Ariat has built a name for themselves as complete gamechangers in cowboy boots and Western apparel since 1993. If you're all about that rugged, outdoor lifestyle and love Western fashion, Ariat's got you covered from head to toe (literally!).

With their roots firmly planted in equestrian and outdoor gear, Ariat's lineup is a game-changer for anyone who demands both style and substance.

Ariat boots are built tough enough for hardwork but comfortable enough that your feet won't be screaming at the end of a long day. And it's all thanks to Ariat's innovative technology, which was built by 2 founders with a background in sneakers.

But Ariat isn't just about boots.

They've taken that same commitment to quality and made some of the most comfortable and stylish western jeans you can find.

Imagine denim that's as ready for horseback riding as it is for a casual day out. Ariat jeans fit well and hold up over time. And Ariat shirts, jackets, and hats do, too.

Ariat’s Story

Ariat International is a company that has made a significant impact on the equestrian, outdoor, and work industries with its innovative and high-quality footwear, apparel, and accessories. Ariat has worked with many athletes from cowboys and cowgirls and is now the official boot of the PBR.

The story of Ariat is one of vision, innovation, and a 2 amazing women that cared a whole lot about how your feet feel.

The Inspiration Behind Ariat

Ariat was founded in 1993 by Beth Cross and Pam Parker in Union City, California who were working as consultants for Reebok. Cross and Parker saw an opportunity to revolutionize the traditional cowboy boot market by adding in athletic shoe technology. Their focus was on comfort and support over the traditional look of a cowboy boot. 

Cross and Parker chose the name ‘Ariat’ after the legendary racehorse the Secretariat, who won the Triple Crown in 1973.

Growth and Expansion

Ariat International's journey from its inception in 1993 to becoming a leading brand in equestrian, outdoor, and work footwear and apparel is a story of innovation, quality, and strategic growth. 

Ariat Heritage Paddock Boots

1993: The Foundation

Founding: Ariat was founded by Beth Cross and Pam Parker saw an opportunity to revolutionize cowboy boots by integrating athletic shoe technology.

They launched their first product, the Heritage Paddock Boot, setting a new standard in equestrian footwear with superior craftsmanship and advanced technology.

Ariat Chelsea Work Boots

1998: Expansion into Work Boots

Ariat expanded its product line to include work boots, designed to offer stability, durability, and unmatched comfort for various industries. Ariat's Chelsea Work Boot is one of the most popular. And no, they don’t look like traditional cowboy boots, which really shoot things up in Cowboy Culture.

Ariat Fatbaby Boots

2001: Introduction of the Fatbaby Boot

The super fun, vibrant, and bold Fatbaby boot was launched, capturing the hearts of cowgirls of all ages and becoming an instant classic.  

Ariat New Team Softshell Jacket

2003: Softshell Jacket Innovation

Ariat introduced the Softshell jacket, an innovation in performance and comfort, becoming a favorite among riders and outdoorsmen. 

Ariat Women's r.e.a.l. Jeans

2010: Launch of Ariat Denim

Ariat entered the denim market, offering jeans designed with riders in mind, which later expanded to include various styles and fits. 

Ariat Rebar DuraCanvas Jacket

2014: DuraCanvas Jacket

The DuraCanvas Jacket was introduced, quickly becoming a go-to choice for durability and style on the jobsite. 

Ariat Workhot H20 Work Boots

2018: Shock Shield® Technology

Ariat unveiled Shock Shield® technology in boots, providing unmatched comfort for long days on your feet. 

Ariat Scrubs

2023: Ariat Scrubs Introduced

Expanding beyond footwear and apparel, Ariat launched a line of scrubs for healthcare workers, extending its line into other types of work.

Global Expansion

Ariat expanded its distribution to Europe, Australia, Mexico, and Japan, becoming a global brand. 

Sponsorships and Partnerships

By 2009, Ariat became the official boot sponsor of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR). In 2015, it signed a sponsorship deal with the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI). Ariat also partnered with non-profit organizations like Jared Allen's Homes For Wounded Warriors. 

Awards and Recognition

In 2018, Beth Cross was awarded "Entrepreneur of the Year" in the Consumer Driven category by Ernst & Young, highlighting her leadership and Ariat's impact on the industry. 

2020: Leading Brand

Ariat was reported to be the largest equestrian footwear and apparel brand in the world, a testament to its growth, innovation, and commitment to quality.

Ariat ReBoot: Commitment to Sustainability

Ariat introduced Ariat Reboot, a program for buying and selling pre-loved Ariat boots, emphasizing the brand's commitment to sustainability and reducing waste. 

