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The 14 Best Wide-Calf Boots That Will Have You Looking Stylish from Now Through Spring

Boot season is *on*

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Retailers/Courtney Mason for PureWow

Any woman with wide calves knows the struggle of finding cute and trendy boots that fit properly…or at all. Some simply give up, swearing off of riding boots, ankle boots and knee-high boots forever. But thankfully, a ton of brands have caught up to the times and now offer the best wide-calf boots to wear through autumn and winter.

From plus-size women to those with calves prone to swelling, or even shoppers who just want some extra space, wide-calf boots come in a variation of widths, usually starting at 15.5 to 16 inches in circumference. Make sure when you shop you know the width of the widest part of each of your calves to ensure you get the right fit. Here, I've rounded up picks from top brands like Stuart Weitzman, Frye, Vince Camuto and Dolce Vita, that offer casual and more elevated pairs of the best wide-calf boots for you that will last years to come.

The Best Wide-Calf Boots for Women at a Glance 

1

Best Overall

DuoBoots Leather Freya Boots

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2

Best Contoured Shape

Frye Leather Melissa Button Boots

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3

Best High Block-Heel Boots

Schutz Leather Maryana Boots

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4

Best Wide-Calf Knee-High Boots

Naturalizer Leather Jessie Riding Boot

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5

Best Extra-Wide Boots

Walking Cradles Leather Meadow Boots

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How I Chose the Best Wide-Calf Boots for Women 

This list features boots that PureWow editors have tested for ourselves and think are worth the investment because of how they’ve held up over time, fit comfortably over our calves, don’t give us blisters and will transition well with changing trends. I've also read through tons of reviews of boot styles from brands that I personally love. So without further ado, my top picks for the best wide-calf boots for women that I hope you’ll love.

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Best Overall

1. DuoBoots Leather Freya Boots

What We Like

  • custom calf width
  • memory foam insole 

What We Don't Like

  • pricey 

Freya

A custom sizing option is the ideal way to shop so you can get exactly what you need and won’t have to return. The iconic knee-high boot with a stiletto heel will never go out of style whether you’re wearing yours with jeans or dresses. These have a sturdy shaft made of leather and the insole will cradle your feet during long days because of the memory foam cushioning. Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth says of London-based DuoBoots, “They do custom boots to your measurements to guarantee a perfect fit whether you have skinny or thick calves. The quality is gorge, but I do recommend measuring both your legs (not just one) to ensure you’re getting the right fit.”  

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: custom 
  • Size Range: 5 to 12 

Best Contoured Shape

2. Frye Leather Melissa Button Boots

Frye

The timeless look of these riding boots is great for those who don’t want anything too flashy, but want a luxurious feel and vibe to their shoes. Former Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak said they were a godsend while expecting her first child. She wrote at the time, “Pregnancy has made my calves swell up quite a bit, so I don’t need a fully wide-calf size, but regular high boots still feel tight, so this circumference gave me the perfect extra bit of room for my now in-between calves. The bottoms are a little slippery since I haven’t gotten to fully break them in yet, so I have to be careful until they get some traction.” The feel of the supple leather and simple design is a high selling point, but note that if you have a high instep the pull-on style may be hard to push your arch into. 

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: 15.25 inches 
  • Size Range: 5 to 13 

Best High Block-Heel Boots

3. Schutz Leather Maryana Boots

What We Like

  • padded footbed
  • leather lining 

What We Don't Like

  • pull-on style may be hard for high insteps 

Schutz

I'm obsessed with these Schutz leather boots for fall, from the sleek embossed print to the wide opening for a slight oversize look. According to Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Stephanie Meraz, the shaft stays put and doesn’t slouch down when walking. “I’m someone that doesn’t like a boot to be suffocating my leg, so when I found this high-knee, cowboy-inspired pair, I was sold,” says Meraz. The style and color options are versatile for fall looks, too. “They’re so easy to style—all I have to do is throw on a skirt, tights and a plain long sleeve or maybe tuck a pair of jeans inside if I want to be more covered. I even wear them under slip skirts and dresses for a chic ’fit that makes me look more put together than I actually am,” she says. She also mentions that they’re comfortable, even if they did take a while to get there. “They took a second to break in (I only experienced soreness, no blisters!), but now I can wear them for hours on end comfortably,” she mentions. 

