The roots of Republic Boot Co were started in 2011 when Empresario Chris Conrad took the divine calling to ‘Save Texas’ and embark on a journey to create handcrafted boots and leather products that would enhance the cultural heritage of Texas. Liquidating all their savings, he and his wife opened a small shop in west Houston and brought together the finest local craftsmen, creating an award winning small business.  Through many great experiences, yet significant adversity (on par metaphorically with the Texas Revolution), the custom boot brand of Republic Boot Co was created.  The foundation of the company is built upon presenting the BEST of Texas where Quality is paramount, but equally important is the Experience.  Republic prides itself on creating an experience that is entertaining, informative, ‘authentic Texan’ which is similar to being in a museum + saloon + engineering class + John Wayne film at the same time. 

The Conrad family was one of the first in the Heights in the late 1800s and this shop pays homage to these Houston roots. 

The success of the company is based on the incredible people that comprise the Republic family and the loyal customer base.  Fireball Bill (General Manager) is someone that doesn’t meet a stranger and is the energy of the family.  He and his wife Lucky Laura manage the daily store operations. Reverend Raul is the 3rd generation master bootmaker and is the engine behind the quality product (he came to Republic through divine intervention like most of the team).  He was making boots for John Wayne, Steve McQueen, and Roy Rogers way back and a long list of notable folks these days.   Hippie Bill is the master leathersmith that has been with the team since the beginning. Stitch Xavi creates incredible works of art and can stitch a boot in his sleep.  Tito is the best repair guy west of the Mississippi, having left New York after making a name for himself repairing fancy footwear up there. Suit Steve Springer manages the boot production and also has his own amazing brand of custom suits (Blu Fine Menswear).

 Our Boot Family of  Sarge, Coach, Popcorn Mendy, RNT, Parker, Peach Fuzz Canaan, Cuban Mario, Scottio, Italiano Cosimo, Bear Chase  (among many others) are all vital to the team.  There are a huge number of other folks, friends, and family that have supported Republic Boot Co through the years and the appreciation is beyond words.  We thank God every day for this opportunity and love meeting new folks and explaining this incredible thing we do. Come be part of the family and join the Revolution - you might just get a bootshop nickname!

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