Jack’s Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Friday, April 10th & Saturday, April 11th 

114 Schwaiger Road in Cullman, Alabama

I-65 Exit 304

Tons of giveaways & prizes!
TalleyHo Petting Zoo! Johnny’s BBQ Food Truck! And more! 

Talk about family tradition! 

Jack's Western Wear in Good Hope has been around since 1976, born out of one family business and growing into another - one with father, daughters, son-in-law and grandkids working side by side.

Jack's was founded by my dad Larry Allred.

"I started with 35 pairs of boots. That was nearly 50 years ago - and now, we have more than 25,000," Larry says.

"After graduating from The University of Alabama in 1969, I returned home to work in my family's business, Jack's Truck Stop and Cafe in Cullman. At the time, there was nothing Western about what my family did. You know, serving food and selling diesel and all that. But I felt there was more we could offer to Cullman. So I took out a loan and built a small store - just 1,000 square feet - on the north side of the truck stop. I stocked it with 35 pairs of boots and fortunately, it took off."

Larry said in the early days, he handled it all.

"I pumped gas, ran the restaurant and ran the store, " he recalled. "It was tough; the restaurant and service station were open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”

“I eventually sold the cafe and focused on the Western store. We moved and expanded to 7,500 square feet."

Jack's has always been a family business.

"I made sure my daughters, Sara and Kristin, spent their summers and after-school hours bussing tables and helping out in the store. I wanted them to learn the trade, knowing that it takes years of hard work and dedication to succeed, and also the importance of family," Larry said.

Larry was proud to talk about how his daughters are a big part of Jack's, with Sara joining her dad in 2007 and Kris in 2023. 

"In 2007, my oldest daughter, Sara, joined the store full time, bringing her retail experience that she had learned working in Atlanta and Asheville. Then in 2013, I made another big decision: I bought the land where my great-grandfather's farm once stood - the same land where his house used to be - and we built a brand-new store from the ground up. That land means a lot to my family, and it felt right to keep the Allred roots growing strong there."

"Kristin, my youngest, joined us in 2023. Due to health reasons, she left the world of TV and now leads our marketing and e-commerce efforts. Because of her, we now have a website."

"They say we've now shipped to all 50 states. She also runs our social media, though, I'll admit, I don't understand much of that part."

Larry also heaped praise on his son-in-law and grandchildren.

"Besides my daughters, my son-in-law has joined the team, too. He's an accountant, and it has helped me relinquish some of the responsibility. But most of all, I get to see some of my grandchildren almost every day."

"Sara's oldest, Andrue, can tell you everything you need to know about boots, from the fit to the type of animal skin they are made of. Her youngest, Jackson, is always rocking a cowboy hat, and whenever a new load of boots comes in, I can always rely on him to unload them.

Kristin's son, Eli, helps when he's around, and last year, he formed a team to help us with our sponsorship for Rock the South concert series.  Her youngest, Carson, is just like her mom, always putting together outfits and asking me for another pair of pretty boots."

Larry is proud, but he's also quick to give thanks. And he has a big heart for giving back to the community that has given his family so much. 

"I'm so proud of what Jack's has become. Never in a million years did I think we would become what we are today, to grow from a 1,000-square-foot business to 25,000 square feet. I'm humble, but I'm proud. For several years in a row, we've been voted "Best Place to Buy Boots," "Best Western Wear" and "Best Place to Buy Men's Clothing."

"The awards are nice and all, and we appreciate every piece of recognition, whether it comes from a title, plaque or just a compliment from an appreciative customer. But it's also about what we do for the community. This includes our dedicated employees, some have worked for Jack's for decades," he added.

 "Also, giving back to the community is a special priority for me. We participate in several local events, including the sheriff's rodeo.”

We also donated Alabama Game Day boots to the Crimsonettes of the University of Alabama!

And one of the most recent things we have decided to do is recognize our hometown heroes. We want to showcase those that not only shop in our store but represent the type of Cullman resident we look up to. Our first hometown hero was Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry. He's been shopping at Jack's since he was a young boy. 

