Ariat Fatbaby Reviewed
Ariat Fatbaby Reviewed Review Facts
The Ariat Fatbaby is an elegant cowgirl boot primarily designed as functional fashion footwear but not approved for riding. In the proud Ariat outdoor boot tradition, the Fatbaby is sturdy, strong and stylish all in one - meant to last a lifetime while still being a closet favorite. Though highly durable, these boots offer premium comfort and a relaxed fit; the feet will not suffer from extensive wearing.
Ariat Fatbaby Reviewed
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exquisite craftmanship and details.
- Durable without compromising on comfort.
- Easy slip-on, slip-off.
- Fits true to size.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- May take a while to "break in" the leather.
- Some report tight fit, especially across the top of foot.
- Inadequate sizing for those with wider feet.
Positive
- Due to having a wide foot, finding boots that fit are a challenge. But these are great and they are comfortable. At first glance, I thought they would be too narrow but nope they are great.
- I ordered a half size bigger to accommodate my muscular legs and these fit like a dream. So happy that I ordered my Ariat Fatbaby.
- I have at least six pairs of this brand in various styles and they are always true to size. Love how versatile this brand is --they have fashionable and work boots. I can always rely on their durability and function.
- Love the height and width of these boots. Took them for a spin around the house and they are very comfortable.
- Love that these boots and ready to go directly out of the box. I've already worn them for two days and they are comfortable but my next pair will be a half size smaller because my foot slips in these.
- I've purchased a previous pair of these boots that held up for a good three years. Those boots are my extra pair. These boots are comfortable and love how they look.
- I got these boots for work. I love them. The cushion and support are great. I wear them with and without socks. I bought another pair in black.
- I have only worn these around the house and so far these boots are comfortable. Great for people with chubby feet like me.
- I like these so much that they are my 2nd pair. I am used to having to break them in a bit as they can be stiff when new. Love the style and color.
- I'll be honest, at first wasn't sure these boots were for me. But wearing them for a few weeks around the house changed my mind. I really like the tread on the bottom.
- My daughter loves these boots. She gets a lot of work in them as riding boots and around the stables that she usually gets a pair twice a year.
- These are my everyday boots, I just love them. I have at least four pairs.
- Love the look of the boot and they are comfortable. However, they were too wide for my foot and I don't want to go a size smaller because my toes are at the top in these.
- I am pretty tough on my boots and usually replace them after three months. I love these. I wear them around the farm and to work and on the dance floor and they feel perfect.
- I live in my boots and wear them all day. My feet feel good at the end of the day. I purchased another pair in black and although they fit a little different I love them. I alternate between the two depending on my outfit.
- My first pair of boots I used for everything, working cattle and at work. These are my 2nd pair and I love them too and can wear without needing any breaking in. These hold up well and are very comfortable.
- Can't wait for the weather to get a cooler so that I can wear these more often. Love the quality and color.
- My Ariat Fatbaby boots are well made and very comfortable. The comfort and support allow me to be on my feet for a long time. They feel like tennis shoes.
- For my plantar fasciitis, these shoes are great. They provide great support and comfort. I wear thicker socks as they run larger.
- Excellent Boots!
Negative
- I am torn about getting another pair since these ripped after only 8 months. My other Ariat boots lasted for years and that was with heavy use. I know these boots to be comfortable and durable.
- The last two pairs of Ariats have been a disappointment, however, I do love the brand. These are too tight and narrow so have to send back. Hoping that ordering a half size larger will help.
- The boots aren't as comfortable as my last pair. With my last pair I could wear them all day but with these, I can't go longer than two hours because my feet hurt.
Reviewmeter
The Reviewmeter shows you an overall score that you can easily refer to. The highest rating is 10 (100% positive feedback)
Of the 868 reviews we found in total, 10% were negative, and 90% were positive.
Sole Composition
With its Everlon combination EVA and blown rubber sole the Fatbaby offers excellent durability and flexibility. Whether worn for work around the farm or general walking about, the outsole will stand up to most terrains with ease.
Terrain & Traction
Whether walking on grass, asphalt, packed dirt, whatever the terrain Fatbaby wearers generally report that they offer good traction. Though fashionable, these boots are designed to work as easily on rugged services as they are on smoothed ones.
