Shoe Lifts

Do stars really wear Shoe Lifts? Aren't they satisfied with their god given height? Well, I dug up an old quote from the crooner Bobby Darin who reveals what many of us know - shoe lifts have been around since the dawn of hollywood:

"I went out and had these special shoes made. It's nothing new, I don't know if you know, John Wayne is 6'4 and wears 3-4 inch lifts in his shoes. I don't know who he wants to be bigger than, but he does and it's an old, old custom, I certainly did not invent it. In my case, it was more neccesary than it was for Duke Wayne. I had these shoes made and 2 to 3 inch lifts inside and the heel was another 2 and half inches or so and I walked around that way, wherever I could without falling over"

Robert Mitchum suggests (or jokes) Wayne wore lifts to make his already large 6ft 4 size appear giantlike. In the book Hollywood Wit, Mitchum is quoted as saying: "Wayne had four-inch lifts in his shoes. He had the overheads on his boat accommodated to fit him. He had a special roof put in his station wagon...The son of a bitch, they probably buried him in his goddamn lifts.". One of those myths.




In a follow up to the shoe lift video above, I talked about the Best footwear to consider when wearing lifts.

Even a short article quoted on WENN entertainment network commented upon Russell Crowe and his alleged elevator shoes, "He wears special shoes to make him look taller. Russell had women falling all over him at a party in producer Jerry Bruckheimer's back yard - until he took his shoes off (and) suddenly lost several inches in height - because (he) had lifts in them. Partygoers say Bruckenheimer nudged Crowe, telling him, "Put your shoes back on, you're blowing your image."

An article from Copley News also reveals that an Italian shoemaker has a few secrets about stars and their heights. Regarding Sylvester Stallone he says: "I made him 4.5 inches taller for 16 years!" and he drops names like Dolly Parton, Douglas, DeNiro and that "I give you one more -- I made William Shatner 3 inches taller in the show."

Nowadays, elevator shoes are used by many celebrities. But you won't find many admitting it, if any. There was even one company who makes lifts (ShoeLift.com) that was quoted on their site as saying: "At our current location in the States we've had numerous security breaches. We have had several American media representatives trying to hack into our clients database and even intercepting orders." With standard 1 inch shoe lifts, they can fit in normal shoes, but stars have lots of money so can even get them designed in such a way that it is hard to tell an elevator shoe from a normal shoe unless you can see the whole shoe, which is usually covered by trouser. So judging heights is still going to be tricky for those few stars that choose to wear them most of the time, others simply won't care.

Screenwriter William Goldman, in his Adventures in Screen Trade book: Which Lie Did I Tell, comments that "Movie stars are short...You see, stars have lifts in their boots....They have lifts in their shoes, their loafers, their slippers. I know one who has lifts in their socks. But noone has figured out a way to put lifts in their feet (yet)"

Similarly, when a star mentions their height, do we really know if they are telling the truth? Thankfully some hollywood stars couldn't give a toss about their height and will happily divulge the information in interviews. Others tip-toe around the answer, whilst some may even lie about their stature. Also consider that many stars will have been measured when they're 20 or so, a percentage of them likely in their shoes and you can bet any that are, for instance 5ft 6.5 would round that to 5ft 7. Like a publicist who will round down a ladies weight, I think many would be tempted to round up an inch or so for shorter stars...

The photo below shows the effects of a good pair of shoe lifts (purpose built into elevator shoes for men):



The elevator shoes I'm wearing in the above photo are top quality hand made elevator shoes, and are available from Don's Elevator Shoes. For an exclusive 10% discount use the coupon code TheAllies1944 at checkout, courtesy of celebheights.

Add a Comment616 comments

khaled taban 5ft9 said on 31/Jan/22
@Rob- I have a question. I measured the height of my sneaker and its exactly an inch. I am 175 and went only to 177. So do you think that an ibch sneakers give more like 0.75"?
Editor Rob
Internally it might be slightly concave in the middle of your heel. If it were a solid heel on a shoe, often (even with thin insole) what you measure on the outside is at least what you'll get from the shoe itself.

With sneakers it can vary a fair bit with what the outsole suggest and what you really end up with.
Ollie2 said on 17/Aug/21
Hi, I’m a tall guy (well over 6ft) who uses shoe lifts and elevator shoes to add even more height. I’ve been doing this a while now and nobody has ever detected it - which is possible if you add extra height skilfully and gradually.

If any other taller than average guys would like to get in touch to ask about adding height through shoe lifts/elevator shoes or to ask my opinion/ advice, then please email me ollie2@email.com
hdilla said on 8/Dec/20
hey rob

how much would these sililcone insoles give in actual height you reckon? after wearing them for a while

Click Here

they are from amazon, and come in different height sizes, 2cm, 3cm, 4cm, 5cm. i doubt they give the advertised height, so how much do you reckon they give from each of the 4 amounts?

cheers rob!
Editor Rob
for the lower 2cm and 3cm I'd knock 5mm or so from that to get closer to what it might actually give.
Jackthe6'2 said on 28/Nov/20
Hi Rob,
Click Here
Do you think this guy wears lifts? His knee angle looks strange while he's bending them. His height also fluctuates from photo to photo.
Editor Rob
wouldn't have guessed it from the clip, but if he was walking about it might look a bit 'funny'
Vaskianino said on 25/Sep/20
Rob what do you think about Nike airzoom tempo next and about Nike zoom vaporfly ? The heel is over 40mm , how height you think they add ?
Editor Rob
I think they are slightly concave so a bit under 4cm.

To give an idea, the moon racer is only 3cm, though looks bigger...
Nik Ashton said on 20/Sep/20
Look at this:

Click Here
Editor Rob
I'm not sure I'd have written this line:

"Mark Wahlberg is probably one of the few "manly" actors on the shorter end of the spectrum that admits his real height, which is publicly listed at 5'8""

Because Wahlberg claims 5ft 10 🧐
Andrew Connor said on 1/Sep/20
Hi Rob,

How much do you think the adidas eqt 93/17 support shoes give?

Click Here
Editor Rob
Not measured that style, but it could be similar to the nmd's, in that it doesn't give as much as it might appear.
Stanley Michaels said on 31/Aug/20
Hello Rob!

How much do you think the Koio avalanche gives?

Click Here

Thank you!
Editor Rob
They look like a 1.2-1.3 inch model.
A 5ft 4.75inch male said on 20/Jul/20
Hey rob your answer to my previous question was really great and kinda satisfying as well as previous question someone asked i am wearing 0.75 inch lift in my shoe resistance and Chelsea both around 1 inch , i don't wear converse any more as they are literally flat and they give me even less than 1.4 with lifts but i am skeptical about wearing in my boots which give me around 1.3 inch should i wear 0.75 inch lift with them or i go less plz advicee rob and thank you, i won't trouble you anymore rob
Editor Rob
Getting 3/4 inch within most boots should be fine. It's just below the point I feel that becomes more difficult to walk and the higher you try to go, the less height you add for the bigger incline.

So 1.3 boot and about 0.7 worth of lifts will give you a decent boost and be reasonably comfortable.
A 5ft 4.75inch male said on 19/Jul/20
Hey rob plz pour down your wisdom on me
I have finally decided to wear lifts, I've bought standard 0.75 inch lifts and only gonna wear base part, i have a hitop converse 70s, van hi, boot hi top that gives me 1.2 and a black leather chelsea boot that gives me approx 1 inch so, give me tips on how to wear them normally, how to not found out how to make them another normal and plz tell me is 0.75 is too much of a lift or i need to go down specially with 1.2 boot and with wear and tear these lift go down to like 0.7, is it really possible to not get found out at all plz elaborate your tips rob as i really need them I've accepted that i am short but i just don't wanna look ridiculous short and i wanna wear shoes like 270s but they really look ridiculous with my short feet so converse and vans are good for me at least
Editor Rob
If you wear hi-top or boots with about 3/4 inch lift, it's going to be pretty much hard for folk to notice.
Of course you will appear a bit taller, so some people could notice this, but it's not a drastic change.
If you were wearing elevators/lifts that pushed you 1.5 inches above normal, then a lot more people would be wondering why you look taller.

Any lift from 0.5 to 1 inch is a kind of safe zone, you can enhance your height a bit in public, without people really noticing it.
avi said on 18/Jul/20
Hi Rob,

How much do Timberland Pro give you think?

1.6 inches?


Click Here


Thanks!
Editor Rob
Could be pushing close to that mark.
Man of culture said on 17/Jul/20
Hey rob: i saw your video about lifts on your YouTube channel and it was very interesting because honestly i wear shoe lifts daily from like 6 years started wearing them at age 16, i have decent lifts and they give me about 0.7 inch or 1.75 cm exactly most of the time i wear them in converse and vans hi tops not a huge lift advantage but decent i like them as well and they are not noticeable my question is this possible to find me wearing lifts in hi tops, boots, if yes how and can you detect me wearing lifts with your expertise in height 😁 is 0.7 lift noticeable really
Editor Rob
With 0.75 inch gains through lifts, it is very hard as I say, especially with hi-tops. You might be able to notice a slight bulge at the shoe laces, but you really would have to look hard for it!

With a thinner shoe, the ankle (if you see them sitting down) could be higher than normal, but most folk wouldn't know just how high to be a dead giveaway.
Nick-H said on 21/Jun/20
Rob, how much do Balenciaga Triple S give?
Click Here
Editor Rob
Haven't measured them yet. But I'd expect a decent boost over 1.5 inches
6'1 in morning 6'.5 said on 21/Mar/20
Hey rob,how much do you think these zara ones give Click Here

I am thinking about 0.7inch lift in them and converse all stars hi,so what would be my final height of both of them and would it be noticeable or give future problems, i am 6ft.5inch at night but my wife is 5ft10.5in So you know
Editor Rob
With 0.7 range lift, you might be getting around 2 inch overall height from the boot+lift
Squash said on 30/Dec/19
How big are the dress shoes on average?
Editor Rob
Many shoes are made with 2cm heels and 1 inch from what I've seen...0.5 is a smaller shoe heel, 1.25 a big one.
Squash said on 30/Dec/19
@Rob

If i use 1.5 inch of Air Max everyday, will give me those shoes back problems in the future?
Editor Rob
No, because the front of the sneakers are usually thickish too, so there's not a big angle your foot is sitting at.
ben francis said on 5/Nov/19
Hi there rob, do you think that using
1 inch lifts on daily basis could cause any height loss over the years?
Editor Rob
I feel long-term use could increase risk of some minor issues, but then wrong fitting footwear is as likely to give you problems too.
jake11111 said on 22/Oct/19
Hey Rob, how much do you think these give?

Click Here
Editor Rob
They are nearer 3/4 inch than say 1 inch, however they could compress a bit and head towards 0.6 after a bit of wear.
JustinL said on 5/Sep/19
Hi rob, if you had to guess what percentage of men wear lifts ?
Editor Rob
It's a small percentage who wear lifts or elevators, I doubt more than 1%
Random Guy said on 2/Jul/19
Hi, Rob. I'm 177 cm out of bad. With lifts, I'm 180. Of course, at night, I'm 2 cm shorter. With lifts, can I claim I'm 5 foot 10? Also, I'm just 20 years old. Is it possible for me to grow to 5 foot 10, so I could be confortable without lifts?
Editor Rob
You will look 5ft 10. At 20 it is less likely to gain another couple of cm unfortunately. A small percentage do, but the huge majority don't.
Phillip kitcher said on 1/Jul/19
Hi Rob,
I have just bought 4 pairs of boots from the Estate sale of the late great Mr Burt Reynolds!
All with ‘custom lifts’
I will be 7 ft tall lol
I have pics but not sure how to upload them here?
Cheers Phillip
Editor Rob
You could always email them and I'll upload (robpaul at gmail.com) or use imgur.com to upload them and include a link.
Rem said on 7/Jun/19
Hi rob. What would the normal amount of cms that an standard sneaker gives? Little bit over an inch? Something like 2.7 cms?
Editor Rob
I would say close to 1 inch is average (maybe slightly less overall), but really 0.75 to 1.2 range covers a fair amount of types of sneakers.

