Zephan Parker—Home of Parker Boot Company — Local services in Houston

Wanted a pair of handmade boots, left with 2 pair of homemade boots instead... The couple that runs this shop are some of the nicest people you will ever meet (true Texans) and would consider them friends. I was looking for FIT & QUALITY above everything else. Something to wear for DAILY use. The owner, Zephan, spent a lot of time (probably too much time) going over the design of the boot. The finished product was mediocre, which was fine, but the pair was just way too big. I could fling the right boot off my foot across the room without ever touching it. I told him and after several attempts to correct, he decided to make another pair. Apparently, someone else messed up the 1st pair, Hhmmmm, ok. I wasn't very happy with the 1st design and wanted to keep the next pair VERY SIMPLE. Well, here we go again. the 2nd pair were smaller than the1st pair, but still had an awkward feel and hurt my feet after only a couple of hours of use. Attempts were again made to correct the fit issue, but to no avail. My guess is that it has something to do with heel being to far forward. Reasons for using the word HOMEMADE-, inserts kept coming unglued adding to discomfort, there is a soft spot on the heel of the 2nd pair, both pair have an appearance that someone made them, I'll leave it at that. Overall, the custom boot experience did not work for me, and I'm sure that Zephan would agree and probably add that we both lost on the deal. I paid $2,000 and Zephan stated it cost him $2,600, Hhhmmmm, ok. At some point the owners agreed to give a refund back, but when it came down to it, they just hemmed and hawed about what exactly it was that would be refunded. I could tell this was a point of contention between them and made it seem like it was no big deal and agreed to just leave with the boots. My opinion. Nice people, just need a little more knowledge on boot making. If you are more interested in the tops of the boots and less about how they feel, this may be the right place for you. YES, I still wear both pair, and yes, they hurt my feet, still needing fit...

Outstanding quality, fit, and attention to detail. Zephan and Cathleen are extremely friendly, helpful, and knowledgable. I wear boots all day, everyday, and I know the difference between a production boot, and a true handmade boot. My closet is full of Luccheses that are now gathering dust. I've got 3 pairs of Parkers and I love them all. I have also brought friends and family into the shop to be sized up by Zephan for some customs, and they have all been thrilled with the finished product.

Visit the shop, and give yourself some time to sit and watch the bootmaking process. Listen to Zephan explain what separates his boots from the others. Boots can be made faster and cheaper with the help of machines, but you will never get the look and fit of a true handmade boot. Zephan is highly respected by his peers in the bootmaking world for his commitment to quality over quantity. I have a hard time going to his shop without ordering...

I am a customer of Parker Custom Boots. Zephan and his wife, Cathleen, are a lovely couple. He is easy to talk to, patient, and a good listener. Mr. Parker made me a pair of calf skin boots with my initials inlayed on the uppers, as well as, five rows of stitching. I told him how I wanted the boots to look and he followed my instruction and surpassed all my expectations! These are a fine looking pair of boots made with high quality leathers and materials, they're very strong. He's meticulous and does not cut corners. Since my purchase, I have dropped off boots for repairs. I am looking forward to designing my second pair of custom handmade boots with him. I will be a...