Rock the South is an annual country music festival held each summer in Cullman, Alabama. From classic artists to today's biggest stars, the lineup is packed this summer ~ including artists Eric Church, Hardy & Jelly Roll!

Jack's Western Wear is only 2 miles away from the festival site ~ 114 Schwaiger Road in Cullman. 

We've also teamed up with Ariat to sponsor this year's festival.

To help kick things off, we are giving away 24 PRIZES!!!!!!!! No purchase necessary! 

So here's the list ~ including rules on how to enter each drawing or contest! Good luck! 

1. Ariat is giving away 9 PAIRS OF BOOTS! (Mens & Ladies boots, retail value up to $250)

How do you win a pair of Ariat boots?

Come to Jack's now through July 18th and guess how many jelly beans are in the Jelly Roll Jelly Bean Jar!

We will also hold two in-store raffle drawings. Simply come to Jack's and fill out a ticket.

Finally, 6 PAIRS OF BOOTS will be given away at our Rock the South tent.  So stop by and enter for your chance to win!  Two pairs will be given away each day!

2. Dan Post Boots is giving away a pair of both men's and ladies boots, retail value up to $250!

How do you win a pair of Dan Post boots?

Jack's is holding a DANCE CONTEST!!  Show us your best moves to "Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)" by Big & Rich!  Send your video to JacksRTS2024@gmail.com  

3.  Corral Boots is giving one lucky winner a $250 gift card, which is good toward any pair of Corral boots.

How do you win a Corral gift card? 

Show Jack's your best Redneck Woman pic! ~ Hint ~ listen to Gretchen Wilson's song "Redneck Woman" and get creative! Send your entry to JacksRTS2024@gmail.com ~ put Redneck Woman in the subject line.

4. Justin Boots is giving away a pair of men's boots from its Frontier line & a pair of any ladies Justin boots!

How do you win a pair of Justins?

On Thursday, July 18th, the 50th and 100th customer of the day will receive a free pair of boots!!!!

5. Lucchese Boots ~ "Legendary boots, legend in the making." One lucky winner will receive a gift card of $500, which is good toward a pair of Lucchese boots.

How do you win?

Write a short essay about the legend in your life.  Submit your entry to JacksRTS2024@gmail.com ~ put Lucchese in the subject line.

6. Rocky Boots is giving away a pair of work boots! (retail value up to $250)

How do you win the work boots?

All you have to do is FIND the Rock the South Rocky Boots Rock!  Scavenger Hunt hints will drop on Friday, July 12th. Whoever brings the rock to Jack's will win a free pair! Stay tuned for details!

7. Muck, Xtratuf, Georgia Boot & Durango ~ take your pick!  One lucky winner will receive a free pair of boots from one of the following brands.  (retail value up to $250)

How do you win? 

Come to Jack's and enter our in-store raffle drawing!

8.  Horse Power & Macie Bean Boots ~ are giving away a pair of men's Horse Power boots & a pair of Macie Bean boots, retail value up to $250.

How do you win?

Show us your BEST OOTD (Outfit of the Day) for RTS ~ submit your best look to JacksRTS2024@gmail.com ~put OOTD in the subject line.

9.  Sorel ~ is giving away 5 pairs of ladies sandals!!!  

How do you win?

Come to Jack's and enter our in-store raffle drawing! 

Good luck!  Let's ROCK THE SOUTH at Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear!

 Ariat ~ a tale of horses racin' and a whole lot of passion

The name "Ariat" is a combination of two words: "air" and "active."

The correct pronunciation of Ariat is Euh ~ ree ~ uht.

It's simply Secretariat but without the "Secret."

Ariat was founded in America by current CEO Beth Cross and co-founder Pam Parker. 

Cross says one of her fondest memories was sitting in front of the TV back in 1973, eyes glued to the screen as Secretariat thundered down the track to win the Kentucky Derby.  That mighty horse went on to nab the Triple Crown, breaking records that still stand tall today.

