If you're interested in increasing your height a little, and fortunately, there are now many companies producing height-increasing insoles of varying sizes, but this can also cause confusion when finding the right pair for you.
Foot health is the first thing to consider when buying the best insoles to increase height. Unless you want to test what it feels like to walk taller on a 1-time trip out (fair enough), then avoiding overly cheap inserts is essential, as they are simply not going to do you any good in the long run.
To Note - All the insoles on this page are suitable for men + women and often have different sizing options available.
Top 5 Insoles to Make You Taller (Quick Overview)
Recommended Products | HEIGHT INCREASE (Approx) | GOOD FOR | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
1: Burlingham  | 1.25 inch, 1.5 inch adjustable layers | High tops | |
2:CHAMARIPACHAMARIPA  | 1.18 inch (3 cm) | High tops | |
3: Orthopedic Heel Lift  | 1.5 inch (3.8 cm) | High tops | |
4: Jordan 720  | Up to 1.53 inch, 5x detectable layers - 1x 0.59 inch and 4x 0.23 inch | All shoes | |
5:XXIN  | 1.5 cm, 2.5 cm, 3.5 cm | All shoes |
Full Reviews
1: Premium Shoe Lifts - Unisex
Whether you are looking for a subtle or substantial height increase then these have you covered, as they come in 3 variations of 0.5, 1, and 1.5 inches.
The cooling gel technology keeps feet at a comfortable temperature and the thickness ensures they do not feel too bouncy, but rather supportive to influence a natural instep as you step forwards.
They also have an additional layer of patterned rubber which will provide traction support to prevent them from moving around in the shoe.
Summary - The black style will ease into many shoe types unnoticed, remain comfortable all day long, and you will soon forget you are wearing insoles to increase height.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: All shoes
- Height increase: 0/5 inch, 1 inch and 1.5 inch
- Discreet
- Supportive & durable
The Bad Stuff:
2: Premium Adjustable Orthopedic Heel Lift - Unisex
You can tell these are premium from the get-go.
With the leather-like top layer and orthopedic design they come with 3x 1/4 inch self-adhesive bonding layers, so overall you can gain 3/4 of an inch from these insoles, which will fit nicely in low/mid-top shoes.
They also come with memory PU material, which is balanced in density to maintain a firm, yet steady feeing for the soles of your feet. It is also durable and will maintain its height over time.
Summary - These insoles are kind on your feet, by finding a natural balance between cushioning your steps and being sturdy enough to maintain the given height.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: All shoes
- Height Increase: 3x 1/4 adjustable layers
- High quality PU
- Orthopedic design, ideal for hip + leg discrepancies
The Bad Stuff:
3: Ailaka Gel Height Increase Insole - Unisex
These insoles are made from medical-grade gel and are sturdy and supportive, striking a fine balance between compression and firmness.
The top layer of antibacterial E-TPU velvet fabric helps to absorb moisture and sits on top of a gel center, combined for a comfortable, cushioned feeling as you walk. The U-shaped design provides stability, helping the foot fall into place as you step forwards.
They bottom has a honeycomb-patterned design that will stick to the shoes you are wearing, keeping the insoles firmly in place. It also adds additional cushioning to your insteps for added mobility and comfort.
Summary - These are a supportive and comfortable design which work well during prolonged periods of use.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: All shoes
- Height Increase: 1.5cm, 2.5cm, 3.5cm
- Supportive & comfortable
The Bad Stuff:
4: Dr. Wolf Heel Lift Inserts - Unisex
If you want to look taller at the gym then these will also help to improve ankle mobility whist working out.
The hard and durable polymer construction is non-slip and will not compress when lifting weights, and by raising your heel off the ground these will give assistance for technical positions such enabling deeper squats.
For height alone, these will give 1/2 inch lift, which rarely people will notice, and if they do they certainly won't voice it with sincerity. They will also be fine for all-day wear.
Summary - you will be hard-pressed to find a more suitable gym training lift out there.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: Any shoes
- Height increase: 1/2 inch
- Great for functional gym training
- Highly durable
The Bad Stuff:
- These do not replace a high-quality weight lifting shoe
5: Adjustable Orthopedic Heel Lift - Unisex
You get what you pay for, and it certainly applies here. These are ergonomically designed height-increasing insoles with soft cushioning that will mold to the feet and help them to feel at home after a few days of wear.
