Hey ARIAT...Thanks for the full five in the face..

[Jumphigh83]

I found the Ariat ad (in the latest chronicle) insulting. Since most people "ride for fun" (read not Olympic hopefuls) one might conclude that Ariat's marketing to the people they GIVE their clothes to! The rest of us have to BUY them and then we get a full five in the face because we aren't attempting to be upper level or Olympic riders!! Really bad. Really. HEY ARIAT...you have successfully alienated MOST of your client base!!! Good for you! (where is the sarcasm icon??)
I thought the ad was in bad taste and excludes most everyone who rides. It costs too much to NOT be "fun". I guess it sucks to be an average amateur who owns a horse for fun and entertainment. Maybe "those underachievers" need to by Tailored Sportsman or any other brand than Ariat.

[Philosopher]

What did the ad say?

[Kate66]

Where is the ad? I haven't seen it.

[TwoDreamRides]

I believe it features Gina Miles and some moody lighting. There's a large quote along the lines of "If you want to ride for fun, ride a carousel."

It's part of a new campaign that features professionals, and the other quotes I have found are along the lines of "I work in acres, not hours", "Stuffed animals are for babies" (Mutton wrangler kid), and "No one gives me a clear round, I earn it".

I personally like the campaign, the Gina Miles quote reminds me of a response to someone saying "Oh I went trail riding once..." when they find out you ride.

My mom doesn't like the clear round, her thought is that the horse puts in the effort to get you a clear round and should be given credit.

[Woodland]

Ariat has always been pretentious - I own a pair or two - but they really are not "all that"

[Eventer13]

I saw the ad. I can see how it would be a little insulting, but I think they were just trying to get the point across that riding was a sport. If a basketball or football ad did something similar, would people be complaining?

[00Jumper]

I laughed. :confused: I never considered they were talking to people who ride without an Olympic goal, I thought it was addressed to those that trail ride once a year on vacation or something and then think they're SRS BIZNS horseback riders.

[Sansena]

I had a 3 out of 4 failure rate on paddock boots from them.

[Hunter Princess]

I personally think the ad is cool. I hung the Gina Miles one up at work, and I'm trying to find others to hang up as well (at my apt, not work). I think it's an interesting take on advertising and at least for me, it seems like a good ad. I'm already an Ariat fan, having had good luck with the majority of their products.

[jengersnap]

Actually, I find Ariat gear and boots okay but not high on the most durable for true day in day out work. I have a pair of their boots I enjoy, but I only spend 4-8 hours a week in the saddle. The "professionals" I hang around (exercise riders, jockeys) generally have high end or custom boots and ride multiple horses in the mornings in heavy denim jeans that wear like iron. I always thought Ariat was more geared to the fashion concious light to moderate riders who like logos and horse head designs and bling on their stylishly fitting multiple purpose clothes and boots. In fact, I know I've seen some blingy pink scrolled designed t-shirts that would look at home on a carousel GAP commercial. :lol:

[Ashby]

The ad campaigns Ariat's ad agency designs must really work well, because they continue to sell boots despite the poor quality of the product. I have no idea why else anybody buys these boots except an ad campaign that persuades people that they HAVE to have them.

My daughter keeps buying them, but it's been one disaster after another. While meanwhile I buy good quality stuff that lasts forever and looks gorgeous. I've spent much less money on boots than she has and I probably won't have to buy new tall boots for many years.

[Bayou Roux]

Seek not integrity, nor a sense of self-worth, in the halls of advertising...

[lauriep]

Well, I buy their H2O waterproof boots, their Terrain zip fronts and these boots make it possible for me to work a full day in comfort and without being lame! I was REALLY having a problem with my left foot, plantar fasciitis, and could barely walk by mid-day. I already owned a pair of paddock boots by Ariat and knew that they were comfortable, so I got the Terrains for summer, which were great, and then the H2Os, and I marvel at how good my foot feels at the end of the day. Ad or not, I will continue to buy these products.

And, FWIW, I didn't find the ad objectionable.

[War Admiral]

Seek not integrity, nor a sense of self-worth, in the halls of advertising...