Our second hometown hero is Cullman’s own Mr. Hinkle of Hinkle’s Shoe Shop. Jacks Western & Hinkle Shoe Shop has proudly operated as a partnership since 1976, preserving the often-overlooked craft of shoe cobbling, more widely recognized as shoe repair.  Hinkle Shoe Shop has been a staple in the Cullman community since 1973. Located at 121 4th Street SE, this charming shop is where old-world craftsmanship meets modern needs. 

Boots for Life

Jack's Western & Hinkle Shoe Shop has proudly operated as a partnership since 1976, preserving the often-overlooked craft of shoe cobbling, more widely recognized as shoe repair.

Hinkle Shoe Shop has been a staple in the Cullman community since 1973. Located at 121 4th Street SE, this charming shop is where old-world craftsmanship meets modern needs.

Mr. Hinkle is a passionate advocate for this timeless trade. At Hinkle Shoe Shop, you'll find everything from shoe repairs to boot fixes and purse touch-ups. Plus, he offers expert dyeing services and some of the best shoeshines around.

One of the standout services he provides is resoling boots. If you’ve got a favorite pair that you just can’t bear to part with, resoling is a fantastic way to keep them going strong. It’s not just a quick fix; it’s like giving your beloved boots a whole new lease on life. After all, if you’ve invested a good chunk of change in a pair of quality boots, you’ll want them to last for more than just a season or two.

Let’s face it, the shoe repair scene isn’t what it used to be. Back in the 1950s, there were around 40,000 shoe repair shops across the U.S. Now, that number has dropped to about 6,500, largely because so many shoes are made to be tossed instead of repaired. But at Jack's Western, they’re all about quality. We believe in boots that are made to last. 

So, how do you know when it’s time to bring your boots into the shop? Look for signs! If the tread is worn down, the heel cap is looking rough, or you see any separation or tearing, it’s a good idea to swing by. For everyday wearers, a good rule of thumb is to resole every 2.5 to 3.5 years. But if you notice any wear and tear before you reach the midsole, don’t wait—bring them in!

At Hinkle Shoe Shop, shoe repair is personal. It’s about making sure your trusty boots can keep up with you on all your adventures. 

Your Boots.

His Legacy. 

CULLMAN, Ala. (WHNT) — A Cullman family-owned business is making sure the University of Alabama Crimsonettes step onto Saban Field at Bryant Denny Stadium in style for the upcoming season.

As most people know, the UA Crimsonettes are famous for a few things, one of which includes their uniforms, which include their boots.

The white gogo boots have been part of the Crimsonette’s uniform since the start in 1970. 

And while the gogo boots will stay, a new boot will be worn during this season's halftime show, which is a western theme.

Jack’s Western & Outdoor Wear has been a family-owned business since 1976 in Cullman.

On August 18, Jack’s and the Crimsonettes posted a sneak peek of what is to step onto the field in a few weeks: Custom Alabama cowboy boots.

News 19 reached out to Jack’s to learn more about this partnership. The family business said they wanted to give back to a group of talented and hardworking women.

“Jack’s partnered with GameDay Boots, and we brought all of the girls their own pair of Alabama boots.  They’re top of the line boots that are similar to what the Dallas Cowgirls dance in,” the company said.

More than just providing the team with new boots, Jack’s said they wanted to provide for the girls because they aren’t on scholarships, they put in long hours and most of the team has high grade point averages.

Jack’s said the team was very excited and grateful for the boots.

“We just wanted to give them something that they can wear on and off the field… while twirling for the University… and even for years after. As we know, good boots will last decades if treated properly,” Jack’s said.

If you want to match the Crimsonettes’ new boots, Jack’s has the gameday boots available on its website here. And for all the Auburn fans, don’t worry, you were not forgotten. Jack’s has a gameday boot for you, too.

Saddle up, partner!

Picture yourself as a rugged cowboy riding along the dusty Chisholm Trail in the early 1880s.

