The Challenge of Shoe Shopping for Women with Larger Feet

For women whose feet exceed the average size, particularly those beyond EU 41, finding the right shoes in Asia can feel like an impossible task. It’s not necessarily the lack of stylish designs; it’s often about the sheer difficulty of locating basic options, like ballet flats.

Why Brands Overlook Extended Sizes

Many shoe brands in Singapore don’t produce larger sizes due to a simple business rationale: it’s not economical to invest in shoes for sizes with lower demand. Clara Han, founder of the local shoe brand Oleah, explains that the relatively small number of women wearing larger sizes makes it a financial risk for brands to expand their offerings.

The Cost of Customizing Sizes

Creating footwear means developing unique molds for every size and style, which comes at a high cost. As a result, larger brands often wait until a certain demand level is met before expanding their size ranges, leaving many women limited to niche shoemakers who specifically cater to these needs.

Demand for Extended Sizes on the Rise

Recognizing a growing demand, Han has expanded her size offerings to EU 32 to 43, based on consistent requests. Similarly, Pazzion’s founder Tom Ng notes the increasing diversity of the population, emphasizing their commitment to exploring size-inclusive options.

The Sizing Nightmare: Why it Isn’t Standardized

With a limited selection of large sizes, many women are driven to American or European brands, often encountering the frustrating issue of inaccurate sizing. Han reveals that this is largely due to differing sizing systems and foot shapes targeted by various manufacturers.

Tips for Online Shopping Success

When shopping online, it’s crucial to understand which shoe styles should potentially be purchased in larger sizes. Narrow toe boxes, boots, and high heels often require more room for comfort, prompting the need for half or full size adjustments.

Understanding Fit Needs

Not all larger shoe sizes are created equal. A woman with the foot length of EU 38 may need a EU 40 for her unique foot structure, highlighting the importance of knowing your individual fit requirements.

Flattering Shoe Styles for Larger Feet

Women with larger feet can enhance their comfort and style by opting for design elements that provide balance and support. Block heels are often recommended, and if they’re not your style, a slightly thicker stiletto could complement your look while providing stability.

Choosing the Right Materials

Material is also key in shoe choice. Leather options tend to mold to your feet over time, providing a better fit compared to non-leather materials that may lack durability and flexibility.

Custom Options for the Perfect Fit

For those struggling to find the perfect fit, customization can be a viable option. While bespoke services can be quite expensive, alternatives like made-to-order shoes or custom-fit ready-to-wear can provide more budget-friendly solutions for women seeking extended sizes.

Ultimately, while navigating the world of footwear can be challenging for women with larger feet, understanding your fit requirements and exploring different styles and materials can help you step confidently into any situation.