Academy Sports + Outdoors and Ariat International expand partnership with 200 new in-store shops this fall. Aug 25, 2026, 09:00 ET Companies will broaden access to work and western wear in select Academy locations KATY, Texas, Aug. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Academy Sports + Outdoors ("Academy") (Nasdaq: ASO), a leading full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer, today announced it has teamed up with Ariat International, the leader in innovative Western and work apparel and footwear, to launch 200 Ariat in-store shops this fall. These new spaces offer an immersive experience, bringing together Academy's value-driven approach with Ariat's Western and work collections. Tailored to each store, the spaces make it easy for customers to explore an expanded assortment of Ariat apparel and accessories, as well as footwear, designed to inspire their next adventure or workday. "We're excited to bring customers a new way to experience Ariat at Academy. Customers trust us to offer great value without jeopardizing quality and style, and we are proud to expand the availability of Ariat gear in-stores and online at Academy.com," said Matt McCabe, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer. "Together, we've built a highly visual endeavor that showcases branded walls, fixtures, tables, and features within a space where shoppers can check out what's new, pick up their Ariat favorites, and prepare for more fun outdoors." Academy and Ariat are both growing companies and these new in-store experiences give customers even greater access to Ariat's most sought-after footwear and apparel - from authentic Western boots and premium denim to workwear engineered for comfort, durability, and performance. "For 20 years, Academy has been an incredible partner, helping Ariat reach more customers and grow our brand. We're excited to expand our partnership by bringing Academy shoppers even more of the products they love. With industry-leading comfort, fit, and performance, Ariat delivers the quality Academy customers can rely on every day," said Sharon Carpenter, Vice President of Sales for Ariat International. About Academy Sports + Outdoors Academy is a leading full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer in the United States. Originally founded in 1938 as a family business in Texas, Academy has grown to more than 300 stores across 21 states and counting. Academy's mission is to provide "Fun for All" and Academy fulfills this mission with a localized merchandising strategy and value proposition that strongly connects with a broad range of consumers. Academy's product assortment focuses on key categories of outdoor, apparel, sports & recreation and footwear through both leading national brands and a portfolio of private label brands. For more information, visit www.academy.com. About Ariat International, Inc. Founded in 1993 as "The New Breed of Boot," Ariat was the first to integrate athletic footwear technology into boots for equestrian athletes and western riders. Today, Ariat develops innovative and award-winning performance apparel and footwear for all types of demanding work and outdoor environments. The company takes its name from Secretariat, the greatest racehorse of all time. Media inquiries: Meredith Klein, Vice President of Communications 346.826.6615 [email protected] SOURCE Academy Sports + Outdoors

Liz O'Neill has taken over as CEO of Ariat International, an equestrian and westernwear company, following Beth Cross's retirement on 2 April. Two months into the role, O'Neill is focusing on what she calls "operating at altitude" rather than micromanaging details. O'Neill's leadership philosophy centres on enabling others to lead effectively and asking questions that simplify complexity. She describes "be curious" as her mantra and has spent her initial months learning and listening to understand all aspects of the business. She brings extensive retail and fashion experience to the position, having spent over a decade in the industry. O'Neill emphasises that her role is to support the team and ensure the company captures opportunities ahead.