Ariat's BLOOM Collection

Environmentally Conscious BLOOM Collection

Ariat has a line of boat shoes that use advanced materials and techniques. The BLOOM collection uses reclaimed algae and upcycled rice husks to create footwear that is durable, comfortable, and environmentally conscious.

Biomechanical Research: Commitment to Quality and Innovation

Ariat's commitment to quality is evident in its rigorous product development process. The company partners with biomechanical research groups and testing labs to improve product performance, comfort, and durability.

Where Are Ariat Boots Made?

Ariat boots are primarily manufactured outside of the United States, with the majority of their production taking place in Mexico and China. Some models are also produced in Italy and Vietnam.

Despite being an American brand Ariat has outsourced its manufacturing to leverage global resources and maintain cost-effectiveness. This practice is common among large brands in the footwear industry.

The company's design and development processes are based in the US, where they also source the majority of their leathers from American cattle ranches.

However, the actual manufacturing of Ariat products is conducted by factory partners around the world, including in the United States, but primarily in Italy, Mexico, and China.

Ariat's commitment to quality remains strong despite the global nature of its manufacturing. The brand is known for its rigorous quality checks and the use of high-quality materials in its products.

Two24 Brookefield Boots

Ariat's Two24 Line: Made In The USA

If you're speficically interested in products made in the USA, Ariat offers the Two24 line, which includes handcrafted boots and shoes.

The Two24 line by Ariat represents a premium collection of footwear that stands out for its craftsmanship, quality, and American manufacturing roots. The line emphasizes traditional hand finishing and uses distinctive materials.

Key Features of the Two24 Line

The Two24 line has been well-received for its quality, design, and comfort. Customers and reviewers often highlight the exceptional attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials. The collection is praised for its durability and comfortable fit, making it a popular choice if you're looking for premium, handcrafted footwear.

Ariat's Bench Made Collection

Ariat's Bench Made Collection: Handmade In Mexico

Additionally, Ariat's Bench Made collection features artisan cowboy boots handcrafted by old-world boot makers in Leon, Mexico, emphasizing traditional styling and comfort.

Despite the global manufacturing approach, Ariat has faced criticism for not making more of its products in the USA. This reflects a broader trend in the western boots industry, where domestic production has significantly declined since the late 1990s.

Key Features of the Bench Made Line

The Bench Made Collection

The Bench Made collection includes a variety of models, such as the Bassett Western Boot and the James Western Boot, each featuring durable but soft American Bison leather construction, ornate hand-stitched details, and the unmistakable feeling of quality.

The boots are designed to be extremely comfortable from the first wear, with features like the All Day Cushioning insoles and a cork-filled forefoot for added comfort.

Making Ariat Boots

How Are Ariat Boots Made?

The process of creating an Ariat boot is a meticulous journey that involves over 150 skilled artisans, each contributing their expertise to make sure the final product meets the highest standards of quality, durability, and comfort.

Ariat's boots and shoes often go through up to 150 steps during construction, giving you world-class performance and durability.

Ariat is part of the Leather Working Group, which sets environmental standards within the leather manufacturing industry, and they are committed to sourcing their leathers responsibly. 

The manufacturing process of Ariat boots involves several steps:

  1. Design and Material Selection: Ariat's Director of Design, Hollin Norwood, and his team are dedicated to sourcing the best raw materials, such as stout, rugged, and thick hides, for their boots. They work closely with tannery partners to find the perfect materials based on the envisioned end result of the product.

  2. Craftsmanship and Technology: Ariat incorporates traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. They use advanced materials and techniques, such as BLOOM™ reclaimed algae and upcycled rice husks, to create footwear that is durable, comfortable, and environmentally conscious.

  3. Construction: Ariat boots are constructed using various methods, including Goodyear welt construction, which is known for its strength and durability. The boots are stitched together by skilled craftsmen, ensuring a high-quality finish..

  4. Features: Depending on the type of boot, Ariat may include features such as waterproofing, insulation, safety toes (steel, aluminum, or composite), and specific outsoles for different work environments.

  5. Product Care: Ariat also offers products for the care and maintenance of their boots, such as conditioners, balms, and protectants, to ensure the longevity and appearance of the leather.

  6. Sustainability: Ariat is committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness, partnering with various organizations and programs to ensure their production processes are environmentally responsible.

