Two Shorts, Two Different Water-Day Roles
The Argonaut Boardshort and Raider Field Short XD both come from the same California workshop, but they solve different problems. One is built for amphibious use—paddling, swimming, and hot-weather trails. The other is a field short for EDC carry and rugged wear, with water resistance but not a quick-dry design. Your choice depends on how much time you'll spend in the water versus on the trail, and what you need to carry.
Below, I break down the evidence from each product record so you can match the short to your actual day.
Argonaut Boardshort: Built for Water
- Argonaut Boardshort - UFG: 4.6oz, 89% Poly / 11% Spandex All Terrain Cloth with C6 DWR Finish Lightweight, stretchy fabric with a water-repellent finish suits paddling and swimming.
Argonaut Boardshort - UFG - Argonaut Boardshort - UFG: Quick Dry Dries fast after water exposure, reducing chafing and discomfort.
- Argonaut Boardshort - UFG: 3 Zippered Pockets Secures essentials during high-impact activities and in the water.
- Argonaut Boardshort - UFG: Clip Dock For Indexing IWB Carry of Low Profile Folders Lets you carry a folding knife discreetly inside the waistband.
Raider Field Short XD: Field-Focused with Water Resistance
- Raider Field Short XD - Stone Mountain Green: 7.2oz Durastretch Tweave with great mobility and durability Heavier, tough fabric for rugged terrain; DWR finish sheds light moisture but not designed for immersion.
Raider Field Short XD - Stone Mountain Green - Raider Field Short XD - Stone Mountain Green: 13 low profile pockets in a clean utility-purpose driven styling Organizes EDC gear without bulk, but many pockets are not zippered for water use.
- Raider Field Short XD - Stone Mountain Green: Dedicated knife-multitool pockets Keeps tools accessible and secure during active wear.
- Raider Field Short XD - Stone Mountain Green: 10" Inseam Longer length than the Argonaut's 9" inseam, offering more coverage on trails.
Fabric and Water Performance
The Argonaut uses a lightweight, quick-dry blend with DWR, while the Raider uses a heavier, durable stretch fabric with DWR. For sustained water exposure, the Argonaut's quick-dry property is a clear advantage.
- Argonaut Boardshort: 4.6oz poly/spandex, quick dry, amphibious rated, C6 DWR.
- Raider Field Short XD: 7.2oz nylon/spandex, DWR finish, not specified as quick dry.
Pocket Layout and EDC Carry
The Raider offers 13 pockets for extensive organization, but only some are zippered. The Argonaut has three zippered pockets and a Clip Dock for IWB knife carry, prioritizing security during dynamic movement.
- Argonaut Boardshort: 3 zippered pockets, Clip Dock for IWB folder, mini-cordage tie-ins.
- Raider Field Short XD: 13 low-profile pockets, dedicated knife/multitool pockets, no-twist D-rings, Hide-Away pocket.
Fit and Sizing
Both come in a range of waist sizes. The Argonaut has a classic tie waist for dialing in fit, while the Raider has a modern regular fit with a fixed waistband.
- Argonaut Boardshort: Waist sizes 29–40, 9" inseam, tie waist, trim low-profile design.
- Raider Field Short XD: Waist sizes 30–38, 10" inseam, modern regular fit, button closure.
Which Short for Your Water Day?
If your day involves paddling, swimming, or frequent splashes, the Argonaut Boardshort is the better match. Its quick-dry fabric, zippered pockets, and low-profile waist work well under a PFD or pack belt. The Clip Dock also gives you a dedicated spot for a folding knife.
If you're hiking, camping, or doing field work with occasional water crossings, the Raider Field Short XD offers more durability and pocket organization for EDC. Its DWR finish handles light rain and splashes, but it's not designed to be submerged. The 10" inseam provides extra coverage on overgrown trails.
Both are made in California and come in Universal Field Gray (Argonaut) or Stone Mountain Green (Raider). Choose based on how wet you'll get and how much gear you need to carry.