Secretariat inspired the name Ariat.  Cross says they wanted to create "The New Breed of Boot." And by golly, they really were the first ones to blend athletic footwear technology with boots made for equestrian athletes. 

Even the symbol pays tribute to Secretariat.  The three horseshoes represent each leg of the Triple Crown.

It's a symbol of excellence.

Since 1993, Ariat has made a commitment to trailblazin' innovation, top-notch quality, unwavering integrity, team spirit, and givin' respect where it's due.

We reckon these values have helped set Ariat apart from the rest.  They are now one of the top dogs in the Equestrian, Outdoor, and Work realms.  

Their products are as tough as a wild stallion, and their culture is as tight-knit as a cowboy crew.

We started selling Ariat boots here at Jack's Western Wear back in 2001.  Our sales rep ~ Phillip Holden ~ walked in one day with just four Ariat boots.  Two were cowboy boots, and the other two were ropers.

Larry Allred, Jack's Western Wear Owner, says it all started small, but Ariat has now grown into the most aggressive western company there is.  

That's why Larry decided to devote 3000 square feet to only Ariat western wear. In this specialty room, you will find western clothing for both men and women, including hundreds of boots.  Anything from traditional to exotic.  

If you're looking for Ariat work wear, we have a bunch of that too.  You'll find that upstairs in our work department.

Every pair of Ariats is technology and innovation wrapped in a cowboy boot package. This is a brand dedicated to those who ranch, ride, and work outdoors. Ariat boots are rough and tumble— fashionable and functional.

While one of their trademarks is thick, tough leather, you won’t notice the most recognizable trademark of an Ariat boot until you put it on. The insole! This is where the athletic footwear influence comes in to play— a super cushy, very supportive insole is reminisce of a sneaker. You’ll know an Ariat when you feel it!

Here at Jack's, we are one of the largest Ariat dealers in the region.  We have an entire section devoted to just Ariat at the back of our 25,000 square foot store.  It's an addition to Jack's that we built just two years ago, in 2022.

So come out and shop our Ariat room!  Enter through the front door at Jack's and just follow the Ariat cookies on the floor.  These will take you to the back where you're sure to find your next favorite pair of jeans and boots!

Well, let me spin you a yarn about the iconic cowboy lid we all know and love.  It's the cowboy hat, partner.

Back in 1865, a fella by the name of John B. Stetson, rustled up the "Boss of the Plains" hat.

Now, at first glance, it might've seemed like just any old hat, with its flat, round brim and smooth crown. But it wasn't just any old hat. Ol' Stetson crafted his hat from the finest fur of beavers, rabbits, and such, making it tough as a bull's hide.  Cowboys took to it like a horse to water.  Stetson's hat could withstand anything the frontier thew their way. 

For nearly two decades, the original Stetson hat design held fast ~ its crown open, its form devoid of any distinctive crease. But then something changed.  According to Western lore, John Stetson was struck by the swagger of Spanish-influenced headgear worn in the Wild West. He was determined to craft something bold, something new.

Thus was born the iconic cowboy hat, a masterpiece of rugged elegance. Picture it ~ a lofty crown, split down the middle with a crease, adorned with dents on either side - crafted not just for looks, but for livin' in the saddle. It was a game-changer, a symbol not just of style, but of resilience in the face of all that untamed frontier could throw at ya.

Nowadays, you'll see the cowboy hat everywhere, from dusty rodeo arenas to glitzy Hollywood shindigs. It's a symbol of grit, tradition, and a little touch of cowboy charm that'll never rustle out of style.

Speaking of style, there's now a vast selection of cowboy hat styles.  Let weather, occasion, or personal preference dictate your choice ~ whether that's straw or felt.  And you'll find a wide selection here at Jack's Western Wear.

In the realm of cowboy hats, tradition often dictates the when and what.

Straw hats are lightweight and airy.  They are meant for warmer days.  Straw season traditionally kicks off with Easter.

Meanwhile, felt hats, take the stage from Labor Day until Easter.  They are warm, sturdy hats.  They're meant to shield you against cooler winds.

