The Ballistic Trainers™ are made for those who demand durability, support, and versatility. The engineered warp knit forefoot provides a breathable, seamless fit, while 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon reinforces the midfoot and heel,. With an anatomically molded TPU heel counter, lace-lock eyelets, and a spacious toe box, these trainers are stable and comfortable. The 8mm heel-to-toe drop strikes a balance between lifting support and running comfort. Gradient Density™ EVA midsole and triple compound rubber outsole deliver cushioning and traction. We aim to check and validate those claims along with many others in this GORUCK Ballistic Trainers review
The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are available in 13 color options, so you have plenty of options to choose from based on your taste and the shoe’s purpose. For example, Ranger Green + White fits in nature, while the Wolf Gray + Acid Lime model is a perfect gym combination.
Key Features of the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
- Engineered Warp Knit & CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon Upper: Durable, breathable knit for the forefoot; abrasion-resistant ballistic nylon in the midfoot and heel.
- Anatomically Molded TPU Heel Counter: Provides a stable, supportive heel structure.
- Lace-Lock Eyelets: Includes additional top eyelets for a runner’s loop.
- High-Density Insert: PU foam insert supports all three arches of the foot.
- Gradient Density™ EVA Midsole: Dual-density EVA midsole for flexibility and a stable heel.
- Triple Compound Rubber Outsole: Durable rubber outsole with high-traction forefoot, hardened midfoot, and dense heel.
Why I Reviewed The GoRuck Ballistic Trainers
A few years ago, finding footwear specifically designed for rucking was practically impossible. Thankfully, the situation has improved significantly today. However, many retailers still try to sell hiking or general outdoor (or even indoor) shoes as rucking-specific options.
That’s why I was so eager to test the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers, designed exclusively for our favorite activity. Given the hype surrounding these shoes, it’s understandable—after all, they are among the few true rucking shoes on the market. I was curious to find out if the popularity is due to a gap in the market or if they genuinely live up to the hype.
After weeks of putting the Go Ruck Ballistic Trainers to the test, I can confidently say these shoes deliver on both durability and performance. But I know you came for more details, so let’s dive into the specifics.
My experience with GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
As soon as I unboxed the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers, I could immediately tell they were different from the usual training shoes.
I have a habit of always checking footwear first with my hands, either in the store or when they arrive at my home (if I shop online.) That’s how I check the stitches and all other details and also get an overall impression. Even a completely inexperienced customer can immediately notice that GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are a premium model. The only slight concern I had was the tongue — it seemed a bit thin, but after just one wear, I dispelled those doubts.
When they arrive, I’m sure your first impression will be that they seem like a mix of everyday and sports shoes, not for heavy-duty activities such as rucking. But looks can be deceiving, right?
Right from the start, I threw a variety of workouts at them. Although I don’t often opt for CrossFit-type workouts, this time, I did a few because I heard from several friends that these are one of the favorite shoes in the CrossFit world lately. They responded to every challenge, and I especially enjoyed jump ropes and similar exercises because of the front part. It is so flexible that it even provides a certain rebound.
The heel is even more important in this type of footwear, so I paid attention to stability through all the jumps, weightlifting, and the rest. There is no doubt that GORUCK deserves top marks for Ballistic Trainers in this department. At no point did I lose my balance or feel unstable. You can even do demanding exercises in them, like Olympic lifts.
When it comes to running, they are ideal for shorter distances, for example, 400 meters to a mile or a maximum of two miles. I certainly wouldn’t recommend running a half marathon in them. No matter how versatile they are, every shoe has its purpose.
The sole is made of durable rubber, and I don’t expect signs of wear and tear anytime soon. However, the grip is not perfect when walking downhill. If you know that the terrain is very steep, consider bringing another pair of shoes.
The sneakers’ interior also looks premium. A few comments I stumbled upon mentioned that they tend to wear out pretty quickly in the Achilles tendon area. I did not notice any damage on that part during testing, and I sincerely hope that it is not a weak point because I used to have problems with inflammation of the Achilles tendon.
You don’t have to worry about the insoles because you get one extra pair, so you can replace them if necessary.
