In an era where young people are often bombarded with negative messages, one Michigan teen is showing the country that embracing your uniqueness and overcoming adversity is not only possible but can inspire others to do the same.
Meet Eric Kilburn Jr., a 16-year-old football player from Goodrich High School, who has officially set two Guinness World Records: the largest feet and the largest hands of any living teenager. Standing at a towering 6-foot-10, Kilburn’s feet measure an incredible 13½ inches, making him a whopping size 23 in men’s shoes—a far cry from the typical size 8½ to 9 for boys his age. His hands? They measure an impressive 9.13 inches, well beyond the average 7.4 inches for teens.
While some might see these physical traits as burdens, Eric has turned them into opportunities to inspire others.
“People are usually amazed and feel comfortable starting conversations with me about the size of my feet and hands,” Kilburn told Guinness. “I meet lots of interesting people this way.”
Kilburn’s size has been a defining feature of his life from an early age. He has always been noticeably bigger than his peers, even in kindergarten. But by fifth grade, his size started causing real issues. Shopping for shoes became impossible; no store carried anything even close to what he needed. Custom shoes would cost the Kilburn family over $1,500—a financial burden that was simply too heavy to bear.
In a testament to the values of perseverance and personal responsibility, Kilburn adapted. He wore Crocs for two years straight—yes, even in the harsh Michigan winters—because they were the only footwear available to him. But this left him with painful calluses, blisters, and ingrown toenails. Worse yet, he suffered a high ankle sprain, which kept him off the football field—his true passion.
But in a country where people help each other in times of need, Kilburn’s story sparked something beautiful. As word of his struggle spread, shoemakers like Under Armour and Reebok—spurred on by none other than NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal—stepped up to offer their help. They provided Kilburn with several pairs of shoes that fit him, at no cost to his family.
“It was pretty cool to see how many people genuinely care about helping others,” Kilburn said, a reflection of his deep gratitude and appreciation for the generosity of his fellow Americans.
Inspired by the kindness shown to him, Kilburn has decided to pay it forward. Alongside his mother, he founded the Big Shoe Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals who, like him, struggle to find clothes and shoes in their size. It’s a touching example of how American families work together to overcome challenges and create solutions for others.
“I want to help people the same way I was helped when I needed it,” Eric explained.
Kilburn is also passionate about encouraging others to embrace their differences. In today’s culture, where fitting in is often prized above standing out, Kilburn’s message is one of strength and resilience: “It’s okay to stand out. Don’t let negativity distract you from your goals.”
While breaking world records wasn’t initially on his list of life goals, Kilburn says the recognition feels surreal and rewarding. “To have gone from reading the books to being inside the 2025 book is something I never would have imagined was even possible.”
Eric Kilburn Jr.’s story is a shining example of how faith, family, and community can turn obstacles into opportunities. His message of positivity, self-acceptance, and giving back is exactly what this country needs more of today. At a time when many are searching for role models, Eric Kilburn Jr. is filling some pretty big shoes—and doing so with grace and humility.