Words to live by! :D

[jn4jenny]

I found the Ariat ad (in the latest chronicle) insulting. Since most people "ride for fun" (read not Olympic hopefuls) one might conclude that Ariat's marketing to the people they GIVE their clothes to! The rest of us have to BUY them and then we get a full five in the face because we aren't attempting to be upper level or Olympic riders!! Really bad. Really. HEY ARIAT...you have successfully alienated MOST of your client base!!! Good for you! (where is the sarcasm icon??)
I thought the ad was in bad taste and excludes most everyone who rides. It costs too much to NOT be "fun". I guess it sucks to be an average amateur who owns a horse for fun and entertainment. Maybe "those underachievers" need to by Tailored Sportsman or any other brand than Ariat.

Most readers of the Chronicle are either active competitors or enthusiasts of show competition. Do you think Ariat is interested in the slim fraction of people who will NOT identify with the ad, or the huge proportion of the Chronicle's population that probably WILL identify? They know the magazine's audience and they're working it. That's good, effective niche marketing.

Subaru has niche ads specifically for the gay market. Does that mean that I should feel "slapped across the face" when I see one of those ads because I'm a heterosexual Subaru owner and they're "excluding me" in the ad campaign? :rolleyes: I feel like we're re-living the recent thread about the Ford F-150 commercial that implies that all engineers are men and therefore it allegedly excludes women.

PS--While I give them props for knowing their audience and advertising effectively, Ariat's product sucks. Maybe that's why they have to spend so much on ad campaigns. :lol: I'm a Blundstone/Irideon girl myself.

[HydroPHILE]

Andrew picked up a pair of Ariat breathable half-chaps at Sunkissed Acres for $5. :)

[hedmbl]

Most readers of the Chronicle are either active competitors or enthusiasts of show competition. Do you think Ariat is interested in the slim fraction of people who will NOT identify with the ad, or the huge proportion of the Chronicle's population that probably WILL identify? They know the magazine's audience and they're working it. That's good, effective niche marketing.
.


Yup, exactly. The chronicle is a magazine that reports horse show results and stories so the ad makes sense to me. Target audiences and all.

[findeight]

Ads like that actually are designed to work to make those who do buy THINK they are in the same league...you know, like fancy athlete endorsed sports shoes and clothes...or Tiger Woods signature golfing clothing-they are selling to weekend hackers that think an $85 polo shirt will knock 10 strokes of their game (or 50:lol:).

My favorite is Tractor Supply where they keep referring to "living out here" or "you are out here for a reason" when their main expansion is quite suburban and it's lawn tractors and "out here" refers to more then a mile from Macy's.

Not so much talking down as making you think you are special if you buy their (overpriced?) stuff.

Basic axiom in horses outside of ad pictures or competitions where they wear the free stuff...the better they dress, the worse they ride.

[toeknee]

I loved it! It is hanging in the barn...:D

[Ware Whip!]

Ads like that actually are designed to work to make those who do buy THINK they are in the same league...you know, like fancy athlete endorsed sports shoes and clothes...or Tiger Woods signature golfing clothing-they are selling to weekend hackers that think an $85 polo shirt will knock 10 strokes of their game (or 50:lol:).

My favorite is Tractor Supply where they keep referring to "living out here" or "you are out here for a reason" when their main expansion is quite suburban and it's lawn tractors and "out here" refers to more then a mile from Macy's.

Not so much talking down as making you think you are special if you buy their (overpriced?) stuff.

Basic axiom in horses outside of ad pictures or competitions where they wear the free stuff...the better they dress, the worse they ride.

I think you are spot on, for all that is worth.

My father had a saying, " Dress like a fashion plate, ride like a tailor"
I am sure he did not coin it, but it rings true to this very day.

[cowgirljenn]

I had a pair of Ariat lace-up ropers that was the most comfortable pair of boots I ever owned. I would rather wear those than tennis shoes, and I wore them until they fell apart. From what you all are saying, it sounds like that's not the norm?

If so, who do you buy your boots from?

[kellyb]

I had a pair of Ariats that blew out after six months.

I have an ad campaign for them...

"Want some boots that won't wear out on the carousel? Wear Ariat. Got some serious riding to do? Look elsewhere!!!"

[riverbell93]

Ads like that actually are designed to work to make those who do buy THINK they are in the same league...