I was pleased with the outer mesh—it’s breathable and seems tough enough to handle all kinds of harsh conditions. Plus, many users report that the mesh and Ballistic Nylon still look almost brand new even after two years of wear. Very encouraging!
And now the outdoor tests. The shoes felt fine on short and medium rucks. But let’s be honest: if I plan to go for a long ruck march, I’d still reach for some other rucking shoes. These trainers will work if you need to run during a ruck, and they are perfect for rucking on a treadmill, but they’re not my first choice when I go on long routes.
All in all, the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers not only met my expectations but exceeded them in many aspects. They’re versatile, stable, and ready for whatever workout I throw at them.
Reasons to Trust Our Expertise
I’ve worn many different shoes in my life. From the court to the trail and the gym to the track, I’ve tried it all.
My experience with sports shoes started over a decade ago when I was grinding it out in basketball, where I needed ankle support to keep up with constant sprints and jumps. Then, tennis—where grip and quick stops were everything.
The gym added another layer. I realized that nothing beats a solid, stable base for squats and heavy lifts. Each setting taught me something new about what good shoes can and should do.
But in the last few years, my focus has shifted to rucking, which is a whole different beast. Rucking throws every possible challenge at a shoe—long distances, unpredictable terrain, and, often, a heavy load on your back. I’ve taken shoes over trails, through mud, on wet and rocky paths, and I know the difference between a shoe built to last and one just for show. When I’m out there with weight on my back, I can immediately feel if a shoe has what it takes to handle the stress.
So, when I recommend a pair, I do so not based on specs or marketing claims but on countless hours of real use.
How We Tested the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers?
To provide a thorough review, I wore the Go Ruck Ballistic Trainers for over eight weeks, testing them across diverse terrains and conditions.
This included:
- Weighted rucking: I loaded up with anywhere from 20 to 45 pounds for 1- to 5-mile rucks, both on local trails and around the city. With every mile, I was paying attention to comfort, how the shoe supported my foot under heavy weight, and whether any hotspots started forming.
- Trail terrain: Mud, gravel, rocky paths—you name it, I rucked through it. I was keen to see if these trainers could keep up with the demands of trail terrain.
- Gym workouts: I didn’t just wear these for weightlifting. I also used them for intense HIIT circuits, jump rope sessions, sled pushes, kettlebell swings, etc.
- Running: While these are not designed for distance running, I did a few quick mile runs and some 400m sprints to test their versatility.
- Endurance testing: I also wore them around on day-to-day errands and for casual, long days on my feet.
- Weather resistance: To test their resilience, I took the trainers out in light rain and through puddles to see how they’d hold up to wet conditions.
Benefits of the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
- Versatility – You can use them for various purposes, from grocery shopping to running and lifting weights.
- Scars Lifetime Guarantee – If the shoes have any issues with production or materials or you somehow wear them out, GORUCK will either fix or replace them for free.
Downsides of the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
- Price – You need to spend $140 for them, which puts them in the line of more expensive shoes and will surely deter some customers. Still, the price is very reasonable considering the quality.
- Average grip – Don’t get me wrong, they are not slippery, just not perfect for downhill, ice, or very wet mud.
GORUCK Ballistic Trainers Specs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: Weight (size 9): 0.675 lbs (10.8 ounces)
- Sizing: True to size
- Removable Insole: Yes (comes with 2 insoles)
- Width: Regular
- Upper materials: Engineered Knit, 1680D CORDURA®
- Midsole: Gradient Density™ EVA Midsole
- Outsole: Triple Compound Rubber
Who are the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers ideal for?
GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are ideal for:
- Regular gym goers
- CrossFitters
- Short distance runners and ruckers
- Urban ruckers
- Those looking for comfortable everyday shoes
Who should avoid GORUCK Ballistic Trainers and why?
You should avoid GORUCK Ballistic Trainers if:
- Going on long-distance rucks
- Planning to run 2+ miles
- Looking for waterproof shoes
Pricing and Shipping Information
The full price is $140. If you order GORUCK Ballistic Trainers from the USA, they will be delivered to you for free. This does not apply to international orders. Tribe n’ Training members are eligible for FREE No-Rush Shipping, even without a promo code.
And if you don’t like your new trainers, you can return them within 30 days of delivery with free return shipping in the USA.
