Summary
The Ariat Men’s Sport Sidebet Western Boot comes in a classy silhouette that works marvelously to enhance the Western flair to a whole new level. You have the option to go for the striking version (distressed brown) that comes in matte brown with blue stitching accents, or the all-brown (native nutmeg) version which exudes a low-key elegant style that will blend harmoniously with your outfit of choice. This is a boot that makes its presence known without being too obvious about the fact, giving you the choice with just how much attention you want to draw to your choice of footwear in the workplace and elsewhere.
I fully appreciated the presence of the pull holes on both sides of the collar as they allowed more air to go into the boot’s interior to promote proper ventilation, at the same time making it much easier for me to pull on the boot without too much fuss involved in the task. This boot uses the exclusive 4LR technology that features multiple layers of cushioning materials to lovingly cradle the foot for long-lasting protection against foot pain, especially with long hours of continued boot-wearing. The Duratread outsole is designed to deliver strong functionality that will resist damage when exposed to challenging situations while maintaining a flexible structure that won’t hamper your mobility or efficiency in any way. We will look a little deeper into the boot and its qualities to determine which ones bring the greatest number of advantages and if improvements can still be made to enhance the footwear’s total performance.
When you want a handsome boot to keep you company for work or play, this boot comes with an interesting Western touch without going over the top with the details.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
The Ariat Men’s Sport Sidebet Western Boot showcases a definite Western vibe with its handsome silhouette, but the boot’s benefits can be felt beyond its aesthetics. The four-layer rebound system at work within the boot uses multiple layers of cushioning materials to guarantee that your foot will be cradled throughout the day, preventing it from being pressed too firmly into the sole to ease pressure points that may develop with the friction coming from nonstop walking for hours. The ample cushioning also worked to maintain a stable cocoon for my foot to enjoy as I worked continuously on the most difficult tasks of the day while stopping foot fatigue from bothering me.
I liked the way the insole created a welcome yet almost unnoticeable bounce with every step, which worked to return the energy I exerted so that continuous walking around would feel a bit easier as the hours went by.
A lightweight shank keeps a low-profile presence that doesn’t add much to the boot’s total weight while working double-time to help maintain a stable platform for my foot, providing strong arch support to fight foot pain and keeping my foot fully supported most especially on uneven and wet surfaces that can otherwise increase the risk of accidents. Even without the mesh panels that are part of other Ariat Western boots, the Sidebet managed to maintain a comfortable interior, thanks to the mesh lining inside and the pull holes that allowed more air to get inside.
I was pleasantly surprised at how flexible the outsole felt because it looked too rigid at first glance. In reality, this flexible outsole enabled me to walk as naturally as possible without the discomfort and awkwardness that can come from using boots with a stiff sole structure.
Weight
This boot has a weight level of medium to heavy, which wasn’t surprising given the high-quality leather that came in a tall shaft height. The thickness of the full-grain leather contributed mostly to the weight but gave the boot a comforting heft that increased stability, especially when navigating tricky or wet surfaces where a more lightweight boot may not feel as secure. The shank added much-needed support while the flexible outsole provided good traction to prevent slipping, and both these components did their respective jobs well while maintaining lightweight profiles that prevented the boot from becoming excessively heavy. The balancing act that came from the lightweight features made it possible for the boot to avoid being too uncomfortable to use, even if it tipped the scales towards the heavy category.
Traction
The Duratread rubber outsole delivered good traction that helped me maintain my steady footing on certain ground conditions but may not be able to prevent slipping on extremely wet, oily, or slippery surfaces. The 1.5-inch horseman’s heel helped increase stability over tricky surfaces, with the heel biting into the ground to help deliver a firmer stance that made it much easier to move with confidence over the challenging surfaces.
