In short, elevator shoes are okay to wear as long as they boost your style and physique overall. As long as the platform is a maximum of 6-7cm/ 2.7 inches, elevator shoes are not only okay to wear but should be tried by everybody since they complement your silhouette and add an excellent touch to your style. For a longer answer, see below.
What Are Elevator Shoes?
Is it OK to wear elevator shoes? Before we go any further, let’s define elevator shoes first. Elevator shoes have thickened sections of the insoles, also known as shoe lifts. The lifts can be found under the heels to give the wearer a taller appearance or to ‘elevate’ them, as the name suggests.
The component that makes the wearer taller differs from the visible heels; shoe lifts are hidden inside the shoes. The thickened insoles are typically made from plastic, wood, or rubber.
How Do Elevator Shoes Add to Your Height?
Shoe lifts contribute to added height and are hidden inside the shoes. The shoes are constructed with support and comfortability in mind, ensuring that the wearer will gain height without any problems. As long as the lifts aren’t too high, nobody would notice. Notice that unlike platform shoes, where the platform is visible, the elevator shoe platform is hidden, and unless the shoe is not too tall, elevator shoes look just like regular shoes.
How Many Inches or cm Do Elevator Shoes Add?
The shoe lift typically adds 5-10cm/2-4 inches to your height. Always ensure that the lifts are suitable for you; even though 10cm / 4-inch lifts are available, you can still choose them. Using high-platform heels can lead to health and comfort problems, so prioritize your well-being before anything else. The way I see it, elevator shoes are a go-to choice for anyone who wants to increase their height since they look like any other standard shoes from the outside perspective.
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes?
Everything is a matter of personal preference, just like any other fashion choice. If elevator shoes make you feel more confident and comfortable, it’s OK to wear them. But, aside from that, think of the style first. A slight elevation in your shoes makes your legs appear longer, thus elevating the style of your clothes. In the end, it is not about the height but more about the style. There is a reason women wear heels all the time, and men’s shoes are built with a slight lift, too.
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes: Expert Opinions
Our guys generally consider elevator shoes an excellent addition to your shoe lineup as long as they are comfortable and don’t cause foot problems. I asked our team in the office, and the majority mentioned that as long as the platform is not too big or weird-looking, they see absolutely no issues with it. It’s 2024!
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes: 2024 Trends
Let’s settle on one thing. We see that elevator shoes are becoming more and more popular, and widely accepted by many. A few friends are open about wearing them, and I do not see anything wrong with it. Fashion trends show that several people from both genders are embracing these height-enhancing shoes.
As the years go by, designers are creating more fashionable and comfortable options to keep shoes up to date and suit different tastes and occasions. We see elevator shoes as a trendy and practical choice for adding a bit of extra height and making you stand out from the crowd.
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes: Common Misconceptions
The number is comfort. I’m here to say that in 2024, it’s mostly a myth because modern designs focus on comfort and support, which makes them suitable for extended wear. Long gone are the days of uncomfortable elevator shoes. Almost every brand nowadays has a wide selection of excellent and comfy styles. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, though, after trying and testing multiple elevator shoes, some famous brands still sell extremely uncomfortable shoe models. I would never recommend them to anybody. On the other hand, some models from various brands are heaven-sent, and I would swap them with my regular sneakers anytime. Remember that you need to test and try a lot more with elevator shoes than with average shoes!
Another myth is that elevator shoes are only worn by people who are insecure about their height; that is untrue. Elevator shoes offer multiple benefits, but many wear them simply as a fashion choice.
One last myth that persists is that elevator shoes look unnatural or bulky. Today’s style proves otherwise, as they are sleek and indistinguishable from regular footwear. Despite that, I agree that some brands must work on their lineup.
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes: How to Pair Them With Right Clothes
The best part about elevator shoes is that you can pair them easily with the right clothes. Pairing elevator shoes with the right clothes can enhance your style and confidence. Wear them with well-fitted high-rise trousers or jeans that slightly cover the shoes for a polished look, creating a seamless line. Elevator shoes go well with tailored suits for formal occasions, ensuring the pants are the right length.
I suggest wearing longer pants with shoes over 2.7 inches / 7cm. Casual outfits like chinos or slim-fit jeans paired with a shirt or jacket can also work great. When choosing clothes, aim for a balanced silhouette to complement the added height. Overall, the key is to keep your outfit proportional and stylish, letting the elevator shoes blend naturally with your look.