0.5-0.75 is less than average, but a good chunk of people wear sneakers in that range.
avi said on 21/May/19
@Editor Rob

Another quick question
What would you expect the actual increase to be for these half inch lifts?
2nd link is more of a orthotic type so may compress more.


Click Here

Click Here


I had purchased them to experiment and I'm thinking it's really .3 inch not a full half inch for the first link and for 2nd maybe .25 inch.

What do you think?

As always thanks for your time and input.
Editor Rob
side on I'd have thought it might give more, but seeing how it's concave, I could believe about 0.3 inch!

Better just buying a sneaker about 1.3 inches or so...
avi said on 18/May/19
@ Editor Rob

Hi Rob,

I have these Adidas shoes I got about 11 years ago. I am not even 6'1 when I measure in them ( seem to get 6'0.8 maybe) I would think they used to give 1.3 inches do you think over 11 years use they have wore down .3 of an inch or so? I used to run with them. They barely seem to give a solid inch now...

Click Here
Editor Rob
The majority of sneakers will
lose something with wear and tear - thicker soles that aren't well constructed sometimes can lose 0.3-0.4 inch!
Delvin chung said on 9/May/19
Click Here ,,,,,, how much would these give you ?
Editor Rob
I don't know if they are much different, even though the heel looks smaller, would need to check those in a shop to see if they are 1/2 inch or not.
Harry said on 7/Apr/19
Hi Rob. If a 5ft 11.5 or 5ft 5.5 man wore a 1-inch internal lift in a decent-sized shoe, then will they pull off looking the solid 6ft and 5ft 6?
Editor Rob
The lift might only give 0.6 inches of height...(if we are assuming it's being called a 1-inch lift and measured at the back)...so they would still comfortably look half to 3/4 inch taller.

Sometimes lifts (and heels) also help you stand taller too.
Lapinux said on 30/Jun/18
Hey Rob, I'm exactly 5'9" on the dot at my lowest. What will a 0.75 inch lift push me to look like? I'm planning on getting them, and what shoes can they be used in? Also are they noticeable?
Editor Rob
Lifts like 0.5 to 0.75 just solidify your height, going from say a 5ft 9 to looking nearly 5ft 10 to other people.

You should be able to fit them in most shoes. Most folk probably won't notice the little increase you get. I believe once you go above 1 inch, the proportion of people who might notice a change increases a fair bit.
saumyojit said on 26/Jun/18
sir i am using height insoles but when i measure my height with shoes and insoles on it should be like 185.31 but it is 3 cm less.
shoes heel is 3.81 cm + 3+3.5 (INSOLES)
my height is 175.1cm
why this happens ?due to my 90 kg bodyweight?
Editor Rob
The actual height the insole gives is near 2 inches down the lift. So the back of a lift might give 2 inches, but the bit directly under the ankle could be 1.5-1.6 range.
Unsure (now sure I'm 174 cm) said on 26/May/18
How do you feel about putting a small lift inside a pair of midsole tech shoes? Would you recommending sizing up by a half size even if the lift small and discreet like a heel lift, or just go with the regular size? I'm 174 cm, so if I purchase Don's 3.1 inch midsole tech and put a small insole within, could I pull off looking as tall as 5'10.5-5'11?
Editor Rob
I don't think it would improve them much, and might make it more uncomfortable.
5'9andindifferent said on 14/May/18
Hi Rob, I am about to turn 20 and I'm right at 5'9, sometimes I feel short and other times I don't. As far as I can tell, all of the average height listings are "individual reported" heights and say the average U.S. male height is 5'10. In your experience, is the 5'10 listing accurate or off? If not, what do you think the average U.S. males height is? Thank you
Conorda said on 7/May/18
Hey Rob, 3 inch elevator shoes five mw full 3 inch?

And if i just wear sometimes, it will make me shorter in future if i do fitness and more?
Editor Rob
Even with 'midsole tech' there is going to be a slight fall off in the slope of the insert (towards the ankle area), but it won't be as drastic as some elevator shoes out there, or lifts which say they give 3 inches and you end up with 2.
Zineddine said on 26/Apr/18
Hello Rob I'm 173.4 during the day when I'm out .. I just want a shoe lifts to be as tall as 5 ft 9 what shoe lifts would advise me ... also want them to fit well in converse and sneakers
Editor Rob
There's quite a few on amazon, I'd just buy one you can afford that has decent reviews.
Aron said on 25/Mar/18
Hi rob how much of height would these boots made me if i’m 1,78? Click Here 5 inches
Editor Rob
The 5 inch model might not get you a full 4 inches, but you'd still be close to 188cm, at least 187cm for sure.

However, I wouldn't recommend going that big, I always think 2.5 range is enough for an elevator.
Matta said on 1/Mar/18
Rob.

I have nike shox and i tried putting a 1 inch insole inside, its really tight and my foot can almost fell out of the shoe, Would 0.5 insole be better?
Editor Rob
1 inch is preferrable for a high-top style sneaker, which would make it easier to contain.

Try 1/2 or 3/4 inch in the Nike Shox.
so said on 25/Feb/18
Don't you think wearing elevator shoes/lifts will just make you even more insecure??? You could get so used to seeing yourself with your lifts in that when you take them off, you could feel even shorter than you did before then when you started using the lifts. Also you'd have to wear your shoes all the time around collegues or friends because if they see you shrink 3 inches they'll most likely notice.
Editor Rob
Most people seek out lifts as a way to help their insecurity.

If it improves their confidence, that's no bad thing, although there are definitely problems if you choose to wear elevators because the higher you go, the more people notice the difference.

That's why I would always recommend if anybody goes down the lifts route, to just go up an inch or so and use 2-2.2 elevators.
Javier said on 23/Feb/18
Hey Rob are you barefoot in the bare picture? And I am curious is it possible someone for who is the same height as someone else to look shorter?
Editor Rob
Me in Socks and Jenny in a lowish sneaker, from what I remember those were 0.4-0.5 sneakers.
klaas said on 10/Feb/18
Editor Rob
I keep meaning to do a video on the basic shoe lifts out there, to show the various claims and heights, one day I will get round to it!
------------------------------
That would be great, I'm interested in this topic!
dany said on 12/Jan/18
Hi Rob, could you please give me an opinion on how much these shoe insoles give?
Click Here
Click Here
I bought some and they are the cheapest option possible. They claim to give 5cm(2 inches) if you use all the gel inserts but altogether I measured and it was around 4.5cm. How much do you think they would give when walking?
Editor Rob
I keep meaning to do a video on the basic shoe lifts out there, to show the various claims and heights, one day I will get round to it!

Certainly they won't always give as much as they claim because of the angle of the shoe lift.
marina said on 13/Dec/17
Hi Rob, do you think Timberland Tackhead boots are comfortable to wear with 0.4 inch lifts ?
[Editor Rob: if you put a half to 3/4 inch lift that should give you a solid 1cm and take overall height to 2 inches.

That should be reasonable, it's not that much of a lift really.]
carrtman said on 7/Dec/17
Hi Rob, do you know if Nike Air Max 90 give as much height as 180+ do ? Thank you
[Editor Rob: there's a few variations of both the 90 and 180's, but the airmax 180 is thicker than the 90 versions I've seen.]
DirectorKrennic said on 28/Sep/17
Rob, what are the best lifts available online that really gives you 2" height increase? My budget is $50.

Thanks Rob.
[Editor Rob: I don't see any premium ones online, the kind that I could recommend.]
DirectorKrennic said on 14/Jul/17
Hey Rob, I have a 7 cm lifts and I put it inside my Nike Air Force One. I'm 5'7.5" and have spiky hair, how tall does that make me?
[Editor Rob: you could be near 5ft 10]
adam said on 12/Jul/17
rob on ebay there are some insoles which say they give you 3 inches. how much height do you think they really give you?
[Editor Rob: 2 inches (if claiming 3) is likely.]
Christian-196.5cm (6ft5 3/8) said on 23/Jun/17
Caution for those who want to wear big lifts (anything over 1-2 inch) with zero chance of being detected: Always wear either mid-cut or high-cut shoes, or boots. And always wear extra-long pants, and either boot cut, relaxed or loose fit pants along with it. I don't wear lifts myself, but I just wanted to give lift wearers a heads-up.
Italian Stallion 174cm said on 17/Jun/17
@Bobby Digital

Hey man, thanks. These look just about right!
Bobby Digital said on 14/Jun/17
Hey Italian Stallion 174cm I would recommend getting Nike Air Force 1 '07 High, about 1 size larger than you would normally take. These give over 1" (3cm) of height. Replace the original insole with 2" insoles and you're 3" taller. I find these are also super comfortable to wear all day, every day.
Sudii said on 24/Apr/17
Hey rob!
How much height does insoles for flat-footed people add?
Warren said on 23/Apr/17
wow easily can look 6 feet on that pic, even without them u look 175,
Rob u look super handsome btw
Blake said on 19/Apr/17
Rob, have you ever worn a lift in your shoes out and about or did you just buy them to test them out and tell people on the site about them?
[Editor Rob: just to test them out, I'm personally not going to wear them, but it's none of my business if somebody else chooses to wear them.]
RisingForce said on 19/Apr/17
Aside from often putting a 1" lift in Dan Post or Tony Lama cowboy boots, my regular shoe was these: Click Here 1 or 1.5 sues too big with a 2" lift inside. I could clear the 5'11" mark, but I was in a rush and tried to force the zipper when it was stuck and it broke. So now I'm breaking in a new pair with just the 1" lift before I go back to the 2". I'm still roughly 5'10.75" or so in them, maybe pushing 5'11" in a good day, but you really have to buy boots or high tops well over your regular size for a 2" lift. I don't think most realize how big that is.
Italian Stallion 174cm said on 13/Apr/17
Rob, in my experience, 2 inch lifts will often add more like 1.2-1.3 inches of height.

Guys I'm currently looking for some trainers with a thick sole (1.2+ inches), which I can add 2 inch lifts to (to get a further 1.2ish inches). I'm thinking that high tops are the best bet. If you guys have any suggestions, please let me know, that includes yourself Rob.
Italian Stallion 174cm said on 13/Apr/17
Rob, in my experience, 2 inch lifts will often add more like 1.2-1.3 inches of height.

Guys I'm currently looking for some trainers with a thick sole (1.2+ inches), which I can add 2 inch lifts to (to get a further 1.2ish inches). I'm thinking that high tops are the best bet. If you guys have any suggestions, please let me know, that includes yourself Rob.
SportsHeight said on 6/Apr/17
Rob, what are the best and most sizable lifts you could easily slip into your regular shoes without creating discomfort or arousing suspicion from the outside?
[Editor Rob: really about 2cm, just under an inch you can get away with. Trying to put 1.5 inches in a shoe is really impossible as you start to fall out of most shoes with such large lifts.

A half inch lift is perfect really, it gives somebody a small boost, maybe turns them from a weak 5ft 9 to a strong 5ft 9 and nobody will be able to tell.
]
John said on 29/Mar/17
Rob, would 22 cm lifts cause you to lose height, if you've worn them for 4 years?
[Editor Rob: 22cm???

