News Summary
Whataburger has partnered with Academy Sports + Outdoors to unveil a unique tailgate collection, perfect for Texas football fans. Featuring a variety of apparel, including jerseys and themed accessories, the collection aims to enhance the tailgating experience. Highlights include co-branded HeyDude shoes, an infant bodysuit with Whataburger puppies, and various outdoor games and drinkware. Available at Academy Sports stores and online, the limited-edition collection celebrates the football season while supporting local communities with proceeds benefiting flood relief efforts.
San Antonio, Texas – Whataburger has unveiled a limited-edition tailgate collection in collaboration with Academy Sports + Outdoors, officially launched on August 19, 2025. This partnership marks the third collaboration between the iconic Texas fast-food chain and the sporting goods retailer.
Tailored specifically for the Lone Star State and the upcoming football season, the collection features a variety of football-themed apparel and merchandise, appealing to fans eager to celebrate their favorite sport. Highlights include jerseys, hats, a unique Whataburger beanie with a “Meat Sweats” theme, and co-branded items such as HeyDude shoes priced at $74.99 and an infant bodysuit decorated with Whataburger puppies, retailing at $24.99.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| HeyDude Whataburger Shoe | Co-branded shoe featuring Whataburger design | $74.99 |
| Infant Bodysuit | Featuring Whataburger pups | $24.99 |
| Co-branded Blanket | Lightweight blanket with Whataburger logo | $9.99 |
| Blue and Orange Burger-Rush T-shirt | Football player catching a Whataburger with slogan | $XX.XX |
The collection also includes outdoor games, drinkware, fold-up tables, chairs, and blankets, designed to offer families a fun, stylish way to partake in traditional tailgating festivities. Fans can purchase the collection at Academy Sports locations or online at both the Academy and Whataburger websites. However, the products are available for a limited time and while supplies last.
As part of its ongoing 75th anniversary celebration, Whataburger is also committing to social responsibility by donating 100% of proceeds from commemorative cup sales to Hill Country flood relief until August 31, 2025. This initiative reinforces the connection between the brand and the local community, aiming to make a positive impact during this significant milestone year.
Whataburger, which started in Texas and now operates over 1,100 locations across 17 states, continues to enhance its merchandise offerings with unique items that resonate with its customer base. Academy Sports + Outdoors, which operates more than 300 stores across 21 states, shares the enthusiasm for creating engaging family-oriented experiences for football fans.
Background Context
The latest collaboration between Whataburger and Academy Sports + Outdoors is particularly fitting, considering how integral football and tailgating traditions are to Texas culture. Rachael Jones, Whataburger’s Group Director of CPG & Retail Marketing, pointed out the significance of this connection while elaborating on the enjoyment the collection brings. Likewise, Matt McCabe, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at Academy Sports + Outdoors, emphasized the fun nature of the limited-edition collection tailored for families.
FAQ
What items are included in the Whataburger tailgate collection?
The collection includes football-themed apparel, shoes, an infant bodysuit, outdoor games, drinkware, blankets, fold-up tables, and chairs.
Where can I purchase the tailgate collection?
The items are available at Academy Sports locations and on the Academy and Whataburger websites.
How long will the tailgate collection be available?
The collection is available for a limited time and while supplies last.
What is the purpose of the proceeds from commemorative cup sales?
Whataburger is donating 100% of proceeds from commemorative cup sales to Hill Country flood relief until August 31, 2025.
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Additional Resources
- SA Current
- Wikipedia: Whataburger
- KSAT News
- Google Search: Whataburger Academy collection
- CultureMap San Antonio
- Google Scholar: Whataburger Academy collection
- It’s a Southern Thing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Whataburger
- MSN News
- Google News: Whataburger Academy collection

Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.