True. Advertising believes wholeheartedly in flattering its customers - oh, surely you are ALREADY this amazing person who simply uses our product to enhance your superlative career/family/driving/partying/riding/etc. skills!!!! Practical people are the bane of the profession.:lol:

[Jumphigh83]

Redback...most comfortable boots I have ever worn. Ariats disintegrate, they are uber narrow (yeah I have wide feet) and the zippers give up the ghost. TWO pair of mens zip field boots(my son's) I have had the pleasure of replacing the zippers AT HORSE SHOWS (they never fall apart at home...Murphey's law?) Cant speak for the clothing although I know a rider who was given a bunch to talk up the product. Like I said, the ones in the magazine are PAID to promote the product all the while appearing to "look down their collective noses" at the REAL consumers of the product. The rough and tough image of the riders "as athletes" is all well and good but not at the expense of the other 98% of the targeted marketing group! Hey, I am probably wrong (wont be the first time) but my initial impression of the ad was NEGATIVE. It did NOT make me want to go out and buy Ariat. The general feedback from the small group of adult riders at my barn echoed the same sentiments. Just throwing it out there to see what sticks and maybe Ariat had not thought of the negative implications of their national ad campaign. (oh and whomever referenced football and basketball ...not too many people need to buy AIR Jordans or cleats to play a pick up game in their back yard...casual riders DO need to suit up to "play" horse show even at the most basic levels.)

[Vandy]

Love the ads, but I find them pretty ironic as back when I was riding 12 horses a day, the Ariat paddock boots I bought lasted about a week. I think they would be pretty well suited to riding a carousel, and would probably last a lot longer :lol:

[JSwan]

Seek not integrity, nor a sense of self-worth, in the halls of advertising...

Can I get an Amen and Hallelujah! :lol:

[magnolia73]

I personally like the campaign, the Gina Miles quote reminds me of a response to someone saying "Oh I went trail riding once..." when they find out you ride.


I interpreted that differently...... but Ariat makes a crappy product, so whatever. Insult away! My Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps work fabulously for the fun riding that I waste my time with anyway.

I subscribe to the Chronicle and do not compete.

and a tiny side comment- with all of the tragedy befalling eventing, I think it is far better for successful eventers to sell themselves as horsemen, not competitors. I'm sure Gina Miles is a fabulous horsewoman, worked hard and would never risk her horse for competition. But the ad that alludes to competition being the end all is kind of at odds with the perception that sport needs to not end up an archaic thing of the past.

[magnolia73]

I have no idea why else anybody buys these boots except an ad campaign that persuades people that they HAVE to have them.

A lot of tack shops only carry the Ariat line. Or they carry ariats and a really cheap brand.

[Tilly]

I love Ariat. My boots, breeches, etc have lasted me a long time. You just have to know how to take care of them ;)

I rather liked the adds, I didn't find them insulting at all.

[Sansena]

Well it would seem their QC issues haven't been addressed.

If I buy Ariiat, I make sure I buy from a reputable seller who stands behind the products they sell (Smartpak, my local tack shop 'All the King's Horses', etc.).. so when the boots die prematurely I know I can get a refund or replacement pair.

Last pair died in 2 months.. sole peeled away from toe
Previous pr, zipper failed at 4 months
Pr before that, zipper failure, at one year
Pr beffore that, blew out the sides at aprox 9 months (bought off ebay, couldnt' return)

At the rate I'm going, I'll have a fatal failure with this 'new' pair and get a replacement any day now.. Seems I'm always walking around in new Ariats, because I keep replacng them. Why do I put up with this? Because they're the only ones that are comfortable for my fat feet..

[Tilly]

but Ariat makes a crappy product, so whatever. Insult away! My Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps work fabulously for the fun riding that I waste my time with anyway.

You're forgetting that not everyone can afford Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps. For those of us who are poor, we have to make do with the best we can afford.
If I had money to blow on Der Daus, you better believe I would. Unfortunately, I don't.

[equest]

You're forgetting that not everyone can afford Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps. For those of us who are poor, we have to make do with the best we can afford.
If I had money to blow on Der Daus, you better believe I would. Unfortunately, I don't.

Ariat products aren't inexpensive by my standards. You can find paddocks of the same quality for a cheaper price (Ovation field boots, for example - I had a pair that last quite some time). Given the price and the quality complaints on COTH, I've never considered their paddocks for frequent wear. Their half chaps have been ok, but I only bought them because they were on sale. I do have their low-end field boots but rarely wear them, and I am not particularly crazy about them.

[HydroPHILE]

You're forgetting that not everyone can afford Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps.

Ariat isn't marketing to Joe Horseowner. Ariat is marketing to the serious competitor with that ad.