And then there are those that believe rules are meant to be broken ~ that your inner cowboy should be your guide.  

Whether you're corralling cattle or strolling downtown, a cowboy hat should be a reflection of your character.  

Cowboy hats, steeped in symbolism (straw or felt), embody the spirit of the American frontier. While they provide shade from the elements, they also serve as a beacon of manners and respect. A firm handshake, a tip of the hat, these are the timeless gestures that echo the legacy of the true cowboy way.

Howdy Partner!

Cowboy boot styles wrangle up a whole herd of options, fit for everyone and occasion. 

You don't have to be a cattle rancher or a James Dean type to pull off a pair of cowboy boots. There are many different styles, shapes, sizes and materials for all personalities. 

So saddle up and take a gander at the range of styles, shapes and sizes available. Options range from dress boots crafted from exotic materials like ostrich or caiman to tough work boots built to withstand the toughest trails.

But before you kick up your heels, it's essential to understand the common features that define these iconic footwear styles.

Let's start with the shaft.  It's the long tube of leather that starts down at the heel and wraps its way up around your leg. Shafts come in all sorts of styles and heights. 

Next up, the vamp. This part of the boot covers the top, sides and toe of the foot, offering both protection and style.

Now, let's talk heels. Western boots are characterized by their stacked or Cuban heels. These elevated, angled heels provide stability and aid in gripping stirrups, reducing the risk of the foot sliding forward during rides.

The insole is another crucial element. Traditionally crafted from leather, it molds over time to the wearer's feet, offering a personalized fit. While leather remains popular, modern materials also sometimes used in cowboy boots.

Moving on to the outsole. Most western boots feature slick leather soles. While they may be slippery on certain surfaces, they are designed for easy insertion into stirrups without snagging.

Welt, the leather strip between the upper and outsole, is where the boot's stitching runs, providing both structural integrity and decorative flair.

Speaking of stitching, it's a hallmark of western boots, often intricately detailed and contrasting against the leather.

Toe style. Cowboy boots come in various toe styles, each adding its own touch of personality to the footwear. 

Western boots blend style with purpose, making them a timeless icon of western fashion and functionality.

What makes a boot heritage quality?

"A fine pair of cowboy boots is still like the cowboy himself: sturdy, dependable, and with a rugged charm." ~ Alex Via, Buffalo Jackson Trading Co.

Let me tell ya 'bout a legend in the boot business by the name of Randy Watson. 

He's been stompin' around the cowboy boot world for more than 40 years, making his mark at places like Justin, Lucchese, Tony Lama and Nocona. 

He's got a knack for knowing just where to find the finest leather, the most skilled craftsmen, and the best retailers to bring his boots to the folks who need 'em and want 'em.

R. Watson's salesperson Bric Conn (what a cool name, right?!) stepped into Jack's Western Wear back in 2022.  Right away, my dad ~ Jack's owner Larry Allred ~ said yes. My dad says from the foundation of the boot to the fine details... it matters, and R. Watson boots look good and are made good.

* Every boot is lined with cowhide. 

* Timeless 10 row stitch pattern or hand cording. This classic pattern brings the history and heritage of the Cowboy Code into the culture of today. 

* A 10 iron genuine leather outsole is the foundation of their western boot. It provides durability with just enough flex to provide the comfort all boot enthusiasts desire.

* R. Watson puts both lemonwood pegs and brass nails in all of their western boots. This means that as the conditions change (wet or dry, hot or cold) this hardware is built to change with it and keep the sole attached to the boot. 

* Solid Steel Shank. To provide the most stability and durability possible, they developed a solid steel shank system that you’ll find in an R. Watson Boot. The solid steel shank system is then incorporated into a 1 piece insole system so you will never get that dreaded squeak again.

Randy's cowboy story goes all the way back to when he played baseball at The University of Houston in Texas, when he was in sneakers or cleats... not boots.