Fit and Sizing
This boot has a very relaxed fit, and I believe you can get a pair one size larger than your usual choice and still feel comfortable enough to walk around with ease. This exceptionally relaxed fit gave my feet and toes the space to shift in place naturally to stop foot cramps from developing when I’d been walking and standing for long hours at a time. However, this spaciousness may feel unstable for those who prefer snug-fitting boots, who may feel that the extra space can result in the foot wobbling or moving uncontrollably within the boot. I also liked the roominess of the square toe design that didn’t cause my toes to be pinched uncomfortably into a small space, which sometimes happens when I use round toe boots that are extremely tight.
Waterproofing
This boot is not built using waterproof materials, so it’s not an ideal choice for working in areas that are wet, mulchy, or muddy. The water and other liquid substances will easily seep into the boot’s interior to cause foot discomfort and can also lead to the boot’s components breaking down more easily as a result of water damage. This boot is recommended for use in areas where there is minimal exposure to water and other sources of excess moisture to ensure that you’ll continue to enjoy comfortable foot dryness and to protect the footwear from premature damage.
Breathability
The boot is fitted with mesh linings that work to keep air flowing continuously even without the mesh panels that can be found in other Ariat Western boots, such as the Hybrid VentTEK and the VentTEK Ultra. The mesh lining works hard to ensure that the interior remains properly ventilated even when the boot is used nonstop for the entire day. This material also keeps moisture away from the skin to stop excessive sweating and instead helps dissipate excess heat and perspiration outwards so the boot’s interior (and your foot) can be protected from overheating.
Quality and Durability
The Ariat Men’s Sport Sidebet Western Boot features classic Western styling that allows you to show your stylishness with only your footwear working hard to achieve the desired aesthetic enhancement.
I loved how the native nutmeg option I chose had a premium look with its rich brown color that exuded a classy elegance without being too obvious with the stylishness.
The elaborate stitching showcases the Western flair while the decorative perforations at the bottom add a bit of understated charm that effortlessly elevates the boot’s look. The two pull holes at the top make putting on the boot more convenient, and these reinforced zones work double-time to let in even more air to keep the boot interior continuously ventilated, preventing overheating from developing with extended use. This boot may not be equipped with mesh panels on the upper, but it manages to preserve a breathable interior with the help of mesh inner linings that disperse heat and sweat outwards before they can cause serious discomfort. The insole features multiple cushioning layers that keep the platform fully padded for the foot to be protected from foot pain even with long hours of staying on your feet for work and other purposes. This insole adds a welcome bounciness to your steps to return most of the energy you exerted, helping you move more easily and efficiently while fighting discomfort throughout the day. The supportive shank helps you maintain your steady stance while walking on difficult surfaces so you can move with move confidence and agility without compromising your safety in the process. The double stitching in between the sole and the upper delivers a nice contrast from the darkness of the leather upper and the rubber outsole, even as it works to keep the bond between these two components as strong as possible for lasting durability and functionality. The Duratread outsole is resistant to slips, oil, and barnyard acids to ensure long-lasting functionality. The sole is flexible and allowed me to move without an uncomfortably stiff material underfoot getting in the way of my natural movements, so I was able to do my job productively for the entire day.
This outsole delivered good traction that made walking on certain surfaces easy, but it may not successfully prevent slipping when navigating trickier ground conditions that can be exceptionally slippery.
Other Versions
The Ariat Men’s Sport Sidebet Western Boot doesn’t come in other versions. It’s available in two colorways – distressed brown (which has a light brown body with blue stitching accents) and native nutmeg (rich brown all around).
The Challengers
Ariat Men’s Hybrid Venttek Western Boot
The Ariat Men’s Hybrid Venttek Western Boot is an impressive alternative that will keep you comfortable and protected at the same time. The detailed stitching showcases the Western touch that will immediately enhance the overall look of your outfit for work or play. Mesh sections are added into the leather upper to keep air flowing freely into the boot to ensure that heat won’t be able to build up within to cause a great deal of discomfort due to overheating. This boot uses multiple cushioning materials to ensure maximum foot comfort all day long to fight foot fatigue so you can concentrate on the most important activities without being bothered by intense pain. The insole easily returns the energy with every step with a welcome bounce so that walking around for long hours can be more effortless. The Duratread outsole offers powerful traction that’s much stronger than other Western boots I have used, so you can have the assurance of maintaining your safety as you walk over different floors and ground conditions in and out of the work area.
