When Ariat launched the brand new Ascent Tall Boot, we were all blown away! The innovative design had not been seen before in a boot and all of us in the store were eager to find out how it was to actually ride in them.

So we looked to our Instagram followers and launched our “Ride & Write Program”! We gave three lucky winners their own pair of boots and asked for their honest feedback... We wanted the good, bad, and the ugly! Because as horse people we need all those gritty details. 

Keely Cooley - @keelycooley

 

1. What are the boots you are currently using, and which have you worn in the past?

I am currently wearing the Ariat Ascent! In the past I have worn the Tredstep Donatellos and Mountain Horse Tall Boots.

2. What is your primary riding discipline?

Eventing

3. What sets this boot apart from other boots you've tried?

The synthetic leather and velcro zipper backs.

4. Would you recommend these boots to a friend? If so, how would you describe that person? What discipline do they ride?

Yes I would definitely recommend them. They are super comfortable, great for riding multiple horses, being on your feet to do barn chores or for instructors who need a durable riding boot. I would recommend them to all of my riding friends, from the ones who ride 3 times a week to the ones that ride 10 horses a day. They are affordable, have held up well and also have a very clean/polished look for a sport boot.

5. List 3 descriptive words that you would use to describe your experience with this boot.

Comfortable, easy, durable.

6. How would you describe to a 5-year-old child what you liked about these boots?

I like the material, the way they look, the big zipper, the cushy foot and the stretchy parts.

7. If these boots were a celebrity, who would they be and why?

I think they would be Kaley Cuoco. She is a fellow equestrian and a big supporter of animals and animal welfare. The Ascent boots are made from a synthetic material which promotes the use of different materials versus the leather that comes from animals. Her style is laid back but still classic so she embodies these boots in every way.

8. Was there any break in period? If so, how long (how many rides) did it take?

Yes, maybe 5 rides before they stopped pinching my ankles from the crease. They have not dropped as much as I would have liked but easy break in time.

9. What advice would you give to someone looking at these boots?

They do take a few days/rides to break in and they have not dropped as much as leather tall boots do. They are an affordable and synthetic choice that not only looks good but is comfortable for long days. I would not personally recommend as a show boot, schooling shows yes, but I like a bit more of a classic look for bigger shows. These boots show a very sporty look which makes them beyond comfy but moves away from the classic look.

 

Sarah Cate Ward-Rupp - @mrs.ward_rupp

 

1. What are the boots you are currently using, and which have you worn in the past?

I’m currently riding in Parlantis. I have ridden in Ariats and Der Daus which are my all time favorites.

2.What is your primary riding discipline?

Hunters and jumpers.

3. What sets this boot apart from other boots you've tried?

I love how light these boots are! With how hot it has been, having them be lightweight and breathable has been amazing. Because they aren’t all leather, they don’t fall as traditionally as the other boots I’ve ridden in so that’s something to think about in sizing. 

4. Would you recommend these boots to a friend? If so, how would you describe that person? What discipline do they ride?

Absolutely! I have already recommended them to all of my clients. My clients range from beginners to retired professionals, all riding hunters and jumpers. These boots are a fantastic affordable option.

5. List 3 descriptive words that you would use to describe your experience with this boot.

Comfortable, cool, modern.

6. How would you describe to a 5-year-old child what you liked about these boots?

These boots are super comfy! You could run around in them all day. They also don’t make you hot like some other boots.

7. If these boots were a celebrity, who would they be and why?

Kim Kardashian. The hot thing on the market but doesn’t do well wet.

8. Was there any break in period? If so how long (how many rides) did it take?

Maybe a week at most. Just the normal blistering on my heel, but I used the equi-fit jelly bands and those helped tremendously. I wore them all day every day - riding, teaching, and working. I will say they’re a bit high, we anticipated them falling in the sizing and they are still too high. I don’t think they fall traditionally because they aren’t all leather.

9. What advice would you give to someone looking at these boots?

Fantastic boots to school in. As a professional, I’m on my feet all day - working the barn, teaching, and riding. My feet never got tired in these. If you’re looking for something comfortable and modern, these are your boots!

10. Is there anything else you would like to add about the boots?

I wouldn’t consider them waterproof, with the mesh panels when you give baths - well you’re going to get a bit wet! The zipper sometimes falls a bit, so that is also something to consider.

 

Alexa Lee - @equestrian_jumper101

1. What are the boots you are currently using, and which have you worn in the past?

Suede boots and Ariat. I'm wearing the Ascents now and I am completely in love.

2. What is your primary riding discipline?

Hunter jumper

3. What sets this boot apart from other boots you've tried?

It’s extremely fitting and defining of your leg. The mesh construction really helps the boot conform to your calf.

4. Would you recommend these boots to a friend? If so, how would you describe that person? What discipline do they ride?

Yes. I have friends that are very competitive riders and ride multiple horses every day. They are hunter jumpers as well.

5. List 3 descriptive words that you would use to describe your experience with this boot.

Comfy, fitting, stylish.

6. Was there any break in period? If so how long (how many rides) did it take?

Yes about two weeks rides every day.

7. What advice would you give to someone looking at these boots?

Go a bit taller they will drop.

 

Thank you to everyone who entered and keep an eye out for our next Ride & Write Giveaway... coming really soon!