The omitted waterproof feature matters
Ariat documents this Treadfast as style 10034671 and separately offers the waterproof 10034673. The non-waterproof version retains a full-grain leather upper, mesh lining and steel toe, but its feature list does not include the waterproof system used by the other model. Do not add that claim because the two boots share a name.
For a predominantly dry workplace, the decision can be whether waterproof construction is actually needed. That does not justify promising that this version is cooler or lighter: such a comparison would need measurements or directly comparable evidence that the product information here does not supply.
Features retained in the lace-up design
The manufacturer lists ExGuards wear reinforcement at the toe and heel, a padded collar and tongue top, and a defined heel. These features distinguish the Treadfast’s practical lace-up construction from a plain Western pull-on. ExGuards are exterior wear features rather than an all-foot impact-protection system.
The six-inch format is the compact Treadfast choice in this group. If taller coverage and waterproofing are both desired, the eight-inch waterproof boot is the appropriate comparison; if only wet-weather protection is missing, compare the six-inch waterproof version. That avoids paying for a height change you did not need. The size-12 selection should be compared in the correct width on the retailer page. The word distressed identifies its finish and does not imply that the boot is used, damaged or a different safety grade.