenty of pockets and features for hiking, camping, etc, and will dry fast, the Prometheus Design Werx Raider Field Short are a great option. But, once again, that’s not why I wrote this review. This review is focused on material and fit. Obviously, both shorts have much overlap in uses and strengths.

If you wear both shorts, let me know what you like and dislike about them, what you use them for, etc.

I use the GORUCK shorts much more than PDW b/c I do more rucking/hiking instead of camping, climbing and trekking.

This review is a short, simple review that hopefully gets right to the point. If you want more details and visuals, watch my YouTube video above.

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, PDW, and other American companies.

GORUCK Rough Runners – Are They Worth the Hype for Rucking Long Distance?

By


First off, I did a YouTube video review below. My article here will cover a little more detail, but the video will cover some specifics that I don’t in this post:


On May 18, 2024, I completed the Mark Forester JAG 28 Memorial Birthday Walk. This is an annual event that I’ve organized and led annually since 2011.


I used the GORUCK Rough Runners for my second long distance ruck this year. You can read my initial review from 2 months ago here. I go into great detail on these shoes.

I explain in the review linked above the surface of the JAG 28 Walk and why I thought the Rough Runners were a good choice. After spending 11 hours on various wavy/unlevel, mostly paved surfaces, I can now confidently say the Rough Runners passed my test and I can recommend them to anyone who needs a long distance rucking shoe (without ankle support–covered in the video).

Below are my feet after 28 miles, 11 hours, and pouring rain. We were soaked.


My feet were definitely soft after being in wet shoes for over 7 hours straight. But, I had zero blisters or hot spots.


Below are most of the surfaces we walked on. Although most all of them were paved, except for about 6 miles of gravel in the national forest, some of those roads were very wavy and after about 20 miles, felt sharp on the feet. This is where the firm, thick padding on the Rough Runners came into play for me. They are build for carrying heavy weight over long periods of time. They will bend and flex with the surface, without breaking down and getting too soft or marshmellowy.


Below was probably the worst surface on the route. We had a few roads like this, covering several miles, once we got up in the mileage that day. If you had on thin or stiff shoes, this surface really worked your feet. It’s what really worked my feet and ankles last year wearing the Ballistic Trainers (which I detail in this video and others linked in this post).


Some of the surfaces were very smooth, however the slope from the center to edge was pretty good.


This rucker was in so much pain by mile 26, that she took off her shoes to walk for a few minutes.


I hope my words and these pics, along with the other linked articles and videos, give you the info you need to confidently use or purchase what shoes you’ll wear for your long distance rucks, walks, or runs.

The GORUCK Rough Runners have proven to take care of my feet in wet and dry conditions. I like the time and space they’ve saved me from not having to change socks and carry so many extra socks. There is a reason why the Rough Runners and Ballistic Trainers were named the Official Footwear of CrossFit in 2024.

If you want to compare the Rough Runners to Ballistic Trainers side-by-side (which are also great shoes), click here: https://www.thadforester.com/gr-footwear20

Of course, no matter how good the gear is, there is no substitute for training. I recommend training no matter what shoes or socks you’re wearing–there is no substitute. Never show up to a long event in untested gear.

In the end, we did the 28 miles all for this patch (well, kind of):

GORUCK Discount Codes

By


BLUF: (Bottom line up front) – The below codes provide 10% discount on GORUCK purchases. Use my link to their main page here and then go to the product(s) you want:

EASTER
JBAKER
REDBEARD10

The compilation of pics above are just a sampling of the GORUCK gear and clothing that I own. And I not only own it, but I use it–all the time (since 2015). This post is b/c I believe in the GORUCK brand and understand that it’s expensive and not everyone can afford it, especially on a regular basis. Many of the items I buy are paid off over time with Affirm while others have to be budgeted.

In the realm of outdoor enthusiasts and avid ruckers, few brands command as much respect and admiration as GORUCK. Known for their tough and versatile gear designed to withstand the roughest of conditions, GORUCK has become synonymous with quality, durability, and a spirit of adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a ruck through the wilderness or city, tackling an urban exploration or city ruck, needing the most effective and efficient garage gym gear, traveling and only want a carry-on, or simply seeking reliable gear or clothing for everyday use, GORUCK has you covered. And for those seeking to save a few bucks on their next GORUCK purchase, discount codes offer a welcomed opportunity to indulge in premium gear while providing a little less guilt.

And if you’re mil, LE, Fire, medic, gov, or teacher, GORUCK offers a discount–always. You can read more about the Earned Service Discount here.

Once again, here are codes from other users with great experience and authority on GORUCK gear. These codes seem to consistently work. Use this link to visit GORUCK and enter any of the codes below at checkout for 10% off.
Note: the below codes are from sites/channels whose GORUCK reviews I respect. You can visit their sites by clicking the code names listed.