2 inch lifts over years might cause problems later in life which accelerate height loss or effect posture.]
Nik said on 1/Mar/17
@Maor

No way is 5'9" pretty short for a man, it is bang on average. You say about the amount of women that are 5'9", 5'10" or 5'11" in the west, well there's a reasonable minority but 5'9" is still average for a man.
Randy 5'10 said on 27/Dec/16
How much would a 1/2" lift actually give (measured st highest point)? And a 3/4" lift?
[Editor Rob: Randy, the company selling them probably measure the highest point at the back. So it could give a few mm's less, like 3/8th and 5/8th of an inch instead of 1/2, 3/4.]
John Baptist said on 8/Nov/16
Rob is it true wearing shoe lifts on a daily basis could make someone lose their height ..?
[Editor Rob: John, I don't know the long-term effects, but if you think about big elevators - they could over years increase the chance of some issues.

I wouldn't recommened over 3 inch elevators on a daily basis. A 2-2.5 inch style will be far more forgiving to your joints and feet.]
Leonardo 1.73m said on 8/Aug/16
Rob, Giant Jenny is your girlfriend, she loves your height ;)
Ricky said on 19/Jul/16
Rob,,are you agre if I say the perfect for 5ft7.5in guy is 2.5 in or 3 in shoe lift..I need your recomendation.sory for my bad english
[Editor Rob: I'd stick with a shoe plus a 1 inch lift...or an elevator shoe about 2-2.5 in total.]
Darius said on 6/Jul/16
Rob, I'm 5'7" and I have shoe lifts that take me to 5'8.75 (barefoot) , 5'9.5"(in shoes). I'm a 18 years old. Will it be a noticeable difference if I wear and then remove the shoes in certain occasions. Is the difference in height quite noticeable?
[Editor Rob: some people might notice, but then, how many of those who notice will comment? I doubt many at all...maybe a few might mention it, but you could just say yeah it's thicker shoes and don't take it any further.]
James said on 6/Jun/16
Rob, would you say if they are bad for your feet or is it okay to wear them every day Click Here
[Editor Rob: personally I'd only wear those type of lifts for occasions and not daily.

If you invest in a decent pair of elevator shoes, the insole is built in and the angle of the lift is shaped better so the slope isn't as harsh compared to those kind of lifts you linked too.]
MB said on 27/May/16
Hey Rob. I wonder at what height would people who usually use lifts will stop wearing them? Because I see actors such as Tom Cruise, or Robert Downey Jr sometimes use lifts, my question if they were over which height they wouldn't mind in using them?

Regards!
[Editor Rob: maybe if they were above average they wouldn't use them, like 5ft 11 range.]
Moke said on 8/Mar/16
I'm height-curious myself but sometimes I really ask myself if people realize it's really a first-world-problem that they are discussing. What's the point of wearing 3 inch lifts when at the beach walking barefoot as you're actually suppose to all the time, you feel like you're 90 and shrunk half a head?
Jedi Master 5' 11 said on 19/Feb/16
@ Gx79, I do it all the time but it depends on the shoe. With 1 inch lifts in my regular shoes I peak over 6' 0.5" but I have boots that push me up to 6' 2"
s said on 9/Jan/16
If you have like a 0.5 inch rubber black lift underneath some Dr. Scholls would that raise any suspicion at an airport? They're gonna be in converse by the way
[Editor Rob: I doubt it, although someone curious might have a look...]
Vlad said on 1/Aug/15
Rob,how much height do 2 cm insoles give?
[Editor Rob: because of the angle (and if the manufacturer/seller has measured them at the very back) they might not give more than 1.4-1.5cm.]
Jeff said on 25/Jun/15
Rob, how much height to you reckon a measurement at the doctor's office could add/make you lose?
[Editor Rob: if the stadiometer had a solid base, I'd say the chances of it's accuracy being great, would be high. If attached to a wall, it may be more likely to give an error as you are relying on the precision of the person installing it correctly.]
Gx79 said on 20/Jun/15
Rob would it be weird for a 5'11.6 to 6'0 man to wear lifts
Jeff said on 12/Jun/15
Rob, what's all that talk about home measurement VS doctor measurement? Which one is the most accurate? I mean, I was measured a certain height by my GP with a rolled measurement tape that he pulled out until it reached the top of my head, if that makes sense. How much can I relate on this?
[Editor Rob: you are relying on the tape measure being correctly attached to the wall...there will be many cases of a rolled tape being misaligned/attached. I'd always trust your own measurement. Any tape measure and flat wall/floor should get you an accurate measurement.]
delvin said on 15/Apr/15
How much does a 2 inch lift give?
[Editor Rob: it might give in the 1.5-1.6 inch range because of the angle of the lift - it will be measured at the very back but because of the way your foot pivots, you get a bit less than the height at the back of the lift.]
Matt said on 23/Mar/15
I am 179cm exactly. And i Regular dress shoes with 1.25 heel.They dont look silly like elevator shoes, i can put 1.25 inch lift in them and i walk very normally,no one notice but i get up to 6feet,6feet1 with them. It make me feel good.
one2one said on 15/Mar/15
hey Rob. I am just wondering why It just added 1 inch in my height when I wear sued boots (men). with 1.5 inch and putting some 1.2 shoe lifts on it.. (I just add my shoe heels on a shoe repairing shop so it became 1.5 inch)
[Editor Rob: doesn't make sense to me! Did you double check your measurements... wait, you mean the 1.2 inch lift gave you just an extra inch? That would be normal because of angle of the foot.]
mf said on 6/Feb/15
How much height do regular socks add? I'm curious to know.
[Editor Rob: if you hold them between your fingers they are so thin that you are talking not even a mm. Some thick socks with maybe grips on bottom might add a few mm though.]
Back problem said on 31/Jan/15
Rob is it possible for me to have lost height from 2 inch lifts everday for the past 5 years? no days off.
[Editor Rob: I don't know about that, unless somehow your posture changed a little...]
A6'1Guy said on 17/Jan/15
@ Mulatto "Northern Germans are definitely a tall bunch of people", I believe Greg was talking about ALL of Germany, not just the North, which I'd guess the average is not far off what he said it is.
A6'1Guy said on 16/Jan/15
@ Menace 195cm
195cm is average? What planet do live on?
I don't think there is any country on Earth that has the average height at 195cm (6'4 approx), I thought I was tall(ish) at 187cm (6'1.5)! You are well above average and very noticeably tall, your uncle is extremely tall.
RobV said on 8/Jan/15
An interesting point. Just look through this section at the number of guys who are tall (over 6') wanting to make themselves taller and regularly doing so. As someone myself who is a tad over 6'2" who uses lifts and elevators, I have occasionally put my e-mail address on here and in the Elevator Shoes section if guys want advice on the pluses/minuses/pitfalls/stuff to avoid. And it is amazing the number who are well over 6' - basically they want to be the tallest guy in the room at any given time and all talk about doing what I do - getting the max extra height without being tumbled, almost always looking for techniques to ensure the max poss lift.
RobV said on 8/Jan/15
@JJ Your experience as a tall women who is OK about men wearing lifts etc is very similar to my gf who is tall and likes me being much taller. We don't evere discuss me wearing lifts or elevators, but I think some tall girls are quite happy with guys giving their height some help - provided it is done with a bit of style, is not an issue and doesn't look odd.
Chilean said on 3/Jan/15
Hi rob , In your opinion how much is the maximum of cms in lift that you can use to avoid back problems
[Editor Rob: it's like women wearing high heels. Some can manage for many years, but eventually you might end up doing damage because the body is at an unnatural angle. I would recommend sticking with elevators that give around 2-2.5 inches, if you go higher, then I would suggest (and for women aswell who wear high heels) to start doing some exercises like stretching every week.]
JJ said on 27/Dec/14
It is probably strange for me to comment as a natural 6' female, but I will. I am 59 years old and when I was a teenager in high school and already 6' the shoes I wore had 4" heels. LOL now I'm 6'4" and the guys in school were already too short for me when I was barefoot. I would have loved it the guys would have had lifts. I think it is wonderful that they make lifts and men where them. You may have an issue with being short, but being a tall female teenager was also an issue back. But luckily for me, height was a benefit when I begain modeling. My husband of 30 years is shorter than me and loves when I wear heels, especially when dancing, if you know what I mean. I always wished I was shorter growing up, because I was taller then all my family members. I know I'm just rambling now, but you GO guys and do whatever makes you happy and don't care about what anyone else thinks.
Matt said on 21/Dec/14
I got those classic black dress regular shoes with 1.25 heel exactly. I put a 1 inch lift inside,they give 2.25 lift total.

I am 5f10.75 exactly barefoot.I did measure myself and with those regular shoes and the 1 inch lift i get up to 6foot1.NO ONE notice because its only 1 inch lift inside.

But still 6foot1 is better than 5f11.75
NP 6'5" said on 16/Dec/14
I don't wear lifts but my shoes make me at least an inch taller. When I stand up straight I easily tower over someone who's 5'11"-6'0" barefoot. I m the largest of all my friends and family. I Don't think anyone over someone6'0" should want lifts, being tall has drawbacks
gx79 said on 2/Dec/14
im 6foot1 and i wear 2.4 inch lift
so said on 20/Nov/14
So shoes don't make u taller only the lifts ha
Vic said on 20/Nov/14
Dear Rob,I am 5'8" and only looking for a 2" elevator.2 Questions: What's your view on the company "Don's Footwear"? (Click Here) I liked a shoe MST Royston (Monk shoe, laceless)on the site and i'm worried if it may look awkward on a 2" heel? Should i buy from them, any feedback?
[Editor Rob: Dons have been going for a few years now, it's the model of shoe in the video about elevator shoes I've made on youtube. Since they are expensive, I'd maybe buy 1-inch lifts from ebay/amazon to see if you think wearing higher shoes will be ok. No point spending 200 bux and never wearing them. But you can spend 10 bux and test a pair of lifts, and if you can walk ok and they don't feel too bad, then go with Dons. From the elevators I've seen they are well made and use good quality materials....only thing I'd say, is that because they are handmade do expect it might take a while to get them.]
TheAverageMan said on 2/Oct/14
Does anyone know actual stores (not online) in new york city, especially manhattan, where you can buy a pair of these?
Jay 184cm said on 19/Sep/14
Thanks Rob - is that because they squash down a fair bit? They look a good 2cm in the picture but maybe squash right down?
[Editor Rob: they are concave shaped, so curve a fair bit in the middle compared to the edge which is higher.]
Jay said on 17/Sep/14
Hey, does anyone know how much height these sports insoles might add, if any? Click Here
[Editor Rob: don't look much, maybe about 0.3 inch]
Dago Red said on 28/Jul/14
A spenco insole (the thick green ones) inside an off the shelf cowboy boot give me 2 inches and make boots very comfortable to wear for a long time. Easy on the back, too.
Bob said on 26/Jul/14
I have to wear lifts in order to look normal interacting with my own family, I am the eldest of 5 and all my siblings are taller than me. I am 5'7", my younger sister is 5'10"! and she wears heels! my youngest brother who is 12 years my junior is 6'2"! the other two middle brothers are 5'10" & 5'11" When we go out as a family I am mortified and embarrassed to be with them, I refuse to have pictures taken of us all unless I am sitting down and I have had issues over many years with my sister because I blamed her for being so tall. Finding lifts has been a godsend as they have provided me an extra 2 inches to feel normal with my family, they all know what I'm doing but they know how much being so small compared to them has affected me. I have had to put lifts in every one of my shoes and I never take them off unless I am sitting down in my room, it's weird but this is how my life is and how's it's been for 4 years. The lifts are comfortable and I hardly notice they're there now, I have even convinced myself I am 5'9". I am still shorter than all my family but at least I can look some of them in the eye.
RobV said on 19/Jul/14
Something else that needs to be put to bed on this subject. You do not 'walk weird' with lifts. This is a misperception sometimes made by people wearing them/who have worn them, who are very aware that they are wearing them and are self conscious, specially in the early stage. In fact often when you buy new boots/trainers, you walk differently at first.

