Ariat’s WorkHog Patriot Boots

You could struggle to find a pair of boots that looks more American than these puppies. With a large American flag stitched on both the front and back, Ariat’s WorkHog Patriot boots seem to scream Made in USA.

But looks can be deceiving.

Despite the imagery, not to mention the word “Patriot” in the name of the boots, these shoes are not made in America. According to the less conspicuous label inside the boots’ tongue, the shoes are actually made in Bangladesh.

Ariat does not disclose the boots’ country of origin on the boots’ product page, which evokes the cultural figure of the American cowboy, claiming that the boots are designed for “oil and gas exploration.”

Most consumers are not aspiring oil tycoons. But the majority of consumers do seek out American-made products and are even willing to pay more for them. Ariat’s foreign-made Patriot boots sell for more than $200.

Ariat did not respond to TINA.org’s request for comment.

Of note, in 2021 Ariat updated its labels and marketing materials after the FTC took issue with the company’s claims that certain apparel was “Crafted with fabric made in the USA” when according to the FTC the products were “last substantially transformed in Mexico.”

Find more of our coverage on Made in USA.