I'm not a boot technologist, unlike some of my friends, but I do like Ariat Brown Bombers (Heritage Crepe Sole). They're a sturdy pair of boots and I'm on my second pair in 8 years. Why a second pair? Because I gave the first ones away to a needy cause and liked them, so I bought a duplicate set.
They're good boots for riding, with a sole that grips the stirrup, while it still has Ariat's proprietary Duratread, and a heel that's designed to accept spurs. The boots also feature special "ATS technology" that "includes a forked shank, Gel cushioned forefoot & heel strike zone," and "a moisture wicking sock liner."
I'm not quite sure what all that means, but the Bombers seem to give good enough support. They're sturdy, too, with a double stitched welt and good leather. I also like the saddle vamp and feel it gives extra protection; perhaps it does.
I've worn the Bombers riding, hunting, fishing, walking around London's East End, visiting the flock, at the range and, well, just about everywhere. So what's the verdict?
The Ariat Brown Bomber Heritage Crepe Sole is a good all 'round boot. It's not a fancy pants, Ivy League hotshot boot but it doesn't pretend to be, it's more of a working boot than a Highland Park cocktail hour boot.
How much do they cost? Around $160. Will they fall apart? Mine haven't. Are they waterproof? If you put a lot of mink oil on them, yes. What do you think of Ariat's ATS technology? If I knew what it was I'd tell you. Would you recommend them to a friend? Sure, if they liked crepe soled, working, cowboy boots with a saddle vamp and a roper toe. Are they tactical? I'd have thought that was obvious. Are they liturgical? Not especially.
Go ahead and get some Ariat Brown Bombers, if you're in the market for a working cowboy boot. I've had over three years use out of this pair and look forward to many more.
Boots on the ground,
LSP