Upper Build
The Ariat Fatbaby sports a full grain leather/suede upper with western stitching and usually comes with decorative embroidery on the shaft. There are pull tabs on either side to aid in simple pull on and off. The upper also offers a roomy toe for a comfortable fit.
Size & Weight
Sizing on the Fatbaby runs from US Womens' 5.5 to 11, in widths of B (regular) and C (wide) - (also available in girls' and youth girls' sizes). From the arch, the shaft measures approximately 8 inches. Each boot weighs approximately 1.5 pounds but this will vary depending on size.
Airflow & Waterproofing
The Ariat Fatbaby comes equipped with moisture-wicking footbeds internally while offering only moderate resistance to water externally. The footbed also has perforations to add breathability and the internal lining does not impede airflow. Prior to encountering wet conditions, it is best to treat these boots with a water-proofing agent.
Comfort & Cushioning
When it comes to comfort and cushioning, the Ariat Fatbaby really shines with its 4LR technology footbed. The Four Layer Rebound system in this technology gives both stability and comfort to every wearer allowing for hours of use in a variety of settings. The perforated surface of the footbed also adds a layer of breathability to the overall comfort of the boot.
Aesthetics
With easy-on-the-eyes craftsmanship and detailing, the stitching, colorful patterns and embroidery designs available on the Fatbaby make for a nicely decorative aesthetic on top of its supple leather/suede. The height of the shaft, almost two-inch heel of the sole and roomy toe provide an elegant profile for this stylish boot.
Longevity & Overall Quality
Made for just as rugged use as it can serve as casual, the Fatbaby was made with durability in mind. From the resilient leather/suede upper to the enduring Everlon EVA/blown rubber outsoles, both sandwiching an impressive 4LR technology footbed, these boots allow a level of long-lasting confidence in the longevity of the Ariat brand. The Ariat Fatbaby epitomizes quality footwear.
Safety Features
Perhaps the most important thing to note about the Ariat Fatbaby is that it is not recommended for riding. That said, it offers optimal support in its footbed and outsole for extensive standing, walking and general movement. It also features pull tabs on either side of the shaft to make it easy and safe to pull these boots on and off. Lastly, the Advanced Torque Stability (ATS) composite shank embedded in the sole offers mid-foot support to reduce metatarsal stress.
Flexibility
The flexible outsole of the Fatbaby will move with a wearer's feet effortlessly whether walking around or engaging in light outside work that requires bending or squatting. The relaxed fit of the upper also aids in achieving a range of motion that adds to the overall flexibility granted to the wearer.
Support & Balance
Support and balance in the Fatbaby comes from the 4LR technology in the footbed and the Everlon combination EVA and blown rubber sole. The composition of each offers a high level of support for the feet. Also, the Advanced Torque Stability (ATS) composite shank in the middle of the sole reduces skeletal and muscular fatigue and offers 3 times the support of traditional cowboy boots.
Lacing System
No laces on these boots; strictly pull on and pull off.
Value & Cost
With the Ariat Fatbaby consumers get a high-quality pair of boots without feeling like they have to sell the farm. There is general consensus across the board that the price is reasonable, no matter what outfit, online or otherwise, is chosen to buy from.
Comparison & Similarities
Often compared to the Justin Ladies Gypsy Boot, the Ariat Fatbaby is often considered to hold up better over time but the Gypsy is considered safe to ride in; unlike the Fatbaby.
Key Features
- Full grain leather/suede upper
- 8 inch shaft
- 4LR footbed support and cushioning
- Everlon combination EVA blown rubber outsole
- EVA midsole
- Moisture-wicking footbed
- Advanced Torque Stability (ATS) composite shank
- 8 inch shaft
- 4LR footbed support and cushioning
- Everlon combination EVA blown rubber outsole
- EVA midsole
- Moisture-wicking footbed
- Advanced Torque Stability (ATS) composite shank
Final Thoughts
The Ariat Fatbaby is an affordable, classy, functional and durable pair of cowgirl boots. Not recommended for riding, but highly recommended for everything else: from casual wearing to engaging in rugged outdoor work. With 4LR technology, Advanced Torque Stability and a combination Everlon/EVA/Blown Rubber sole, it features design elements that are primed to give wearers maximum support, comfort and stability. Each stride will also likely bring compliments to the wearer as people comment on the patterns, the leather, the stitching, the overall aesthetic appeal of these boots.