Testimonials From GoRuck Customers
Best GORUCK Ballistic Trainers Alternatives
Thinking about whether GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are the right choice? In that case, consider one of these alternatives. And I won’t mention Nike Metcon or Reebok CrossFit; everybody knows about them.
GORUCK Mackall
You realize that you are planning long, more demanding rucks for which GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are not suitable, but you don’t want to wear boots? Then GORUCK Mackall shoes are the option for you. They are more expensive than Ballistic Trainers (around $20), but they are certainly among the best, if not the best, low-ankle rucking shoes. Yet, don’t expect them to be comfortable for the gym, CrossFit, and treadmill rucking.
Born Primitive Savage 1
Although the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers and Born Primitive Savage 1 share many similarities, including price, there are still some differences. If you lean more towards CrossFit and running than rucking and weightlifting, these training shoes will not disappoint you. Long-term durability remains questionable, so that is something to keep in mind.
GORUCK MACV-1 HI-Speed
Those of you who want to combine ankle support and stability with shoe comfort should look no further. GORUCK MACV-1 HI-SPEED model is impressive. They are so comfortable and light that you will forget that you are wearing high-ankle shoes. They will meet your needs equally during shorter and longer rucking as well as during a regular day. I never heard any of my fellow ruckers complain about them. The only downside is that they are not waterproof; other than that, they deserve 10/10.
Our Final Verdict on the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers live up to their reputation as a premium choice for ruckers and functional fitness fans alike.
They’re tough, versatile, and comfortable, offering a good mix of forefoot flexibility and solid heel stability. They handle short runs and gym work well, although they’re not ideal for longer runs or steep downhill trails.
What sets these trainers apart is their durability—this is a shoe you’ll be able to put through thick and thin without worrying about it wearing out too quickly. And the SCARS Lifetime Guarantee means you’re covered if you encounter any unexpected issues.
The breathable mesh and ballistic nylon keep your feet cool, another feature I highly appreciate.
Sure, they’re not perfect – the $140 price tag might make you think twice. But in my opinion, we should never try to save several tens of dollars on footwear for sports activities. For such a purpose, a bit bigger investment is wise.
How do the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers compare to dedicated weightlifting shoes?
While they provide a stable base suitable for lifting, they are not perfect for serious weightlifters. I guess most of them will find shoes with even firmer heel better. The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers work best for functional fitness that mixes lifting with cardio or agility.
Do the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers run true to size?
Yes, they generally fit true to size. I don’t like buying footwear online mainly because the choice of size is tricky, but in this case, I chose the same size as Nike. And I use Nike as a benchmark for size. However, I have narrow feet, so users with wider feet should consider going up half a size. They offer a snug fit, so they may be tight for those who need extra forefoot space.
Can I wear GORUCK Ballistic Trainers for regular workouts?
Absolutely, they’re great for general workouts, especially those involving agility drills or high-intensity training. They undoubtedly perform best in outdoor and weighted activities, but they’re versatile enough for standard gym routines.
How do I clean my GORUCK Ballistic Trainers?
To clean your GORUCK Ballistic Trainers, start by removing the inserts. Use a damp cloth for spot-cleaning. Hose them down to remove dirt and debris, then let them air dry completely. Avoid fully submerging them in water, just in case. You don’t want to damage the materials and structure. Never use a washer and dryer, or longevity will be affected.
References
Menz HB, Bonanno DR. Footwear comfort: a systematic search and narrative synthesis of the literature. J Foot Ankle Res. 2021 Dec 7;14(1):63. doi: 10.1186/s13047-021-00500-9. PMID: 34876192; PMCID: PMC8650278.
Anderson LS Jr, Rebholz CM, White LF, Mitchell P, Curcio EP 3rd, Feldman JA, Kahn JH. The impact of footwear and packweight on injury and illness among long-distance hikers. Wilderness Environ Med. 2009 Fall;20(3):250-6. doi: 10.1580/08-WEME-OR-196R2.1. PMID: 19737037.
Barnes RA, Smith PD. The role of footwear in minimizing lower limb injury. J Sports Sci. 1994 Aug;12(4):341-53. doi: 10.1080/02640419408732180. PMID: 7932944.