It's similar to any other advertisement for high dollar items. Ferrari doesn't advertise to Joe Carowner be-bopping around in a beat up pick up truck. Ferrari advertises to their target audience......those with money.

[Meredith Clark]

I've had my Ariat tall boots for 8 years, I wear them almost everytime I ride and they're in great shape. I tried to switch to paddock boots and half chaps a while back to "save" them but i'm just a tall boot girl. I will say they don't have zippers so that probably has a lot to do with it.

[magnolia73]

Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps.

My Grand Prix paddock boots are 2 years old and going strong- priced pretty much the same as the premium Ariats.

My DerDaus are going on- get this- 20 years old. Only used for occasional showing, but still great condition. To be fair, they were only $300 when I got them with my summer job at McDonalds money!

Riding Sports breeches are cheaper than Ariat breeches.

Custom chaps- yeah, a splurge, but I still have my old Riding Sport half chaps ($40?) and- umm....a pair of Ariat Half Chaps ($90 on sale)that the zipper broke (cost $30 to replace with good zippers) within a few wears.

[Mav226]

Seems like smart advertising to me. The ad was well placed, in a periodical that typically caters to professionals and those who compete/show. It would be different if they placed it in a mag like Horse Illustrated.

I sort of like the campaign. That being said, I sort of like my last two pair of Ariat's as well (crowne pro zip).

[Nicker]

You're forgetting that not everyone can afford Grand Prixs, Der Daus, Riding Sports and custom chaps. For those of us who are poor, we have to make do with the best we can afford.
If I had money to blow on Der Daus, you better believe I would. Unfortunately, I don't.

Twenty dollar boots from Walmart have held up better then any pair of Ariats I've ever owned.

I need boots that you can actually work in, and Ariats are not. I do clean and oil my boots, but I have yet to have a single pair of Ariats(and I've owned many different styles) last longer then 6 months.

My daughter out grew the knock off brand we bought her before she wore them out, now my youngest daughter wears them. Can't say the same for the Ariats they replaced.

[purplnurpl]

I like the ads that include the horses best.

As for Ariat product, they are the only company that carries paddock boots that fit my Sasquatch feet.
They last two years. Worn every day in every type of climate, through the mud and ringer and I never clean them. I step on them with the opposite foot to pull them off so the reason they only last 2 years is because the lining breaks on the inside and the molding starts to rub my ankles (due to the way I rip them off my feet)

And their half chaps are the only half chaps that fit me.

I tried the close contact half chaps and they lasted a whopping 3 months. lol. I contacted Dover (cause I'm broke and I'm a PITA) and they replaced them for fee with the more durable kind with the suede on the inside and thick leather on the outside for free.

So I can't say weather or not I like them or not. I just buy what I like.

Their breeches...I hate. That new moisture wicking technology that every one uses never wicks moisture from me. I like old fashion cotton. So I pretty much only buy Cotton Naturals.

[quietann]

The ad doesn't bother me...

It seems like Ariat mostly has QC issues with *zippers*. I have a pair of the Heritage II lace-up paddock boots that I've worn for riding, barn work, grooming at horse trials etc. for over 2 years and they are just now getting to the point where they need to be replaced. And my day-to-day winter boots (for shoveling snow, work etc.) are the same thing with a Thinsulate liner. AFAIK, the lace-ups are fine... one just needs to avoid the zippers!

[Calamber]

I am not too sure that either Ariat, and perhaps Gina Miles, really care about whether they insult with "attitude" or not. Since advertising to a culturally disdainful grouping is what it is all about, it will sell. All I can say is I would not want to meet Gina Miles on a dark street somewhere boots or no boots.:lol:

Just as an aside, I have terrific back problems and could only work in the Ariat Hexcel Devon Pro or whatever the heck the newly renamed zip paddock boots are called. Every single one of the pairs have blown out from everyday (6 - 8 hour days) in a very short period of time. I am a bit stuck since I do not know what else has a foot bed that supports a high arch which I have.

Ariat has replaced all of the boots that have come apart and been very generous in doing so as my last pair was 2 years old, just had not been used very much in that time period and I have just found out that they replaced them anyway. They are waiting at the the tack shop for me as I type! Happy news.

[lalahartma1]

I saw the ad in a different mag and said 'phsspht' or however you type a raspberry. It unfortunately brought to mind the the tragedies in the sport over the past year.

