This was my second pair of Ariat boots and once again, I was not disappointed. My first pair were the Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boot. I talked about my list of “wants” and how I found an Ariat boot that checked every box. See my review for those.
For my second pair of Ariats, I had a comparably long but slightly different list of “wants”. This time, instead of a going to town boot, I was looking for a cattle ranching, daily wear work boot. Comfort and retention were #1 and #2 requirements. My use case was wearing these for everything on the farm; muck, barn and pasture chores and cattle work. These boots were going to see a lot more mud and water so they needed to have more traction and stay on my feet.
I wanted more of a roper style, rounded toe western boot. I wanted quick in and out but I also wanted secure fit when worn. I wanted waterproof so I wasn't getting soaked in rain or ultra-muddy conditions like a Virginia winter and spring thaw. Fit and finish are very good. They have the look and style I wanted. These are very comfortable. The soles (ATS Tech) have good grip to handle slippery and uneven terrain but lugs are not so deep as to collect giant mud clods. I don't worry about traction or losing my footing. They are cushiony and comfortable even with all day wear.
They were a bit stiff when new and even with a boot hook, it took some effort to get into them. But since I had the same experience with my first pair, I wasn't nervous about it this time. After maybe half a dozen ins and outs, they loosened up. Just like my other pair, once they are on, they are secure on my feet.
If I am allowed to mention other brands, I selected these Ariat boots to replace my Avenger 7108 slip-on composite tow waterproof shoes. When new, the Avengers stayed on my feet and felt secure in semi-muddy conditions but that did not last. Unlike the Ariats, within maybe 6 months of regular wear, the Avenger leather stretched out to the point where they felt like a half or whole size too big. That translated to my feet sliding around when working active cattle and the shoes getting pulled off my feet in muddy conditions which was becoming as dangerous as it was annoying. Granted, I am comparing shoes and boots. The Avengers are not bad per se. But the Ariats give me the same capability, comfort, convenience and more. And the Ariats have not lost any of that performance or capability over time. So, for me, the Ariats are a better value and a more satisfying purchase.
