One thing on which you should never skimp money is footwear because it has a great impact on our health.
That’s especially true for high-impact, endurance-driven activities like rucking, which demand footwear with serious support, durability, and stability. Two brands that often come up in discussions within the rucking and fitness community are GORUCK and NOBULL. Both have strong reputations for quality and performance, but they usually suit different types of people/athletes.
As someone with years of experience in fitness, rucking, and sports in general, I know that the wrong pair of shoes can derail your progress and motivation.
That’s why this breakdown is so important. I’ll compare GORUCK vs. NOBULL in terms of durability, traction, support, real-world performance, and everything else — so you can make the right choice based on your needs.
Our GORUCK Rucking Shoe Recommendation
The Ballistic Trainers feature advanced engineered warp knit technology in the forefoot, which creates a seamless, one-piece vamp and toe cap. They’re designed with reinforced areas for extra durability, while other sections focus on breathability and flexibility, giving you the perfect balance of support and comfort.
Brand Background and Philosophy
GORUCK was founded by Green Beret Jason McCarthy, and that military mentality runs deep in everything they produce. The brand was created to bridge the gap between military training and civilian fitness. So, you can get gear that meets the extreme demands of Special Forces personnel but adjusted to regular people. Their footwear (and most other equipment) is built for rucking first.
Beyond their gear, GORUCK fosters a community-driven culture around rucking, often hosting GORUCK Challenges and GORUCK events that push participants to their limits, much like military training.
NOBULL was built around CrossFit workouts, functional fitness, and high-intensity functional training (HIIT), not rucking. The brand emerged as an alternative to bulky, over-designed athletic shoes, favoring sleek, minimalist shoe models. Their shoes are widely used in weightlifting, agility workouts, and everyday training.
Unlike GORUCK, NOBULL shoes weren’t built for long-distance weighted movement or the constant impact of carrying heavy loads.
Shoe Comparison: GORUCK vs. NOBULL
Both brands have numerous different models, so for specifics, you can check our product reviews, but now we will compare them in general.
Durability and Build Quality
When it comes to durability, GORUCK shoes are designed to handle extreme wear and tear, making them a go-to choice for serious ruckers. They incorporate Ballistic Nylon, full-grain leather, and reinforced outsoles, all of which are materials used in military-grade rucking gear. These shoes can survive countless miles without breaking down.
NOBULL uses SuperFabric® uppers, which offer impressive abrasion resistance as well. They are supremely durable for gym and everyday wear, yet they aren’t made to endure off-road endurance challenges. The materials may hold up well in a controlled environment, but when it comes to long-distance rucking through dirt, mud, and uneven terrain, they mostly lack the necessary reinforcements to handle the abuse.
Outsole and Traction
The outsole plays a major role in grip and stability. Most GORUCK models feature a deep-lugged, grippy outsole that provides excellent traction.
NOBULL shoes, in accordance with their primary purposes, have a flat outsole that performs well on gym floors and flat surfaces, but lacks the tread needed for trail rucking or outdoor endurance challenges.
Midsole and cushioning
GORUCK shoes have a dual-compound midsole with a firm heel that’s designed to handle the added weight of rucking without excessive compression. NOBULL shoes, by contrast, use a softer foam midsole, which provides good responsiveness for agility training and high-intensity workouts. Such midsole tends to compress too much under heavy loads.
Weight of the Shoe
Weight is an important factor when choosing a rucking shoe, as it affects endurance. GORUCK shoes are heavier due to their reinforced construction. While this might not sound perfect for rucking, it is actually necessary because the weight contributes to long-term durability and support.
NOBULL shoes are significantly lighter. The trade-off for this reduced weight is less durability and support when carrying ruck plates.
Protection and Foot Support
GORUCK prioritizes reinforced toe boxes, heel stability, and added arch support, all of which contribute to comfort and injury prevention. NOBULL shoes have thinner midsoles and less overall protection. They lack the reinforcements needed for outdoor use, making them less ideal for rucking.
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
None of them are waterproof. However, GORUCK shoes are water-resistant and have better drainage systems. NOBULL shoes lack significant water resistance because it is not necessary for their customers. They can certainly handle light moisture and sweat, but they aren’t built for wet environments, winter rucking, or extended exposure to rain and puddles.
Breathability
In this sector, both GORUCK and NOBULL are very good. Many GORUCK models have ventilated mesh panels in key areas and NOBULL shoes also offer good ventilation, but they lack moisture-wicking linings and dedicated drainage systems. While they perform well in controlled gym environments, they may struggle in hot, humid, or rainy conditions where excess sweat or water can become an issue. If you’re rucking for long periods, GORUCK’s ventilation and quick-drying properties make them the more comfortable option.
Performance in Different Environments
GORUCK are definitely more diverse, which allows them to offer models for different conditions.
Urban Rucking and Everyday Wear
GORUCK offers several models for urban environments, which have proven to be equally good for short runs, commuting, city rucking, and general everyday wear.
NOBULL shoes are not for urban rucking but can function as an everyday sneaker.
Trail and Off-Road Rucking
As we have already explained, only GORUCK is intended for these conditions. Their shoes will make rucking comfortable for you, and will reduce the risk of slipping or twisting an ankle. NOBULL is simply not interested in this type of activity and therefore there is no point in using them for off-roading at all.
Gym and Cross-Training
GORUCK shoes, especially Ballistic trainers can be good for gym and as a cross training shoe. A few more models are comfortable enough for cardio and endurance sessions. Nevertheless, NOBULL shoes excel in HIIT, agility drills, and plyometrics, so they are winners in this category.
