To understand what truly makes a knee-high boot supportive, comfortable, and well-constructed, we went straight to the source: a top podiatric surgeon. With extensive experience treating complex foot and ankle conditions, Dr. Pedram A. Hendizadeh, DPM, FACFAS, Founder of Advanced Footcare offers invaluable insight into how women can choose knee-high boots that deliver both comfort and stability, and which design elements make the biggest difference in real-world wear. His expertise helps decode the features that matter—from stretch materials to outsole construction—and illustrates why thoughtfully engineered boots feel dramatically better on the foot.
1. How can you find comfortable knee-high boots?
At Advanced Footcare, we are focused on assisting our patients with the best podiatric solutions for their feet. When it comes to comfort in footwear, particularly when considering knee-high boots with a heel, we encourage wearers to consider the quality of the construction and the level of arch and overall foot support provided by the boots. Because a knee-high boot provides the illusion of extra support as it covers the full ankle and calf, wearers can often overlook the actual stability and support needed underfoot. Ultimately, we encourage wearers to focus on a high-quality boot that is made with stretch materials such as suedes and leathers, with notable arch support and cushioning. We also suggest looking for stability in the outsole and heel, with a preference for a wider heel base to support the natural walking movement from heel to toe, and reinforced rubberized bottoms for added stability and traction. A good example of a boot that delivers on all of these elements is the Scarlett Chase boot collection.
2. How do you determine the right measurements if you have wide calves?
A common challenge for wearers is calf width, whether perceived to be too narrow or too wide for various high boot options. Of course, a zipper might assist for some, however this is not ultimately the most important factor in boot fit. What wearers should look for are high boots that are made in stretch suedes and/or leathers providing a natural stretch to customize fit to the wearer, and/or with a gore panel that provides additional stretch. Wearers should carefully review descriptions to understand if wider calves are accommodated by certain boot styles, or if width options are available. But again, boots with stretch materials are ultimately going to provide the most flexibility in fit for wearers and should be prioritized over a zipper and often over noted ‘narrow’ or ‘wide’ options if a feeling of custom fit and a lack of gapping is desired. This is particularly true because even calves and calf width can vary in terms of thickness towards the ankle v. the upper calf, causing the boot pattern and not the noted calf width to be the best determinant of fit. A stretch material will best adjust to variances in calves.
3. Are there any features or materials to consider when selecting knee-high boots?
High quality, knee-high boots are an investment, and a great pair will be made of natural, stretch suedes or leathers. Careful review of the outsole to ensure it provides maximum support and traction, even in a dress version, is very important. Finding a heel, both in height and stability, that allows the wearer to walk heel to toe is a key element to fit and function. Many knee-high boots are made of flimsy, thin materials that do not sufficiently support the wearers foot, ankle or calf. Ensure the materials are sturdy, lined, and that the foot bed and outsole are supportive and robust for the best orthotic grade support.
4. What are the best socks to wear with knee-high boots?
This is a great question because some brands are designed to be worn comfortably with or without socks. For example, the Scarlett Chase boot collection comes with a removable, orthotic grade insole with a non-leather top cover such that the wearer could elect to wear the boots barefoot provided the insoles are appropriately maintained. For most boots, this will not be an option, and therefore a light, breathable sock is recommended.
Dr. Hendizadeh’s guidance highlights a truth we know well: exceptional knee-high boots begin long before style—they begin with intelligent construction. From stretch suede that molds beautifully to the calf, to stable heel bases, supportive outsoles, and orthotic-grade cushioning, the features he recommends mirror the principles that guide every Scarlett Chase design.