Ariat boots are made using both handcrafted and machine-assisted processes, depending on the specific collection and the manufacturing location. The company employs a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology to produce boots that are known for their quality, durability, and comfort.

Ariat's Handcrafted Boot Making Process

Ariat's Bench Made collection stands out as a great example of Ariat's commitment to handcrafted quality. These boots are made by old-world boot makers in Leon, Mexico, a city with a rich history in boot making. 

Handcrafted boots tend to be more expensive than machine-assisted processes.

The Bench Made collection features traditional styling, rich leathers, and hand-stitched details. The boots are constructed with lemonwood pegs for durability and a perfect fit, and they come with resoleable leather soles. The use of buttery-soft leathers ensures comfort right out of the box. 

Machine-Assisted Process

For other collections, Ariat boots are produced with the aid of modern, highly automated processes, especially in their manufacturing facilities in China. These processes allow for the production of boots that incorporate advanced technologies and materials, making them functional, durable, comfortable, light, and cool. 

Machine-assisted processes also helps to keep costs down, which is passed down to you.

The use of machines in the manufacturing process enables Ariat to produce a high volume of boots efficiently, catering to the global demand for their products.

Quality and Craftsmanship

Regardless of the manufacturing method, Ariat maintains high standards of quality and craftsmanship. The company sources top-quality materials and works with multiple global suppliers to ensure the highest quality for their footwear.

Ariat boots, whether handcrafted or machine-assisted, go through strict quality checks to ensure they meet the company's standards for performance, durability, and comfort.

Ariat Workhog Pull On Boots

Are Ariat Boots Really Cowboy Boots?

It's a mixed bag. The upper design stays true to cowboy boot traditions, but the sole construction leans towards modern work boots. Ariat has fancier boots with exotic skins, like ostrich, which look a little more like traditional boots. But if you're a purist, Ariat might not fit the bill.

While Ariat has modernized the cowboy boot by incorporating modern materials and construction techniques, some purists may argue that these boots are not "traditional" cowboy boots.

Ariat does offer boots with traditional leather soles, but they also produce hybrid boots that combine the classic look of leather soles with the durability and traction of rubber outsoles.

Ariat has indeed modernized the cowboy boot, making it more comfortable and durable with the use of modern materials and construction methods.

While they may not be traditional in the strictest sense, Ariat's boots maintain the aesthetic and functional aspects of cowboy boots. The brand has found a balance between tradition and innovation, offering a range of boots that cater to different preferences, whether one is looking for a traditional cowboy boot or a hybrid version.

Ariat's Partnership With Leather Working Group

Ariat’s Commitment To Sustainability

Ariat International has demonstrated a strong commitment to conservation and sustainability through various initiatives and programs.

Leather Working Group

Ariat is a member of the Leather Working Group, an organization that sets environmental standards for the leather manufacturing industry. They source their leathers responsibly and partner with Leather Working Group tanneries for the majority of their products.

NuShoe Repair Program

The NuShoe repair program is designed to refurbish worn boots, keeping them in use and out of landfills.

Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green

Ariat partners with this denim recycling program, offering customers a discount on new jeans when they recycle their old ones at an Ariat store.

BLUESIGN® Approved Factories

They work with factories that meet BLUESIGN® standards, which indicates a commitment to using materials and technologies that have a reduced impact on the environment.

Sustainable Materials

Ariat uses recycled polyester, organic cotton, ethically sourced down and wool, and other sustainable materials in their products.

Reboot Resale Program

Ariat Reboot allows customers to buy and sell pre-loved Ariat products, keeping them in circulation longer and minimizing waste. The program is currently accepting Western and English footwear for resale.

Bloom Collection

The Ariat Bloom Collection is a line of footwear crafted with environmental sustainability in mind. The collection features soles made with BLOOM™, a plant-based foam formulated with algae biomass. This innovative material helps clean and restore fresh water to the environment by utilizing surplus algae that can be harmful to certain ecosystems.

Key features of the Bloom Collection include:

Ariat's commitment to conservation is also reflected in their product design and craftsmanship, with a focus on creating durable, high-quality products that last longer and reduce material waste. By incorporating BLOOM and other sustainable materials into their products, Ariat is taking steps towards reducing their environmental footprint and promoting conservation.

Most Popular Ariat Boots For Men

Ariat International's portfolio brims with fan favorites, offering an impressive assortment of boots, clothing, and accessories that resonate with both men and women. Their digital storefront is a treasure trove of these sought-after items, presenting an array of styles and designs to satisfy the varied tastes and requirements of their clientele.

