How to Find Women’s Wide-Calf Boots That Fit (And Curvicality’s Top 7 Picks for 2022)

Boot Season: Those words may excite you or make you cringe — depending on the size of your calves. (Can you relate?) While most women welcome the amazing boot styles that fill the shelves in fall, some of us just yearn for a pair of boots that fit. But finding women’s wide-calf boots can be tough!

As a big-legged woman, this has been my struggle for many years. In fact, I didn’t even get my first pair of knee-high boots until I was 49. Sad, right?

For so many years, trying to put my 21.5-inch calves into unforgiving and unaccommodating boots was nothing short of frustrating and demoralizing. Even my boyfriend would say that he had seen larger women wearing boots, but my legs just didn’t seem to fit.

Finally, wide-width and wide-calf boots appeared on the scene, but I still struggled. Now, thanks to a growing industry, there are lots of adorable options.

There are some things to remember, though, when shopping for wide or extra wide-calf boots.

Know Your Calf Measurement

Knowing your calf size is especially important if you’re shopping online. Take a tape measure and wrap it around the biggest part of your calf and know your number. Most catalogs and online descriptions will state the calf size. After all, there’s no sense in ordering something that will arrive too tight. In addition, measure your calf height. This will help you to avoid getting boots that are too short or too tall.

Bust Out Your Those Old -School Support Hose for Try-Ons

Go ahead, laugh. I know I’m showing my age. But seriously, grab a pair of support pantyhose for try-ons. Those bad boys will allow your foot and leg to slide into and out of boots more easily. Here’s the thing: If you wear regular pantyhose, you will find they tend to snag on the zippers, but the support hose will stay against your leg, making the zip process easier. (Obviously, I don’t normally wear pantyhose, but for trying on boots? Totally worth it.)

Look for That Spandex Panel

You want the right kind of panel in your boots. The panel you’re looking for runs from the top of the boot to the ankle, and sometimes will make up the entire back or side of the boot. And don’t worry, no one will notice, but you will feel comfortable and accommodated within the boot without feeling like it’s going to fall down. (Booties have this stretch panel in the ankle area and, if you have cankles like I do, then you will need it there, too.)

Don’t Be Afraid to Shell Out a Little Dough

Bargain hunting is fun, but don’t feel guilty about paying a little more than you normally would in order to get a pair of awesome boots. If they fit you perfectly, don’t beat yourself up for splurging.

Remember That Not All Brands Fit the Same

One of Curvicality’s team members recently ordered thigh-high, wide-calf boots from a company she had never tried. They didn’t even come close to fitting. Every brand runs differently.

Ready to shop?

Here are Curvicality’s top 7 picks for 2022. (Be sure to measure your calf width for individual fit.)

Think Pink!

To rock this season’s “Barbiecore” trend, check out the Platform Stretch Over-the-Knee Boot from Torrid. Pink has been all over the runways this season. (Available in sizes 6 WW to 13 WW.) See these beauties here.