Elevator shoes come in different widths. Thinner elevator shoes look good with pretty much any outfit style. If you purchase more comprehensive models, I suggest using them only with baggy or bulky clothes.
Tip: pay special attention to the shoe width when buying elevator shoes.
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes?: Key Aspects to Consider
Comfort
Ensure the shoes are comfortable for prolonged wear. Look for well-designed insoles and quality materials to avoid discomfort or foot problems. I have tested elevator shoe models that literally hurt my feet; I am not joking. Make sure you select the best-rated shoes and be bold and test before you settle down with a few favorite pairs.
Shoe width
If you are new to elevator shoes, go for thinner models. Wide models will add little to your overall silhouette; if used, they will require quite a specific outfit to fit well. Opt out for popular thin models first.
Fit
Shoes that fit too tight or too loose can cause discomfort and may affect your posture. Proper fit is crucial.
Occasion
Choose elevator shoes appropriate for the occasion. Various styles are available, from formal to casual, so pick one that matches your outfit and event. In addition, buy a separate pair for indoor and outdoor use.
Confidence
Wearing elevator shoes can boost confidence by adding height. Ensure you feel comfortable and confident in them, as your attitude and comfort level will reflect your overall appearance.
Aesthetics
Modern elevator shoes come in various styles that resemble regular shoes. Opt for designs that seamlessly blend with your wardrobe, ensuring a natural and stylish look. As mentioned earlier in the post, opt for thinner shoes and use appropriate shoes for appropriate occasions.
Health
If you have pre-existing foot or back issues, consult a healthcare professional to ensure elevator shoes suit you. Something that I keep mentioning to everyone is that you should avoid elevator shoes above 5cm/2.5 inches if you have foot (and back) health issues.
Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes: Do They Boost Confidence?
I have been wearing Lyrashoes sneakers for almost a year now, and I can say there’s a difference when I am in them versus when I wear regular shoes. They make a huge difference. In addition to my overall appearance, I have noticed that they complement some of my trousers and pants much better than my average shoes.
Elevator shoes can enhance one’s overall appearance, posture, and confidence by subtly increasing height. For those who feel more poised and assured with extra height or want to make their silhouette appear longer, elevator shoes can be an excellent addition to their wardrobe.
When is it NOT OK to Wear Elevator Shoes?
Sports
Participating in sports requires shoes that provide support, flexibility, and cushioning. As of right now there are no elevator sports shoes that can really be used for actual sports. Elevator shoes can ruin your performance, increase the risk of injury, and negatively affect your movement and balance. If you are looking for height increase even when doing sports, check out carbon-plated shoes if you want to add height while doing sports. Clifton, which adds almost 4cm/1.5 inches to your height while making running feel much better.
Wrong style
Pairing elevator shoes with the wrong clothes can create an unbalanced look. For example, wearing them with shorts or casual outfits might make the height enhancement obvious, drawing unwanted attention to the shoes. It’s essential to choose clothes that complement the style and purpose of the elevator shoes for a cohesive appearance. The critical rule is that the wider the shoe, the bulkier the clothes. If you do not want to take risks, choose thinner models as an example of Lyra sneakers here.
Pairing Platform Shoes with the Wrong Clothes
Pairing platform shoes with the wrong clothes, like elevator shoes, can create an awkward and unflattering look. Platform shoes tend to have a more noticeable width and design, so matching them with outfits that balance the proportions and maintain a stylish appearance is essential. Avoid overly formal or mismatched clothing that can make the platforms stand out in an undesirable way.
About Elevator Shoes:
What are Various Types of Elevator Shoes?
Formal Elevator Shoes
Classic designs include oxfords, brogues, and loafers, making them perfect for business meetings, formal events, and occasions requiring a polished look. These shoes blend traditional elegance with a discreet height boost, ensuring you look sharp while gaining a bit of extra stature.
Casual Elevator Shoes
Casual styles such as sneakers and loafers are designed for everyday wear and informal gatherings. Elevator sneakers offer comfort and style for daily activities, while casual loafers pair well with jeans or chinos, providing a relaxed yet fashionable appearance. Check out Lyrashoes for sneakers and Chamaripa shoes for a good pair of loafers.
Boots
Boots come in various styles. The most common ones are Ankle boots, which provide ankle support and are best for casual or semi-formal settings, and Chelsea boots, which blend seamlessly with formal and casual outfits, adding a touch of elegance and added height. With elevator boots, you can use a much taller platform. The inner sole lifts of boots can boost your height by 8-9cm/2-3 inches without discomfort or anybody noticing since they are big and bulky.
