Heisler’s Bootery

Specialties

At Heisler’s Bootery, quality and fit are key to the success the company has enjoyed the last 100 years.

Heisler employees will measure a customer’s feet — right and left, since many people have different sized feet — and recommend a shoe that not only will provide the correct support for the individual, but one that also takes into consideration a customer’s personal style. Besides being fitted with a quality shoe, customers will receive extensive knowledge about their foot health and learn to understand how best to take care of their feet. At Heisler’s Bootery, it’s more than making a sale — it’s about making a customer for life.

History

Established in 1908.

Heisler’s Bootery opened in 1908 in Crystal Lake under the ownership of John Heisler Sr., a harness maker and shoe repairman who was interested in creating comfortable, lasting work boots.

During WWI, Heisler Sr. turned his full attention to factory-​made shoes, and his perseverance through world wars and several recessions and depressions paid off. The store prevailed, and with the help and expertise of several Heisler children and grandchildren — including Heisler Sr.‘s son, Leonard, who took over the business and ran it until 1999 — it grew its status as a highly reputable shoe store.

Today, under the helm of third-​generation owner Jim Heisler, Heisler’s Bootery continues its long-​standing tradition of providing quality shoes and outstanding service, and the store proudly holds the honor of being one of the oldest continuously family-​owned businesses in McHenry County.

Meet the Business Owner

Jim H.

Business Owner

Heisler’s Bootery was founded by Jim’s grandfather in 1908 in Downtown Crystal Lake; in 2009 Jim Heisler opened Red Wing by Heisler at 1275 N. Randall Road, Crystal Lake and in 2014, Red Wing by Heisler in McHenry at 2210 W. Route 120. Now the third generation has three namesake boot boutiques.