The Hybrid Rancher is my working favorite of all of Ariat's western boots. The reason is the sole. I like the heavy-duty sole on the Hybrid--it lasts longer than the standard rubber-type sole on other Ariat cowboy boots.  I work in a barn and ride, so I put hours on my boots every day.  They last well, without the heels wearing down. The leather lasts a long time and doesn't develop cracks where my feet bend, like some boots do. I think it's also because I clean my boots off every night.  I don't leave them caked with dirt or horse pooh.  My oldest pair of Hybrids is over 4 years old now and they wear like bedroom shoes.