10 Stylish Plus-Size Boots That Will *Actually* Fit Your Calves (You're Welcome) (2024)

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Shopping

10 Stylish Plus-Size Boots That Will Fit Wide Feet & Calves

From over-the-knee to ankle booties.

by Dominique Norman

10 Stylish Plus-Size Boots That Will *Actually* Fit Your Calves (You're Welcome) (1)

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As a wide calf, wide feet, and thick ankle girlie, boot season season comes with its limitations. While my leg press is unmatched, the consequence is 19” wide calves. Most boots have a shaft opening of 12”, so for me, this either means sneakers all winter or finding boots that are *actually* size-inclusive. I love my Air Force Ones, I also love a statement boot — and I should be able to have both, ok?!

Over the years I have tried various hacks to make boots work: Leaving the zipper half down, shopping primarily ankle boots, and using bandaids to prevent blisters from too-tight shafts. I just accepted that over-the-knee boots and mid-calf booties would never work for me — much less a heeled boot. Not only do I have wide calves, but I also have wide feet — which narrows down options even further.

However, with the help of some recommendations from my favorite plus-size influencers (like Curvily and Stylish Curves), as well as some sleuthing of my own, I have found several pairs that are not only plus-size friendly, but are stylish as hell.

Ahead, shop the holy grail of footwear — AKA: shoes that are wide calf, wide foot, and overall plus-size approved.

1

Sarah Chiwaya of Curvily recommends ASOS for wide-calf boot shopping. In her 2021 wide-calf boot roundup, she shared that the brand is “one of my top go-tos for wide-width shoes in general, ASOS also delivers when it comes to wide fit boots.” This pair has a sleek pointed toe and a pretty patent finish.

2

Eloquii absolutely nails plus-size trends of all kinds and their boots are no exception. This knee-high is a natural wide leg, with a circumference of over 19”, while the print and chunky heel ensure you don’t sacrifice style. This is one brand I am fiercely loyal to because of their inclusive sizes and mindful designs of plus-size footwear.

3

I love a mid-calf bootie, but can’t stand when they’re too tight to zip. Torrid’s patented extra-wide width gives extra room all over, including the footbed. Plus, they’re rated a rock-solid 4.8 stars.

4

A statement boot is a wardrobe must-have. No need to sacrifice style for size, though, since this pair comes in a wide calf option.

5

A tip for my fellow wide-calf friends: an elastic panel down the side will give you extra room for stretch. This pair measures in at 17.7" at mid calf.

6

I love a platform, and UGG’s signature boot is definitely plus-size approved. A personal favorite, the naturally-wide silhouette provides plenty of room for all feet widths and ankle sizes.

7

A thigh high boot that fits your thigh comfortably is every plus-size person’s dream. But often boots like this will slide down during wear — if you can find ones that fit in the first place. But Fashion To Figure thought ahead, with straps that you can attach to a matching belt. Bonus points for this pair, because the straps are removable.

8

I’ve been dying to try out the platform go-go boot trend and finally, that’s a real possibility. Latinx-owned, inclusive, sustainable brand Wray dropped these as their first shoe. Hopefully, the first of many.

9

Landies, don’t sleep on JustFab. Their stylish boots come in regular and extra-wide calf. This pair garnered 4.5-stars of reave reviews, like this one: “I really like these boots and got a bunch of compliments my first time wearing them! They are pretty comfortable and are exactly as pictured.”

10

Don’t let the 15.5" calf circumference fool you, the mid-calf height lets you cuff the boot, protecting your ankle from any abrasion. The 4.5-star rating speaks for itself, with one rating reading: “I have the hardest time with boots because of my ankles and large calf muscles. These boots for perfect and I love the color!”

10 Stylish Plus-Size Boots That Will *Actually* Fit Your Calves (You're Welcome) (2024)

FAQs

What boots to wear if you have big calves? ›

Standard tall boots typically have a shaft circumference of around 13.5-14 inches so, if you're looking for a little more breathing room, you'll want to opt for boots with a 15-17-inch shaft circumference (the circumference will increase with the shoe size).

What boots are best for fat legs? ›

For short and thick legs…

Choose ankle or high top boots with back zip and pointed toes. They are ideal for you, as they will make your legs look longer. Our outfit suggestion is cream ankle boots with pointed toes and back zip and skinny fit trousers in the same colour.

What brands make wide calf boots? ›

Vince Camuto is one of our favorite brands for wide-calf boots. Not only do they have a variety of wide-calf options to choose from, but they make it easy to search on their site. The Quacia Boot is our top pick for its sleek and stylish silhouette, quality construction, affordable pricepoint, and comfortable fit.

Should boots fit tight around calf? ›

Remember, your boots should never slip at the heel. Knee-high boots look their best when they fit snugly around your calf, embracing your shape whilst not feeling tight, too much of a gap will spoil the shape and the look of your boots and if they're too tight they're likely to feel uncomfortable.

How do you wear boots with small calves? ›

Consider getting your boots tailored so they fit more narrow. Sometimes a great shoemaker can be your best friend. End the boot at a wider part of your leg to help them look less skinny. Mid-calf and the over-the-knee boots that are trendy this season work really well for this.

What boots make legs look slimmer? ›

Perfect for a special occasion and guaranteed to keep your legs extra toasty over the winter time, knee-high boots and over-the-knee boots are the perfect pair for the curvier woman. These boots help give the illusion of a longer and slimmer leg, particularly if you're opting for a heeled pair.

Which boots are most flattering? ›

Knee-high boots look fantastic with skirts, dresses, leggings, and tucked-in jeans. They are particularly flattering for those with longer legs. If you have shorter legs, consider wearing knee-high boots with heels to add height and elongate your silhouette.

How do you tone obese legs? ›

10 Ways to Tone and Strengthen Your Thighs
  1. Cycling.
  2. Stairs.
  3. Beach walking.
  4. Ballet-style.
  5. Sports.
  6. Resistance training.
  7. Squats.
  8. Thigh work.

How do I know what boots fit my calves? ›

Measure your calves at the widest part to find out the circumference. This will help you when you shop, especially online, because you can check the boot description for measurements to see if they will fit you. ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ 2. Finding boots with stretch panels will give you more room in the boot.

How big is a wide calf boot? ›

While a calf circumference of 16” is generally considered "wide calf," standards can vary by brand and style. Since shopping online for shoes can be tricky, we've gathered some helpful tips to make your search easier and find your perfect pair of tall boots.

Why are wide calf boots so hard to find? ›

According to designers who have crafted well-made and -fitting boots for women with thicker calves and thighs, simply put, they are hard to make, which is why so few brands attempt them.

Do ankle boots look good with big calves? ›

Let us be the first to tell you: there's no rule that ankle booties are off limits for curvy calves. With so many bootie styles this season, there's a pair for every shape! With just a few simple style tricks, you can don your favorite booties with confidence—and make your legs look longer at the same time.

What to wear with wide calves? ›

Opt for full length trousers to hide bigger calves. Your trousers should flare below the knee, so opt for straight leg, and boot-cut or flares might also work well. Avoid wearing tight trousers that taper towards the ankle as the material will cling to the calves and enhance their size.

What shoes to avoid for big calves? ›

Avoid booties & flats – You may love them, but they don't love you. Booties & flats emphasize big calves and ankles. Instead, choose a mid-height heel to fool the eye and make your legs look long and lean. This is also a great tip for anyone who wants a longer, leaner look!

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