How Ariat riding boots came to be

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Every horse rider knows the discomfort of wearing uncomfortable clothing and footwear that was not made especially for the job. Most also know the amazing feeling of freedom and support that using equestrian equipment that has been designed by experts can give.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, two horse riders in America experienced the pain of riding boots that were not very well designed and they decided to do something about it. In 1990, Beth Cross and Pam Parker set about creating the company "Ariat", which means "Perfect Performance" in Italian.

The humble beginnings of Ariat

The two ladies were both experienced equestrians and had realised that the traditional style of riding boots was confining and very uncomfortable, especially when out of the saddle. They realised that the design and style could be vastly improved to give comfort both while riding and while on the ground.

Ariat employed some of the finest footwear engineers in the world to carry out detailed research into the optimal riding boot design for equestrians who enjoy English and Western-style horse riding. They made a number of discoveries that set them on the path to revolutionising comfort for riders all over the world.

Their first finding was that traditionally-styled long riding boots for women were often very uncomfortable because they were simply scaled-down version of boots designed for men. By taking into account the different shape of womens feet, the two ladies from Ariat knew they could improve comfort for million of female horse riders.

This was not their only finding. They also found that if riding boots had an ingeniously-designed outsole and a cleverly-shaped arch support system, this would enhance the riding experience tremendously for all equestrians so this is what they set about to create.

How Ariat transformed the world of riding boots

Ariat riding boots began to be stocked in shops in 1993 and their reputation for comfort, fine quality and advanced design spread quickly. Within a few years, George W. Bush and Mel Gibson were noted to be using Ariat boots, as well as many professional equestrians from all over the world.

Their success has not diminished and Ariat has gone from strength to strength in the field of crafting beautiful and innovative riding boots that are carefully designed for ultimate performance and comfort.

The dream of two women who wanted to transform equestrian footwear has come true, leading to the development of riding boots that can only be described as the best in every respect. Ariat is now one of the most successful horse riding footwear producers in the world and its innovative designs are closely followed by equestrians both casual and professional.

Premium horse tack and equestrian clothing at Dogwood

At Dogwood we are dedicated to bringing beautiful yet practical clothing and horse riding accessories to people who have a love of equestrianism. We have a choice of the finest footwear, from the technologically-advanced Ariat jodhpur boots to luxurious Sergio Grasso long leather riding boots.

If you require a product to add to your horse tack collection, you will be sure to find it amongst our selection of quality leatherwork which has been fashioned by master craftsmen, such as those at Bates and Stubben. Alternatively, you may prefer synthetic horse tack in which case we are pleased to offer a wide range of saddles made by Wintec, a company that specialises in synthetic materials.

We also have a choice selection of lovely country clothing for protection against the elements, whether it is spring, summer, autumn or winter. Browse through our classic collection and discover waxed jackets, Wellington boots and jumpers that have traditional styling but a contemporary feel.

If you would like more information about Ariat or any of the products in the Dogwood collection, please telephone 0845 30 10 365 and we will be pleased to help.

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