Ariat Conquest GTX boots

The company Ariat originally made clothing and footwear for those involved in equestrian events such as show jumping, dressage and western-style ‘reining’ events. Their range is huge and there’s something for everyone, no matter their past time, age or gender.

I was recently sent a pair of their high-legged Conquest GTX boots and they are extremely well-designed and made! They are eight-inches high and the majority of upper part of the boot is made from traditional full-grain leather with a ‘pebbled’ texture and there are 900 Denier Nylon inserts on each side. These synthetic panels allow for plenty of support for the ankle but still allow for movement in all directions. The tongue is wellpadded, as is the top edge or collar, which ensures comfortable cushioning. The collar has a scoop out of the back to make sure that the boots don’t rub the back of the leg, so avoiding chafing. The boots open up nicely when you’re putting them on and there is a strong pull loop sewn into the rear. The removable inner sole is well padded and ventilated. Lacing is taken care of by four sets of conventional ‘set’ eyelets (shaped like nuts), one pair of fixed loops and three pairs of ‘fast-lace’ hooks. A generous toe box stops the feet feeling cramped and the Gore-Tex breathable membrane makes sure the British weather stays where it belongs – on the outside! The lining not only keeps water out, of course, but it also lets out perspiration, resulting in warm, dry feet in all weather conditions. I’ve worn these boots in some dreadful weather lately and the Gore-Tex has really shown its worth when it’s been pouring down and when walking through long, wet grass.

 

 

 

Impressive sole

The heavy-duty outer sole utilises Ariat’s ‘ATS Pro technology’ and a shockabsorbing EVA mid sole. The tread pattern has large, angular lugs but more importantly, there are wide gaps between them for enhanced grip on just about any surface and to ensure mud is shed easily whilst walking. The boots I’ve been testing have a stitched and welded join but the other version has a rubber rand where the leather meets the sole. This provides extra protection where you need it most and stops brambles, heather etc. from cutting up the leather and damaging the join. If you know that you will be using the boots in rougher conditions, the randed version is the one to go for; most users will be more than adequately served by the standard type however.

At 1lb 14oz (864-grams) the Conquests aren’t lightweight boots by any means, but they certainly don’t feel at all heavy. I’ve worn them while shooting foxes up at the farm, out walking in the countryside and down the pub in the evening (after giving them a good clean of course!) and they still look as good as new and more importantly are supremely comfortable. Worn straight from the box, these Ariats were very comfortable and didn’t need ‘wearing in’ at all. A treatment with something like Renapur will keep them looking great for years and ensure that the leather stays in tip-top condition.

These versatile boots are therefore ideal for any situation and are very smart too. In fact, they are just the job, no matter where you wear them.

The Ariat Conquest eight-inch GTX boots are available in sizes 7-12, with a mid-size option and cost £199.99, the version with the protective rand are priced at £219.99.