In the world of barbecue, the rivalry between Texas and Kansas City is as fiery and legendary as the infamous feud between the Hatfields and McCoys. While the Hatfields and McCoys clashed over land and honor, the BBQ battle pits smoky brisket against saucy ribs, each vying for the crown of America’s best barbecue. Here at HYER Boots, we’re as passionate about our KC BBQ as we are about our cowboy boots, and we're ready to dive into what makes Kansas City BBQ a culinary legend.

Kansas City BBQ traces its savory roots back to the early 20th century, when Henry Perry, a Tennessee native, brought his unique barbecue style to the bustling streets of Kansas City. Perry, known as the "father of Kansas City barbecue," began serving slow-cooked, smoked meats wrapped in newspaper from an alley stand in the 1920s. His bold, spicy sauce and method of smoking meat over a blend of hickory and fruit woods laid the foundation for what would become a beloved culinary tradition in Kansas City. Over time, Perry’s apprentices and followers, including Arthur Bryant and Ollie Gates, expanded on his methods, each adding their own flair and innovation to the rich tapestry of KC BBQ.

As Kansas City grew, so did its reputation as a BBQ mecca. The city’s unique approach to barbecue, characterized by a diverse range of meats—ribs, burnt ends, brisket, and more—combined with a signature thick, tomato-based sauce, set it apart from other regional styles. Today, Kansas City boasts over 100 barbecue joints, each offering their own take on this smoky, succulent cuisine. From the historic establishments like Arthur Bryant’s and Gates Bar-B-Q to the newer hotspots, Kansas City's BBQ scene is a testament to the enduring legacy of its pioneers.

Of course, the debate over which city has the best BBQ is a never-ending saga. Texas, Memphis, Carolina, and Kansas City each proudly claim to be the BBQ capital of the world. But within Kansas City, there's an equally spirited rivalry, as locals and visitors alike argue over which BBQ joint reigns supreme. This friendly competition isn't confined to the broader community—it’s alive and well within the HYER family, too. Our own amateur BBQ enthusiasts, Zach Lawless and Cameron Bohl, have taken on the delicious challenge of sampling as many Kansas City BBQ spots as they can.

While Zach and Cameron haven’t managed to try them all yet—after all, with over 100 BBQ joints, that’s a tall order—they’ve already identified their top five favorites. Topping their list is Meat Mitch, known for its incredible burnt ends and mouthwatering sauces. Joe’s comes in a close second, famous for its legendary Z-Man sandwich and consistently tender ribs. Q39 grabs the third spot with its innovative takes on traditional BBQ and consistently high-quality offerings.

Rounding out their top five are Scott’s Kitchen, where the smoked meats are simply unbeatable, and Jack Stack, celebrated for its premium cuts and elegant dining experience. Each of these BBQ joints offers something unique, reflecting the rich diversity of Kansas City’s BBQ scene. The friendly rivalry between Zach and Cameron mirrors the broader debate about Kansas City’s best BBQ, adding a personal touch to the endless quest for the perfect plate of smoked goodness. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, we encourage you to dive into Kansas City’s BBQ culture and maybe even start your own list of favorites.

The American Royal is a cherished Kansas City tradition, once famed for its rodeo and livestock shows, and now equally celebrated for its world-renowned BBQ competition. This iconic event, which began in 1899, has evolved over the years to become a cornerstone of Kansas City culture. Today, the American Royal stands as a testament to the city’s rich agricultural history and its undying love for BBQ, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe.

This year marks the 125th anniversary of the American Royal, and the BBQ competition promises to be more spectacular than ever. Known as one of the largest and most prestigious BBQ contests in the world, it attracts the best pitmasters and BBQ teams who compete for top honors in categories such as ribs, brisket, pork, and chicken. The competition is fierce, with over 500 teams vying for the coveted Grand Champion title. Beyond the competition, the event offers a festive atmosphere complete with live music, family activities, and of course, plenty of mouthwatering BBQ. For BBQ enthusiasts and casual fans alike, the American Royal is a celebration of the flavors, traditions, and community spirit that define Kansas City BBQ.

At HYER Boots, we take immense pride in our Kansas City roots and our passion for supporting local traditions and companies that share our values. Just as BBQ is an integral part of Kansas City's identity, so is our commitment to crafting high-quality, durable boots that stand the test of time. This year, in honor of the 125th anniversary of the American Royal, we are thrilled to announce a special collaboration that celebrates this iconic event and our shared heritage.

To commemorate this milestone, HYER Boots will be creating a Limited Edition 125th Anniversary boot for the American Royal. These exclusive boots will embody the spirit of Kansas City and the rich history of the American Royal, featuring unique designs that pay homage to the event's legacy. By combining our craftsmanship with the storied tradition of the American Royal, we aim to create a product that is not only stylish and durable but also a meaningful tribute to the event that has brought so much joy and pride to our community.

If you're interested in preordering or learning more about these special boots, please visit thislink.Let's celebrate together with a pair of boots that embodies the spirit of Kansas City and the legacy of the American Royal.