After a long haul, you find yourself in Nocona. 

This is your last pit stop in Texas before crossing the Red River and venturing into Indian Territory. 

So it's time to rest your weary herd.  Maybe drink a little whiskey.  Possibly even enjoy a flirt with a local lady of the night.  

It's also time to stock up on supplies for the long, grueling trek ahead. 

Facing hundreds and hundreds of miles, your boots are likely in need of some serious attention. All the locals are talking about a new trend in footwear - boots with high heels and tapered toes, perfect for the rugged life of a cowboy. 

These locals point you to a wooden storefront ~ H.J. Big Daddy Joe Justin's boot shop. 

Once you get inside, you see the store owner at his workbench, stitching intricate designs onto leather boot shafts - he claims it keeps 'em standing tall. 

Many say this is where cowboy boots were born. 

Though the true origins of the cowboy boot remain a mystery, we do know that H.J. Justin was one of the pioneers in crafting these iconic boots. 

The very first pair of boots made by H.J. Justin was a sturdy set of retan boots.  

As time rolled on, Justin didn't just stop at making sturdy boots. He started adding a touch of flair to his creations. With intricate stitching, hand tooling, vibrant leathers, and some fine silver conchos, he turned those simple boots into works of art. 

In 1908, H.J. enlisted the help of his sons John and Earl.

After H.J. Justin passed away in 1918, the sons took over the business and eventually moved the headquarters to Fort Worth. 

H.J.'s sons also brought to life the legendary Roper style and even crafted custom pairs for the likes of movie stars and presidents - yep, that includes President Lyndon B. Johnson himself!

In 1968, the company merged with Acme Bricks to form Justin Industries and in 2000, Justin Industries was purchased by Berkshire Hathaway. 

More than 140 years later Justin Boots remains an icon within the western community. 

With a focus on quality, integrity, value, and family, each product is curated by skilled boot-makers using only the finest leather and materials. 

Here at Jack's, we've carried Justin boots for decades.  You'll find anything from a top of the line exotic boot to a tough as nails work boot to high-end ladies fashion boots to children's boots.  

Our sale rep, David King, just stopped by this week with the latest 2025 line.  We're excited to carry the latest designs, which include good looking exotics... designs from the Justin archives... to the original roper style.  

Thorogood boots are simply put, a classic.  

That's why we're now carrying several styles here at Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear. 

Thorogood is one of the oldest shoe manufacturers in the United States. 

Since 1892, Thorogood has created a legacy of industry-leading footwear. They take the finest sourced materials to create a tough, comfortable, and supportive boot you can trust.  

The story begins with Albert Weinbrenner, a first-generation German immigrant, who took the reins of his father's cobbler shop in Milwaukee.

Catering to the city's hardworking laborers and tradespeople, Albert, who started his apprenticeship at just 13 years old, had a vision for creating "job-fitted" footwear tailored to the needs of his customers. 

What began as a small local business has evolved and continues to grow today. 

Company President Jeff Burns says there aren't many footwear companies left in the United States. With the onslaught of imported products, a lot of shoe companies went out of business.  Thorogood has been making shoes in the state of Wisconsin for 132 years. 

Burns says, however, that "Made in the USA" doesn't mean much unless the product is of good quality.  He believes that Thorogood puts out the best boot in the world, and you can wear it with pride. 

Even all of the leather is made in America.

It takes 130 steps to make one Thorogood boot. 

Each step plays a crucial role.  What sets Thorogood apart is their dedicated craftsmen.  They don't have people who are just putting a bolt on here and a bolt on there. They take immense pride in their work, ensuring that each pair is not just a product, but a masterpiece crafted with care.

Whether you're a firefighter, public safety professional, lineman, carpenter, or anyone else who works for a living, Thorogood has your back, on the job and off. 

Thorogood boots have the soul to support you through all of life's unforgettable moments. 