Long-Distance Rucking
Long-distance rucking requires a shoe that can withstand constant impact, exactly what GORUCK are and NOBULL are not. GORUCK shoes provide midfoot and heel support that prevents strain over extended distances. The firm midsole minimizes compression and other parts resolve common issues in endurance rucking.
NOBULL’s soft foam midsole fails to provide enough comfort and stability, especially for heavier persons.
Price and Value for Money
It’s important to note that both brands belong to the category of premium footwear, which is also reflected in the price. Even when they’re on sale, you’ll rarely find one for less than $100. In my opinion, the price is justified for both brands, but since GORUCK models are more durable, then we can say that they offer better value.
Head-to-Head Comparisons of Most Popular Models
To be honest, it’s very hard, almost impossible to compare models from these two companies because they are mostly incomparable. Still, I tried to compare several models that at least share some similarities.
GORUCK Ballistic Trainer vs. NOBULL Men’s Journey Shoes
The GORUCK Ballistic Trainer shoes are one of the few gym shoes capable of handling light-to-medium rucking. The combination of CORDURA nylon upper, foam insert, dual-density midsole, and durable rubber outsole make Ballistic Trainers a great crossover running shoe for strength training plus short distance runners and ruckers.
The NOBULL Men’s Journey Shoes are very well-constructed and comfortable, geared towards casual wear and light workouts. It is not the best CrossFit shoe on the market, but can serve as CrossFit shoe for sure.
For those who split time between the gym and short rucks, the Ballistic Trainer is the better option.
GORUCK MACV-1 vs. NOBULL Men’s Outwork High Top
I compared them because they are both higher than the ankle, but they are actually completely different. The GORUCK MACV-1 is a rucking boot designed for both urban and off-road terrain. This boot excels in long-distance rucking, wet conditions, and demanding terrains while still remaining comfortable enough for everyday wear, especially the Hi-Speed model. You can read more in my MACV-1 review.
The NOBULL Men’s Outwork High Top is 100% for strength training and really provides great stability for such types of workouts.
GORUCK Rough Runners vs. NOBULL Allday Ripstop
The GORUCK Rough Runners are equally suitable for short, intense rucks and longer ones. Also, you can use them for CrossFit, gym, and even long strolls. The GORUCK Rough Runner shoes are very comfortable, so people who want really durable everyday shoes also wear them.
The NOBULL Allday Ripstop is a very comfortable, everyday shoe with a lightweight build and breathable materials. It works well for casual walking and gym sessions, but lacks any specific features needed for rucking or some other highly demanding activity.
Which Should You Choose?
Go with GORUCK if you:
- Ruck regularly (urban or trail) and need footwear designed for endurance under load.
- Want long-lasting durability and military-tested performance.
- Need stability and protection for tough terrain.
Go with NOBULL if you:
- Are mostly a gym-goer who occasionally rucks.
- Prefer a lightweight, minimalist design over heavy-duty protection.
- Only do short, urban rucks with little weight.
Final Thoughts
GORUCK is the clear winner for anyone serious about rucking. Their shoes are made for rucking and weighted workouts, meaning they provide superior durability, enhanced stability, and the kind of foot protection you need for long miles under load.
And you don’t have to go to 15 mile rucks to take advantage of them. They are equally good for urban streets, rocky trails, and mixed terrain. The combination of premium materials, reinforced midsoles, and all-terrain traction makes them the best investment for ruckers looking for long-term performance.
On the other hand, NOBULL is a solid choice if your focus is more on gym training, HIIT, or general fitness. Their shoes are lighter and often more agile. If you only occasionally throw on a rucksack for short distances, a NOBULL shoe might work, but it’s not built for the stress and wear of consistent rucking.
Investing in GORUCK shoes will pay off in both comfort and durability. But if you’re more focused on gym work and just want a stylish, versatile shoe for light use, NOBULL may be the better fit. Know your goals, and choose wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are waterproof rucking shoes necessary, or is breathability more important?
Waterproof shoes sound great but can trap moisture, leading to sweaty feet and blisters. Unless you’re consistently rucking in wet conditions, breathable shoes with quick-drying materials are usually the better option. For extreme conditions, consider water-resistant shoes or a solid drainage system.
What type of socks works best with rucking shoes?
Merino wool or synthetic blend socks are best for rucking since they wick moisture and reduce friction. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and increases the risk of blisters. Double-layer socks or toe socks can also help prevent hot spots during long rucks.
How do you determine the right fit for rucking shoes to prevent blisters and hot spots?
Your rucking shoes should have a snug fit in the heel but enough room in the toe box to prevent rubbing. Go half a size up if you plan on wearing thick socks or if your feet swell during long rucks. Always try shoes on later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the best fit.
What common mistakes do people make when choosing rucking shoes?
Buying shoes that are too soft, too small, or not designed for load-bearing is a common mistake. Many people also overlook breathability. Always consider terrain, fit, and weight support before making a choice.
Should rucking shoes have extra cushioning, or is a firmer midsole better?
A firm midsole provides better stability under the load of heavy weight plates. Too much cushioning can absorb energy and lead to instability. The ideal balance is a responsive midsole with enough support to absorb impact but not too soft to compromise performance.
What kind of outsole tread pattern provides the best grip for rucking on different terrains?
A deep, multi-directional lug pattern is best on trails, mud, and uneven surfaces. If you’re mostly on pavement, a flatter, denser outsole with a good rubber grip works better.
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.
Frecklington M, Dalbeth N, McNair P, Gow P, Williams A, Carroll M, Rome K. Footwear interventions for foot pain, function, impairment and disability for people with foot and ankle arthritis: A literature review. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2018 Jun;47(6):814-824. doi: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2017.10.017. Epub 2017 Nov 3. PMID: 29174793.
