Our Story - R Watson Boots (2024)

At R.Watson, we are called to pass onour rich heritage to future generations.

It’s our genuine love of the outdoors. It’s our endless dedication to craftsmanship and trade. It’s our tireless devotion to putting people before profits. It’s who we are. And while it’s not easy, it is worth it – now more than ever.

As a native Texan, this isn’t Randy Watson’s first rodeo as a ‘boot man’. Randy has been instrumental in building some of the largest brands in the business over the last four decades, and his dedication to delivering quality craftsmanship through personal relationships is what has gotten him here today.

“I love the western lifestyle and the people who live it. R. Watson Boots is a collaboration of folks who appreciate and believe in making authentic, beautiful western footwear. More importantly, a proud team who believes and inspires one another.”

Ryan thrives on creating a culture where dreams and ideas turn into reality. He’s the analytical mind that lives to turn theory into reality, and loves being a part of a team with endless opportunities and common goals.

“We want to create an opportunity for anyone who wants to be part of something special. Something that not only impacts the lives of consumers, but also our retail partners, our communities, and our industry as well. The journey of R. Watson Boots has already been a blessing, and I can’t wait to show the world what we have in store.”

At the age of 15, Steve began working in his dad’s small boot shop in Cordell, Oklahoma after school and on weekends. After graduating high school, he moved to Fort Worth, Texas to accept a job at Ryon’s Saddle and Ranch Supply. Steve had the opportunity to learn more about fitting boots and “make to measure” from Windy Ryon. During that time, he had the privilege of meeting several legendary Western artisans, such as Sam Lucchese, Trainor and Jodie Evans of Rios of Mercedes, Terry Stanley, Rod Patrick and Bill Powers. In 1977, Steve accepted a position with Justin Boot Co. as a Sales Rep, covering Indiana and Illinois. In 1982, he transferred to the Texas Panhandle and proudly covered that area until 1995. In 2000, he joined the Justin Product Development Department for Justin and Nocona. These experiences is what made him one of the premier product development professionals in the boot industry.

” In 2018, I joined R Watson Boots, Product Development Department. I am incredibly happy to be a part of this organization, working with the Randy and his great team. It has been a fantastic 50 years in the boot industry, and I am looking forward to building this new boot brand."

Chris is not the stereotypical IT guy though he has 40 years of experience in the industry. He has held many positions in the industry from programmer to V.P. of I.T. and earned a Masters Certificate from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in I.T. Project Management. During those 40 years he has also been a co-owner of several companies where he had varied roles and responsibilities. His greatest accomplishment is marrying his High School Sweetheart and seeing his daughter get her Master's degree in Finance at DBU. Away from the I.T. world, Chris is a "Jack of All Trades and Master of None".
At R. Watson Boots, he does it all

Tara has worked in customer service, marketing, and other various roles for different boot brands based in the great state of Texas. She loves the challenge of the western industry and approaches every day with a renewed spirit to help each customer.

“I am very happy to be a part of R. Watson boots and am excited to see where we can take this new boot brand”

Mark is an extreme asset to R. Watson Boots. He has spent decades representing many different western brands. Mark has a reputation of going the extra mile for his clients and has developed alot of trust with western retailers throughout the Northeast. He is truly the MVP.

“I am excited about the opportunity to work with R. Watson Boots. I know quality products when I see them, and these boots are second to none. The craftmanship, attention to detail, and quality of leathers is unmatched.”