[lalahartma1]

and a tiny side comment- with all of the tragedy befalling eventing, I think it is far better for successful eventers to sell themselves as horsemen, not competitors. I'm sure Gina Miles is a fabulous horsewoman, worked hard and would never risk her horse for competition. But the ad that alludes to competition being the end all is kind of at odds with the perception that sport needs to not end up an archaic thing of the past.

Exactly. Didn't see your comment before I posted. No one else had this reaction?

[Vandy]

I am a bit stuck since I do not know what else has a foot bed that supports a high arch which I have.Ariat sells the footbeds which you can insert into any pair of boots. http://www.tackroomonline.com/browse.cfm/4,628.html That's the other issue I have with Ariats - since I have the world's flattest feet, their high-arch footbeds drive me insane!

[Calamber]

Thanks for the link Vandy. I did not know that!

[mcm7780]

"No one gives me a clear round, I earn it".
<snip>
My mom doesn't like the clear round, her thought is that the horse puts in the effort to get you a clear round and should be given credit.

I'm pretty sure that's just a shot at the people who say Georgina Bloomberg (the rider in the photo) only does so well because she had a lot of money. Like how so many people say "so and so is just a good rider because they bought a nice horse." Others can relate to that so Ariat probably thought it would be a good tag line.

[eqprincess91]

Redback...most comfortable boots I have ever worn. Ariats disintegrate, they are uber narrow (yeah I have wide feet) and the zippers give up the ghost. TWO pair of mens zip field boots(my son's) I have had the pleasure of replacing the zippers AT HORSE SHOWS (they never fall apart at home...Murphey's law?) Cant speak for the clothing although I know a rider who was given a bunch to talk up the product. Like I said, the ones in the magazine are PAID to promote the product all the while appearing to "look down their collective noses" at the REAL consumers of the product. The rough and tough image of the riders "as athletes" is all well and good but not at the expense of the other 98% of the targeted marketing group! Hey, I am probably wrong (wont be the first time) but my initial impression of the ad was NEGATIVE. It did NOT make me want to go out and buy Ariat. The general feedback from the small group of adult riders at my barn echoed the same sentiments. Just throwing it out there to see what sticks and maybe Ariat had not thought of the negative implications of their national ad campaign. (oh and whomever referenced football and basketball ...not too many people need to buy AIR Jordans or cleats to play a pick up game in their back yard...casual riders DO need to suit up to "play" horse show even at the most basic levels.)

So first off, I personally really like Ariat. I agree other brands are better in some ways. I have the Ariat Crowne Pro pull ons and they fit me like customs and have lasted a long time for all the riding (7 days a week, 5 hrs a day) and showing I do (every weekend, all weekend).
Ariat knows the style that hunter/equitation people prefer and they design that. Redbacks, I had to google because I have never heard of them. They are horrendous looking...must be western. I show in A rated hunter and I can say that all you see are Ariats and Sergios.
As for these top riders, they have earned the spot that they are in. They can judge a little on the crappy local kids who are and parents who are offended by them because no one else is. Which also brings the comment i have about riders who do it for fun have to suit up to compete. No they really dont and they never do. They wear those awful front zip Tuffrider breeches and half chaps to shows with their tack not even properly on or put together.

[danceronice]

I'm probably feeding a troll, but oh, well...

Wow, a greenie Hunter Pwincess dug up a long-dead thread to shill for Ariat? Daddy must work for them.

[Burbank]

The ads don't bother me and recently my horse has been eating and being a puff more than getting riden.

I do have a bunch of Ariat though but due to working in a western tack store and I could order the closeout items and get them shipped with the regular orders. At the same store they had ordered some discontinued tall boots and when and had them for a while so I made an offer and got a pair that was made in Italy for a steal.
I also scored a new hunt coat at an english tack store for around 75.00 and couldn't resist.

[wildlifer]

The ad campaigns Ariat's ad agency designs must really work well, because they continue to sell boots despite the poor quality of the product. I have no idea why else anybody buys these boots except an ad campaign that persuades people that they HAVE to have them.


:yes::yes: My experience as well.

[dghunter]

I like the ads personally I think they're fun.
And I like their products. I've had my tall boots from them forever. They're awesome, awesome boots. I get their paddock boots and half chaps too. I replace the paddock boots every 2 years or so and have never had to replace the half chaps, though the one is starting to tear a little, whatever I've had them for about 8 years. I'll continue to buy their products until I start having problems with them :)

[*jumper*]

The truth is, the Ariat ad is most likely directed towards the everyday rider--the person who aspires to be like Gina Miles. Perhaps they don't have any interest in going to the Olympics, riding a 4* event, jumping a Grand Prix, etc, but they want to ride like her. They see a successful international athlete, and, in theory, want to emulate their style.

