GORUCK Rough Runner – First Look Review

The worst kept secret in GORUCK history is finally live for purchase.

The GOURCK Rough Runner is GORUCK’s first entry into the running shoe market. For more than a year, these shoes have been “spotted” on just about every channel and platform connected with GORUCK and have garnered a lot of interest.

We were lucky enough to get our hands on a pair a few days before launch and wanted to share our initial impressions, with the promise that a more full review will be coming after we’ve had time to run and ruck in them.

GORUCK Rough Runner Video Review

GORUCK Rough Runner Initial Thoughts

The Rough Runners are incredibly comfortable, right out of the box. As someone who is very picky about how shoes feel, these simply felt great.

While I didn’t love the look of the shoe, it has actually grown on me over the past few days and I’ve received at least a few compliments.

There are two features that have stood out to me in these initial days of wearing them.

First, there is the 3d moulded heel lock (seen here in the video). At first glance I was like, “What the heck is that?” But, apparently these heel lock help secure your foot in the shoe and… well, it works and feels super comfortable. I’ve had zero slippage issues with my heel and it feels solidly locked in.

The second is that Gradient Density™ EVA Midsole. Simply put, there is stability where you want it and a little bounce at the ball of the feet. Honestly, the feel great when moving.

As noted, I haven’t had the time to take them for a ruck or a run. If my initial 3 days of wearing them to work and around town, I think they’re gonna be great.

At this point, my recommendation is that if you’re looking for some new runners or you just really want to give these a try, I think they are worth picking up.

If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below.