Ariat Workhog Work Boots

Ariat's WorkHog Boot

Among the crown jewels of Ariat's collection stands the WorkHog boot, a stalwart in the realm of work footwear. Available in a spectrum of versions, including options with steel toes, the WorkHog is celebrated for its exceptional comfort and steadfast durability, earning it the status of a trusted companion for those navigating demanding work environments.

Ariat Challenger Boots

Ariat Challenger Boots

The allure of Ariat extends to the realm of cowboy boots, revered not just for their iconic style but also for their unparalleled comfort. Ariat Challenger Western boots, in particular, have garnered acclaim, winning over hearts with their aesthetic appeal and the welcoming embrace they offer to newcomers of cowboy boot culture.

More Ariat Favorites

Men’s Ariat Boots

Ariat offers a wide range of men's boots designed for various activities and preferences, including Western, work, outdoor, and English riding boots. Their boots are known for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to provide durability, comfort, and style.

Special Features and Technologies

Ariat boots incorporate advanced technologies for comfort, support, and durability.

 Types of Ariat Men's Boots

Most Popular Ariat Boots For Women

Casanova Western Boot

This boot is one of Ariat's best sellers, indicating its popularity among customers.

Ariat Fatbaby Boots

Fatbaby Western Boot

Known for its stylish design with bold colors and four-row stitching, the Fatbaby Western Boot is equipped with 4LR technology for comfort and stability, and an Everly sole that provides cushioning and wear-resistance. It's a versatile boot suitable for casual wear and riding.

Ariat Heritage Boots

Heritage Paddock Western Boots

These boots feature a classic round toe design and are listed on Boot Barn's website, suggesting they are a favored option among women's Ariat boots.

More Favorites

Women’s Ariat Boots

Ariat offers a diverse range of women's boots, designed to cater to various preferences and needs. Their collection includes:

Ariat's women's boots are constructed with full-grain leather and feature technologies like Duratread™ outsoles for durability and traction. They offer a mix of style and practicality, with boots suitable for work, riding, and fashion-forward occasions. The boots are designed with comfort in mind, incorporating advanced footbed support like ATS® technology.

Ariat Work Boots

Ariat work boots are designed to offer durability, comfort, and protection for individuals working in various industries, including construction, farming, and outdoor work environments. 

These boots are known for their innovative features and technologies that cater to the specific needs of workers, ensuring both safety and comfort during long hours on the job. Here are some key aspects of Ariat work boots:

Durability and Materials

Comfort and Support

Safety Features

Styles and Options

Sustainability and Innovation

Ariat is committed to innovation and sustainability, continuously seeking ways to improve their products and reduce environmental impact. This includes sourcing sustainable materials and implementing eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

Ariat work boots are a popular choice among professionals seeking reliable, comfortable, and safe footwear for demanding work environments. Their commitment to quality, combined with advanced technology and safety features, makes Ariat a go-to brand for work boots.

Ariat Groundbreaker Chelsea Work Boots

Most Popular Ariat Work Boots

The most popular Ariat work boots for men, as indicated by various sources, include:

These boots are celebrated for their combination of advanced comfort technologies, safety features, and durable construction, making them a preferred choice for professionals in various industries.

Ariat Challenger Boots

Ariat Cowboy Boots

Ariat cowboy boots come in a variety of styles to suit different preferences and purposes, ranging from traditional riding to work and fashion-forward designs. They’re  cowboy boots are known for their comfort straight out of the box. 

Here's a breakdown of the different styles of Ariat cowboy boots:

Traditional Western Boots

Traditional cowboy boots, like the Challenger boot, give you not just the classic style of a true cowboy boot, but comfort, too.

Heritage R Toe Western Boot

The Heritage R Toe Western Boot is exceptionally comfortable, even when worn all day right out of the box. These boots feature a traditional R toe, giving them a classic cowgirl look while incorporating modern comfort and support. The boots are praised for their durability, making them a reliable choice for both casual wear and more demanding activities.

Ariat Sport Herdsman Western Boot

Build Quality: The Sport Herdsman boots are recognized for their top-notch design, build quality, and durability, functioning well as both a dress boot and a general Western cowboy boot.

Ropers & Roper Boots

Lower Heel: Designed for roping cattle and comfort while walking or running.

Shorter Shaft: Stops below the calf for ease of movement.

