As I sought out the best new workwear for the spring season, the Ariat Activator came across my radar. At first glance, it looked like other square toe Western-style boots. The deeper I dug, the more I liked what I saw. I’ll share what I learned and help you see why these boots are selling out so quickly!
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Get to Know Ariat Activator Work Boots
Basics
Once you finish admiring the distinctly Western square toe design, you’ll see the Activator is all business under the hood. For ranch work, the 90° heel and soil-friendly tread pattern offer all the traction you’ll need, plus you get the stability of a composite shank and heel stabilizer.
If you’re thinking about wearing them on more traditional construction sites, the certified slip resistance rating, EH rating, and optional steel toe have you covered.
As far as comfort goes, the combination of Ariat’s All Day Cushioning insole and FLX foam midsole add cushion to each step that your knees and back will thank you for. The insole also helps wick sweat away from your feet and reduces odor.
While the welt on these boots does have stitching, it’s not a Goodyear welt. These are cement construction boots. While it’s not as strong as a Goodyear welt and you can’t resole them, it makes for a lighter boot that has a very short break-in period.
Options
You have some options to choose from. In addition to soft toe or steel toe, there are VentTEK versions of both. These mesh cutouts provide significantly better airflow, keeping your feet dryer and cooler. If you’re in a warm climate like we are in Florida, it’s the way to go.
There are a few color choices as well. Personally, I like the look of the blue with the lighter brown upper and cream sole. If you want a more subtle look, the green and brown combination is nice and still has enough color to give them some style.
Ariat Activator at a Glance
- U-Turn Entry System: Easier foot entry for people with high arches.
- Pull Loops: Easier foot entry for everyone.
- ATS Technology: Gel-cushioned footbed with heel stabilizer and composite shank improves comfort and stability.
- All Day Cushioning Insole: Removable insert that improves comfort, promotes moisture wicking, and provides odor control.
- FLX Foam Midsole: Improves comfort with a lightweight, springy feel.
- Huntsman SMARTLITE Outsole: Provides traction while remaining lightweight and durable.
- 90° Heel: Catches ladder rungs and provides traction on soft ground.
- Cement Construction: Flexible connection with low break-in time.
- Certifications: ATSM F2413 M/I/C EH rated, ASTM F3445 slip resistance, ATSM 2413 safety toe rated (steel toe version only)
- Leather: Sourced from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries.
Ariat Activator Work Boot Price
The soft toe boots start at $189.99, and the steel toe version is $199.99. If you want the VentTEK models, those are $10 more.
No pressure, but if the Activators are a good fit for your needs, I’d snag a pair while you can. Some models and sizes are not staying in stock very long. That’s a little unusual for most of the work boots we cover, but it hints at just how popular this design is.
Should You Buy Them?
Obviously, if you don’t like the Western style, these aren’t for you. The same goes if you’re looking for a Goodyear welt’s durability and ability to be resoled. The lack of a composite toe option is also a deal-breaker if you’re required to have a safety toe and a full non-metal construction.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quality, lightweight, Western-style work boot that doesn’t have a long break-in period, you’ve got to try a pair on. They have the stability and safety features you need on the ranch or the jobsite. Plus, having the choice between full waterproof and VentTEK designs makes them a solid choice for any climate in the country.
