About Us
Our Story: From Flea Market Beginnings to a Florida Legacy
It all started with a simple vision and a lot of heart. Back in the early days, Skip’s wasn’t a household name – it was just Skip, his wife, a truck loaded with boots, and a spot at the local flea market every Sunday at 6 a.m. They weren’t out to build the biggest western outfitter in Florida; they were simply driven by a passion for quality and a love for cowboy boots that Skip discovered far from the dusty plains of Texas, but right in the urban streets of Chicago.
From Chicago to Osteen: A Journey Rooted in Passion
You might be wondering, why the name “Skip’s”? Well, here’s a fun little nugget of our history. When Skip first arrived in the U.S., he spoke with an Australian accent – and like a hopping kangaroo, his friends quickly nicknamed him “Skip.” And just like that, the name stuck, becoming the heart of our brand.
In 1983, Skip built his first store in Osteen, Florida, surrounded by horse properties and citrus groves. This was a place where boots met the laid-back lifestyle of Central Florida, and where customers came for a genuine experience, not just a transaction. To this day, Osteen remains our headquarters, alongside our second store in Daytona Beach. We’ve grown, but we’ve stayed true to those flea market roots – serving up the best in western wear with a personal touch.
More Than Boots: A Tradition of Quality and Service
At Skip’s, we pride ourselves on curating the finest brands with deep heritage and uncompromising quality. From rugged work boots to classic western styles, we’ve got something for everyone. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect fit, whatever your budget may be. Whether you’re shopping for boots, western décor, or accessories for any occasion, you can trust that you’re getting the very best.
And we’re not just a store – we’re a reliable partner for local heroes, working closely with police, fire departments, and large businesses to fulfill their needs for durable, high-quality footwear and gear. From motorcycle boots to hiking essentials, we’ve got you covered.
From Osteen to Your Screen
Today, with our online store, we’ve extended our reach beyond Central Florida to serve customers across the United States. Our website is designed with you in mind, making it easy to navigate, search, and shop by department, type, price, or brand. It’s the same Skip’s experience you know and love – just one click away.
Whether you’re a longtime customer or discovering us for the first time, we’re here to offer you the same great selection and outstanding service that has kept folks coming back for over 40 years. We invite you to explore our online store, browse our collection, and see why Skip’s Western Outfitters is more than just a place to buy boots – it’s a piece of Florida’s history.