I understand the whole "fun" thing, but honestly, that particular ad is not really reaching out to the weekend trail rider or backyard hunter type. It's published in a forum where readers are riders who (most likely) attend horse shows and would be in the market for that product. I personally don't think it's alienating; even if it were, then that's Ariat's choice to steer their brand towards serious competitors. They wouldn't be the first to do so.

ETA: JUST realized this was a long-dead thread. Oh well. As for my two cents on the actual product: meh. My boots have endured three years of almost daily use, and they look it. Rub marks inside the calf, stitching unraveling, gussets disintegrating. You get what you pay for :)

[Showjumper28]

The last time I spoke to an Ariat rep, I was complaining that my last pair of boots didn't make the 6 month mark. her response to me was bascially...What do you expect, if you ride more than a couple of times a week?

So apparently they aren'tfor serious riders... or maybe they are now? Gee ariat which is it?

[BasqueMom]

Had a pair of Justin paddock boots for ten years. Resoled them once...leather soles. Finally replaced with a pair of Ariats...ended up giving
them away because of their tight fit (have widish feet). Got a pair 1/2 size
larger than normal. Not bad but as age advances, so has foot size. They
went to a new home a few months ago. Neither were worn enough to comment on longivity. However, will be looking for another brand next time
around...there is a Justin outlet not too far from us that needs to go on the
travel list. Just usually think of it on a Sunday and they are closed.....

Really miss those Miller riding tennies with a heel....

[SarahandSam]

I curse Ariat every time I pull on my paddock boots with the zipper that's been broken ever since they came out of the box. Or when I squeeze my legs into the half chaps that are a full inch smaller than the calf size on their size chart.

So while I hate that they spend money on advertising instead of making actual quality products, I have no breath to curse them for belittling my fun riding. d;

[JSwan]

Wow, a greenie Hunter Pwincess dug up a long-dead thread to shill for Ariat? Daddy must work for them.

:lol::lol:

Everyone I know wear's Dehner's or Vogel's. Does that make me a hater?

[Widget]

I had a pair of Ariat lace-up ropers that was the most comfortable pair of boots I ever owned. I would rather wear those than tennis shoes, and I wore them until they fell apart. From what you all are saying, it sounds like that's not the norm?

If so, who do you buy your boots from?

I had a pair of Ariat zip-up paddock boots like that, though I'm still wearing them out due to my 4 year hiatus from horses. I recently (and blindly) purchased another pair of the same boots. They are no where near the quality of the first pair. I'm hoping they die soon so I can find some better, more comfortable boots.

I will not be purchasing more Ariat boots in the future.

[leilatigress]

My Justin Lacers look better and feel better on my feet day in and out than anything Ariat has ever brought out. Yes they are western but put a pair of chaps over them and they look just like paddock boots.
http://www.sheplers.com/womens/justin_lacer/045a66.html
I have the above and love them! They do NOT offer them in zip though :(

[Dispatcher]

So first off, I personally really like Ariat. I agree other brands are better in some ways. I have the Ariat Crowne Pro pull ons and they fit me like customs and have lasted a long time for all the riding (7 days a week, 5 hrs a day) and showing I do (every weekend, all weekend).
Ariat knows the style that hunter/equitation people prefer and they design that. Redbacks, I had to google because I have never heard of them. They are horrendous looking...must be western. I show in A rated hunter and I can say that all you see are Ariats and Sergios.
As for these top riders, they have earned the spot that they are in. They can judge a little on the crappy local kids who are and parents who are offended by them because no one else is. Which also brings the comment i have about riders who do it for fun have to suit up to compete. No they really dont and they never do. They wear those awful front zip Tuffrider breeches and half chaps to shows with their tack not even properly on or put together.


LOL! Are you serious? You sound like you are very SPESHUL.

[Sithly]

Well, I'll never buy another pair of Ariats. Every pair I've bought have been crap. Haven't lasted more than six months. Ariat gets a big, resounding, "BOOO!" from me.