EASTER
JBAKER
REDBEARD10

GORUCK Rough Runners Review – After 28 Mile Ruck and 80 Total Miles

By


After completing a 28 mile City Ruck and training in these shoes the past 13 months, it’s time to provide an honest review of the GORUCK Rough Runners.

Note: if you’d rather watch my YouTube Review of these shows, see below. However, this article provides some details that I forgot to add in the video.


Background

Prior to these shoes, I never considered running-type shoes for rucking. I always used high tops for the ankle support (like the MACV-1) or the Ballistic Trainers. So, this was a big change for me. I decided to give the Rough Runners a try b/c after our 28 mile Mark Forester JAG 28 Birthday Walk/Ruck in 2023, my feet were very sore. I think it was due to the wavy surfaces on the paved country roads and gravel roads.

Intro

This particular city ruck event in March 2024 consisted of 28 miles (supposed to be about 26.2, but we got a little off course and had to correct), carrying 30-35 lbs in my rucksack, and these shoes took tremendous care of my feet and ankles–no blisters or hot spots.


Why I Even Gave Them a Try:

Per GORUCK: “Rough Runners™ will last longer and perform better for all who live on their feet, from endurance ruck/running junkies to the Fight Club Class taking 20K steps a day just doing the work.” With a bold statement like this, and my history with GORUCK, I trusted they know what they’re talking about.

Details of My Rucking Surfaces

I think this is important. All of my miles so far are on paved surfaces–sidewalks, paths, roads, parking lots. But, as I said in the intro, our annual 28-mile event in Haleyville, AL consists of many miles on paved, but wavy, unlevel country roads. The flexibility and thickness of the Rough Runners is why I want to try them out on this particular surface.

Below is a good example of the roads in our annual 28-mile event. They are paved with tar and gravel, but not super level.


Comfort

Probably most important to me–specifically, I’m talking being comfortable for a long time, not just feel good when trying on and walking around the store before purchasing. These shoes need no break-in, have no stiffness, and felt great on my feet from mile 1 to mile 80. I’ve had zero rubbing on my heal, ankle bone, and no hot spots on my feet. After 28 miles in Nashville with heavy weight, I had a crack on my right heal that was a little painful for a few days after. This had nothing to do with the shoes, but more with my feet prep and slight compensation due to my weak left achilles from surgery.

After 28 mile ruck with 30 lbs. Never changed my socks or took my shoes off until the end.

Sizing

These unisex shoes are true to size, especially compared to all other GORUCK shoes. I wear an 11.5 (US) in almost every brand of shoe and shoe type, including all other 4 pair of various GORUCK shoes. If you are really in between sizes and could go up or down easily, go up. I say this mainly b/c your feet will swell after lots of miles on your feet.

Note: They do not come in wide, only D/average. They have a True Fit calculator on the site to compare to other popular shoe sizes to help you determine what size you need.

Breathability

Plenty of polyester mesh to allow breathing and water drainage.


Water Drainage

I’ve not gotten them soaking wet and continued to ruck or train in them, so I can’t speak honestly on this topic yet. But, as with all other GORUCK shoes, I have zero doubts they don’t drain easily. GORUCK prides itself on how well their shoes and clothing drain and dry. Also, as said earlier, the polyester mesh allows breathing and water drainage and they will air dry quickly.

Better for Rucking, Walking, or Running?

Yes, all of the above and more. I’m a rucker and walker, not a runner. My running consist of under 2 miles at at time, so 99% of the miles on these shoes are rucking. They are built with maximum support for moving with weight. That means, the “cushioning” won’t wear out and get more “marshmellowy” over time.

I won’t try to provide advice for runners since that’s not what I do. I’d love input from runners though–what works, what doesn’t. How they compare to other running shoes, etc.

In the picture below, I’m carrying 30 lbs in my GR1 rucksack and two 44 lb sand kettlebells.


Sole Inserts

The custom high-density insert is the same as what comes in the Ballistic Trainers. Once again, made to support heavy weight over long periods of time.


Tongue Position

I’ve always been annoyed when the tongue in shoes slides down and/or to the side. The tongue in these keeps its position and needs no adjustment. It also doesn’t rub my ankle when wearing low profile socks. Small thing, but something I notice.


Reflectivity

Highly reflective pull tab on the back heel keeps you visible on the road or trail.


Conclusion

Of course there are many options for comfortable shoes. However, there are very few options that hold up to long miles with heavy weight (rucking), with quality that matches GORUCK. If you use them, or try them based on this review, give me some feedback – was I accurate? Did I miss anything? Did they feel comfortable from the first time you put them on? You can read about them on GORUCK’s site for all the specs and heal to toe drop.


I did a follow up post to this article in May 2024 after another 28 miles walking/rucking event here.

Side note: use the GORUCK Merino Challenge Socks with these and any other shoes. They are comfortable and snug and dry fast. Or, I also like to use the Balega Hidden Comfort socks for everyday and short rucks.

