How to Find Size 17 Women's Shoes

Finding women's shoes in size 17 can be a daunting challenge, as this size is relatively uncommon. Here are several strategies you can use to locate these elusive shoes:

1. Specialty Retailers

Look for retailers that specialize in large or extended sizes. Websites like Zappos, LongTallSally, and other niche shoe retailers might offer larger sizes. These stores often cater to a diverse range of size needs, making it more likely to find the shoes you need.

2. Custom Shoe Makers

Consider contacting custom shoe makers or brands that offer bespoke services. They can create shoes tailored to your specifications, ensuring that they fit perfectly. This option may come at a higher cost but guarantees that the shoes will fit your unique foot size.

3. Online Marketplaces

Check online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon. You might find sellers offering larger sizes or custom options. These marketplaces often have a vast array of choices from various sellers, increasing the likelihood of finding size 17 shoes.

4. Athletic Brands

Some athletic shoe brands like Nike and New Balance offer extended sizes in their women's lines. Check their official websites or stores to see if they carry size 17 shoes. These brands often cater to a broader range of sizes, making them a good option for finding unusual sizes.

5. Social Media and Forums

Join online communities or forums dedicated to footwear or fashion. Other members may have recommendations or leads on where to find size 17 shoes. These online groups are great resources for finding hidden gems and hearing about niche retailers that you might not have known about otherwise.

6. Contact Brands Directly

Reach out to shoe brands directly and inquire if they can accommodate special orders. They might know of inventory that is not yet listed online or have recommendations for where to find larger sizes. Additionally, they may have information on when size 17 shoes will be restocked.

7. Second-Hand Options

Thrift stores or consignment shops may occasionally carry larger sizes. It's worth checking these options, as they can often provide unique and affordable shoes. However, be aware that these shoes might not be in the best condition, so consider your budget and storage capabilities when selecting from these sources.

Additional Tips

- Consider the Return Policy: When ordering shoes, especially if you're trying a brand for the first time, make sure to review the return policy. This can provide peace of mind in case the shoes do not fit as expected.

- Keep Track of Size Uniqueness: If you find a size 17 shoe that fits and flatters, grab as many as you can afford. You may not see another deal like that in your lifetime. Consider the time investment: it's often possible to strip the color and dye real leather shoes to get more colors of a style if only one is offered. There are shoe repair specialists who have posted tutorials online, but you can also drop off shoes to a professional to have them done.

- Invest in Basic Styles: Buy footwear in basic styles and colors that you wear frequently whenever you find them, even if you must store them for years until your current shoes wear out. I personally have an unworn pair of Crocs brand skinny strap wedge sandals in my closet that I snapped up in multiple colors back more than five years ago.

Remember, the larger the foot, the larger the challenge in finding footwear. Allocate a budget specifically for footwear that is more expensive than average mass-produced sizes. It's not fun, but it's simply a reality. Start budgeting for those rare finds and enjoy the process of finding the perfect fit for your unique foot size.