The Nanette Boot is more than just a new addition to the HYER Classics collection—it’s a celebration of a rich legacy that dates back to 1875 when C.H. Hyer first founded HYER Boots. As the inventor of the cowboy boot, C.H. Hyer didn’t just shape Western footwear; he also pioneered dress and fashion boots that gained widespread recognition, particularly in Hollywood. Over the years, HYER boots became the choice of many famous personalities who were seeking craftsmanship with style. Today, the Nanette boot pays tribute not only to this iconic heritage but also to a remarkable woman: Nanette Bohl, Zach’s grandmother, who ultimately inspired the relaunch of the brand. Her story is a part of HYER's legacy, making this boot a fitting homage to both the past and the future of the brand.

Born and raised in Olathe, Nanette Bohl grew up with the same pioneering spirit that drove her grandfather to create HYER Boots. Her early memories of riding her horse, Sneaky, through the then-small town, before it blossomed into the thriving city it is today, offer a glimpse into the deep connection she had in the community. Nana’s life was filled with adventure and joy, and one of the most charming stories of her youth was how she met her future husband on a ski trip—he had ripped his pants and called out for a safety pin, which Nana just happened to have. That chance encounter led to a lifetime of love and partnership.

Nana wasn’t just a mountainside seamstress; she was a true trailblazer. She became the first Red Cross-certified swim instructor in Kansas and taught countless children and families how to swim, right at her home off of HYER Street. For three generations, the HYER family carried on this tradition of teaching swim lessons at her home. Nana herself was an accomplished competitive swimmer, continuing to compete well into her 90s. In fact, she swam competitively until the age of 92 and participated in over 500 swims in the US Masters Swimming program, with an impressive 446 top-10 finishes across all events. In 2020, she was recognized as an All-Star in the 90-94 age group, a testament to her tenacity and skill in the pool.

While Nana’s connection to the HYER family business was always strong, it wasn’t until Zach began helping her downsize her home after the passing of her husband, Ford Bohl, that a significant part of HYER’s history resurfaced. Ford, a veteran and the last CEO of the company before Zach took over, had kept many of the family's treasures throughout the years. While sorting through the attic, Zach stumbled upon a photograph of none other than President Calvin Coolidge wearing a pair of HYER boots—which gave him a look into the brand’s long-standing reputation for craftsmanship and excellence.

During the same downsizing process, they came across a special pair of boots that had been made by C.A. Hyer himself for his daughter, Nanette. The boots, featuring an intricate butterfly stitch, were crafted as a keepsake for her to cherish and hold on to.

The original "butterfly" boots became the design inspiration for the newly recreated Nanette boot. In bringing this piece of history back to life, the HYER team has crafted a modern boot that pays homage to Nana and the Hyer family’s roots. The boot’s intricate stitching and timeless design are a tribute to Nana’s strength, elegance, and the long-standing HYER tradition of making boots that tell a story. When Zach presented the boots to her, Nana’s eyes lit up as she exclaimed, “Wow, that’s beautiful, this is a HYER boot!”

By naming this boot after Nana, Zach & Alicia Lawless are not just celebrating her remarkable legacy—they are continuing the proud tradition that began with C.H. Hyer in 1875. As the inventors of the very first cowboy boot and pioneers of American dress boots, we take immense pride in carrying forward the authenticity, craftsmanship, and spirit that made HYER a household name among cowboys and celebrities alike. We are honored to bring back the family legacy and invite you to experience the difference that comes with wearing the original—HYER Boots. From our family to yours, the Nanette boot is more than just a tribute; it’s a piece of history, built to last.