Here is a related article on the best shoes for rucking from Feb 2024.

For other GORUCK gear and apparel, visit these pages:

GORUCK Men’s Training Shoes (Ballistic Trainers and Rough Runners)

Train with Sand

GORUCK Apparel

Travel Gear

Ruck Nashville 26.2 Miler Review | GORUCK City Ruck: Pack Contents and Gear

By

After 26.2 miles at GORUCK City Ruck in Nashville 2024

On March 23, 2023 I did my first GORUCK City Ruck (formerly Star Course). This is a team or individual event and can be treated as a race or just finish within the allotted time. For the 26.2 miles, we had 11 hours to complete. We weren’t interested in running or “shuffling” just to get done quickly.

My purpose here is to share what gear I used and what I packed in my rucksack. I knew whatever I started out with, I would learn and wish I’d done things differently. So this is my original pack and then what I’d change or not take if I did it again.

A good friend and I were a team and we finished in 9 hours18 minutes. And it was all for this patch (and accomplishment, of course):

Details and rules of the City Ruck are at this link by clicking here and searching for a City Ruck in any location:

Here are the knowns for this City Ruck:

  • Date: March 23, 2024, Nashville, TN, Start time 8:00 am
  • Weather: sunny, 15 mph winds, temps 40-58 degrees
  • Surface: 98% sidewalks/paved paths, 2% grass hills and parks

Pack contents at beginning:

  • GR1 (26L)
  • 20 lb weight plate
  • Nalgene bottle
  • 3L water bladder
  • Rain jacket – GORUCK Challenge Windbreaker
  • t-shirt (as backup or for after)
  • 1 pair Ballega socks, 2 pair Darn Tough socks, both as backup
  • blister kit (Body Glide, scissors, band aids, Gold Bond, moleskin, alcohol wipes, Neosporin)
  • iPhone battery backup (x2)
  • iPhone charger cord (long and short) to connect to battery backup
  • Bulletproof Bands, formerly Ruck Wraps (for my achilles)
  • Dry Bag
  • Apples, oranges, bananas, protein bars, peanuts and cashews (extra of all these to share with teammate)
GORUCK City Ruck pack contents-26.2 miler

On my person:

Now, here is what I would not have brought, having known what I know now:

  • GR1 (21L). I wouldn’t need 26L since I wouldn’t bring so much. The 21L or Rucker would be perfect.
  • 20 lb weight plate
  • Nalgene bottle
  • 3L water bladder
  • Rain jacket – GORUCK Challenge Windbreaker
  • t-shirt (added this as a layer for the first leg b/c I was cold)
  • 1 pair Ballega socks, 2 pair Darn Tough socks, both as backup
  • blister kit (Body Glide, scissors, band aids, Gold Bond, moleskin, alcohol wipes, Neosporin)
  • iPhone battery backup (x2)
  • iPhone charger cord (long and short) to connect to battery backup
  • Bulletproof Bands, formerly Ruck Wraps (for my achilles)
  • Dry Bag
  • Apples, oranges, bananas, protein bars, peanuts and cashews (extra of all these to share with teammate)

On my person (exactly the same):

As you can see, I planned for too much stuff–food, clothing and gear. There was zero chance of rain that day. When I was ready to start, my rucksack weighed 35 lbs. Too much. So, I took out the Nalgene water bottle. My buddy said he wouldn’t eat a banana, so I took one out. I only ended up using about half of the 3L water. Remember, it was not hot. I should have drank more Gatorade though.

My experience rucking long distances prior to this is our annual Mark Forester JAG 28 Memorial Birthday Walk/Ruck, which I’ve been doing annually since 2011. It has designated rest stops with volunteers, snacks, a trailing truck and a sit-down lunch. So, I was used to taking a break for a few mins and changing my socks. For this City Ruck, I never changed my socks, never took off my shoes, and we barely took any breaks. Our only breaks were when we returned to the start/stop point to get our next waypoints (there were 3 “legs” of the event). And sitting then was only to figure out our next route via Roadrunner app.

GORUCK City Rucks are a great and unique way to see a city. I recommend doing one. I’ve already signed up for the Birmingham City Ruck in November, but I’m only doing the 12 miler.

If you’re considering one or signed up for a City Ruck, I hope this helps you decide what you pack. Weather and how the cadre split it up are the most important variables. Obviously, being prepared by ruck training (you only get good at what you do) and knowing what shoes, socks, and other gear you’ll use is important too.

If you have questions that I didn’t answer, feel free to email me at thad@patriottothecore.com

Our post-ruck meal–steak and potatoes.

Related articles:

What are the best shoes for rucking?

How to train for the Mark Forester JAG 28 Birthday Walk/Ruck

GORUCK Indestructible Grid Fleece Review

GORUCK Merino Wool Hoodie Review

GORUCK Simple Pants Review

GORUCK Challenge Windbreaker