IN PERFECT STEP

Jóse R. Monroy, an ARIAT FOOTWEAR DESIGNER, answers a few questions about the brand’s lifestyle collection, TWO24, and what’s in the pipeline.

Can you explain the significance of the name Two24 and what initiated the new Ariat line?

Two24 represents the recordbreaking 2 minutes and 24 seconds that allowed Secretariat to win the 1973 Belmont Stakes, a record that stands to this day. Secretariat cemented himself as one of the world’s most-loved racehorses and is the original inspiration for our company name, Ariat. Taking our rich equestrian heritage and commitment to long-lasting products, we created this collection of handcrafted and expertly detailed boots and shoes that reflect our story through a refined and contemporary lens.

How would you define this lifestyle line of footwear?

This is a premium collection of handcrafted products that blends our rich equestrian heritage with that of mainstream fashion to create styles that are both timeless and contemporary.

The Leona monk strap shoe, shown with the men’s Jack leather sneaker.

What are considered the signature details in the footwear? Are there key elements that you deem essential?

There are definite signature details that we’ve included across the collection. Two of them were directly inspired by Secretariat’s racing silks and the Triple Crown title that he was awarded after his win in the Belmont Stakes. Taking the blue and white colors from the racing silks and the gold to represent the Triple Crown title, we created what we call the “Triple Crown Stitch” and the “Triple Crown Label.” The Triple Crown Stitch can be found on the back of uppers as well as on the outsole waist, while the Triple Crown Label is mainly used on the back of our sneakers. Another great signature detail is the “Western Crown.”

Whether it be through a deco stitch, upper patterning, or cutout, this unique shaping is commonly seen across western products. The Western Crown can be found on the rubber top lifts in our men’s collection as well as subtle variations of it on both women’s and men’s products.

The men’s Fairview lace-up ankle boot.

Where do you find inspiration?

The basis for all my inspiration starts with Ariat’s equestrian heritage. I like to surround myself with as many details of the equestrian lifestyle as possible. There are so many different elements to take inspiration from, whether it be through the unique details and shapes found on saddles and bridles, the beautiful, embossed edging on reins, or even the rich leathers and hardware used to create these products. Using this as my foundation, I then like to find ways to combine equestrian elements with concepts, silhouettes, and details that I see trending in the mainstream market. The challenge is creating something that balances both lifestyles and is both unique and fresh. It’s sort of a fun puzzle at the end of the day.

The women’s Penny leather sneaker shown with the men’s Bartlett.

What differentiates Two24 by Ariat from other brands in this equestrian-inspired category?

I think the main difference is the long and rich history that we have with equestrian products at Ariat. We are one of the top companies that riders, ranging from amateur to professional, look to for technical equipment they trust will never let them down.

The Fairfax boot for men has a classic equestrian look. Do you have anything comparable for women?

Both the Parker and Bancroft are great examples of classic equestrian looks for women. They both derive from the Paddock, which is a specific type of riding boot. Paddock boots, more often than not, are used for everyday riding as they’re usually combined with half chaps to give the visual impression of a tall boot. We took the base concept behind the traditional paddock and added some of our signature detailing with a sleeker, more contemporary shaping to the silhouette to create modern yet timeless styles.

The men’s Jefferson sidezip Western-inspired boot.

I read that you like a yin/yang approach to style. Can you elaborate?

This is essentially the idea of combining two seemingly different concepts to create something that is familiar, well-balanced, and new. This line is a great vehicle for the expression of just that, a product that bridges the gap between our Western and English equestrian heritage and mainstream fashion.

Do you anticipate expanding the Two24 by Ariat product line? If so, what should we be expecting?

The line will most definitely be expanding to include a wider breadth of product with additional silhouettes and constructions. We’re looking to expand our core styles for both men and women as well as our athletic offerings for some added depth to the collection.