He was aiming for the big leagues in Major League Baseball, but fate had other plans for ol' Randy. Back in 1980, he was finishing up his college degree when he needed a summer job. Well, he found himself at Don's Western Wear in Houston, not too far from the famous Gilley's honky tonk.

Around this time, "Urban Cowboy" had just hit the silver screen. Bud & Sissy stirred up a whole heap of fuss 'bout western wear and country music.

Randy was smack dab in the middle of it all, hustling boots and hats to men and women that wanted to get a piece of the cowboy charm.

He hadn't planned to stick around, but a temporary gig turned into long term career.

From Don's he headed to Justin headquarters in Fort Worth. 

Randy climbed the ladder, cowboy hat and all, until he was sittin' high as the chairman and CEO.

After working for such cowboy greats like Justin & Lucchese, Randy decided to go out on his own. He started a new adventure where he aimed to craft boots so fine that he'd stamp his own name on them. 

R. Watson: Walk Tall

And he's now doing this with folks he can truly count on... his own kin.

Randy wrangled up his son Ryan and many seasoned hands in the boot biz to rustle up R. Watson.

The business is nestled in Crowley, Texas.  Run by kinfolk, for kinfolk. 

These aren't just boots, partner. They're a testament to generations of know-how, with each stitch and cut telling a story of hard work and dedication. 

From the tanneries where the leather is born to the skilled hands that shape it into footwear fit for a trailblazer, every step of the process is steeped in tradition and pride.

So when you slide into a pair of R. Watson boots, you're not just wearing footwear. You're stepping into history. 

And with quality like this, you're getting the best bang for your buck.

Recently, I had a group of women shopping in the store. Being fairly new to western wear, they all were trying on several styles of cowboy boots... having the best time. They were a fun group.  

One asked me, "What is the most expensive boot you have in the store?"

After telling her the price, her eyes got big and she wanted to know why anyone would spend that much on a pair of boots.

I said... "Come with me, and I'll show you."

Once we walked over to our Lucchese collection, I told her to not just look at the boot but to feel it and examine it. Right away, she understood... and she was impressed.

Lucchese is known as THE KING OF BOOTS.

The renowned Texas-based footwear company maintains its leading position in the industry with its iconic cowboy boots deeply embedded in American culture. 

Situated in El Paso, Texas, the company's factory buzzes with the expertise of hundreds of craftsmen, many of whom boast decades of experience in the intricate art of boot making.

The meticulous process begins with a simple sketch, eventually evolving through an 18-day cycle on the assembly line, where each boot is handled by nearly 150 skilled artisans.

Once the leather is selected from a room of nearly every conceivable animal skin like ostrich, American alligator and even elephant, it travels to a plethora of stations. Every step in the process is carefully considered.

These boots come with a price tag ranging from around $500 to as much as $16,000.  

That's not a typo... the most expensive pair is the Baron, which retails for $15,995. 

Baron stands as a paragon of luxury footwear, meticulously handcrafted from the finest American alligator leather. This premium material undergoes a rigorous tanning process, encompassing nearly 100 individual steps, ensuring both its exceptional quality and durability. Tanned entirely in the USA, each piece of leather is center cut, chosen for its unparalleled quality and texture. These full top and bottom alligator boots are painstakingly assembled by Lucchese's most skilled artisans, transforming them into more than just footwear, but a form of wearable art.  Designed for the most discerning clients, the Baron Boot is an heirloom-quality masterpiece, embodying the pinnacle of American craftsmanship and elegance.

To many, these boots are truly a work of art.

And we have several customers that collect them.

My dad... owner Larry Allred... said he's been carrying Lucchese boots here at Jack's for more than 20 years. He had customers requesting them. They wanted a high end exotic boot. 

And this appreciation is being shared from generation to generation.

Even my nephew, Andrue, has started his own collection at just the age of 17. 

But the story of Lucchese goes back way beyond 20 years.

Lucchese was founded in 1882 by Salvatore Lucchese, an Italian immigrant. So the company has been at the forefront of cowboy boot craftmanship for more than a century.