[Haf N Haf]

Whenever I've stopped for fast food after a horse show, if they have little bags of apples, the Haf gets some. I've tried apple pie, too, but that's not usually as big of a hit. I think because it's warm? :lol:

Last time we stopped at Wendy's he ate half my burger. :yes:

[hntrjmprpro45]

I personally like the ads. Its no different than other athletic brands. I would personally rather buy running shoes from a company endorsed by Jeremy Wariner rather than an overweight soccer mom. I want shoes meant for RUNNING not jogging once around the block. Its the same idea for Ariat and nearly every other company out there.

As far as quality? I really like their clothing (breeches, jackets, polos, show shirts, etc). They are generally nice, moderately priced items that are appropriate for rated shows without costing a month's salary.*The biggest problem that Ariat has had with quality is with their zippers. It is no secret that they have had major issues with zippers breaking and I think their zip boots are their biggest weakness. I will say that I had a pair of pull on field boots that were absolutely fantastic. They have outlasted some of my pricey custom boots and shine up beautifully. The only reason why I don't show in them anymore is because they are so outdated because of how old they are (flat tops instead of spanish cut, and not as tall as today's field boots).

[eqprincess91]

I'm probably feeding a troll, but oh, well...

Wow, a greenie Hunter Pwincess dug up a long-dead thread to shill for Ariat? Daddy must work for them.
I didnt realize it was old, I didnt look at the date. I was googling to find where I could get the Ariat posters for my dorm room. And no my daddy does not work for Ariat. He died when I was 7, so watch what you say next time.

[eqprincess91]

LOL! Are you serious? You sound like you are very SPESHUL.
Real funny
you even tried to spell it like you would say it, but you just ended up sounding more special then you think I am, for which ever reason (jealousy?). Congrats

[NeedsAdvil]

I am very surprised at all the issues people have with their Ariats. I have exclusively worn Ariats for the past 15 years and have only been through 3-4 pair. I was a working student and barn manager who wintered in FL and was on the circuit year round (read: LOTS of use) and have never ever had issues. Granted, my "newest" pair is probably 3 years old now, so maybe these issues are recent? I also love their breeches, I wear my pro tek denim breeches a few times a week and they have held up awesomely.

I haven't seen the ads, but they sound clever enough. They are selling an image, and obviously are doing very well. I wouldn't take offense to it... it's just an ad, not a freaking oath on the Bible. :LOL:

[Linny]

Ariat has gone in for the "in your face" tagline idea that is popular in mainstream sports gear marketing. The running shoe ad that implies that THIS is the shoe for you if you are running marathons by implying that if you jog around the block every morning, you are not worthy or the ski coat ads that imply that unless you are skiing Everest this winter, their coat is "too much coat" for you. I guess the idea is that you are supposed to think "OH YEAH!!!! I'll show you!" and go buy their stuff.

I love my Ariat breeches and my paddocks have served me well, but I'm not riding daily. I have a couple of their gear bags and like them.

Oh, and Hunter Princess, I also like my Tuff Rider winter breeches, no matter how uncool they are.:p:p

[naters]

Real funny
you even tried to spell it like you would say it, but you just ended up sounding more special then you think I am, for which ever reason (jealousy?). Congrats




LOL. Omg. Is this a troll? :confused:

[danceronice]

LOL. Omg. Is this a troll? :confused:

That's my bet. That or a twelve-year-old new to the Intrawebs.

[Nojacketrequired]

And no my daddy does not work for Ariat. He died when I was 7, so watch what you say next time.

Hmmm....My Dad died before I was born. I don't expect people to know that about a stranger on the internet and post accordingly to spare my feelings.

I suggest you get a slightly thicker skin, or a more waterproof layer so those comments can just roll off, if you plan to play on the internet, for your own peace of mind.

As to Ariats? First pair I had about 10 years ago lasted 5 years. The next 2 pairs? Less than a year each and they were crap. I now wear Cavallo paddocks that are going on 3 years old and look brand new.

But,if Ariat would like to GIVE me something free to make up for all the $'s I threw away on their products, I wouldn't say no....

NJR

[Mtn trails]

Real funny
you even tried to spell it like you would say it, but you just ended up sounding more special then you think I am, for which ever reason (jealousy?). Congrats

Maybe you should take the time to learn your grammar and sentence structure before picking on someone about their spelling, which was done on purpose. However, what can one expect from a child who thinks they know everything?

For what it's worth, my Ariats have lasted quite well. The zippers on my paddock boots are sometimes a little sticky but that's it and the ones on my tall boots have yet to blow out. I must have gotten lucky.

