In competition, every second between runs is a chance to improve—or miss an opportunity. Matt Field and his team rely on Rugged Radios to stay connected between heats, debrief, check setup data, and coordinate fast turnarounds.

“These radios aren’t just helpful—they’re part of our competitive edge,” says Matt. “When the car comes off track, I can instantly get feedback, talk with the team, and make adjustments before the next run.”

While radio use isn’t permitted during runs in Formula Drift, those moments immediately before and after are mission-critical. Whether it’s tracking tire pressures, spotting issues, or coordinating repairs, Rugged keeps the crew in sync under pressure.

From dyno sessions to test days, the Drift Cave team uses Rugged Radios to reduce chaos and sharpen efficiency.

“When we put a new engine in the car, we head to the dyno. The noise is insane and the pressure is high. We started using our Rugged Radios so my tuner could sit in the car and make changes while Alec and I monitored everything. It changed the game—we caught issues faster and didn’t blow our voices out yelling over the engine,” Matt recalls.

The team also wires their pit scooter with a Rugged moto kit, complete with a handlebar-mounted push-to-talk button. It’s not just for fun—it helps with course previews and internal shoots, giving them comms on the move without the awkward one-handed juggle.

“I love having a bar-mounted PTT. I can still ride hard, film content, and communicate without fumbling with my headset,” Matt says.

When Matt is training new drivers or hosting a media ride-along, intercom communication is key. Inside the car, it allows for real-time coaching—even when engines are screaming and tires are lit up.

“We use Rugged intercoms for ride-alongs. If I’m driving, I can explain what I’m doing in the moment. When the student drives, I don’t have to yell across the noise. It’s calm, clear, and way more effective for real instruction,” Matt explains.

That same setup shines during media days, where journalists, influencers, and partners get to experience the thrill firsthand. At Formula Drift Long Beach, Rugged Radios’ own Marketing Director Dustin Ensign got the ride of a lifetime.

“What an incredible experience,” Dustin recalls. “Matt was able to talk me through what he was thinking, what he was about to do, and—at the peak of concentration—what he just did. It was inspiring to realize how much awareness and precision it takes to control these cars.”

Matt’s relationship with Rugged Radios extends beyond the drift circuit. Whether it's out on the California Delta in a powerboat or messing around with friends, Rugged keeps the good times rolling.

“One of my favorite times to toss on a Rugged headset is in my buddy Ripper’s 38’ Mirage powerboat,” says Matt. “Two big-block 540ci Mercury engines make it LOUD—but with the intercom, all six of us can talk, laugh, and talk smack on the way to the bar. The trip back? Even funnier.”

Matt Field doesn’t just trust Rugged Radios because it works—he trusts it because it integrates into every part of his world. From race day debriefs to dyno comms, pit scooters to powerboats, it’s gear that performs where it counts.

“Rugged Radios is involved in nearly every part of my life. It’s not just racing—it’s testing, riding, media work, and just having fun. I feel honored to work with a company that’s as passionate as we are.”

For Matt Field and his Drift Cave Motorsports team, Rugged Radios isn’t just part of the program—it powers the program. Whether instructing, testing, filming, or getting ready for the next run, the ability to communicate clearly makes all the difference.

Follow Matt’s journey, and experience the difference Rugged Radios can make—on the track, in the pits, and beyond.