Certainly if you wear completely unbalanced lifts, or you make your shoes too tight or ill fitting by not getting the lift size right for the footwear, then yes, you will walk weird because you are uncomfortable.

But I have worn them for 15 years and can say that it really is a matter of getting the fit right (trial and error) and forgetting that you are wearing them.
RobV said on 11/Jul/14
@ Bryan on whether wearing lifts makes you lose height. I wear lifts and elevators all the time and have done so for 15 years. It's pretty certain that you do not lose height but if you do not get the balance right, you can get unwanted aches or even pains - most of these are short term but I had this in one pair of boots where I realised in the end the lift in one was slightly shifting to one side because of the room around the heel, creating an imbalance.

You have to make sure that what you are doing fits the shoes or boots - which is why when I want to get new boots/shoes that don't have a built-in elevator, I buy a size or so larger. Otherwise I can't get enough in and the shoes (specially the upper) are just too tight. All footwear is different - some things your size will take a lot of lifts with no discomfort, other things of a similar style will take very little. The width of the fitting, the roominess of the upper side of the shoe, are just some things that make a helluva difference.
Bryan said on 27/Jun/14
Rob please respond back, but does wearing lifts make you lose more of natural height if you are a everyday lift wearer? I think it does cause I measure atleast a quarter inch taller barefoot then if I went and wore lifts that day. Thanks.
[Editor Rob: really can't say, it might be wearing lifts for a long time puts different strains on your spinal column, and so you are simply reaching your lowest height quicker or more than on some other days.]
HP said on 12/Apr/14
Why is it a big issue, big4slave? Your 6'1'', you have no reason to be worried about your height, and a 0.8'' left is pointless really. Im 170cm and around 173cm when i wear my regular trainers, shoes etc i bought lifts online that took me to 178cm, and sure it felt good, people saying ''wow, your getting bigger!'' etc but people arent stupid, im a grown man, it stands out. plus i was walking weird because if the angle it puts you on. i tried it once and thought to myself ''why the hell would Stallone and Cruise and guys like that worry about their height and put themselves through possible pain to legs or back long term wearing these things every day''. It used to bother me but now im happy within myself and actually feel sad for people that would do this now.
Bran said on 29/Mar/14
Does stacking a few older insoles, say 3 flat ish ones in a regular shoe actually give you any height like near half inch, or would the rise be minimal for them all like 0.2 inch increse overall Click Here
[Editor Rob: it would give you a bit, not a huge amount but a good fraction ]
Bruno said on 19/Mar/14
John Wayne never wore lifts and there is not one photo out there to prove he did. If he had wore lifts he would have looked 6'7'' which he didn't.

Check Mitchum's footwear in El Dorado and for a man that didn't care about height, he is wearing a fair pair of heels. What a hypocrite.
big4slave said on 9/Mar/14
If a shoe is listed as being "2 inches taller" on the manufacturer's website, is this indicating the extra height that the elevator shoe would add compared to a regular dress shoe (e.g. a regular 1" dress shoe), or is it the total height that the shoe gives? Sorry if that sounds convoluted, let me explain... I am a bit over 6'1 and would like a small, barely noticeable lift, so something like an 0.8" lift would be perfect for me. The advertisers on this site offer a 1.8" shoe. If they describe the shoe as "Adds 1.8 inches", am I correct in assuming that this means an increase of 0.8" over my regular 1" dress shoes? Making my height 6'3 with shoes? Please excuse my ignorance and thanks for the clarification!
[Editor Rob: usually they are advertising shoes measuring the highest point of the insole with a tape measure held at the back of the shoe. So it might look 3 inches but your foot is at an angle and so it actually gives maybe half inch less. The bigger the angle the more difference you will get from the advertised height to the actual height. Some elevators advertised as 2-inches might give you about 1.7-1.8 because the angle doesn't take away much height. I always think any elevator manufacturer or heel maker should measure how much actual height it gives and then advertise that, but of course it might effect sales, so it is understandable why they are giving the maximum point the insole hits.]
yaris said on 27/Feb/14
hi rob, seen elevator lifts which are 6cm which are very common, and they build up so like 2 cm, 2cm, 2cm, so you can vary the height you want. the question i wanted to ask is, if i buy 2 pairs of this, would you be able to build it up even more? so you could increase it from 5cm to 7cm or potentially 9cm? as they kind of fit together like a jigsaw? im really interested in this, as im concerned about my height.
[Editor Rob: I don't think you could do that with the ones you are talking about, because the angle would be too high and I can't see how it would fit properly]
v said on 23/Feb/14
lifts do not add 2 or 3 inches when you stand up...at least not one's I tried on...they only give you 1 1/4 at the most
french guy( 184-182 cm) said on 22/Feb/14
rob, do you see many men wearing lifts when you go out?
[Editor Rob: it is hard to spot them because of trousers, only at some events when people sitting have I spotted some, but generally I think you could walk about in elevator shoes and most people wouldn't be able to tell.]
GreyGoose said on 22/Jan/14
Hi Rob! I found this lift on Ebay; what do you think about it?

Click Here

Please answer :)
[Editor Rob: it's cheap and cheerful and adds some height, if you are wanting to test lifts always best just buying ones like that and seeing if lifts are for you. Ultimately though you are better getting a good pair of elevator shoes/sneakers.]
Chris 182 cm said on 20/Jan/14
I know that forum. I'm not really interested in the increased height aspect, but the proportions aspect. Wouldn't you look disproportionate after the surgery? Your legs would be longer, but your torso had the same size. The guy in the article doesn't look disproportionate though. And he didn't have short legs before the surgery. Did you ever consider this surgery, Rob?
[Editor Rob: I think that guy had a longer upper body so it doesn't look too disproportionate.

of course having a longer upper body and shorter legs before the procedure might actually help improve your proportions. If you had longish legs to begin with and a shorter upper body, then it is going to make it more disproportionate.

Personally, only if you are desperate and suffer deep anxiety about height should you consider trying to cope by having the surgery.]
Chris 182 cm said on 19/Jan/14
I just read this article:Click Here I didn't even know Leg Lengthening Surgery existed. Is it really legit? Can you increase your height by a total of 6 inches? That's really fascinating. If a 5'6 guy with a 29 inseam does this, will he be a 6 foot guy with a 35 inseam after the surgery?
[Editor Rob: it is extreme and may require 2 requires 2 sets of surgeries to gain that much. I think reading the makemetaller.org forum is worthwhile because some people who do opt for grow taller surgery end up with problems.

the guy in the article gained a huge amount through both sets of surgeries, and going from 171cm to a good 189cm over the course of several years? Imagine that...]
RobV said on 19/Jan/14
@ Chris You have never worn lifts but are certain that they are always detectable! As a guy who has worn them and elevators for 15 years since my late teens/early 20s, I can assure you that that is not the case if done properly. Admittedly I am tall already, studied fashion at college and understand cut and impression, so probably get away with it more than most. But I assure you it is only really when someone wears very high and clumpy boots with the wrong clothes, trying to get above a lot more than 2 inches, that problems can arise unless you are aesthetically aware enough to know what to wear with them and how. You quote the example shown of Editor Rob but this is a classic example of a lift/elevator that you simply cannot detect unless you know already and have been told. A guy wearing a loose pair of pants on a suit like that can get away with that and more - I am sure that if Rob dressed in those for a week everywhere, wearing trousers like that, simply no-one would detect or know.

Much more detectable is the Stallone/Diesel/Downey type huge clumpy boots which people post shots of here when they are on a stage or at a red carpet event, worn with, er, a suit! In those circumstances, anyone with an eye to aesthetics knows that something is wrong, but that is partly to do with the fact that the boots just do not suit what they are being worn with. The eye is drawn to the oddness of the boots and that's when it can look (even if you are not wearing elevators or lifts) that you are.
RobV said on 19/Jan/14
@ Chris You have never worn lifts but are certain that they are always detectable! As a guy who has worn them and elevators for 15 years since my late teens/early 20s, I can assure you that that is not the case if done properly. Admittedly I am tall already, studied fashion at college and understand cut and impression, so probably get away with it more than most. But I assure you it is only really when someone wears very high and clumpy boots with the wrong clothes, trying to get above a lot more than 2 inches, that problems can arise unless you are aesthetically aware enough to know what to wear with them and how. You quote the example shown of Editor Rob but this is a classic example of a lift/elevator that you simply cannot detect unless you know already and have been told. A guy wearing a loose pair of pants on a suit like that can get away with that and more - I am sure that if Rob dressed in those for a week everywhere, wearing trousers like that, simply no-one would detect or know.

Much more detectable is the Stallone/Diesel/Downey type huge clumpy boots which people post shots of here when they are on a stage or at a red carpet event, worn with, er, a suit! In those circumstances, anyone with an eye to aesthetics knows that something is wrong, but that is partly to do with the fact that the boots just do not suit what they are being worn with. The eye is drawn to the oddness of the boots and that's when it can look (even if you are not wearing elevators or lifts) that you are.
Chris said on 18/Jan/14
Honestly, i think you're kidding yourself if you think you can wear more than a 2 inch boost (lifts or elevator shoes) without it being visible. Just in the pic with Rob above: These shoes don't look like normal shoes AT ALL. You don't have to be a genius to figure they are stuffed. I'm not sure if that already applies to more than an 1-inch boost because i never worn lifts.
[Editor Rob: with a wider hemmed trouser or boot cut jean that covers a lot of the boot/shoe you can get away with it more than a thinner hemmed trouser.]
Gatsby said on 2/Jan/14
Hello Rob! I'd really like to ask you advice about the shoe-lifts, because I know you could give me a great help; I'm a 21 old guy, 5'7,5''-5'8'' tall and i have spent many years of my life to use shoe-lifts, but now i'm very tired by being dependent on lifts, making me ridicolous and hurting me sometimes; Now, even if I really have lot of lifts, I use few "helps" to look taller, like a thick insole taken from other shoes like this: Click Here (1,5 cm)

or/and an heel lift like this: Click Here (2cm)

I try to use them with thick-sole shoes like redWing or low DocMartens

My questions are: what's the best method to maximize the "help-height" given by lifts without having a bad posture or feet bigger than normal? What do you think about my lifts? Should I use one of them, both or some other type? I wait you answer..Thank you and a great hug from Italy!! Happy new year!!
[Editor Rob: if you find it a bit painful then maybe the type of lifts/boots are not suited to you? I always say if you are going to spend time in elevators - more than just the odd event like a wedding or job interview - but are wearing them several hours a day, then why not spend the money on good quality elevator shoes? I wouldn't go too high though, about 2.25 inches in total height is enough to not make it difficult to walk in, or create too much problems.]
Mel said on 30/Dec/13
How bout people that are 5'5" or shorter? Im 5'5" and wear lifts and I still feel shorter than most people. My dad is 5'3" and has started to wear lifts. I feel like im a fraud sometimes
Emily said on 24/Dec/13
Are there lifts that are not only elevated at the back part, but are more like a block? And is that more healthy for the feet?
[Editor Rob: there's japanese sandals that are 2 inch blocks and flat ;) Wouldn't be seen in them though...they look hard to walk in.]
Hola said on 12/Dec/13
@Rob Is that a Justin Bieber/scooter picture reference ;)?