Ariat Men’s VentTEK Ultra Western Boot
The Ariat Men’s VentTEK Ultra Western Boot is a superb bet if you’re looking for a Western boot that stands out with a striking design. This boot is crafted with bolt stitching accents that will proudly showcase your stylishness and can effortlessly elevate the aesthetics of your outfit. The upper comes with mesh panels that let more air into the boot so a breathable environment can be preserved within, ensuring that the foot will be spared from the discomfort that can come from being surrounded by extreme heat and excessive moisture, especially with long hours of nonstop boot use without rest periods in between activities. This boot is equipped with a lightweight Bantamweight outsole that’s much lighter than rubber outsoles that are often used in other Western boots. It should be noted, though, that this outsole offers limited traction, so using the boot on wet or uneven surfaces may cause slipping.
Ariat Men’s Dynamic Western Boot
The Ariat Men’s Dynamic Western Boot is another wonderful choice that comes with an eye-catching silhouette. The top part of the boot comes with a vibrant-colored leather patch that showcases the intricate Western-styled stitching so you can be sure that the boot will leave a lasting impression on everyone who sets their eyes on it. This boot is specifically designed to reduce the impact felt by the foot when walking on hard surfaces, with the shock-absorbing components working hard to prevent foot fatigue so you can go about your job without suffering from extreme pain. The Duratread outsole offers enhanced durability that will bring numerous benefits that you will be able to maximize for a long time without the sole breaking down easily in the process. This boot uses the exclusive ATS technology to promote all-day comfort and stability, keeping you moving as efficiently as possible without compromising your safety or productivity.
Wolverine Men’s Rancher 10-Inch Square Toe Work Boot
The Wolverine Men’s Rancher 10-Inch Square Toe Work Boot lets you enjoy the Western silhouette while keeping you comfortable and protected at the same time. This boot is crafted with a premium full-grain leather upper that features fine-quality stitching that showcases a chic Western style without over-the-top details. The steel toe protection keeps your foot safe from being severely crushed by impact and compression hazards that you may be exposed to around the job site. An OrthoLite footbed conforms to the shape of your foot for maximum cushioning that feels like the insole is created specifically for your foot’s ultimate enjoyment. An EVA midsole works with the steel shank to deliver maximum stability, keeping you fully supported so that you’ll find it easier to safely move over tricky surfaces. The rubber lug outsole strongly grips the ground to keep you walking confidently while avoiding slipping accidents on a variety of ground conditions.
Irish Setter Men’s Marshall 11-Inch Safety Toe Boot
Irish Setter Men’s Marshall 11-Inch Safety Toe Boot delivers enhanced protection while providing the Western flair that can instantly jazz up your ensemble. The Western-style stitching on the upper uses multiple thread colors for an attractive appearance that also exudes lasting strength. This boot is built with a waterproof membrane that ensures water and other liquids won’t be able to seep into the boot, so you can have the assurance that your foot will remain dry for the duration of the time that you need to stay in wet or waterlogged areas. The steel toe caps form a protective barrier to keep your foot safe from being gravely injured when tools, machinery, and other heavy items accidentally fall onto the boot in the work area. This boot offers a secondary layer of safety against live electrical currents in dry conditions that you may be exposed to in your profession. A steel shank helps you with maintaining your stability on uneven or tricky ground conditions.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Ariat Men’s Sport Sidebet Western Boot is a worthy choice that will suit those looking for high-quality Western boots with a decent design without the over-the-top details. The pull holes provide the convenience of being able to pull on the boots easily without tugging directly on the leather upper, and also allow more air to get into the boot for increased ventilation. A mesh lining works hard within the boot to prevent overheating to compensate for the lack of mesh panels on the tall boot upper. The extremely relaxed fit provides more room for your foot to shift as needed but may feel unstable for those who prefer snug-fitting footwear.