**Honoring Elicha Jackson Allred: A Veteran’s Journey** ~ by Kristin Allred

This Veterans Day, we pay tribute to Elicha Jackson Allred, affectionately known as “Alabam" ~ and cherished as my Grandpa Jack.

Serving in the Headquarters Company of the Third Battalion of the 328th Infantry Regiment, part of the esteemed 26th Division—the "Yankee Division"—Allred played a vital role in the Third Army under General Patton during World War II.

Elicha arrived in France in the late summer of 1944, landing at the historic Utah Beach.

He immediately embraced his duty, reportedly serving as a jeep driver for his colonel.

While he may have participated in the Red Ball Express supply convoy, it was in the Lorraine Campaign, specifically at Moncourt Woods in eastern France, where he first saw action in late October and early November.

After a brief respite during Christmas 1944, Allred's company was sent north to the pivotal Battle of the Bulge. There, near Wiltz, Luxembourg, he and his comrades played a crucial role in blocking German reinforcements aimed at Bastogne, demonstrating remarkable bravery and resilience.

Throughout his service, Elicha was recognized for his valor, earning two Purple Hearts—one at Wiltz and the second in Hanau, Germany—as the Third Army advanced across the country.

He also received two Bronze Stars for his exemplary conduct in combat.

Following the war, Allred found himself in Pilsen, Czechia, as part of the occupation army. There, he contributed to the noble effort of relocating concentration camp survivors, providing hope and support in the aftermath of unimaginable hardship.

As we reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans like Elicha Jackson Allred, we honor their bravery and commitment to freedom.

His story serves as a reminder of the courage and dedication exhibited by those who served, shaping our world for the better. This Veterans Day, let us remember and celebrate the legacy of all who have fought for our nation.

When it comes to snagging either your first pair of cowboy boots or adding another trusty pair to your collection, getting the fit just right is as important as a good saddle on a buckin' bronco. 

Western boots are built tough, ready to stand the test of time, making them a solid investment for years of wear. 

They're made to brave the wildest of conditions, from rugged trails to fierce weather, making them the perfect choice for anyone who spends their days under the big sky. 

And sometimes... we just want them to look good. 

Well, either way, boots should also be as comfortable as a well-worn saddle. 

They're designed to hug your foot and offer top-notch support.  They provide stability that keeps you on your feet, whether you're riding into the sunset or kickin' up dust on the trail. 

Here at Jack's we have an Ariat store... 3000 sq feet of just Ariat merchandise. Ariat has a complete guide to fitting cowboy boots.

1. Put the boot on and listen for the faint “pop” as your foot slides into place.
2. Confirm the proper amount of heel lift (there should be some lift, but not too much).
3. Comfortably stand, and then place a sideways thumb between the tip of your toe and the end of the boot. This is the proper amount of space between your toes and boot end.
4. Walk around to confirm comfort, fit, and heel lift.

Put on Those Boots

The first thing you want to do when fitting a new pair of boots is to insert your foot into the boot’s shaft and firmly grasp the pull tabs or pull holes.

• The shaft is the upper portion of the boot where your calf and shin will rest.
• Depending on the boot, there will either be holes or tabs to assist in pulling the boot on.

Once you pull the boots past the resistance point in the arch you will hear a faint popping noise as your foot enters its resting place. The resistance point will come from the top of your foot in the arch area and also your heel inside the shaft.

Check for Slight Heel Lift

Heel lift is the gap between the insole of the boot and your heel. It is caused by a slight amount of room from the arch to the toe area of the boot. This room should not exceed more than 1/8th of an inch and is necessary for a proper and comfortable fit.

Check the Fit

Once you have the boots on it's time to make sure they fit. To ensure the proper fit for any boot, make sure the widest part of the ball of your foot rests on the widest part of the boot’s outsole.

Check the Tip of the Boot

Once your feet feel comfortable, stand up in your boots and try to use a sideways thumb to help judge the distance between the tip of your toe and the end of the boot. Your toe should rest about one thumb width away from the end of the toe box. Here are a couple things to keep in mind:

• The toe box is the portion of the boot that houses your toes. It is the portion of the boot that starts at the base of your toes and ends at the tip of the boot. Wider toe shapes will often have a wider toe box.
• Remember everyone’s toes are a different length so it’s always a good idea to have that sideways thumb distance from the tip of your toe to the end of the toe box.