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: 15.5 inches 
  • Size Range: 5 to 11 

Best Wide-Calf Knee-High Boots

4. Naturalizer Leather Jessie Riding Boot

What We Like

  • buckles
  • elastic behind knees 

What We Don't Like

  • some reviewers note the shaft can slouch

Naturalizer

If you’re someone who likes a classic style but needs a little extra detail, the buckles on these boots should do it for you. The ankle and calf buckles are functional, but I actually prefer the look of them more than anything. Reviewers say they fit true to size and the elastic on the back of the knee offers more flexibility. “Finally, after three years of searching, a wide-calf boot fits my wide [calves]. I wanted a leather boot that did not have a huge elastic panel and this is it…One of my feet is just a bit larger than an 11 and these boots work for me, and the ankles are not baggy,” says one customer. 

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: 16.5 inches 
  • Size Range: 6 to 12 

Best Extra-Wide Boots

5. Walking Cradles Leather Meadow Boots

What We Like

  • skid-resistant sole
  • cushioned insole 

What We Don't Like

  • some reviewers note the calf fits slightly large 

Walking Cradles

Do you have a black leather boot with no bells and whistles on your wish list? Look no further. The circumference of the wide and extra-wide widths are not listed, but the medium width is 17 inches, for reference. The smooth leather is elevated and elegant and the calves have an elastic panel to offer more stretch if you should need it. “This is a comfortable, plain boot that's true to a width for a wide calf. My calf measures just a tad over 16 inches, and this boot fits [comfortably with] tall socks, leggings or jeans. They DID NOT need breaking in...comfortable right out of the box,” says one customer. Some reviewers note that the footbed isn’t overly comfortable, so if you’re looking for a pair to do a ton of walking in, you may want to opt for something with more cushion or add an orthotic.  

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: not listed 
  • Size Range: 5 to 13 

Best Wide-Calf Cowboy Boots 

6. Ariat Leather Heritage Western Boots

What We Like

  • embroidered pattern
  • cushioned insole

What We Don't Like

  • short shaft height 

Ariat

Cowboy boots have been a fan-favorite style over the last few years, and the popularity doesn’t show any signs of slowing. Actually, it's now more popular than ever due to Beyoncé's record-breaking album Cowboy Carter. From cow print to rodeo-ready accessories, channeling the Wild West has never been more in style and I have just the boots to help you claim that rancher title. Ariat is known for carrying fantastic cowboy styles and these boots have a cushioned insole, unlike a lot of other cowboy boots. Here's what one Ariat customer has to say: "I have 16” calves and finding cowboy boots has been so hard my entire life. Until these. The amount of joy I had when they slipped on so easily…. I almost cried. I’ve gone through boot after boot claiming they are wide calf. And they aren’t. And not only were they perfect over my calves, they were SO comfortable. I wore them for the first time for all three days of Stagecoach without blisters or sore feet. Only ever buying these from now on." The leather also has a cute embroidered pattern on the shafts and each side has a loop for an easy pull-on experience.

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: not listed 
  • Size Range: 5.5 to 11 

Best Wide-Calf Over-the-Knee Boots

7. Stuart Weitzman Leather 5050 Bold Boot

What We Like

  • microstretch back panel
  • sleek leather upper 

What We Don't Like

  • pricey
  • reportedly run slightly large

Stuart Weitzman

Stuart Weitzman is known for sleek, minimalist and high-end designs, so if you’re looking for a pair of timeless and elevated boots, these are right up your alley. “I love this boot because of the length, of course, [but] also due to the fact that the foot bed is a comfier than the regular 5050,” reports one customer. They have a bold yet short block heel for stability and a rounded toe, which is a classic style choice. The circumference of the medium-width boots is shown as 13.8 inches, however, the wide calf option is not listed. It may be worth reaching out to the brand’s contact us page to get some clarity. But don't let this deter you from these stunners. Most reviewers note that these boots run a tad large around the calf area and even recommend sizing down if you can.