I know, I know; don't feed the trolls.

[Dispatcher]

As I said, I think our little darling is oh so SPESHUL :lol:

[lcw579]

LOL - It's ARIAT WEEKEND on TOTD! :lol::lol::lol:

[5]

Really miss those Miller riding tennies with a heel....

Ditto: Is there any alternative?

I have given up on Ariat myself as the qulity doen't merit a third of their asking price and it doesn't look like it will change anytime soon.

Bite the bullet and buy american made - as a rule they stand behind the product

[Watermark Farm]

From a marketing person's perspective....Hate it or love it, the fact that you were so moved by the ad to come to COTH and post about it makes me think it's a pretty good marketing campaign. :)

[Kcisawesome]

That particular add has been on my desk for the past year. I loove it.

[Tiffani B]

Ditto: Is there any alternative?

The closest thing I found was a pair of Justin lace-ups. Black leather, comfortable, sturdy sole. Not "tennis shoe" looking but still casual and easy to wear.

[baysngreys]

I am constantly wearing brand new Ariat boots, 'cause they keep falling apart.

I'm on my 5th pair of barn yard side zip boots - SINCE DECEMBER '09!!!!
Dec '09 1st pr - stitching unraveled in 2 weeks
Jan '10 2nd pr - ordered same size, tag says same size but fit 2 sizes too big!
July'10 3rd pr - zipper went
Oct '10 4th pr - zipper went again

So I'm breaking in the 5th pair in 10 months.
I wonder how many times they'll replace them?

I've worn Ariat paddock boots for years but quality is nowhere near what it was 10 years ago.

[poltroon]

Ariat products aren't inexpensive by my standards. You can find paddocks of the same quality for a cheaper price (Ovation field boots, for example - I had a pair that last quite some time). Given the price and the quality complaints on COTH, I've never considered their paddocks for frequent wear. Their half chaps have been ok, but I only bought them because they were on sale. I do have their low-end field boots but rarely wear them, and I am not particularly crazy about them.

I tried Ovation paddock boots and the Ariats wore like iron by comparison. The heel completely and irreparably detached from the boot in less than a year. I lost the zipper on a pair of Ariats, but the boots are repairable and vaguely wearable even with iffy zippers. And, there's an easy solution: lace-up.

My feet run narrow and there's no other brand that I've been able to try on that fits me.

The breeches do not fit me at all, so when I saw that the US team all got some for WEG, I naturally wondered if the riders just stuck with their regular gear. :)

So do people buy custom paddock boots, and if so, what is the price/longevity curve like?

[6c legs]

P'raps the boots they send down under are better/different quality to Europe/US? I loff my (laceup) paddock/riding/walking boots, my bunions that could medal for Oz have stopped screaming at me while i try to get to sleep, now - so what's not to love?!

Now that RM Williams boots are so uber expensive my "RM jodphur boots" only get used for 'good'.
Zippers and work boots are a good idea; that just doesn't work in practice. :lol: Laceups may take time to do; but "no foot no horse" also applies to hoomans.

Someone mentioned Blundstones further back - they must make a different boot for export ? coz there is no way in hell i would ride in Blundies even though they used to be made/owned in my backyard and are no doubt a great workboot, as thick ripple soles and stirrups are off even my OH&S list. :eek:

Although, to be fair, my partners Ariats of the same style are only 6mths older than mine but look pretty crap compared to mine that do the same work. <shrugs>

[Trixie]

I dunno, I too had a pair of ovations that lasted over a year. I pretty much don't expect my boots to last so I don't buy pricey ones, most of the time - a year or so is usually what I get out of a pair of paddock boots. I would be cranky if they fell apart in a few months, though, so have thus steered clear of the ariats due to other people's reviews.

I think my grand prix's have lasted a bit over a year now, though.

[Anyplace Farm]

I've had two pair of Ariat zip ups in the last probably 8 years. I only had the zipper give out in one pair at nearly 4 years and that was, unfortunately, while squatting down to scrub the barn shower. Everything else about the boot is fine.

The footbeds (cushioning in the boot) actually give out before anything else does so I just buy new footbeds. They are actually hard to find for some odd reason.

I bathe horses just about everyday in them but I also clean them at the end of the day. My guess is, most people who wear them expect a hide to hold up after being wet, dry, very hot, and having absorbed sweat and urine with no care whatsover. It's a hide. Take care of it.