Same Brand, Different Missions
At Oryx Outdoors, every piece of gear is designed with one goal in mind: to keep you Always in Pursuit. But not every pursuit looks the same. Some days you’re under the barbell, grinding through squats and deadlifts. Other days you’re chasing miles, pounding pavement, or rucking steep trails with lungs on fire.
That’s why Oryx built two performance shorts with distinct purposes: the Threshold Training Short and the Pace Maker Running Short. Both represent the Oryx standard of durability, comfort, and hunting-inspired design—but each excels in its own arena.
And here’s the exciting part: we’re not done. The Threshold 2.0 is already in the pipeline, set to drop soon. It takes everything you love about the original and levels it up with refined features, fresh designs, and next-generation performance. But before we look ahead, let’s break down how our two current shorts stack up.
The Purpose Behind Each Short
- Threshold Training Short: Built for heavy lifting, rugged functional training, and versatility in the gym or in pack-out prep. Think strength sessions, weighted carries, and hybrid workouts.
- Pace Maker Running Short: Designed for speed, endurance, and mobility. Ideal for long runs, sprint intervals, and conditioning days where weight, breathability, and airflow matter most.
Materials & Construction
Threshold Training Short
- Four-way stretch polyester/spandex blend for freedom of movement.
- Reinforced gusset for durability under heavy barbell work.
- Options for 5” and 7” inseams, with lined (compression) or unlined styles.
- Drop-in side pockets designed to keep essentials secure.
-> Explore the collection here: Threshold Shorts
Pace Maker Running Short
- Lightweight 80/20 polyester/spandex poplin for a breathable, fast-drying feel.
- Mesh liner provides support without adding bulk.
- Side slit hems + mesh ventilation panels to maximize airflow.
- Invisible zippered rear pocket secures your phone without bounce.
-> Explore the collection here: Pace Maker Running Short
Fit & Comfort
- Threshold: Slightly more structured feel. The optional compression liner adds support during heavy lifts, squats, and deadlifts. The thicker material makes it durable for rugged training sessions or when carrying a loaded pack.
- Pace Maker: Lighter, minimal design. The 5” inseam and mesh panels keep things cool, even during long runs or sprint intervals. The elastic waistband and side slits make them feel fast and unrestrictive.
Storage & Utility
- Threshold: Drop-in pockets that can handle a phone, keys, or even a small utility knife during training. Built for everyday wear inside and outside the gym.
- Pace Maker: Lightweight storage with one main highlight—the invisible zippered phone pocket. Your phone stays secure and doesn’t bounce while running or moving at high speed.
Performance in Different Training Scenarios
Heavy Strength Training (Squats, Deadlifts, Olympic Lifts):
- Winner: Threshold. The gusset and compression liner option offer the stability and durability you want under load.
Pack-Out Simulations (Weighted Carries, Rucks):
- Winner: Threshold. Tougher fabric, designed for heavy and repetitive stress.
Sprints & Speed Work:
- Winner: Pace Maker. Light, airy, and designed to let you move fast without drag.
Long-Distance Runs or Cardio Days:
- Winner: Pace Maker. Breathability and sweat management make these a no-brainer.
Hybrid Training (CrossFit, HIIT, Mix of Strength + Cardio):
- Winner: Threshold. The balance of structure and flexibility gives it the edge for workouts that mix barbell and conditioning.
Durability vs. Breathability
This is the trade-off between the two shorts:
- Threshold = Durability. They can handle barbell knurling, abrasive pack straps, and high-volume gym work without breaking down.
- Pace Maker = Breathability. The lightweight fabric and mesh design prioritize airflow, keeping you cool and fast-moving.
Hunters and hybrid athletes may find value in both—one for heavy-duty gym work, the other for conditioning and speed.
Style & Aesthetic
Both shorts carry Oryx’s hunting-inspired aesthetic and clean performance look.
- Threshold: Available in more colorways, including Oryx camo-inspired options that nod to your hunting roots while still looking sharp in the gym.
- Pace Maker: Sleeker, faster profile with a minimal look. Great for both training and lifestyle wear when you want a lightweight short.
Which Short Should You Choose?
Ask yourself: where do you push hardest?
- If you spend most of your time under the bar, training with weight, or preparing for pack-outs → Threshold is the short for you.
- If you live for running, conditioning, and staying light on your feet → Pace Maker is built for your pursuit.
- If your routine blends both strength and cardio—or if you train year-round for hunting season—it makes sense to own both and rotate them based on the day’s focus.
And if you’re already a fan of the Threshold, stay tuned—the Threshold 2.0 is coming soon. Expect improved fit, refined details, and new performance features designed to elevate the Oryx flagship short.
Gear Up for the Pursuit
Your shorts aren’t just clothing—they’re tools. The wrong choice slows you down, distracts you, or wears out too soon. The right choice keeps you focused on the pursuit—whether that’s the next rep, the next mile, or the next ridge.
-> Grab your pair of Threshold Training Shorts for heavy days.
-> Lace up with the Pace Maker Running Shorts for light, fast, and breathable performance.
-> And keep an eye out—the Threshold 2.0 is on the way, and it’s going to set a new standard.
Whichever you choose, you’re not just buying shorts. You’re investing in gear that keeps you Always in Pursuit.
