I've had the same pair of Ariat Challengers (without zippers) for almost five years now. I clean them almost everytime after I use them (5-7 days a week) and work them hard. I've never had to repair them or resole them, the only thing I've ever had to do is replace the laces (about once a year). I would recomment these to everyone who has an easy to fit foot. My only fitting problem is that I have short shins so I got monster rubs while waiting for these boots to drop down. However now I absolutely love them and because I take such good care of them I expect to have them a few more years. They are still good for shows and such. Definitely a boot to get if they fit you.

Pros: long lasting, dependable

Cons: sizing may be difficult

To start out I still have scars from my Ariat boots. I prefer the Grand Prix boots. And I don't like these particular pair of boots I think they are just not attractive. That being said these boots(Arait Tall Boots) are ver popular my trainer loves hers. Alot of people say these are the most comfortable boots they've ever had. I'd say if you have a easy to fit foot then you probably wouldn't run into a problem. But if you have a hard to fit (at all) foot then I would try a different brand.

Pros: Zipper?

Cons: Not very attractive, can be uncomfortable

Ariat makes great field boots. I have had mine for at least 5 years and they are still in good shape (I use them a lot too). The leather was not too difficult to break in and the zipper really adds to the comfort and convenience of the boot. I'd recommend getting a pair.

Pros: zipper, nice quality

Cons: none