Then again, that block of wood was above 1 inch, probably 3 :P
[Editor Rob: nah, not a reference]
RobV said on 1/Dec/13
@ Bosnia On your layered lifts, you will usually need to use ALL the layers if you want 2 inches of lift taking you from 5'11" to 6'1" - most of them are about 5 cm which is around 2 inches and you don't even get quite that anyway because of the slope forwards. I use these ones (and others) as I like being way taller and take myself from 6'2" to 6'5"/6'6ish depending upon which boots I am wearing. They are comfortable. btw because they are so cheap, it's worth getting a few different styles and types of lift. It's amazing how comfort and fit can slightly vary with what you wear on your feet. I like the longer ones as well but in some boots they restrict how much lift you can get because of the upper fitting too tightly. I recently bought two pairs of boots, similar-ish, and it is amazing how the lifts I use in them vary because of slight design differences in the boot. You'll have no probs with 2 inches (5cm)
sputnik said on 30/Nov/13
So a 5cm insole how much does it really add?
[Editor Rob: it might add 3.5cm]
Matt said on 23/Nov/13
im 5'10.75 midday and I ALWAYS WEAR at least a good 1 inch heel shoe.I put a 1.4 inch lift inside the shoe and it boost me up to 6'01.15.
Remember every inch count!!
Bosnia said on 20/Nov/13
I just ordered from ebay gel lifts. It comes with 5 layers, each gives a boost 0,65 so that you can adjust it. In total it can give you 3,25 boost but I will not use thah much boost, maybe 2,5 cm max because im 5 ft 11 and want to be 6ft 1 in shoes.
Bosnia said on 13/Nov/13
Rob, can you tell me how to pick best shoe lifts insoles on ebay? When you put them in your shoes and stand, does it lose like 0,5 cm, because you are standing with your full weight? So, is it best to pick 0,5- 1cm higher insoles because of that? Please help...
[Editor Rob: if they are advertised as 1 inch they might give about 0.7, because the way the foot is angled, you aren't getting as much height as you would standing on a 1-inch block of wood.]
RobV said on 7/Nov/13
@ italiansitch. I have never seen that site before (Bertulli). A couple of the trainer styles look pretty good actually. It's not easy to get really current looking trainer/sneaker styles with good lifts from most suppliers but I might try a couple of these!
Maor said on 30/Oct/13
@ Elvis 5'7? Yes it's pretty short to be honest. Even 5'9 for grown male is consider pretty short nowadays, specially when many women nowadays mostly in developed countries reach such heights as 5'9, 5'10, 5'11 etc with no problems.

Average height for men is on the rise aswell ateast in the developed part of the world. I think 5'10 will be a decent height for grown males in our time and for some time forwards.
Elvis said on 15/Oct/13
Is 5ft 7in short for an adult male?
italiansitch said on 2/Oct/13
Rob, i'm italian what do you think about bertulli's shoes?
Click Here
RobV said on 21/Sep/13
@ Mid90s Sorry mate I missed this posting at the time. Your 6'8ers sound cool and if you are in good shape you would look v imposing and impressive wearing them. Yes it is quite straightforward to get more height but you do actually need to carefully consider what jeans/pants you wear with them and the nature of the boots. The very very best way is custom elevators in modern styles in sizes a bit larger than your feet and additional shoe lifts. I can actually go a good bit higher than the 3 inches but some of this I do when I particularly want to impress or other v tall guys are around! Contact me @ yahoo.co.uk (robfranklin980) and we can chat more and I will give you more techniques.
Mid190s said on 30/Aug/13
@robv I didn't know it was possible to gain 3+ inches of height without cartoonish platforms.

I have a pair of light tanned timbeands that I like to call my 6'8ers that add about 2.5 total and that's with two pairs of insoles. I would like to know what you use to get so much height out of your footwear. I would be close to 6'9 if I had your gear!
RobV said on 2/Aug/13
btw just one point. Nothing can beat a slight heel on a boot with added lifts to give good extra height. When things like cowboy boots are in fashion (they kinda drift in and out in various styles and ways) they look good. And somehow when you wear heels openly like this it's almost counter-intuitive and people do not really think you are trying to add to your height - if you feel self-conscious in elevators ('aaargh someone will notice'), a boot with a heel and some extra lift is actually quite a good option.
RobV said on 2/Aug/13
@whocares You say 'why wear lifts at 6'2"?'. Basically because it suits my build and I like being that height. I am very broad and work out and I like being usually the tallest guy around. I just like being a bit taller than I am. I must be a bit like John Wayne (see the story above). I have worked on the club scene for over 15 years so I guess it's all a bit about image etc as well. I feel I can be honest here in a way I can never anywhere else about this! I was also very impressed in my early days in the business in London with three enormous guys, averaging 6'5"/6'6", who really filled the doorways and created a terrific impression - they were the most popular with the women and all the other guys clearly regarded them as the alphas there. Height and build certainly appeared to be an aphrodisiac, although I think that guys (I'm talknig straight guys here) are more aware of it than women are, and are far more interested in being bigger and wanting to outsize others - notice that no star ever plays DOWN their height even if they are 6'5". In fact the PR machines of many guys like Dolph Lundgren actually claimed TALLER than their great height.
RobV said on 2/Aug/13
@Emily. I guess I may have caused a bit of confusion with this! As I think I said in my posting, I'm 6'2" and wear lifts which get me to 6'5". This does not mean a 3 inch chunk added to the footwear, and that may have caused the confusion. The boots/trainers account for some of that extra and I tend to wear trainers/sneakers which are quite thick soled. So in my footwear I am 6'5". But I confess I think the way I have sometimes posted gives the impression I add a 3" lift. In some boots or trainers, though, you do get away with adding 2" or even 3", and I do have a pair of great elevator boots to which I add a lift as well - they get me to 6'6". But yes usually adding 3" of lift would be at the extreme end and only poss with certain boots etc.
Emily said on 23/Jul/13
@RobV Are you kidding? I don't think you can hide a 3 inch boost in your shoes. Everyone will notice it when they look at your shoes.
sprite176cm said on 21/Jul/13
nice I would be 6ft range in them ! :)
whocares said on 16/Jul/13
@Robv why wear lifts at 6ft2?
RobV said on 29/Jun/13
Just to add to the point made by the moderator about the possibility of detection - if you put to much lift into shoes like trainers where the tops are exposed or where you are in situations where the trousers ride up and you bend your feet, you just have to take care not to overdo it in those circumstances and be aware. I use both elevator shoes and lifts (sometimes even together!) and really do think carefully about the effect and impact. But by and large people are not actually looking to see if you are wearing lifts - it is just that you yourself are aware of them if you use them. So as long as you can take care of some basics, you can wear them with confidence (and that is what you should do). I am 6'2" and wear lifts to get me to 6'5" - I'm with John Wayne on this - and when the right kind of shoes and pants are in fashion, I try to get even more height adding lifts to my elevators. No-one has ever noticed or commented. Don't forget that even normal shoes and trainers change your height - my brother is not as tall as me and he bought some new Nikes recently and they really lifted his height. No-one commented or said anything but I noticed.
truth177cm said on 22/Jun/13
@peterx interesting...
superman said on 11/Jun/13
Those shoes look goog, look like normal dress shoes makes you look almost 5'11 or actually 5'11,, you could claim 5,11 for sure nice pic.
Ice said on 8/Jun/13
John wayne was 6'4 and wore huge shoes with lifts to appear as a giant 6´9
Peterx said on 30/May/13
The gossipy Roman historian, Suetonius, records that the emperor Augustus wore extra thick heels to make himself look taller. Even though, according to Suetonius, he was 5'7"; at or above the average height of Roman males in that era...
Peterx said on 30/May/13
The gossipy Roman historian, Suetonius, records that the emperor Augustus wore extra thick heels to make himself look taller. Even though, according to Suetonius, he was 5'7"; at or above the average height of Roman males in that era...
SAK said on 24/May/13
Don elevator shoes give an option to add the amount you want. Do you think 2" will in fact give 2" of added height, or probably more 3-3.5cm. And maybe 2.5" probably give around 4-5cm. ??
[Editor Rob: I've not seen a don shoe lately, but offering 1.5, 2 inch, those should give close to the claim. 2.5-2.75 might not, but I've not seen them up close or measured the latest incarnation of them. The insole shape has changed a little bit since 4 years ago when launched.]
fairweather said on 10/May/13
--After reading some of the comments, I'd like to give another perspective to contemplate: My son is 6'7"---and he does NOT like it (he always feels like he "stands out", people always comment, "How tall ARE you?", and he basically feels very insecure)..He's very good looking, but even the girls he dates feel intimidated by his size....He always says he wishes he were average height....Just a thought.....
fairweather said on 10/May/13
--Wow. That IS a difference---Makes you look more than 2 1/2" taller (the shoes are good looking--they don't look like they're any different than regular dress shoes). Very nice!
Byron T. said on 25/Feb/13
Rob, you seem so gleeful in your elevator shoes... :)
Trent said on 26/Jan/13
I took a look at that article. I think it is possible she grew a bit. Apparently they actually put the patients on a rack. That could produce shearing forces on the bones. I guess connective tissue increase from the exercises and posture from the yoga could tack on a bit as well.

My suspicion is that this programme would make one grow a bit, but not 2 inches. Most likely she added a fraction of inch in reality but they just had her stand on a rigged stadiometer and maybe measured her at a different time of the day.

I say this because it seems absurd to me that the amount of bone mass required to grow 2 inches could be added in only six weeks. The people who grow through limb lengthening take months or a year to get that much, and they are actually having their leg bones physically cut apart to get bone to fill in, not just subjected to strain.

And I'll tell you what: if people truly are gaining two inches from it, sooner or later someone is going to sue the pants off the bloke running it--because they sure as hell can't be gaining two inches in a healthy manner. The people who get traditional limb lengthening don't get that much growth 3 times as quickly, yet they still are confined to a wheelchair. Surely it must be really risky for an adult to add on that much bone mass without giving the tendons and muscle time to grow proportionately.
[Editor Rob: from what I've seen they had the person stand against a board and 'judge' their height from eye...you need to properly measure them]
John said on 20/Jan/13
Hi Rob.
About a month or so ago I read an article in the Daily mail online about a height increasing excercise called A-Grow-Bix.
A 5ft 2in female Journalist did gym excercises for 6 weeks at a cost of £200. She reported that she grew to 5ft 4in from these stretching techniques.
What do you think? The gym is in London.
[Editor Rob: I read that aswell, I don't buy it....unless she just stood poorlyfor the first 'measurement' and after various techniques, corrected/maximised her stance.]
Trent said on 20/Jan/13
It's funny, in that article you have a quote from a screenwriter: " . . . noone has figured out a way to put lifts in their feet (yet)".

But look at this: Click Here

Sly will surely arrange this procedure for himself soon.
Aragorn 5'11 said on 17/Jan/13
Rob, how much do 4 inch heels actually give you?
[Editor Rob: the ones called 4-inch in shops might give anywhere from 2.7-3.2 range, although there are rare cases where the shoemaker calls the heel height very close to what it actually gives. The ones called 6-inch might give 4-4.3 inches.]
SolidSnake said on 16/Jan/13
If you put a sport insole into Nike Shox you get about 1.6'' on barefoot height, there actually sort of elevator shoes lol
JohnC said on 15/Jan/13
Hi Rob! Are shoe lifts and elevator shoes the same thing? And is there any way to see if someone uses it? Do they walk strange or can you see it on the shoes or legs for example?