Even in the very beginning, Lucchese quickly gained a reputation for quality and durability. Back in this time, the boots weren't just for show.  The long shaft... blocked heel... stylized toe shapes...straps... and top stitching... they all served a practical purpose, helping cowboys withstand the rugged terrain of the Wild West.

Today, Lucchese continues to uphold that tradition, creating cowboy boots that not only pay homage to their storied past but also stand as a testament to their commitment to quality and craftmanship.

So if you're looking for a piece of American history you can wear on your feet, look no further than Lucchese cowboy boots.

"I don't need a bunch of kids telling me how to dress! It's not about looking good! It was created to serve a purpose."

This was a comment on our video ~ The Dos & Don'ts of Dressing Western.

While there is some truth in the comment when it comes to functionality, I completely disagree that western wear can't also be about fashion.

Back in the 1800s, cowboys, ranchers and outlaws ruled the Wild West.  Cowboy gear was created to survive the landscape. Those old leather boots and cowboy hats were essential for wrangling cattle and braving the elements. 

Even so, the western style did turn heads! 

And as time has passed, cowboy fashion has evolved. What started as a humble, functional outfit is now a fashion statement that captures the spirt of the American frontier. 

Nowadays, you don't have to be roping cattle to rock a bit of western flair. 

All clothing... not just western wear... serves a purpose.  And it's okay to want to look good while wearing it!  

When we look good, we feel good! 

And when we feel good, we get s*#! done!

So whether you're a city slicker or a country dweller, there's something about cowboy fashion that speaks to everyone. 

It's a timeless style that's here to stay, no matter where the trail leads.

And in this blog... the trail is taking us next to THE KING OF BOOTS ~ Lucchese.

Here at Jack's Western Wear, we have been selling cowboy boots since 1976.  We have spent decades following the trends and seeing how technology is helping to make a better, more efficient boot.  

If you think about it, the cowboy boot has gone through a remarkable journey. From rugged cattle drives to glamourous catwalks of today, it's about both practicality and fashion.

Just this week, Ariat posted its hybrid sole on social media.  A hybrid sole is a combination of leather and rubber.  Their post says... "Leather soles, reimagined.  The traditional look you love.  The modern comfort and durability you need."

The cowboy boot was invented back in the 1800s.  Its origins were shaped by the demanding terrain, the necessities of cattle drives, and the need for safety during horseback riding.  

Originating during the post-Civil War trail driving era, the cowboy boot evolved from the military boot.  The difference was that cavalry men rode on the balls of their feet, but cowboys rode on the instep of their feet.  

This lead to the insertion of the steel shank in the instep.  It was sewn between layers of leather to provide support.  With this extra comfort, cowboys were able to ride for longer periods of time.

In response to practical needs, the design saw innovations like pointed toes for easier stirrup entry and higher heels to prevent foot entanglement - a potentially fatal risk for cowboys.  

Taller shafts, initially termed "stovepipe" offered better leg protection during cattle drives through rough terrain.

Through it all, cowboys played a pivotal role in building America.  

For many, the cowboy boot is a symbol of freedom, hard work and admired values.  Wearing cowboy boots or a hat connects individuals to the rich tapestry of the American cowboy culture.

Musicians have also played a significant role in popularizing the cowboy aesthetic, leading to the genre's transformation into "country and western." Their influence helped propel the cowboy boot and attire into mainstream fashion, solidifying its place in popular culture.

Cowboy boots are a staple of Western attire and have been worn by cowboys, ranchers, and rodeo riders for centuries. One of the key features of cowboy boots is the toe shape, which can vary greatly depending on the style and purpose of the boot. 

Classic round toe, cutter toe, square toe, wide square toe and the snip toe.  

Finding the perfect pair of boots is about reflecting your personality and about finding comfort and durability.  

Recently, we posted a video about the Do's & Don'ts of Western Wear.  Goodness did we get comments on our boys wearing square toe boots!!!  