Sandals
The elevator shoe category includes open-toe options that combine height increase with comfort, which is ideal for warmer weather. These sandals allow a stylish and practical way to add extra height while keeping your feet cool. Try to keep elevator sandals under 3cm/ 1.1 inches.
Athletic Shoes
Sports companies design running or training shoes for comfort and performance, incorporating height increase without sacrificing support. Running shoes are ideal for physical activities, while training shoes provide stability and cushioning for gym workouts and fitness routines. My advice is to avoid athletic elevator shoes and sneakers. Opt for carbon-plated sports shoes for running or heavy sports to get added height.
Specialty Shoes
This category includes winter boots and work boots tailored for specific needs. Winter boots offer insulation and an increase in height for colder climates, while work boots provide durability and protection, making them suitable for professions requiring rugged footwear with added height.
Fashion Shoes
Platform shoes and high-top sneakers make bold style statements while offering significant height boosts. Platform shoes feature a thicker sole for a striking look, and high-top sneakers blend trendy aesthetics with the benefits of added height, making them a popular choice for a fashionable, casual style.
Can You Tell If Someone Is Wearing Elevator Shoes?
One of the things I love about elevator shoes is their hidden height boost. The shoe lifts are not noticeable to the naked eye, and most people don’t realize they might be wearing them. The only way to determine if someone is wearing elevator shoes is to pay detailed attention to their footwear, which also depends on the type of shoes they wear and the height enhancement. The bulkier the shoe, the less visible the shoe lift is. You can use it to your advantage. For example, for sports shoes, you should try to use less than 6cm/2.5-inch shoe lifts, while winter boots allow up to 10 cm/3-inch shoe lifts since they are bulky and the elevator platform is less visible.
When is it not OK to wear elevator shoes? In my view, it’s best to avoid anything over 7cm/2.5 inches. Shoes with lifts (except for boots) that high will not only look ridiculous but also make you highly uncomfortable. Trust me with this; I’ve been there personally. In contrast, anything under 4cm/1.5 inches will not have an effect, and shoe lifts will not be visible. So, choose shoe lifts with a height increase between 5cm / 2.1 inches and max 7cm 2.5 inches.
Elevator Shoes vs. Platform Shoes
Elevators and platform shoes enhance height but do so in different ways and for different purposes.
Elevator shoes are designed to provide a discreet increase in height. They typically feature hidden insoles or elevated inner soles that aren’t visible outside. They aim for a subtle boost, making them suitable for formal and casual wear while maintaining a classic shoe appearance.
Platform shoes have visibly thicker outer soles that provide a more pronounced height increase. They are often associated with bold fashion statements and are more likely to be noticed due to their distinctive, chunky sole design. I suggest wearing them in bulky loose clothes.
When should you wear elevator vs. platform shoes? While elevator shoes focus on subtlety and comfort, platform shoes emphasize a dramatic style and can be less versatile when paired with various outfits. So, choose carefully when pairing platform shoes with your clothes.
Elevator Shoes vs. Regular Shoes
As mentioned earlier, Elevator shoes have particular hidden layers inside that make you look taller without changing how the outside of the shoe looks. They are designed to boost a small height while keeping a normal appearance, so they work well in many situations.
Regular shoes don’t have any extra-height features and come in a standard design. They don’t make you taller but are available in many styles for everyday use. You will notice that most regular shoes, even with tall outsoles, barely increase height by more than 3cm/1.1 inches. One mistake I notice some people make is buying bulky regular shoes to increase their height. My heart is almost screaming. Just Google and check for elevator shoes, man. Check out this picture of a Russian General using regular platform shoes to get height-increase. Why not invest in elevator shoes?
Do elevator Shoes Improve Posture?
Elevator shoes do improve your posture, provided you are comfortable in them. Thanks to the lifts, slightly raising the heels when walking makes us walk more upright and have a better spine posture. That is another good reason to incorporate shoes with lifts into your wardrobe.
Tips: Pairing High-Rise Trousers with Elevator Shoes for Maximum Height
It is no secret that high-rise trousers will be in fashion in 2024 and are growing in popularity yearly. They do not only make you appear taller, but they also look perfect. Pairing them with the elevator shoes will double the added height effect. Opt for slim or straight-leg styles to create a smooth, continuous line, and avoid wide or flared pants that can disrupt the look.