Do you notice if a celebrity you meet wears it?
[Editor Rob: shoe lifts can be put in different shoes and can come in various sizes like 1,2,3,4cm. Elevators are designed with the 'lift' part built into them, so the shape of the shoe feels more natural to wear.

you can usually spot elevators if someone sits down, if they have long trousers that cover a lot of the shoe it's harder to spot - in any case, the back of the boot/shoe usually is curved a bit more than normal shoes/boots, and the front part usually looks thicker because your foot is sitting at a higher angle within the elevator.]
Reality said on 12/Jan/12
If some star wears exactly 3 inch elevators he's actually 2 inches taller next to other people because everyone else already have shoes which are about 1 inch.
Zyzz said on 10/Jan/12
Cons of shoe inserts: - It stuffs up your walking pattern and pace - You may get blisters depending on the quality of the inserts (mine were from ebay) - You will feel anxious in public, people would get suspicious when you take your shoes off - If you're that insecure, you will sacrifice time to go to the beach, swimming pool, and any other place where you don't wear your shoes - If you have short limbs, your body would look out of proportion - Styles of shoes are limited, especially the low cut shoes.
nice guy said on 5/Jan/12
if people are insecure about their height then I guess lifts are ok ...but one should not overdo it...wearing more than 4cm shoes will make you suspicous and may expose you espically if you take em off^^
Dmeyer said on 28/Dec/11
Anything over 1 in is elevator to me , wearing a 1.3 in boots or thick sneakers Will make you look near 1cm taller than With normal 0.9-1inchers wearing a 1.5-1.6 in cowboy give you 1.5cm
JTC said on 11/Dec/11
Here's a secret for all those cheapskates out there who want lifts but don't want to pay a high price. If your good shoes have an insole all you need is 1 or 2 small rectangular kitchen sponges. Either fold one in half or place two sponges on top of each other (depending on the desired lift) under the insole (so they can be hidden). When I have done this, I have been able to gain approx. 5cm on top of my normal 173-174cm height. Now I feel like an average guy for once!
Alex nj said on 7/Dec/11
Rob, can wearing shoelifts over an extended period of time actually make you shorter? Ive been wearing lifts that combined with my shoes gives me exactly 2 inches over my barefoot height and I rarely take them off during the day. Recently I have felt alot shorter and when I take them off, I have measured myself one inch shorter than my original barefoot height. I know the calf muscle can shrink but I have never heard of the bone shrinking. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing your answer

[Editor Rob: I've never heard of this before, maybe you measured earlier and then later and there was some difference, but shrinking after a few years use, it sounds extreme.]
SomeGuySomewhere11 said on 26/Nov/11
Can you play basketball with these insoles ?
Mick said on 10/Nov/11
I'm 5'5 exactly. All you 5'6 and up guys need to stop complaining. lol
somedude123 said on 4/Nov/11
does having lifts mean that not only are the lifts giving you increase but also the shoe itself, e.g. having a 2.4 inch lift with a shoe that is already around 1 inch is going to make you a lot taller. i wouldn't recommend them though because when you do have to take your shoes off it will raise lots of questions
PatB said on 27/Oct/11
I pulled my achilles tendon and it hasn't healed after several months. My doctor said to get "heel lifts". I went on Amazon and ordered some that are made for people with different length legs. They were only about a quarter inch. They didn't do much. So I ordered a pair of true elevator inserts. These are about 1.5" with an add on that raises you another half inch or more. I couldn't get the add on piece into my hiking boots. Or rather I could get them in the boot but then I couldn't get my foot in. You would need a very high shoe back to wear these things. Maybe a cowboy boot. But with the regular lifts my foot felt better than it had in some time. When I stood up I damn near fell on my face, but I regained my balance. I gained some appreciation for Al Pacino or Robert Downey. I't not all that easy to look natural when walking in these things. After I walked the dog I had to take a Vicodin. My back was ruined. And I don't have a bad back. Or I didn't before. I think you should probably work your way up to full boost in gradual steps. By the way I've always been 6'4" so everybody thinks it's funny that I'm wearing lifts. But I would guess that most lifts are for posture and uneven leg legnths judging from how they are sold on Amazon. John Wayne was about my size and he wore lifts. I think Jack O'Halloran, the Superman villian, did too.
chris175 said on 21/Oct/11
i have always wondered what do lift wearers do when they want to wear shorts or go to the beach with friends. even play sports or things like that? it must be noticeable, im 5-9 and sometimes a feel id like to try lifts because i think everyone seems 6-0 these days, for the mean time im happy with my converse, but sometimes if im seeing a girl i put on my caterpillar boots just to feel a bit taller. it could have been a lot worse with having a 5-4.5 dad and 5-3.5 mum so im grateful dont get me wrong
PatB said on 4/Oct/11
I'm thinking about getting some comboy boots and some of those 2 inch lifts I see advertised on this site. That would boost me nearaly five inches I imagine. I've never had a pair of cowboy boots. I wear a size 15 shoe and I will probably have to get them special ordered. I've never seen any at the Big and Tall store. It's not that I'm too small. I was reading the bio here on Tiny Lister and it said he was 6'5" and 275 lbs. I would love to get down to 275. I was 318 this morning. With my new shoes I sould be about 6'9" or 6'10". I have foot problems - arthritis, gout, neuromas etc. Basetball injuries. Baseball injuries. I've had two operations on my left foot, and that's the one I call my good foot. But my biggest problem has been my achilles tendon. It hurts my ears (from all my screaming). My doctor says I need a heel block to raise me up. Those lifts look perfect and a cowboy boot should help even more. The fact that I'm going to be real tall is just a nice side effect.
jtm said on 7/Sep/11
i am surprise shaun thinks steve mcqueen was 5'7 since he usually upgrade most celebs in this site like matt damon or jennifer lopez for example.
Bryan said on 6/Sep/11
Just because you are taller does not mean you will automatically get girls more. If you are in the average range for men, there are plenty of women out there and you can do just as well or even better than a guy over 6 ft. On a side note, instead of looking for elevator shoes or lifts, look for regular shoes that can give you a little boost. I like to wear cowboy boots and some models have large heels which will give you a little bump. I personally like the boots with the smallest heel.
Dmeyer said on 5/Sep/11
Once you get 1cm over wath thé shoe looks like it is a lift
Dmeyer said on 5/Sep/11
I havé 0.6 in lifts if i wear thém in slim front shoe they give just 0.3 when in thiker fronted shoes they give 0.4 in 1cm
adriana said on 4/Sep/11
Wow that's awesome my husband needs some of those. We are both the same height and when I wear high hills I am taller than him. And we both don't like that.
Kane said on 3/Sep/11
My dad is 6'2 and towers over everyone of his friends apart from his friend Andrew whos about 6'4 other than that they are all 6'1-5'2 his friends are.
Parodox said on 23/Aug/11
hey, im 16 yrs old. im currently only 5'3 and want to gain some height. Dr says i'll b 5'6 AT BEST which means i'll prob be 5'4. i wana go out with this girl who is 5'5. would it be worth it to get these shoe lifts?
dmeyer said on 22/Aug/11
i agree a 5 ft 8 to 5 ft 9 guy who wears elevators at a party will be 5 ft 10.5 to 5 ft 11.5 with shoes on , will get laid more than if he was wearing 1 inchers , same for 5 ft 10-11 who will look 6 ft 6 ft 1 instead
dmeyer said on 22/Aug/11
put a 1 to 1.1 in lifts inside a high cut 1 to 1.1 inch shoe or 1 to 1.2 in sneakers and you get about 2 in anywere 1.8-2.1 near enaugh 5cm and its very comfies you will get 2 to 3 cm over normal 0.75-1.2 in footwear , wearing 2 in shoes i am 6 ft 1.6 6 f 1.7 , standing as tall as possible i will look similar to a 6 ft 1 men who has normal 1 inchers , a guy 5 ft 9 or 9.25 wearing 2 in shoes will be 5 ft 11.25 and can fool people for near 5 ft 10.5 ,
Hansen said on 22/Aug/11
i wonder a few famous actors like johnny depp,leonardo di caprio & tom cruise may have wore those from don's elevator. lol..
Chris said on 16/Aug/11
Shoe lifts are an awsome solution to be honest. A lot of my buddies are wearing them for partys etc. Can't beat having those extra 2 or 3 inches. The best range I have seen is at TallerHeels - Click Here to check out the range they have.
bill said on 12/Aug/11
can you upload a picture of the one u r wearing. they look quite nice.. heh
Kaneda said on 11/Aug/11
Iggy, Because most places you go attracts a young crowd. Young people are taller than the average because newer generations tend to be taller than the older ones and the average is taken from all generations being measured. I'm 6'1 and I'm from Holland. This is practically the same thing. Average height in Holland is around 6'0, even a little more I believe. In some places I can feel as if I'm below average. People your own height appear taller because you can see the top of their heads while you can't see yours. If you see someone your own height next to someone who is two to three inches taller it's not really THAT noticeable. If you're face to face with someone who is 2 to 3 inches taller you clearly feel shorter.
The greatest person alive in the world today said on 9/Aug/11
I gain and inch and a half with work boots on, and hit almost 5'11". with lifts i would go from 5'9.25" to almost six feet?? seems almost ridiculous. wouldnt people who have known you for awhile notice you are much taller! and lying about your height, what is the point?
AndreaItalia said on 7/Aug/11
ahahaa....you guys are crazy.6ft guys who wants to be taller because they always see someone taller, and fell tiny.If the average height is 5ft 9 or 10,then you are tall! you are insecure about your height: who is insecure about height see only people who are taller, and not shorter. Try to see EVERYONE you meet and you'll realise that 80% of all men are shorter than you! PS:sorry for my english, i'm italian
Mike Rally said on 7/Aug/11
Hi everyone. Has anyone checked out Click Here ??? I'm thinking about buying a pair from here. Not sure what the quality is like though. Thanks!
Maximus Meridius said on 4/Aug/11
@Chris20 your the same height as me are you still growing.
Phoenix said on 3/Aug/11
Hey, what's the best place to get shoe lifts? I don't want to shell out 200+ for elevator shoes.

[Editor Rob: Dons sell lifts, but just type in shoe lifts into google and the top 3 are worth checking out and cheap option compared to expensive shoes!]
Dude said on 20/Jul/11
I don't get it. I'm 5'8, and I'm just a bit smaller than the average, and i'm generally taller than the people i hang around with. It's kinda weird though, I feel like i'm way too short. Why would a 6' footer, whom i think are pretty tall would want to wear lift. damn, im just so jealous..
Phil said on 17/Jul/11
Rob, what do you think of height increasing insoles? Do height increasing insoles
work? Can you play sports with insoles?

