Shoes?

Question

Hi, any luck finding tall shoes (13..14) in Shanghai?

And maybe a store with gym clothes? But not the usual bike, adidas, decathlon stuff?

Answer

Yes — you can find shoes in larger sizes (US 13/14) in Shanghai, but it will take a bit more effort and isn’t guaranteed for every brand. Also, you’ll find boutique-style gym/activewear stores beyond the big mass-market chains. Here’s a breakdown with what to look for and where to go.

Shoes in tall sizes

A good starting point is the article “Big Foot: Finding Western-size Shoes in Shanghai” which lists stores that cater to larger sizes.
One of the key stores mentioned: “X-Large Shoes” (Address: 931 Jiangning Lu, Room 204, Building 3) which stocks men’s sizes up to US 15 (~EU 49) and women’s up to US 12 (~EU 46).
Another tip: though domestic Chinese shoe stores mostly focus on smaller sizes (as the average foot size is smaller), many international stores (Nike, Adidas, etc) may carry larger sizes if you ask. One reddit user said: > “I bought some off Taobao. Size 14. … Try searching under size 15 or size 50.”
When you visit big brand stores (Nike, etc) check their flagship or large-format stores in central shopping areas — they are more likely to have inventory of sizes beyond the standard.”

Gym/active-clothes stores (not just standard big chain sports shops)

If you prefer boutique or lesser-usual sportswear (rather than just Nike/Adidas/Decathlon) head to shopping districts such as the French Concession, Jiashan Lu/Xinle Lu area where smaller local/foreign fashion & activewear shops are located.
Although the listing “31 Sports Equipment Shops in Shanghai” gives many of the major chains, you’ll need to ask inside for more niche/boutique activewear.
Another brand example: The brand Hoka opened a large flagship in Shanghai aimed at runners (so more performance-specialty).

My suggestions for your visit

Head to the “X-Large Shoes” store on Jiangning Lu early in your trip. Try on sizes US 13/14 and see what fits and what the inventory is like. If they don’t have exactly what you want, take note of the brand/size and ask staff if they can order or refer to another store.
Visit a large flagship sports brand store (Nike/Under Armour/Hoka) in major malls (for example around Huaihai Road, Nanjing East, or Pudong) and ask specifically about extra-large sizes. They may have hidden stock or be able to check inventory.
For gym/activewear: after shoes, wander through the French Concession/Xinle Lu area and check independent boutiques. Also check larger malls for a “premium” sports-fashion floor rather than just the main sports-gear floor. It may carry brands you don’t find elsewhere.
Bring your size information in Chinese (US size, EU size, and cm length) so you can ask in store. For example: “我穿美国尺码13 (或14)，欧码大约49／50，请问你们有这个尺码吗？”

Things to be aware of

Even the stores that advertise large sizes might have limited stock in the very largest sizes (US 14+), so call ahead or visit early. The article noted “only one pair in each type may be available” at some specialty stores.
Prices: Imported or niche large-size footwear may cost more than standard local sizes, due to limited supply and import costs.
Language challenge: Staff may have limited English, so showing size in Chinese and/or using translation will help. Also check availability of your style/colour ahead.
Returns/exchange: If you buy and later regret, check the store’s return policy. Some local boutiques may have stricter rules than you’re used to.
Time: If you find something you like, buy it early in your trip rather than waiting until the last day — just in case they don’t have your size later.

In summary: yes, you can find tall-sized shoes (US 13/14) in Shanghai — it’s just a matter of going to the right store and being prepared. And yes, you can also find gym/activewear beyond just the big chain sports stores, especially in trendy shopping districts. Let me know the specific style/brand you’re after and I can check for exact store addresses for you!

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