Before I get into the places to shop wide calf boots, let’s take a moment to talk about how to shop wide calf boots.
May seem silly, but without some general knowledge you may find yourself incredibly frustrated.
First, there is going be a lot more stock and selection online versus in-store.
So chances are, you’ll be shopping online. That’s super convenient if you know which boots will fit your calves!
Shopping online has drawbacks.
It sucks to have to buy a bunch of styles in a variety of sizes in the hopes that one pair might fit.
And then, as if not fitting into 75% of what you buy isn’t bad enough, you then have to go through the return process.
Or worse, you miss the return deadline and are out the money and stuck with boots you can’t zip up!
I realize these are first world problems, but I know you know the struggle.
How to Shop Wide Calf Boots
Step 1: Measure.
The MOST important thing you can do to prevent frustration is to know the circumferences of your calves.
Just to jog your memory of geometric terms, circumference usually references the perimeter of a circle. But in this case, the circumference is the distance around the length/width of your calf, at the widest part.
To get this measurement, sit on a chair with your feet flat on the ground.
Use a measuring tape to measure both calves at their widest parts, respectively.
Measure both calves in case they aren’t the same size!
Due to my history of blood clots, I have post-thrombotic syndrome and my legs are actually significantly different in size. So yeah, it happens!
Once you have the circumference of the larger calf, that’s your “magic number,” to which you compare all boot circumferences.
Wide Calf Boot Sizing – Standard
You want a boot with at least the same circumference, if not larger.
The industry standard for “wide calf,” is any boot that is 16″ or larger in circumference.
If you have a “magic number” of about 16″ most wide calf boots will work for you.
If, however, you have a larger calf, it’s going to be more difficult but not impossible!
Wide Calf Boot Sizing – Dependent
Another thing to know is that some boots’ circumferences are dependent on the size and width of the shoe.
For example, the same boot style might have a 16″ circumference in a size 6, but a 17″ circumference in a size 6W. So, in some cases, you will have to reference a chart to get the right size and width.
Yeah, it is a bit much, but we’ll get it figured out! Lol.
Extended Wide Calf Boots
And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the “scarcity” of 17″+ boots.
So, if you have large calves and see some boots you like, buy them. Immediately. Take no prisoners and ask questions later!
Because despite all of us wide-calved gals, stores seem to think our money is no good.
Also, you can go here to see my shopping guide where I include lists of places to shop plus size clothing and wide calf boots.
Oh, and one more thing, if you aren’t an email subscriber, you can go here to subscribe to receive my new posts in your inbox.
10 Places to Shop Wide Calf Boots
10 Places to Shop Wide Calf Boots
No matter your size, budget, or style, I’ve got a place for you to shop wide calf boots!
In alphabetical order…
Duo Boots (custom fitted, up to 19.7″)
DSW (up to 19.5″)
Eloquii (up to 19″)
Fashion to Figure (up to 22″)
Macy’s (16″ – 17″)
Naturalizer (16″ – 17″)
Nordstrom (16″ – 17″)
Shoe Mall (varies, up to 20″+)
Torrid (extra wide up to 22″+, see chart)
Walmart (varies, up to 20″)
15 More Places to Shop Wide Calf Boots
Some of these retailers don’t have their wide calf boots stocked yet, but will have a selection as we get into the fall season.
Go here to see a list of places I recommend to shop plus size clothes and wide calf boots.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on or purchase through certain links, I may receive a small commission.
Thanks, lady!
Last year Torrid had a pair of flat heeled faux suede boots I liked, and I was shocked when they actually fit! I ended up getting them in all three colors – black, brown, and oxblood. Then I found a back-lace-up pair in a light tan color, with some perforation to up the style factor, in end-of-season clearance. Seriously, life changing.
Then my Mom got me the Ugg-style boots from New Zealand, and my life changed a little more.
Finally, I ordered some snow boots that are very Sorel-like (and super warm) from Jessica London, and my life changed again.
#obsessed
I think my boot “needs” are fulfilled to start this season but that won’t stop me from looking for more. Thanks for all your help!
Haha. This is great! Sounds like you are all stocked up! And I remember those oxblood boots, amazing! I have some awesome “girly” with pink laces Sorel boots that make me feel like an ice princess every winter. I get the life-changing factor. Lol.
I am saving up for another pair of Duo boots. I have my eye on these. Of course, I realize how impractical suede is, but they are just calling my name! 🙂
Those are gorgeous, and I don’t have navy, soooooooo…..
Hi Alexa! I hope you and your family are doing well. I was wondering if you know of wide calf boots that are comfortable to walk long distances. I will be traveling to Portugal in January and we’ll be sightseeing. Thanks and God blessings you and may help you continue your great work inspiring true curvy beauty. Patsy
Thank you, Patsy.
Although boots are one of my favorite types of footwear, I am curious if you have considered trendy sneakers for your trip. When I spent 3 weeks hoofing it all over the UK and Ireland I was SO thankful to have sneakers! I am pretty sure most of my traveling with sightseeing has involved sneakers when I think about it.
That said, if you are set on wide calf boots, I would look at brands known for comfort, like Naturalizer or here, Rockport, or Walking Cradles. Lastly, I think Duo Boots are simply the best fit-wise and most have insoles you can remove and put in your own.
I hope you have a wonderful trip! Please let me know if I can be anymore help!
I have trouble finding extra wide calves for a medium width. By the time I find a 19″ calf, the foot is too wide.
I know exactly what you are talking about. One of the main reasons I love Duo Boots, which you can get in your exact foot width/calf circumference. That said, they are pricey (totally worth it though). Otherwise, I think you are going to have a very hard time not having to get at least a D/W width, especially if you don’t have a large foot.
You can add Amazon to the list of locations to find wide and extra-wide calf boots!
Thanks, Rita! Great suggestion!
I got lucky with 2 pairs from DSW this year that are tight but fit. I have 18″ calves and I’m short from the knee to the heel, as well. I have to get the Extra Wide Calf boots but both pairs fit perfectly, even over jeans. This is the first year I’ve been able to find boots that I can wear over jeans. Bring it on, Fall!
Yay! That is so great to hear, Mary! 🙂
I’ve been eyeballing Duo Boots since you posted about them over a year ago. I finally took the leap during their Black Friday sale. Let me tell you, they are EVERYTHING you’d want them to be and more!!!!!!!! Finally, real leather, knee-high boots that fit like a glove! No more cheap (and sometimes not so cheap) pleather, vinyl boots that fall apart in one season.
Thank you so much for your fashion advice, reviews, etc. You’ve helped improve my wardrobe beyond belief!
Oh yay!!! I love Duo! You will probably have to take them to a cobbler/shoe repair after a couple of seasons, but they’re totally worth it!