[Editor Rob: they'll add a bit of height, but you don't want too much height with sports, you could cause ligament damage.]
Dmeyer said on 6/Jul/11
Rob you sais in a boot you CAN get 3.5 -4 in how is that possible cOwboy heels with lifts i steel get nô more than 2.5 CAN you show me a modèl that Will give 3 or over

[Editor Rob: extreme lift is needed, it's about the limit with a custom made boot, but even then walking will be very hard.]
JHY said on 3/Jul/11
You know what? I'll fully admit I'm insecure about my height, which is between 5'8 and 5'9. Not wildly insecure, but enough to wear some standard lifts. And I'm not ashamed to admit that. Our society values tallness and we see this in a hundred small ways. I'm not saying heightism is a huge source of prejudice, but it definitely exists, and it's not insignificant.
PsychedeliC... said on 1/Jul/11
I think many people that comment on this site are actually quite ridiculous about celebrity heights. Absurd claims that you’ve met them in person, a few metres away from them, seen clear pictures or any other proof you can come up with. So what? Firstly most of the heights I see are so varied (if someone admits he’s 5’ 5’’, there is still ‘controversy’) because we want to make someone taller or shorter according to our own tastes and preferences for that celebrity. And what is height anyway? And is there anything as a celebrity? Quite frankly, there is no celebrity to me because at the end of all the paparazzi, glamour and fame, these are just gifted, NORMAL people, just like anybody else. We paint them as if they are ‘gods’ and ‘goddesses’ from an esoteric planet, expecting them to mould the image of perfection. No one is perfect. I consider myself ‘imperfect perfection’ since I’ve accepted my flaws (one being my height) and embraced my strengths. I’m a South African and 19 years of age, have an appearance of Jimi Hendrix (lol joking) I weigh 69kg and stand at a height of 5ft. 5in. (166cm) (my half-brother is a very near-6ft.) , which is pretty short for a male although many of my friends (including girls) plus people who I meet are around this height. Yes, being shorter is a disadvantage physically, but the way in which many people on this site exemplify height, it’s as if taller people are somehow better than shorter people. Its as if now just because you’re short, there is something wrong with you and that you can’t achieve much compared to an over 6ft. person – not everyone was born that way. Great actors, musicians, writers, dancers and anyone else in the entertainment and arts industry are my height or shorter but still are amazing at what they do, why can’t we just embrace that instead? Personally, I am insecure about my height and would consider wearing some form of secret lifts/thicker-soled shoes to add a few little inches only if I were to go to public events, though that doesn’t make me any less as a person. We are all insecure, and frankly, not being insecure as a human being is not being honest lol. Why do girls wear make-up, why do most people wear sunglasses etc. In my opinion, it becomes a shame when you over-do it, and you act a little different than you normally would. P.S I think anyone at least 5ft. 10 and over that wants to be taller is just mad lol.
PsychedeliC... said on 1/Jul/11
I think many people that comment on this site are actually quite ridiculous about celebrity heights. Absurd claims that you’ve met them in person, a few metres away from them, seen clear pictures or any other proof you can come up with. So what? Firstly most of the heights I see are so varied (if someone admits he’s 5’ 5’’, there is still ‘controversy’) because we want to make someone taller or shorter according to our own tastes and preferences for that celebrity. And what is height anyway? And is there anything as a celebrity? Quite frankly, there is no celebrity to me because at the end of all the paparazzi, glamour and fame, these are just gifted, NORMAL people, just like anybody else. We paint them as if they are ‘gods’ and ‘goddesses’ from an esoteric planet, expecting them to mould the image of perfection. No one is perfect. I consider myself ‘imperfect perfection’ since I’ve accepted my flaws (one being my height) and embraced my strengths. I’m a South African and 19 years of age, have an appearance of Jimi Hendrix (lol joking) I weigh 69kg and stand at a height of 5ft. 5in. (166cm) (my half-brother is a very near-6ft.) , which is pretty short for a male although many of my friends (including girls) plus people who I meet are around this height. Yes, being shorter is a disadvantage physically, but the way in which many people on this site exemplify height, it’s as if taller people are somehow better than shorter people. Its as if now just because you’re short, there is something wrong with you and that you can’t achieve much compared to an over 6ft. person – not everyone was born that way. Great actors, musicians, writers, dancers and anyone else in the entertainment and arts industry are my height or shorter but still are amazing at what they do, why can’t we just embrace that instead? Personally, I am insecure about my height and would consider wearing some form of secret lifts/thicker-soled shoes to add a few little inches only if I were to go to public events, though that doesn’t make me any less as a person. We are all insecure, and frankly, not being insecure as a human being is not being honest lol. Why do girls wear make-up, why do most people wear sunglasses etc. In my opinion, it becomes a shame when you over-do it, and you act a little different than you normally would. P.S I think anyone at least 5ft. 10 and over that wants to be taller is just mad lol.
Maximus Meridius said on 29/Jun/11
@Jeff would youlike to be taller like 6ft 2in i'm nearly the same as you by a inch i would love to be 6ft 1in taller the better i'm from the uk i hope supergrowth comes to the uk soon by the way where are you from.
Maximus Meridius said on 26/Jun/11
Hey Rob do people did credit cards to order don elevators shoes.

[Editor Rob: I'm sure they can use cc through paypal.]
Iggy said on 25/Jun/11
I'm 5'11.05...and with shoes which add an inch I'm 6'05. I hear the average is 5'9-5'10 but when I go out to places (clubs, stadium, bars, sight seeing, etc etc) I feel almost every guy is my height or a bit taller.. Why
Cranberries (17m, 193.75-191.25) said on 24/Jun/11
I thought basketball shoes were supposed to have a rather flat sole? Anyway, any particular lifts you guys would recommend? I'm eyeing some .5-inch rubber cheapies on Amazon. I'm tired of just stuffing socks in my shoes. I like to look at least over 6'5" when I go walking about.
mitch said on 20/Jun/11
i'm 6"3" and among my friends i'm in the middle, I have a friend that's 6"4" and two friends that are 6"6", I feel tiny when I hang out with them
Matt said on 20/Jun/11
@menace, 195cm isn't average and you know it. Almost 6'5 is well above average, everywhere. As for your uncle, he's basically LeBron's height
Fer said on 16/Jun/11
Rob, whats the maximum gain one could get by wearing lifts?I tried a pair once who were advertised to give you 2 extra inches and it gave nothing but 2.5 cms(over height with shoes on).I'd consider anything over that extremely impossible to fit in a regular shoe or even in boots.

[Editor Rob: in a boot you could potentially make it near 3.5-4 but it will be massive and like walking on big women heels. Realistically 2.5-3 is the top end of total height range.

see the 2.3ish shoes, those are big enough to look about 1.5 inches taller than normal to people.]
Andrew1995 said on 6/Jun/11
Well, I'm 6'6'' and still would like to wear elevator shoes. I live in northern Germany near Bremen and at 6'6'' there are still 2 guys in my year who are as tall as me. 1 is maybe even taller... that's crazy when I watch how many short people are online on celebheights
Jim said on 5/Jun/11
@solidsnake damn man i'm 5'11 1/4, IQ 125, 20 (so no money), no girl, pretty nice looking (85% of the time when I haven't just gotten a haircut). I feel very inadequate now lol
Maximus Meridius said on 28/May/11
Rob is about 5ft 8in 5ft 8 1/2in during the day nearly 5ft 9in 5ft 9in out of bed height he 5ft 10 1/2in nearly 5ft 11in in shoe lifts.
toby said on 28/May/11
that russell crowe story is odd, crowe is above average height at 5'10 and a half. why would he even need to wear lifts, unless he was standing next to elle macpherson or something
Maximus Meridius said on 25/May/11
@Menace195cm at 195cm your hardly average your well above average your extremely tall.
Maximus Meridius said on 17/May/11
Everyones say that men like short women 6ft 4in men are taller then all the women 5ft 7in men 5ft 8in men 5ft 9in men 5ft 10in men and 5ft 11in men are taller then some men but not all.
Maximus Meridius said on 12/May/11
@Brandon at 175cm you don't need to worry about your height you neither short nor tall your average you may feel short next to 191cm men but you won't feel short next to 185cm at least your not 165cm i'm nearly as tall as you by 4cms so i'm close to average but i'm just below average your taller than most women it's very rare to see women taller than you i'm taller than most woman i rarely see women taller then me.
Richard said on 7/May/11
Guys guys, it's just fine to be under average, for example the king Michael Jackson is only 5,7 did you see him nag about it? Sure he used custom made loafers with 2 inches at heel and 1 inch insole in his loafers. So important for you shorter fellas is be lean, dont be bulky dont be big on muscles just lean and the right pants thats it! you dont look short you just look petite. Try this and you will forget about your problem, if you DONT then there is self esteem problems.
SolidSnake said on 27/Apr/11
Y'all should get some B-Ball shoes, they look ace and add 1.5 inch
michael said on 10/Apr/11
The only reason to wear lifts is so you are taller than your woman when she has on 5 inch heels. That why I do I'm 5'10 she is 5'7 ....
SAK said on 1/Apr/11
Better nutrition and more food available means many western countries are getting marginally taller generation by generation, but it will take many generations for the actual average of a country to change.

