Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Conrad.
Hi Chris, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
The story of Republic Boot Co began in 2011, when founder Chris Conrad answered a divine calling to “Save Texas” by preserving its rich culture through handcrafted boots and leather goods. Guided by faith, family, and an unyielding passion for Texas heritage, Chris and his wife liquidated their savings to open a small workshop in Houston, eventually moving to the historic Heights neighborhood — the very area where the Conrad family first settled in the late 1800s.
With a dream as bold as the Lone Star itself, Chris assembled a team of master artisans and passionate Texan operation teams. Together, they revived the old-world art of bootmaking, using traditional hand-stitching, premium hides, and heirloom techniques passed down through generations.
Through years of dedication — marked by triumphs, trials, and the relentless pursuit of excellence — Republic Boot Co grew from a humble workshop into an award-winning brand recognized worldwide for its authenticity, artistry, and Texas pride. Each pair of boots tells a story of heritage and hard work, crafted to outlast trends and generations alike.
“Walking into our shop feels like stepping into a blend of museum, saloon, engineering lab, and John Wayne film. It’s not just retail—it’s an experience.”
Today, Republic Boot Co stands as one of the largest and most respected custom cowboy boot companies in the world, proudly keeping the spirit of Texas alive — one handmade boot at a time.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wake up to a multitude of challenges every day. This is one of the most complicated businesses I’ve ever been involved in – we are vertical in much of our supply chain, controlling crocodile farms, to tanning the hides, to building complicated boots. Our product offering is more than just boots – its many different leather items, which we control the quality aspects as well – lots of challenges here. In the world of ‘custom’ anything, you have to expect daily challenges.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve spent the majority of my career in the oil/gas industry living or travelling internationally. This has taught me a tremendous amount about cultures and the perspective of my own culture. I used to audit multi-million dollar companies and understand the value of systems/processes which I’ve brought to this industry. Our business could not have grown without this. We are always looking for inventive ways to grow and be more efficient. Have that perspective of other cultures has allowed us to create the most unique Texas experience for the world to see.
What are your plans for the future?
We are working on stabilizing the growth of the Heights location throughout 2025 and looking to expend to another Hill Country location in 2026
Pricing:
- Stock Boots from $500
- Custom Boots from $1800
- Texas Blazers from $700
- Texas Gifts from $25
- Message for Events!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.republicbootcompany.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/republicboot1836/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RepublicBootCo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@republicbootco
