Eric Kilburn Jr., a towering high school freshman standing 6'10", has long struggled to find shoes that fit his extraordinary size 23 feet. After his mother’s heartfelt public request for help, an outpouring of support from brands and the community has brought hope and custom footwear within reach.
- Eric Kilburn Jr. needs rare size 23 shoes due to his extraordinary height.
- Several athletic brands, including Under Armour and PUMA, stepped in with offers for custom footwear.
- A community fundraiser raised nearly $20,000 to support Eric’s ongoing footwear and sports gear needs.
What happened
Eric Kilburn Jr. is a 6'10" high school freshman from Michigan whose size 23 feet made it nearly impossible for his mother to find shoes that fit him. His extraordinary height and foot size, which run in his family, made conventional shoe shopping a struggle. Over time, Eric even experienced health issues such as ingrown toenails and injuries from improper footwear.
After years of difficulty, Eric’s mother shared their story with local media, hoping to raise awareness and seek assistance. The story quickly gained attention from the community and major shoe companies, which responded generously. Brands like Under Armour and PUMA planned visits to measure Eric for custom shoes, while a GoFundMe campaign raised almost $20,000 within a week to support his footwear and sports needs.
Why it feels good
This story highlights the power of community and corporate goodwill coming together to solve a frustrating and unique problem. The Kilburn family, once facing the challenge alone, now finds relief knowing they are supported by a network of caring individuals and organizations. Eric’s mother expressed immense gratitude and joy as they moved from desperation to hope.
It’s a reminder that even small acts—sharing a story, offering resources, or donating—can create a big impact for families in need. Seeing multiple companies and strangers unite to help Eric not only solves a practical problem but also provides emotional warmth, celebrating kindness and inclusion.
What to enjoy or watch next
Follow Eric’s ongoing journey as brands deliver custom sports footwear and gear tailored to his size and active lifestyle. With custom shoes on the way, Eric can safely return to playing football and enjoy winter comfortably with special boots, which he lacked for years. The community’s support also opens doors for specialized sports equipment designed for him.
This uplifting example invites us all to stay alert for unique needs in our communities and to offer empathy and assistance whenever possible. Stories like Eric’s inspire us to celebrate diversity, embrace kindness, and recognize that sometimes, coming together makes the impossible possible.