[Editor Rob: better prenatal care helps a little aswell. If the child is given a good start in life...]
Menace 195cm said on 29/Mar/11
My friends wear lifts. Shockingly, all of my Korean friends do wear lifts. They are around 172cm barefoot and get boosted to 180cm. Lifters are crazy i gotta say. I don't wear lifts myself although I am just average height at 195cm. My Uncle John has a huge body frame, He is 205cm but looks almost 210cm at a distance.
Toby said on 26/Mar/11
No one 5'9 or over should wear lifts. Thats just ridiculous....
SolidSnake said on 21/Mar/11
If you are 5'9 or taller and wear lifts that seems insecure in my view
Big boned said on 15/Mar/11
There some people saying that the new generation is getting taller, not really. That's because lots of them wear heels, lifts, and have hair advantage, including body shapes as well. And also because so many people exaggerate their heights it distorts perception.
the_real_world said on 11/Mar/11
Okay, I am a male 5'6" and I can't stand it when people comment how a man who wears elevator shoes is insecure. If you believe this then you must also believe that ALL women are insecure. Personally I wear lifts because I am a realist...and know that beyond what anyone (men/women) say height does matter. I use the shoes on the job as I continually am meeting new clients and first impressions are everything. PS: It's not insecurity, it makes me feel better about myself...like dressing nice when you go out to dinner or bathing and shaving on a regular basis.
Anonymous1 said on 5/Mar/11
When we walk along together I'm often mistaken for a man and him a woman at first glance due to the height difference so it's a bit embarassing for us and the people who mistake our sexes. We may as well dress in drag and pretend! So, to all of you short guys and tall ladies: there's someone out ther for you who will love you no matter what your size is. I found my guy on craigslist! Happy hunting! Bekah, maybe you and your husband should trade heights.
Editor Rob said on 27/Feb/11
Snake, here is a photo I just took of the sole of those Brown Dons (which were sent to me by Dons in 2009) beside the sole of a clarks boot that I've worn for about 7 days in total... Click Here So no, apart from taking some photos in the house and showing people the difference an elevator shoe makes, I don't wear them out and about. I recommend them though to people who are interested in looking taller with lifts, because they are well made and if you're going to wear elevators, pay money for a decent pair and not cheap synthetic rubbish :)
SolidSnake said on 26/Feb/11
Contradictory to the statement you make on this page I think most celebrities (Male and Female) DON'T wear elevator shoes. Many when asked about their height say different things in different interviews or just say it in a guessing manner, giving the impression they don't really care about they're height. And to be honest I would rather be rich than tall. Also Rob I have seen comments saying you wear dons shoes (Arent they elevator shoes lol). Is it true?
SolidSnake said on 25/Feb/11
@ anonymous yeh I agree we cant have it all. Is there a single perosn in the world who is over 6 feet tall AND a US Billionaire and in the hot 100 guys list and with a wife who is in the hot 100 girls list and has an IQ over 130? lol I doubt it very much
Editor Rob said on 25/Feb/11
Snake, I don't wear elevators outwith review/experiments! If people choose to wear them, then I recommend the ones I mention on this page, as at least those are well made compared to some companies.
anonymous said on 25/Feb/11
Truth be told, everyone is insecure about something whether it be money, looks , height, weight, smarts, women, men, and on and on and on since the beginning of time.
SolidSnake said on 24/Feb/11
lol Rob do you wear elevator shoes? They are terrible for your feet
Anonymous said on 22/Feb/11
I know this girl who's about 5'9 and a half and gets listed as 6' in volleyball, it's not only in the WNBA. They probably pump people's heights up in sports to around 2 to 3 inches, possibly up to 4. Could it be that they were possibly wearing lifts?
Toby said on 15/Feb/11
I never realised how insecure celeb's were about their height. It's quite sad really.
Mulatto said on 7/Feb/11
Rodro says on 24/Dec/10 Greg, which part of germany did you visit? Northern germans are definitely a tall bunch of people.. average could easily be 6 feet plus. You can find individuals from 6 3' to 6 7' with a decent frequency.. much taller than white americans definitely. You have been probably too much in munich or some area in southern/eastern germany .. as north/west germans are much taller than rest of germans. Really? Or maybe you're exaggerating.
Anonymous said on 5/Feb/11
Bekah says on 12/Jan/11 I'm a woman who is 6' 1". Is that your height in barefeet or in shoes? Lots of people get measured in shoes and some women aren't very good at judging heights. Besides 5'11 and up is a male height. I think it's cause hormone medicines are being invented.
dmeyer said on 2/Feb/11
in france people will round up 1 to 2cm 04 to 0.75 in but in america people do as mush as 1 to 2 in when you are honest with height people think you are a liar , also i noticed people 6 ft and claim true height and in france people 180cm and up claim true heiht
Shaun said on 1/Feb/11
Interestingly though it is a very short man who is dating Victoria Silvstedt.When you're that short its probably a self esteem booster have a tall blond perhaps and works the other way!
Shaun said on 1/Feb/11
Some shorter women moan about having short legs and think that men dig 6 ft supermodel leggy blondes but the reality is a lot of blokes, especially short/average ones would feel intimidated by them and would turn to the shorter lady! Victoria Silvstedt for instance isn't far off '6 and I'm pretty sure most men would be scared of her....
Shaun said on 1/Feb/11
Bekah, yes it is very common for even guys around your height or taller to dig short women. Men are often a lot more insecure than you may think. Some tallish men would dislike women being as tall as them or taller as it kind of steals their pride and they feel less authoritive. I've seen many men, even around 5'10" and not "short" per se say some very nasty things about tall women. Then there are a certain group of men who are short or average height who really love the taller woman, look at Bernie Eccleston, Mick Jagger, Tom Cruise, Keith Urban and Rod Stewart for instance. Jagger wouldn't even consider dating a woman under 5'10" and shorter than him!!! I find Gabrielle Reece the volleyball player very attractive and she's 6'3"!!
Shaun said on 1/Feb/11
Penny Lancaster is very attractive. She's 6'1".
Shaun said on 1/Feb/11
I could understand you thinking 195cm too tall and feeling uncomfortable but feeling it short LOL.... Bekah I've met a few 6'-6'1" women and I actually fancied most of them. I'm a little taller than you myself and was unphased by their height. If you were 6'5" that'd be freaky but 6'1" is fine honestly. Of course it helps if you are slim and have a pretty face, the problem is that most men are under 6' and if you wear heels....
Shaun said on 1/Feb/11
Menace 195cm says on 19/Dec/10 I think 195cm is a minimum standard for a man to feel like a man. LOL... You do realise then that 99.8% of the world population of men who are shorter than 195cm don't feel like men then? Rubbish. Steve McQueen was 5'7". Frank Sinatra was 5'7", Jason Statham and Charlie Sheen 5'9" tops. They were as popular with women as anybody. LOL you speak of 195cm as it were just slightly above average. You do realise than a legit 195cm is huge compared to the virtually anybody in public?
anonymous said on 27/Jan/11
I just bought some casual shoes which give me around 2.5 inches added height. The thing I can't believe is how comfortable they are. I went from 5'8.25 to 5'10.75. Not only comfortable but impossible to notice they are anything but normal shoes. Now I'm getting spoiled and thinking about something in the 3-3.5 inch range. LOL
maximus meridius said on 26/Jan/11
Ciaran is right if you want to be taller buy Timberland boots Elijah Wood is 5ft 7in he wore Timberland boots in Greet Street which added 2 inches to his height making him look 5ft 9in the guy he is standing next to is 6ft 6ft 1in in normal trainers he is only 4 inches shorter then the guy is standing next to there is not much of a difference. Click Here
maximus meridius said on 25/Jan/11
Ciaran is right if you want to look taller buy timberland boots and also nike air max trainers Elijah Wood is 5ft 7in he wore Timberland boots in Greet Street which made him look 5ft 9in he is standing next to this who is 6ft 1in in normal trainers and he is only 4 inches shorter than him. Click Here
Bekah said on 12/Jan/11
I'm a woman who is 6' 1". I've been this height since I was 14 (I'm 29 now) and I felt that my height was a curse. You have no idea how many times people asked me if I am a basketball pro. I loathe sports, so the answer was always a polite 'no'. Anyway, to get to my main point, it was always difficult to find a guy who didn't feel like a dwarf standing next to me. I always tried to pal around with the tall guys who always had petite girlfriends, hoping to be a fall-back girl for them but either wehd become such good friends that it was just weird or they were only attracted to tiny girls. Now that I'm older and have been with tall guys, I've realized that size does not matter. I married a man who is 5' 8" and he adores me and isn't intimidated by my height and loves me for who I am. But, on the downside, when we walk along together I'm often mistaken for a man and him a woman at first glance due to the height difference so it's a bit embarassing for us and the people who mistake our sexes. We may as well dress in drag and pretend! So, to all of you short guys and tall ladies: there's someone out ther for you who will love you no matter what your size is. I found my guy on craigslist! Happy hunting!
Tommy lee said on 10/Jan/11
Ive noticed on the Drake and Josh show Josh at 6 feet towers over Drake, but Drake seems taller than his girl friends on the show most of them are listed 5'7, or 5'8. This lift shoe thing would certainly explain it. but then why would he only wear them with his female co stars? And is Drake Bell really the type of man who would care about his height?
Dan said on 8/Jan/11
There is no reason to be wearing lifts if you are 5'10 or over. That's just stupid, that's a solid height, you don't need lifts.
Rodro said on 24/Dec/10
Greg, which part of germany did you visit? Northern germans are definitely a tall bunch of people.. average could easily be 6 feet plus. You can find individuals from 6 3' to 6 7' with a decent frequency.. much taller than white americans definitely. You have been probably too much in munich or some area in southern/eastern germany .. as north/west germans are much taller than rest of germans.
Menace 195cm said on 19/Dec/10
In my country, I am a slightly tall guy but i still feel insecure sometimes ,so i always pack a 2.5inches lift in my 1.5inches leather shoes. So I would look around 205cm in shoes...Great! At around 195cm barefoot, u won't feel short in clubs or bars but u wouldn't feel tall neither, 195cm is just enough for a man. I think 195cm is a minimum standard for a man to feel like a man.
octopus paul said on 9/Nov/10
wearing lifts is not normal.. a person has to adjust something.. i think walking with these lifts doesn't feel normal.. some other scientific means should be found to look tall and increase height which doesn't gives pain and is normal..
Matt said on 9/Nov/10
Don's are comfortable, promote good posture and have the +2.5 inches so you will appear 1.5 inches more than you are in public or 6ft 1, taller than your wife by an inch unles she wears her heels she will still have a slight edge on you
Larc186-188cm said on 2/Nov/10
Thanks to these things many actors can easily lie about their real height. Some classic examples: Tom Cruise is 5'7.5 and claims 5'9 Matt Damon is 5'8.5 and claims 5'10 Johnny Deep is 5'8.75 and claims 5'11! George Clonney is 5'9.5 and claims 5'11 Brad Pitt is 5'10.25 and claims 5'11
anonymous said on 24/Oct/10
im 5'10 honestly its pretty funny how people on here who are like 5'11-6 are insecure about their height, how tall do u wanna be 8'10? and to all the people wearing shoe lifts that is so pathetic i hope u all get found out in the most humiliating way.
Karate kid said on 20/Oct/10
Hey Rob (or anyone else with knowledge on the subject), I'm around 5'11.5, but my wife is 6'0 and likes to wear heals. I love my wife very much and don't have any inferiority complexes about it, but sometimes it can look bad when go out and she is standing a couple of inches taller than me and when we are dancing etc. I have decided that I should wear lifts or bigger shoes when we go out, but I need advice on what to get. I had back pain in the past and i'm a little worried that lifts could worsen it somewhat, so I was wondering if you could suggests some lifts that are flat (like cuboid shape) rather than ones that are like heels (if these exist). Or any other reccomendations you have. Sorry for the long post and my poor English.
Larc186-188cm said on 12/Oct/10
Sylvester Stallone, Tom Cruise, Robert Downey Jr and even Johnny Deep (recently) are known for wearing this crap.
Timtam said on 11/Oct/10
One question, how come in the above photo your face looks elongated in the taller one...I compared them just looking at the head so it is not an optical illusion? I am ust curious as i have just ordered a pair then saw this and wondered if it was for real or just talk? thanks
JAK said on 9/Oct/10
My genes say I should be 6'1, but I'm 5'11.5 which is shorter than my 6'0 Dad, however only a couple of months ago I was 5'11 flat, and I just turned 20. So I'm still hoping I reach that height.
Wilbur said on 7/Oct/10
I have a buddy that I go to church with who always say that he is a little guy. Well, to me 5'8'' isn't that bad for a guy, he should try 5'4" and see how it feels to be the little guy. At least he has more variety of ladies to choose from as for me, ladies are always saying ah...who's your little friend.
jtt said on 5/Oct/10
anyone used the silicon gel ones? Thinking of buying some, would like to hear reviews
lolo said on 19/Sep/10
i'm 173-174 cm i cant stand girls 5'-5'2 saying im real short
Anonymous said on 11/Sep/10
I have a cousin who is 5'9". His dad is no taller than 5'7" and his mom (my biological aunt) is about 5'4". He just turned 14. Im 16 and a half years old, my mom is 5'7", my dad was 5'11" at his peak, and i'm the exact same height as my cousin. All 3 of his sisters are adults and below 5'4". Dont feel bad if ur shorter than ur supposed to be based on ur parents' heights. You obviously have a better chance of being tall if ur parents are tall, but its not set in stone. You always have a chance of catching the recessive genes of ur folks.
Greg said on 7/Sep/10
great you're ignorant. 6'4 is not a pretty normal height in Germany. I should know as I spend my Summers there. Average height is in the 5'10 to 5'11 range.
Ana said on 30/Aug/10
Good for u alex. Im just 5 1" but i never feel weird even in front of my 6 foot friends
007 said on 25/Aug/10
2.5'' elevator dress shoes actually only give an inch of extra height because regular dress shoes have 1.5'' soles. these companies measure the entire sole claiming that's how much extra height you get when in fact it's less.
RisingForce said on 5/Aug/10
I just have insole lifts, cheap and effective.
great said on 24/Jul/10
alex: are you from Germany? and the guy giant192: in germany pretty normal height. i guess women talking to you is not mainly due to your body length.
jack finn said on 18/Jul/10
im 15 and im exactly 179cms, i know it is slightly above average but i wear lifts that take me to 5ft11, for some reason i still feel small and cant tell if someones bigger than me or not, i also have bad sleep and not amazing exercise, yet i still seem to grow
Alex said on 11/Jul/10
Im a 5'11 1/2" guy, i used to have a bit of a height complex, wished i was taller, didnt help that i a girl i liked at that time was 5'10" and only seemed to be into guys 6'1" or above, it's funny how obsessed you can become over it, i used to always be comparing my height to everyone, in the end I just got over it, 5'11 1/2" is not short, its tall side of average i think. im satisfied with that now.
Editor Rob said on 20/Jun/10
Yes, I am wearing socks and then the shoes, while Jenny wears the same sneakers. The shoes give 2.5 inches in height...
Mark said on 17/Jun/10
Am I the only one that noticed that it looks like the guy is only wearing socks in the picture on the left, and obviously all shoes in the picture on the right?
Anonymous said on 15/Jun/10
The reason the second picture looks off a little is because the pants at the bottom are bunched up around the shoe. A wider cut, perhaps boot cut would work so the pant leg hangs free with a slight break. Also, if you make yourself taller you must also wear a sportcoat or suit jacket that has a longer length to compensate for the height increase. Then everything will look proportionate.

Heights are barefeet estimates, derived from quotations, official websites, agency resumes, in person encounters with actors at conventions and pictures/films.

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