Well, partner, let me spin you a yarn and help you get those boots off!

Picture this: you’ve just rolled in from a wild ride, the sun setting behind you like a scene from a classic western. But then, just as you think the day’s a wrap, you find yourself in a tussle with your new boots!

You’re hopping around like a one-legged cowboy, face as red as a ripe tomato, and here you are—stuck with one boot still on.

It’s a sight, I tell ya!

Now, if you’ve ever faced this boot dilemma, you know it’s a rite of passage.

Sure, you might try that toe-off trick—where you use the toe of one boot to shove off the other. It’s a decent move, but it’s best left for old, scuffed boots that have seen better days. Nobody wants to scuff up a brand-new pair, am I right?

Or even have a friend try and yank the boot off!  It turns into a game of tug of war.

But hold your horses! There’s a better way to kick off those stubborn boots without all the fuss and bother.

Let me introduce you to the boot jack, the cowboy’s best friend when it comes to boot removal.

This nifty wooden contraption has been around since the 1800s, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.

Designed to help cowpokes like us deal with all kinds of boots, it keeps our hands clean and free of mud or, heaven forbid, manure.

Just imagine a cowboy, boots caked with the day’s adventures, stepping onto this trusty device and freeing himself with style!

Using a boot jack is as easy as pie.

You simply slide the heel of your boot into the U-shaped opening while your other foot stands on the flat end. With a swift pull, your foot pops right out—no bending, no jerking, and absolutely no scuffs to be found!

Now this handy device has been around for a LONG time.

A little digging revealed that the oldest boot jack patent dates all the way back to 1887.

Many of these gadgets were made of cast iron, tough enough to handle the hardest of boots.

And some? Well, let’s just say they were considered downright scandalous in their day. I’m sure the picture below will explain why.

But if you’re looking for a more traditional boot jack ~ well, we sell them here at Jack’s.  You can buy them in the store or online for just $17.

Now go on, partner, and ride into the sunset—boot-free and full of style!

Saddle up for the return of Wrangler Brushpoppers at Jack's Western Wear!

The long-awaited Wrangler Brushpoppers have galloped back into town, and the latest fall 2024 styles have landed at Jack's!

Originally introduced in 1979 and retired in 2003, these rugged shirts are making a triumphant comeback, and you'll want to snag one before they're all rustled up.

So, what exactly is a brushpopper, you ask?

Think of it as a cowboy who thrives in those wild, brushy terrains - brave, bold, and ready for anything.  

And just like the cowboys they're named after, Wrangler Brushpopper shirts are tough as nails. 

Designed to be water-repellent and resistant to wind, dust, and sand, these shirts feature a unique wax-like finish that gives them that classic, heavy-duty feel.  It's like having a starched shirt that doesn't require any of the hassle - now that's a win!

Don't let the thickness fool you! These shirts are as comfortable as they come. They won't cling to your skin, and they strike the perfect balance - keeping you cozy without overheating. 

Crafted to last, they give you that sturdy, stout look that's perfect for any cowboy.

The vintage-inspired Brushpopper western snap work shirt is made from soft cotton, ensuring comfort in every season. With its bold, colorful stripes inspired by the vibrant 90s, you'll be turning heads wherever you roam. 

And, of course, it wouldn't be a Wrangler without those iconic details - pointed yokes front and back, chest pockets adorned with Wrangler's signature "W" stitching, and those classic pearl snaps. 

So saddle up and head on down to Jack's to grab your Wrangler Brushpopper before they ride off into the sunset!

Check out this ad from 1992 ~ the Wrangler Brushpopper ~ Featuring Tuff Hedeman, World Champion Bull Rider ~ & Ty Murray, World Champion All-Around Cowboy