If you’ve ever wished you were a bit taller or wondered how a few extra inches could change how you carry yourself, this guide is exactly what you need.
Not long ago, elevator shoes were mocked as desperate or obvious. But times have changed. With sleek new designs and a growing focus on self-improvement, elevator shoes have become a staple in a man’s grooming and style toolkit—just like a fresh haircut or a tailored jacket. No shame, just confidence.
How Do Elevator Shoes Work?
Elevator shoes and their variations are designed to conceal a raised insole, discreetly adding a boost of height without anyone noticing.
Well-designed elevator shoes should be lightweight, balanced, and comfortable enough to wear from day to night—without any hint of awkwardness.
Types of Height-Increasing Footwear for Men
1. Elevator Shoes (Custom Built)
- Designed specifically to increase height
- Seamlessly stylish—look like regular shoes
- Come in dress shoes, sneakers, boots, even slides
- Most comfortable for extended wear
Custom built to add height, they blend in with your style seamlessly and, from the outside, give nothing away. Choose from a wide range of styles – from dress shoes to sneakers to boots, and even slides.. As they are designed with the elevation in mind, this option is usually the most subtle and comfortable for extended wear.
2. Elevator Insoles (Add-Ins)
- Slip into your existing shoes
- Range includes heel pads, stackable soles, or full-length inserts
- Best for subtle boosts
- Budget-friendly and versatile
These slip into your existing shoes, adding extra height without needing to change your footwear. They come in a range of options, from stackable soles to full-length moulded soles or simple heel boost pads. Best used for subtle height boosts to maintain comfortable wear in footwear not designed to boost, they’re a flexible and cost effective option that can give new life to your old shoes.
3. Platform or Chunky-Soled Shoes
- Less discreet but fashion-forward
- Great for confident, trend-savvy dressers
- Add noticeable height instantly
By far the least subtle of options but – with the right outfit and attitude – these are a solid choice for those who dare!
What Height Boost Should You Choose?
This depends on whether you prefer an understated boost or something more noticeable, as well as how much comfort you're willing to sacrifice. Common options include:
- 6-7cm (2.4-2.8”): Arguably the sweet spot of height boosting shoes and offering enough height to notice yet not enough to announce. The gentle heel-to-toe drop is comfortable for all day wear and you’ll even notice improvements to your posture, further adding to your newfound air of confidence.
- 8cm (3.2”): Good for a night out or if you’re comfortable with more. These can take a little getting used to, but quality shoes and a little practice make it work.
- 10cm+ (4”+): Big move. These are almost like heels. You’ll need to adjust how you walk, but plenty of guys pull it off.
| Boost | Inches | Ideal For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–7 cm | 2.4–2.8″ | Everyday wear | Comfortable and subtle |
| 8 cm | 3.2″ | Nights out | Slight learning curve but manageable |
| 10+ cm | 4″+ | Bold look | Like wearing heels—practice required |
How to Wear Elevator Shoes with Style
While extra height is nice, careful styling makes the difference in achieving a put-together look that exudes confidence. Here are a few tips to bear in mind:
- Stick to quality, particularly for dress shoes. As with any formal shoe purchase, well made shoes always look and feel better and last much longer.
- Sneakers are perfect for everyday wear with a lift, with a huge range of styles to choose from. Casual, comfy, and versatile, match them with your outfit for a polished look that doesn’t appear overdone.
- Test your shoes before you wear them for the whole day. As with any new pair of shoes, breaking them in gently ensures that you keep looking – and feeling – your best during extended wear.
- Make sure to pair your shoes with tailored pants of the right length. Too long, and they bunch; too short, and it’s awkward. Aim for a clean fit that works within the overall balance of your look..
- Own your style. Taller or not, confidence isn’t in the inches—it’s in you.
Need some inspiration? Check out Levante Shoes and find your perfect pair.
FAQs - Elevator Shoes
Are elevator shoes comfortable?
Yes, especially those designed from the ground up with elevation in mind. Custom elevator shoes are more comfortable than insert alternatives.
Will people notice I’m wearing them?
Not unless you tell them. Modern elevator shoes are designed to be visually identical to regular footwear.
Do they really boost confidence?
Absolutely. A slight increase in height often improves posture and self-assurance.