Heritage Roper Western Boots

Heritage Roper boots are noted for their versatility, being suitable for casual wear or dressed up occasions, and are also airport friendly. These are at a lower price point than some of Ariat’s other boots, but they still have Ariat’s good quality craftsmanship and and have been proven to hold up well over time. The only main difference is the leather quality, which may not match that of higher-end boots

Ariat Roper Boots

Work Cowboy Boots

Short Cowboy Boots and Booties

Exotic Cowboy Boots

Dress Cowboy Boots

Toe Shapes

Materials

Ariat cowboy boots are designed with various technologies to enhance comfort and performance, such as ATS® (Advanced Torque Stability) Technology for support and cushioning, and Duratread™ outsoles for durability and traction.

They are suitable for a range of occasions, from work to casual wear and even weddings, with styles like the Rambler for a more casual, motorcycle boot look, and the Circuit for dancing or dressier occasions

The classic men's cowboy boot remains a popular choice for its traditional high shaft and angled heel, while modern variations offer a wide range of styles and toe shapes.

Ariat Jacket

Ariat Jackets

Ariat jackets are designed to cater to a variety of needs, from casual wear to functional work attire. They are known for their durability, comfort, and weather-resistant properties. 

Ariat’s Most Popular Jackets

Ariat jackets are popular for their combination of style, functionality, and comfort.

They are designed with the brand's signature bold logos and branding, which is a point of pride for some customers but may not appeal to those who prefer more subtle branding.

The jackets are generally not slim-fitting, as they prioritize functionality and ease of movement, which is essential for work and outdoor activities

Ariat Softshell Jacket

New Team Softshell Jacket

Team Softshell Jacket

Crius Insulated Jacket

Stable Insulated Jacket

Ariat Rebat Duracanvas Jacket

Rebar DuraCanvas Bomber Jacket

Vernon Softshell Jacket

Comfort and Warmth: Customers have found the Vernon Softshell Jacket to be very comfortable and warm, with well-made zippers and pockets that keep hands warm.

Rebar Cloud 9 Insulated Jacket

Winter Jackets

Ariat r.e.a.l. Jeans

Ariat Jeans

Ariat jeans are designed with both style and functionality in mind, catering to the needs of equestrian athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who appreciate Western fashion. 

Here are some key features and aspects of Ariat jeans:

Durability and Comfort

Technology and Design

Style and Variety

Performance and Equestrian Lines

Sustainability

Ariat jeans are popular for their blend of style, comfort, and durability, making them a favored choice for those engaged in equestrian sports, work-related activities, or casual wear. The brand's focus on quality and functionality, combined with its Western flair, has helped establish Ariat jeans as a reputable choice in the market.

Styles of Ariat Jeans

Ariat offers a wide range of jeans for men, designed to cater to various preferences and needs. Their jeans are categorized by fit, ensuring that there's a style for everyone, whether you're looking for something for work, casual wear, or riding. Here are the different styles of Ariat jeans for men, as outlined in the provided search results:

M-Series Jeans

Specialized Jeans

Flame Resistant Work Jeans: Designed for safety in work environments where flame resistance is required..

Denim Collections

Ariat also offers denim collections that might include limited editions or jeans with special features and designs.

Each style of Ariat jeans is designed with specific features to meet the needs of its wearers, from those looking for everyday comfort to those needing specialized workwear. The variety in fits, from vintage slim to modern relaxed, ensures that Ariat jeans can accommodate different body types and preferences. Additionally, Ariat incorporates technologies like DuraStretch fabric in their jeans, enhancing comfort and mobility whether you're working on an oil field or enjoying a night out.

Ariat Hats

Ariat offers a diverse range of hats for men, including ball caps, trucker hats, cowboy hats, and beanies, catering to different styles and functional needs. Here's a summary of the types of hats available and their features:

Ball Caps and Trucker Hats

Cowboy Hats

Materials: Cowboy hats in Ariat's collection are made from materials like wool/felt, straw, and palm leaf straw, offering options for different looks and weather conditions.

Beanies

Special Features

Ariat's hats for men are part of their larger commitment to providing comfortable, durable, and stylish clothing and accessories. Whether you're looking for a hat for work, outdoor activities, or just to make a fashion statement, Ariat offers a range of options to suit your needs.

Final Thoughts

Ariat offers a full wardrobe for those who lead an adventurous life, love the Western aesthetic, or simply demand the best in durability and comfort. From men's and women's boots to jeans, shirts, jackets, and more, Ariat crafts each piece with the utmost attention to detail and quality. Whether you're in the saddle, on the job site, or enjoying a night out, Ariat has you covered with gear that's built to perform.




Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.

cowboy boots