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: not listed 
  • Size Range: 4.5 to 12 

Best Square-Toe Boots

8. Vince Camuto Leather Sangeti Boots

What We Like

  • square toe and heel
  • stretch panel at the top

What We Don't Like

  • one reviewer notes they fit a smidge large 

Vince Camuto

I love the sleek, textured leather on these heeled boots. They’re 2.5 inches high and the block heel is great for walking through grass and keeping your feet stabilized if you’ll be standing for a while. “I’ve been debating for months spending this much money on boots, but I had yet to find the perfect ones that fit my calves and are cute. If you’re on the fence I 100 percent recommend,” says one customer. Some reviewers say the wide calves fit a little big, so make sure you measure your calf and compare it to the circumference of the 16.5-inch boot openings to ensure they’ll be the right size for you. 

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather 
  • Leg Circumference: 16.5 inches 
  • Size Range: 5 to 12

Best Wide-Calf Chelsea Boots

9. Sam Edelman Laguna Chelsea Boots

What We Like

  • lug soles
  • waterproof

What We Don't Like

  • lug soles can feel heavy

Sam Edelman

These practical boots are cute and great for tumultuous weather. Whether you're facing snow or rain, the waterproof upper and rubber lug soles will keep your feet dry and help you stay upright instead of slipping on any wet patches. These boots are available in four colors, too. Note that some reviewers mention their soles have split from the upper, though that isn't most customers' experiences.

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather
  • Leg Circumference: not listed
  • Size Range: 6 to 10

Best Wide-Calf Heeled Boots

10. Dolce Vita Gyra Wide Calf Boots

What We Like

  • low heel
  • several color options

What We Don't Like

  • some reviewers claim they run narrow around the foot area

Dolce Vita

I’m always raving about Dolce Vita being the place to be for fashionable wide-width finds and their range just got a lot more impressive. The brand recently released an expansive wide calf collection titled “Boots That Fit.” The collection boasts the brand’s tall boots now available in standard, wide and extra wide calf sizing. Per the brand, the collection “reflects Dolce Vita’s dedication to ensuring that fashion is accessible to everyone.” Plus, hear what one reviewer had to say about these beauties. “The wide calf is TRULY wide calf I even have some room in them. These boots are BEAUTIFUL and timeless. I can’t stop wearing them.” They continue, “The heel height is perfect and they look amazing with everything. Favorite purchase from Dolce by far!” I instantly gravitated towards this pair due to the sleek, sophisticated look and the not-too-tall heel height. An added bonus? They also come in five other neutral shades that scream cozy ensembles paired with fall activities.

Fast Facts

  • Materials: leather upper
  • Leg Circumference: 15.9 to 18.66 inches
  • Size Range: 6 to 13 (also available in standard and extra wide)

Best Luxury Brand Boots

11. Tory Burch Tall Banana Boot

What We Like

  • embossed logo
  • pointed toe

What We Don't Like

  • expensive

Tory Burch

Looking for a little luxury? These Tory Burch boots are to die for, from the subtle embossed logo on the sides to the supple, rich leather the boots are made of. The brand says the shaft circumference varies by one centimeter per number size, and the 15.75-inch call-out is for a shoe size seven. While these boots do have a slight heel, reviewers note that it isn't uncomfortable. "My search for the perfect tall boot is over! These boots are super comfortable. They are a classic style with a great heel height for walking or standing for long periods of time. I can walk miles in these boots and not have sore feet," writes one reviewer.

