An Interview With Our Western Riding Specialist, Jess Dunford

At the heart of Ariat’s commitment to quality and innovation is a team of passionate professionals, and Jess Dunford is no exception. Jess Dunford has been at Ariat for 6 months and as the Training, Merchandising, and Events Manager at Ariat, Jess brings a wealth of experience and a deep love for western riding to her role.

With a strong background in western riding, Jess combines her passion for the discipline with her expertise in merchandising and events to create experiences that resonate with both seasoned equestrians and newcomers alike. In this interview, we get a closer look at Jess’s journey, her role at Ariat and how you can get into western riding.

Get to Know Jess Dunford

What is your role at Ariat?

I am the Training, Merchandising and Events Manager for the UK and Ireland. This means I help stores to look their best, communicating about our innovative product technology and I help organise and attend lots of events.

What interested you in joining the business?

Ariat has been my go-to equestrian brand my whole life. You can’t beat Ariat for comfort, quality and reliability (and style!) 

What got you into western riding?

I went to a Guy Roberston Demo at Northern Racing College back in 2010 and was just totally hooked on natural horsemanship and became obsessed with all things western from that point onwards. I took my English horse to a Western Cow Working Clinic that year and it was hands down the most fun I’ve ever had on a horse. 

What is your favourite (style/discipline) of western riding?

Reined Cow Horse! This is where you and your horse are tested on your ability to work cattle. 

How often do you compete?

I’m not competing right now but I have a young horse who I am training to hopefully be able to go out and do some clinics and small competitions next year.

What events are you looking forward to over the coming year?

Horsemanship Showcase will be a great event. It’s a demonstration of all different western, natural horsemanship and liberty trainers. 

Are there any western riders in Europe/which riders in Europe who you aspire to?

There are too many to name! However, a few standout individuals include Sean Coleman, Guy Robertson and Joe Midgley to name a few.

What are your favourite Ariat products to ride in?

I absolutely swear by my Frontier Chimayo Western Boots and my Futurity Limited Boots. I also love the Ariat Kirby Stretch Western Shirt in Camellia Rose Stripe.

How can you get into western riding in the UK?

I think the best place to start is wes-uk.com. you will have an area rep who can point you in the right direction to get started, depending on if you have your own horse or are looking for lessons at a riding school. Western riding in the UK is very inclusive and it doesn't matter what breed of horse you have or what your saddle is, people are very welcoming.