Ariat
Challenge Field Boots
English Chaps/Boots/Helmets
Manufacturer: Ariat
Model: Challenge Field Boots
Category: English Chaps/Boots/Helmets
Purchase: I went shopping for these boots as a birthday present (for myself) at Victoria Saddlery in British Columbia, Canada. I had been having a hard time finding boots that would fit, as I have a fairly thick ankle and large calves (riders are, you know, supposed to be long, lanky, and lithe). I was also hoping to find boots with zippers up the back, as I had watched far too many fellow riders hopping around the tack room and falling on the floor to want to deal with those antics.
Likes: I've been very pleased with these boots, overall. The leather is of excellent quality, the lacing provided adequate adjustability for my ankles, and the footbed is to die for--soft, cushy, and supportive. I was told to get them a bit on the snug side so that they'll settle properly as the leather gives, so it's hard work on the zipper, but so far it's shown no sign of weakness (and I've had them for about a year now). Shiny, stylish, gorgeous.
Dislikes: Price. We paid $525, but then it was brand new and Ariat to boot. (Forgive the pun.) You get what you pay for, in this case.
Quality: If those zippers are still holding in there after all my yanking, then that speaks for itself. The shaft of the boot is still a little stiff (hasn't settled) but that may be partly because of the zipper holding things up. The fairly thick leather won't wear out any time soon, either, and the outer soles of the boot give a lovely grip in the stirrups.
Summary: All in all, Ariat proves its reliable quality once again.
Rating: 5
Author: Aethonan
Date: 2006-04-29
Usefulness Rating: 4 out of 5.
7 reader(s) voted.
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