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

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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 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!

Father’s Day 2019

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My oldest working on his perpetual water park

“Go and open the door.  Maybe outside there’s a tree, or a wood, a garden or a magic city.”  The Door, by Miroslav Golub.

As a dad, all I ever wanted was for our kids to have room to play outside whenever they wanted.  This is probably because I was fortunate enough to grow up on several acres of open land and woods.  Playing outside was just part of living.  My dad provided this for our family and I’m lucky to be able to provide this in a smaller way for mine.

We don’t have a lot of land, but we now have plenty for our boys to explore.  And on this Father’s Day, I can’t be thankful enough to be a dad and part of our boys’ life.  So, to all you fathers reading here, I hope you’ve had a great Father’s Day.