Boots: one of humankind’s greatest innovations. In fact, many songs have been written about them, and the same can’t be said for other types of shoes. Plus, everybody looks good in a pair of boots, which leads us to our next point: Everyone should have a pair of go-to boots, but not all boots are designed with everyone in mind.
If you’ve been blessed with wide calves, you know what we’re talking about. Not to worry though—we’ve done the research for you and rounded up the 10 best pairs of boots for wide calves, and we have a feeling you won’t be disappointed. From slouchy suede to buckled-up leather, there’s a pair of boots on our list for every budget and taste. Dress them up with a mini skirt and a blazer or keep it classic with jeans and your favorite sweater. No matter how you plan to style them, you can’t go wrong with one of these pairs of wide calf boots.
How We Found The Best Boots For Wide Calves
Our Top 10 lists factor in data such as reviews, social buzz, and best-seller lists. We even take a look at notable mentions from reputable publications and other industry sources. All this to say, the boots that follow are backed by science—so they’re undeniably the best wide calf boots out there. From western-inspired riding boots (hello, #9) to heeled knee-highs (looking at you, #3), keep scrolling to find your new go-to pair of chic—yet comfortable—boots.
October 6, 2022
Written By:Rank & Style
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Sam Edelman Pansy 2 Wide Calf Tall Riding Boots
Overall Score
4.05
10
Sam Edelman Pansy 2 Wide Calf Tall Riding Boots
4.51
90 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Buckled
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
From the supple leather to the comfy footbed, reviewers rave that these boots check all the boxes. Let's also not forget about the pretty wraparound strap that makes them feel a little more exciting but still so classic.
FIT DETAILS
These riding boots have a 1.5-inch heel and a 17-inch wide calf circumference. For reference, the standard version measures 15 inches at the calf.
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Journee Signature Pryse Leather Western Boot
Overall Score
4.1
09
Journee Signature Pryse Leather Western Boot
4.2
9 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Western
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The sleek, knee-high western boot has been a major trend over the past few seasons (thank you, Isabel Marant and Ganni), but it hasn't always catered to wider calves. That is until this beautiful boot came along, which is complete with a pointed toe, gorgeous leather, subtle stitching, and a 16-inch shaft.
USER REVIEW
"It's rare to find a wide calf boot that is all leather with no elastic inserts or lacing to inexpensivly offer a wide calf style. Secondly, the footbed is comfortable and the heel is just the right height. Thirdly, while they have a pointed toe, they do not squeeze or pinch my foot. Also, the bone color is fantastic—I thought I may not find much to wear them with but have already found at least five outfits in my closet that these will be fantastic with."
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Sam Edelman Penny 2 Wide Calf Leather Riding Boot
Overall Score
4.15
08
Sam Edelman Penny 2 Wide Calf Leather Riding Boot
4.05
766 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Back Zip
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The Penny boots have been best-sellers for years, and they're showing no signs of stopping. They nail that sleek, classic equestrian look that, for some reason, is often hard to find in a wide calf boot. And thanks to the back zipper and pull tabs, you won't be struggling to pull them off at the end of the day.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Along with the timeless cognac hue, these are also available in black leather.
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Naturalizer Kalina Wide Calf Tall Boot
Overall Score
4.2
07
Naturalizer Kalina Wide Calf Tall Boot
4.46
169 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best High Heel
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Complete with a knee height and 3.25-inch heel—the highest on this list—this boot is one of the most flattering on the list. Reviewers also say the calf width is wider than most wide calf boots they've tried, which is a win if you've struggled to find a perfect fit in a tall boot before.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Bonus points for the contour footbed technology—you won't even feel like you're wearing heels.
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INC International Concepts Fawne Wide-Calf Riding Boots
Overall Score
4.25
06
INC International Concepts Fawne Wide-Calf Riding Boots
3.92
302 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Riding Boot
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
It’s all in the details for us, and the stitched silhouette around the ankle of these INC boots is just the kind of understated design element we love.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
A zipper, boot loops, and stretch panel make this pair of riding boots easy to pull on and off. And the rubber outsoles add traction, which we’ll be thankful for during the icier months.
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Naturalizer Reid Wide Calf Tall Boot
Overall Score
4.3
05
Naturalizer Reid Wide Calf Tall Boot
4.37
148 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best For Walking
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Buckle up, because these boots have a little bit of attitude. Naturalizer designed this pair with a round toe, subtle stitching, and a buckle detail that come together to say “I’m pretty, but don’t mess with me.”
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Naturalizer has invested in designing shoes with a comfortable fit, which is evident in the open-cell foam cushioning of the insole of these boots. Oh, and they have an inside zipper.
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Madewell The Selina Tall Boot With Extended Calf
Overall Score
4.3
04
Madewell The Selina Tall Boot With Extended Calf
0
0 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Splurge
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Madewell has a way of making chic, sustainable clothing that we’re always on board with. With their sleek silhouette and block heel, these boots are no exception. They also come in three stunning colors—True Black, Desert Dune, and Dried Maple.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These boots look great and feel great too, thanks to the insoles made of Madewell’s Cloudlift Lite padding.
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Madewell The Poppy Tall Lugsole Boot With Extended Calf
Overall Score
4.3
03
Madewell The Poppy Tall Lugsole Boot With Extended Calf
5
2 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lug Sole
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The great thing about lug sole boots—aside from the fact that they go with everything from sweaters to LBDs—is that they're actually incredibly practical. This pair from Madewell has a super-thick sole that works well for even the wettest city weather, and the Cloudlift Lite padding makes them cushy enough to walk for miles in.
STYLE TIP
To tone down the edginess, try pairing these feminine pieces like mini skirts and dresses.
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Journee Collection Aneil Wide Calf Boot
Overall Score
4.4
02
Journee Collection Aneil Wide Calf Boot
4.45
116 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Slouchy
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Heeled boots aren't always the comfiest, but reviewers rave that this slouchy pair is incredibly sturdy and easy to walk in. We're thoroughly impressed, especially considering they ring up under $100.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These are also available in grey, light brown, and a super fun leopard print.
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Frye Melissa Button 2 Wide Calf Boots
Overall Score
4.4
01
Frye Melissa Button 2 Wide Calf Boots
4.09
1766 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Overall
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Western wear has been trending for a few seasons now, and these boots would look as natural on a horseback ride as they would out to dinner. Plus, Frye has been in business for over 150 years, so they’ve had time to perfect the art of shoemaking.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
You have four different colors to choose from with these boots, and they also have a cushioned leather insole for added comfort. We should also mention that these are pull-ons (meaning they don’t have a zipper or boot loops).
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