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather
  • Leg Circumference: 15.75 inches
  • Size Range: 5 to 12

Sleekest Riding Boots

12. Naturalizer Rena Riding Boot

What We Like

  • cushioned footbed
  • tractioned soles

What We Don't Like

  • reportedly run a little narrow

Naturalizer

A staple riding boot is great for everyday wear thanks to the clean lines and sleek shape. This pair, which has a crossed buckle around the ankle for some extra detail, is available in two calf options—regular and wide. Plus, they come in several other color options to choose from. "A staple riding boot is great for everyday wear thanks to the clean lines and sleek shape. This pair, which has a crossed buckle around the ankle for some extra detail, is available in two calf options—regular and wide. Plus, they come in several other color options to choose from. One happy Zappos shopper writes, "Boots are very comfortable & the wide fit is perfect. Leather is good quality & seems very durable. Very versatile. I will get a lot of wear out of these. Price was great for a full leather boot."

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather
  • Leg Circumference: 16 inches
  • Size Range: 5 to 11

Best Wide-Calf Lace-Up Boots

13. Sperry Saltwater

What We Like

  • waterproof
  • classic style

What We Don't Like

  • laces stretch

Sperry

Whether it's snowing or raining, these waterproof duck boots are an all-time favorite. The soft leather and waterproof rubber make a great combo for wet and cold weather. The rubber outsole has Wave-Siping to help with wet-dry traction, too. "The sides zip up and the opening at the top of the boot is very roomy for ankle boots so you'll have tons of room for thicker socks," says Dubyak. Not only is the insole cushioned, the inside of the shoe is lined with a warm microfleece material to keep your feet cozy when it's chilly out. "The soft lining on the inside does a great job at keeping your feet nice and warm, but just be careful not to get mud on the inside because it's harder to clean the interior," Dubyak warns.

Fast Facts

  • Material: leather and rubber
  • Leg Circumference: not listed
  • Size Range: 5 to 11

Best Faux-Leather Boots

14. Journee Collection Daria Boots

What We Like

  • padded footbed
  • faux-leather upper
  • pointed-toe

What We Don't Like

  • sizes sell out quickly

Journee Collection

These heeled boots have a padded footbed, a practical zipper closure and come in extra wide-width sizing. They also have over five hundred customers singing their praises. "Boots were true to size and very comfortable! I loved that I found some knee-high boots that aren’t so snug that it’s uncomfortable," writes one customer. "Having finally found some boots with some space in the calf area is amazing! I’ll be ordering them in white too," they continued.

Fast Facts

  • Material: vegan leather and faux suede
  • Leg Circumference: 16 inches
  • Size Range: 6 to 12

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Wide-Calf Boots? 

Wide-calf boots are boots made with a wider circumference in the calf area to offer more room to those who have larger calves. Wide-calf styles are most commonly found in high boots styles, but there are plenty of ankle boot options as well. As far as sizes go, aside from medium-width (which is the standard width for boots), you can typically find wide-calf and extra-wide-calf boots from many retailers.  

What Brands Carry Wide-Calf Boots?

The best place to start your search for wide-calf boots is at a retailer like Nordstrom and Macy’s. There, you’ll find top brands with wide-calf options, like Vince Camuto, which has quite a few stylish wide-calf boot options at Nordstrom. You can also find trendy and classic ankle and high boot styles at Torrid. If your calves are larger than the standard wide-calf sizes, opting for extra-wide or even custom options through brands like DuoBoots will be your best bet.  

What Size Boot Fits Wide Calves? 

While brands may differ in their wide-calf boot circumference offerings, the standard width is 16 inches, starting at the opening of the boot. You may also see 15.5 inches as the start for a lot of brands too, so if your calves seem to be ‘tweeners, those options are a great place to start. This sizing will also vary based on the style of the boot. Ankle boots will have different circumferences since the opening begins at the low calf or ankle, and fitted, more contoured boot shafts will be different than wider openings. You can measure your calves by taking a flexible tape measure and wrapping it around the widest part of your calf. Make sure to measure both because they may not be the exact same size.


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Editorial Assistant

  • Writes across several verticals including fashion, beauty, news and entertainment
  • Over three years of experience in the fashion industry
  • Studied Fashion Media (with a minor in Visuals for Social Media) at LIM College

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Commerce Editor

  • Covers commerce content, including personal and collaborative reviews and product roundups across beauty, home, fashion and family verticals
  • More than 5 years of professional experience in journalism
  • Studied journalism at Duquesne University

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PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.