When I first got my Ariats, I loved them to death. I wore them all the
time, and swore they were the most comfortable shoe/boot I had ever had.
They were great. I could even jog in them on the trail and my feet always
felt great.
Then....
Once I had them about a year I came back from a ride and found blisters on
my ankles. Then each time I rode in them, they rubbed my ankles raw, to the
point where I was grade 3 lame the next day. I have tried since then off
and on to ride in them again, and I just can't, they cause excruciating
pain. I think that they got worn in to the point that the leather softened
up so much around the ankles and that is what caused that to happen.
But...
there is a happy ending! I have found a new kind of boot that is even MORE
comfortable than my Ariats ever were. They are made by "Vasque", and are a
hiking boot - made out of gore-tex, they have the quick-lace buckles at the
top, and a nice thick sole. They are so comfortable both for riding,
jogging and walking, plus give excellent traction on the trail. AND I've
ridden in 20 degree weather in the wind and my feet have stayed nice and
comfy. They would have been numb in the Ariats. They have even kept my
feet dry in the rain, mud, and snow!!
Happy Trails,
Karen
in Gardnerville
& Weaver
& Rocky