Here's a link to the video ~ and you can read the comments too ;-)

https://www.facebook.com/reel/399044039448276

The Classic Round Toe:  Traditional & Versatile ~ The first and perhaps the most classic toe shape on cowboy boots is the round toe.  As the name suggests, the round toe (R Toe) has a rounded shape that is symmetrical from front to back.  This toe shape is the most traditional and is commonly found on cowboy boots worn for both work and fashion.  The round toe offers a timeless profile, a comfortable fit, and a moderate amount of room for the toes, making it a popular choice for all-day wear.

The Cutter Toe:  Where Performance Meets Style ~ The cutter toe shape features a distinctive square toe with a slightly tapered profile, giving these boots a sleek and stylish appearance. Cutter toe cowboy and cowgirl boots offer a perfect blend of traditional Western heritage and contemporary design, making this toe type a popular choice for those who appreciate the fusion of performance and aesthetics.

The Square Toe:  Modern Style with Room to Move ~ Like the name implies, the square toe has a more squared-off shape than the round toe. This toe shape is often associated with more modern cowboy boot styles and the square toe provides more room in the toe box and is also often preferred by those who spend long hours on their feet.

The Wide Square Toe:  Extra Room for All-Day Comfort ~ A variation of the square toe, the wide square toe has the same squared-off shape with even more room for added comfort. Our wide square toe boots offer the same modern look as a square toe but with more space in the toe box, making wide square toe boots an excellent choice for those with wide feet, or those who are wearing their boots for extended periods of time.

The Snip Toe:  Contemporary Chic and Cutting-Edge ~ The snip toe is a popular toe type for those who want a more modern or contemporary look. A snip toe starts out similar in shape to a standard pointed toe, only the very end is “snipped” off. Snip toe cowboy boots are often worn by cowboys or cowgirls who want a trendy and fashionable look and are the perfect toe type for those looking to elevate their style.

Hey y'all!  Allow me to introduce myself...  I'm Kris Allred, VP of Marketing and E-Commerce of Jack's Western Wear.  I handle all of our social media accounts and content, and I run our website. 

Basically... I am the one posting the product... taking your order... and shipping it out!  If you have a question or issue, I will be the one to help you... and it's my goal to always make you feel like family.  

As the owner's daughter, I was literally born into this business.  But I've only been "selling boots" since the summer of 2023.  

I was a TV meteorologist for 23 years, covering the Midwest and the East Coast.  For 17 of those years, I was the chief meteorologist of WSAV News 3 of Savannah, GA/Hilton Head Island, SC.  

While I've always had a passion for weather, it was time to come home and join my family in Alabama.  And let me tell you... I am so excited to be home!  

I was born and raised in Cullman, Alabama.  After graduating from Cullman High School, I attended The University of Alabama where I was a crimsonette with the Million Dollar Band.  I then earned my master's degree in meteorology from Mississippi State University.  

In the TV business, I moved from Nebraska to Michigan and eventually to Georgia.  

Now that I'm back home, I can't wait to share our family business with you.  Not just the products... but our story and our work fun.  

I'm bringing my love of TV to Jack's Western Wear.  We've made some entertaining videos that have already racked up millions of views!  So be sure to check out our social media pages where you'll be entertained and informed.    

Western wear ~ or cowboy fashion ~ has been an important part of western culture since the 1800s.  Considered the 'golden age' for cowboys, the Wild West is hailed as the beginning of western fashion - an era defined by cowboys, ranchers and outlaws. 

The evolution of American Western attire is deeply intertwined with cultural heritage and progress.  Cowboy hats, boots and denim have not only shaped American society but have also become integral elements of popular fashion across various domains.  

In our blog ~ They Blog With Their Boots On ~ we will uncover the timeless appeal and significance of classic western wear... we will introduce you to the latest western trends... and we will simply try to entertain you.  

As I step into a new career... but an old family business... I too am learning every day.  Whether it's to share a laugh or help you pick out the most amazing pair of boots, we are here to make your shopping experience a good one!

Also, please feel free to share ideas... tell us what you want us to cover... or what videos we should produce next.  We would love to hear from you!