US Equestrian and Ariat International launch new Team Collection with renewed partnership. by US Equestrian communications dept. 3/25/2026. Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian is pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with Ariat International, as the Official Equestrian Apparel of US Equestrian and the US Equestrian Teams and Official Equestrian Performance Footwear of US Equestrian. As part of the renewed commitment, Ariat(R) released the new US Equestrian Team Collection to be worn by athletes and support staff as they represent the United States internationally across the FEI disciplines. Ariat has been a trusted partner of US Equestrian for more than a decade. A global leader in equestrian performance clothing and footwear, Ariat dedicates itself to the equestrian and outdoor lifestyle through the production, design, and development of high-quality and innovative competition and training apparel and footwear. The new Ariat Team Collection made its debut in February of 2026 at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Wellington CSIO4*, where team athletes, grooms, and support staff represented the United States in style with the new pieces. The new collection includes the following: * Ariat(R) USEF Polo: Designed for sun-drenched days in and out of the saddle, the polo adapts to heat, keeps athletes feeling fresh, and delivers superior sun protection in a sleek, form-flattering fit. * Features ClimateTek(TM) technology for temperature-responsive cooling, FreshTek(TM) odor control for all-day freshness, and Sun Protection Fabric(TM) to help block harmful UV rays during long hours outdoors. * Ariat(R) USEF Long Sleeve Quarter-Zip: Redefining everyday performance, the long sleeve quarter-zip blends responsive climate control, superior UPF protection, and sculpting stretch into a sleek, polished fit. * Features ClimateTek(TM) technology for temperature-responsive cooling, FreshTek(TM) odor control for all-day freshness, and Sun Protection Fabric(TM) to help block harmful UV rays during long hours outdoors. * Ariat(R) USEF Waterproof Jacket: Expertly engineered for unpredictable weather, this waterproof jacket pairs advanced waterproof protection with a streamlined, saddle-ready fit. * Features DRYShield(TM) waterproof, breathable construction with PFC-free finish for protection in moderate weather, a removable hood with adjustable back shock cord for a personalized fit, and a two-way full zip for versatile airflow, layering, and comfort in the saddle. * Ariat(R) USEF Fusion Vest: Designed for crisp mornings and active training days, the versatile fusion vest combines zoned insulation with breathable, weather-resistant comfort and unrestricted mobility. * Features a water-repellent construction with a PFC-free finish for comfort in light rain and wind, 60g Zoned Cool Climate Insulation(TM) for targeted lightweight warmth, and stretch fleece side panels for enhanced mobility. * Ariat(R) USEF Fusion Jacket: Designed for crisp mornings and active training days, the fusion jacket combines lightweight, targeted warmth with full-coverage comfort and unrestricted mobility. * Features a water-repellent construction with a PFC-free finish for comfort in light rain and wind, 60g Zoned Cool Climate Insulation(TM) for targeted lightweight warmth, and stretch fleece side panels for enhanced mobility. * Ariat(R) USEF Team Cap: Clean, classic, and built for everyday performance, this team cap delivers breathable, moisture-managing comfort with refined team branding. * Features a moisture-wicking sweatband to help keep athletes dry, an adjustable back closure for customized fit, and breathable fabric for lasting comfort. US Equestrian fans are encouraged to show their team support by purchasing exclusive US Equestrian Team apparel and gear through www.shopUSEF.org. Select items from the new Ariat Team Collection, including the Ariat(R) USEF Waterproof Jacket, Ariat(R) USEF Fusion Vest, and Ariat(R) USEF Team Cap, are available for purchase, giving fans a way to support the team as they compete around the world. "The new Ariat team collection provides a cohesive and unified appearance for our athletes and support teams, reinforcing a shared sense of identity and pride as they represent the United States on the international stage," said Bill Moroney, Chief Executive Officer of US Equestrian. "This collection demonstrates a thoughtful balance of advanced performance features and refined visual design." "Partnering with the United States Equestrian Federation on the new Team Kit Collection has been a true honor for Ariat," said Susan Alcala, Vice President, Partnership Marketing at Ariat. "Together, we set out to create something special - combining Ariat's performance-driven design and innovation with the pride and tradition of U.S. equestrian sport." About Ariat International, Inc. Founded in 1993 as "The New Breed of Boot," Ariat(R) was the first to integrate athletic footwear technology into boots for equestrian athletes. Today, Ariat develops innovative and award-winning performance footwear and apparel for all types of demanding outdoor and work environments. The company takes its name from Secretariat, the greatest racehorse of all time.