Plus Kicks in Columbia: Where to Find Extended Shoe Sizes
What Plus Kicks offers and where to find it
Plus Kicks is a shoe store in Columbia that specializes in extended shoe sizes, particularly for men and women who wear larger sizes that mainstream retailers often don't stock. The store carries athletic shoes, casual footwear, and dress shoes across multiple brands, with inventory that goes well beyond what you'll find at typical department stores or chain shoe shops.
The store is located in the Midlands area of Columbia and serves customers throughout the Lowcountry who have struggled to find their size elsewhere. Rather than ordering online and waiting for delivery, Plus Kicks lets you try shoes on in person, see the fit immediately, and walk out the same day.
Key Takeaways
- Plus Kicks stocks extended sizes for both men and women, filling a gap that most chain retailers leave empty.
- You can shop in-store to try on shoes before buying, which matters when fit and comfort are hard to predict online.
- The store carries multiple brands and styles, from athletic to casual to formal wear.
- Location and hours vary, so calling ahead or checking their current information ensures they have your size in stock.
Types of shoes and brands available
Plus Kicks carries athletic shoes from brands that make extended sizes, including options for running, basketball, and everyday gym wear. You'll find casual sneakers, slip-ons, and everyday athletic styles alongside more specialized performance footwear.
The store also stocks casual shoes—loafers, boat shoes, sandals, and everyday comfort styles—as well as dress shoes for work, formal events, and professional settings. The mix of brands and styles means you're not limited to one aesthetic or price point.
Why shopping in person matters for shoe fit
Shoe fit depends on width, arch support, heel height, and how a specific brand's sizing runs—details that photos and descriptions online can't always capture. When you wear an extended size, getting the fit wrong means either keeping shoes that hurt or paying to ship them back and wait for a replacement.
At Plus Kicks, you can walk around the store, feel how the shoe responds to your weight, check whether your heel slips, and see how the toe box feels without guessing. For people who have spent years ordering shoes that didn't fit, this matters.
How to prepare for your visit
Bring your current shoe size and any notes about what hasn't worked for you in the past—whether certain brands run narrow, whether you need extra arch support, or whether you prefer a particular style. If you're shopping for a specific occasion, mention that to the staff; they can point you toward shoes that work for both the event and your comfort needs.
Call ahead to confirm the store is open and to ask whether they have your size in stock for the specific style you're looking for. This is especially useful if you're traveling from outside Columbia or if you're looking for a particular brand or color.
Extended sizes and why they're hard to find
Most shoe manufacturers focus production on the sizes that sell in the highest volume, which means extended sizes—typically men's 13 and up, or women's 11 and up—are often made in smaller quantities. Chain retailers with limited shelf space prioritize those high-volume sizes, leaving customers with larger feet to order online or go without.
Specialty stores like Plus Kicks exist because there's real demand for these sizes and because customers deserve the same in-store shopping experience as anyone else. The store's inventory reflects that commitment.
Pricing and what to expect
Shoe prices at Plus Kicks reflect standard retail pricing for the brands they carry—you're not paying a premium for extended sizes, though specialty retailers sometimes do charge slightly more due to lower production volumes. The actual price depends on the brand, style, and whether the store is running any promotions.
It's worth asking about sales or clearance sections when you visit, as these can offer better value on overstocked styles or previous seasons' inventory.
Other shoe stores in the Columbia area
If Plus Kicks doesn't have what you're looking for, other options in Columbia include department stores with shoe sections, though their extended-size selection is typically limited. Online retailers like Zappos, Amazon, and brand-specific websites offer broader inventory but require shipping and returns by mail.
Local running stores sometimes carry extended sizes in athletic shoes, particularly if you're looking for performance footwear with expert fitting advice. Calling ahead to ask about size availability saves a trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the largest shoe size Plus Kicks carries?
The largest sizes vary by brand and style. Call the store directly to ask about specific sizes, as inventory changes and different brands max out at different points. Some brands go to men's 16 or 17, while others stop at 14.
Do they carry women's sizes above 12?
Yes—extended women's sizes are part of their focus. Availability depends on the brand and style, so it's worth calling ahead to confirm they have what you need.
Can I order a shoe online if they don't have it in stock?
That depends on the store's current policies. Call to ask whether they can special-order shoes or whether they recommend ordering through the brand directly or another retailer.
Do they accept returns or exchanges?
Most shoe retailers have return and exchange policies, but the specifics vary. Ask about their policy when you purchase, or call ahead if you want to know before you visit.
Are there other extended-size shoe stores in South Carolina?
Plus Kicks is the main specialty option in the Columbia area. Larger cities like Charleston may have additional options, and online retailers serve the entire state. Calling local running stores or department stores can sometimes turn up extended-size inventory.