Ensure the trousers are hemmed to cover just the top of the elevator shoes, maintaining a sleek appearance. Pair the high-rise trousers with a fitted, tailored top to balance the silhouette and keep the focus on the height boost without adding unnecessary bulk. Regarding the color, choose black or dark brown for your formal trousers, and make sure that shoes and trousers have similar colors or palettes to make the effect even more pronounced.
For a more in-depth comprehensive guide, check out this article.
Tips: How to Maintain Elevator Shoes
Clean Regularly
To remove dirt and stains from leather shoes, use a damp cloth and a soft brush for suede shoes.
Store Properly
Keep elevator shoes in a cool, dry place and use shoe trees to maintain their shape.
Avoid Moisture and Sunlight
Protect shoes from excessive moisture and direct sunlight to prevent damage.
Rotate Shoes
My strong advice is to have a pair for indoor use and a pair for pure outdoor use. You can swap your indoor shoes with outdoor ones for special occasions, but keep the indoor shoes inside as much as possible.
Use orthotic insoles with the elevator shoes
I often suggest wearing orthotic inserts with the elevator shoes. Not all models have space for insoles, but I have noticed that insoles dramatically improve my comfort. Lyrashoes, for example, mentions explicitly on their website that elevator shoes accommodate orthotic inserts, but not all brands care about this aspect.
Why should you wear orthotic insoles? Look at this picture of the 6cm/2.5 elevator shoe after one year of use. You can notice the uneven shoe wear. This issue is especially pronounced with elevator shoes, so using orthotic insoles and getting the right shoes from a proper elevator brand is of paramount importance.
Tips: Popular Brands of Elevator Shoes
Guidomaggi: Known for high-end elevator shoes that use premium materials and craftsmanship, combining style with height enhancement.
Lyrashoes: my favorite brand for sneakers and the price-to-design ratio. It’s an absolute must.
Check out this link to browse their latest models.
Chamaripa: A famous brand offering a wide selection of elevator shoes, from dress shoes to casual and sporty options, known for quality and comfort.
Calto provides a variety of elevator shoes, focusing on combining style with practicality and suitable for different settings and needs.
TallMenShoes specializes in shoes and boots that increase height for men and offer a diverse range of designs.
Tips: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Wearing Elevator Shoes
Choosing the Wrong Size
Ensure your shoes fit well when wearing lifted insoles. They should not be too tight or loose, as tightness can cause discomfort and affect your posture. Remember, you are already walking on a heel, so shoe comfort is even more important!
Wearing Inappropriate Outfits
It’s best to avoid mismatching outfits and wearing contrasting colors, as this can make your height increase apparent and disrupt your overall look.
Choosing the Wrong Shoes
Wearing terrible-quality shoes from some brands feels like someone is torturing your feet. I advise trying popular shoes from each brand first to avoid throwing expensive shoes into the garbage.
Ignoring Comfort
Prioritize your comfort by ensuring the shoes have proper cushioning and support. If you feel any discomfort, don’t ignore them, as they can negatively impact your confidence and health.
Overlooking Quality
Invest in well-made elevator shoes that will last a few years. Poor-quality shoes can wear out quickly and may not provide the necessary support or style.
Neglecting Maintenance
Regularly clean and maintain your elevator shoes to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear.
As mentioned in this review, I have one pair for indoors and one for outdoors to keep them fresh and maintain them long-term.
Are Elevator Shoes Worth the Investment?
Elevator shoes can be a good investment. It takes some time to find a good pair, but their benefits outweigh the cons. Elevator shoes offer a discreet way to add height, boost confidence, and improve posture while blending seamlessly with various outfits. They provide a practical solution for those seeking a subtle height increase without sacrificing style. More importantly, they complement your silhouette and make your outfits look more outstanding. I stand behind this statement.
What are the essential things to remember when choosing elevator shoes for the first time? It’s essential to choose well-made, comfortable shoes and to consider how they fit with your wardrobe and lifestyle. If you value the added height and are willing to invest in quality, elevator shoes can enhance your appearance and confidence, making them a valuable addition to your footwear collection.
Conclusion: Is it OK to Wear Elevator Shoes?
Elevator shoes are definitely in style in 2024, offering a discreet way to enhance height, boost confidence, and improve posture without significantly altering your appearance. They are a stylish and practical choice designed to blend in with various outfits; wear them appropriately for different occasions. Elevator shoes can be a high-quality, well-fitting option for any man looking to upgrade their style. Choosing to wear elevator shoes depends on personal preference and how they fit into your lifestyle.