The high-density PU foam is lightweight and you will soon forget you are wearing these insoles, and the firm base structure helps secure the feet and support the movement.
The 3/4 length design ensures that wider toes will not feel compressed, enabling them to fit a wide variety of shoes.
Summary - The longer you wear these the more you will enjoy, and your feet and leg muscles will constantly benefit from the premium design.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: High tops
- Height Increase: 1.5 inch
- Premium design gives top results
- Lightweight Design
The Bad Stuff:
6: CHAMARIPA Elevator Insoles - Unisex
Chamaripa is an established elevator shoe brand that produces only the best in quality height-increasing footwear. These insoles are no exception, being trim-to-size and designed to give excellent comfort and support.
They feature a moisture-wicking upper design to keep your feet cool through stressful periods, and they have an anatomical heel cup that cushions load-points of the feet, both standing and walking.
The bottom section is constructed with ultra-lightweight EVU foam material, providing resilience even after long term use, and there is a cushioned air bubble in the heel area designed to absorb impact - even if you are drunk and jumping up and down while singing the national anthem outside of your best friend's house.
Summary - CHAMARIPA has constructed a durable and well-built height insole for all-day wear.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: High tops
- Height increase: 1.18 inch
- Premium quality, feature packed
The Bad Stuff:
7: Invisible Inner Height Increase Insole - Unisex
These insoles come in 3 height variations of 0.6, 1, and 1.4 inches, so can fit in all types of footwear. They provide a nicely sloped arch that counters arch dangling to support the natural motion of the foot.
They have a breathable, non-slip net cloth lining that will keep your feet stay firmly planted on the insole, and being lightweight in the design you will quickly forget you are wearing them.
Unlike other collapsible designs, the elastic PU will maintain form as time passes by, and they will not slip inside the shoes.
Summary - An affordable and supportive insole that is perfect for newcomers to height-increasing wear.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable for: All shoes
- Height Increase: 0.6 inch, 1 inch and 1.4 inch
- Great arch support
The Bad Stuff:
8: Burlingham's Height Increase Insole - Unisex
Ideal for high-top styles such as converse, if you are looking for a considerable height boost then these might be worth a shot.
They are surprisingly comfortable, and by being lightweight your steps will feel natural. They have decent arch support alongside a padded interior supporting the ball of the foot.
Remember - with a higher height gain make sure your feet are securely fastened inside the shoes to avoid ankle slips!
Summary - They are surprisingly easy to get used to considering the substantial height increase, so for one-off moments where you need a boost, these should be your go-to lift!
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable For: high tops
- Height Increase: 1.25 inch, 1.5 inch adjustable layers
- Cut-to-size
The Bad Stuff:
9: SOL3 Premium Quick Lifts - Unisex
These have been supplied to NHS Hospitals in the UK, and are a credible option for those who enjoy a firmer feeling from a height insole. Available in 3 different widths, they will fit well into most shoes.
They are covered in a layer of natural vegetable-tanned leather, which not only feels smooth but is moisture wicking, helping to absorb sweat.
The midsection is made from Korfant which is a durable orthotic material similar to cork, remaining sturdy and durable. There is a self-adhesive bottom layer to prevent insole slippage inside of the shoe.
Summary - A credible option, and you like a firmer feeling as you walk then these might be the insoles for you.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable For: Mid top, high top
- Height Increase: 1 inch, 1.2 inch
- Good for those who like a firm feel
The Bad Stuff:
- Need to be glued down in some instances
10: XXIN Height Increase Insole - Unisex
Designed for the average foot, these full-length insoles are cut-to-size and provide a nice cushion for all-day wear.
They have a perforated bottom to help with air flow and to keep your feet dry and feeling fresh throughout wear.
The elastic rubber insole houses a unique honeycomb tread, which is built to absorb pressure from steps, and can handle running and hiking with ease. It also sports a firm grip and will not fall out of place inside the shoe.
They also come in a wooly variation, perfect for winter months to keep the feet cozy and warm.
Summary - These are a good entry-level insole that provides the comfort needed for all-day wear.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable For: All shoes
- Height Increase: 1.5 cm, 2.5 cm, 3.5 cm
- Cut-to-size
- Good shock absorption for standing, running and hiking
The Bad Stuff:
11: Skyfoot's Height Increase Insoles - Unisex
Available in 0.6, 1, and 1.4-inch variations, these insoles are suitable for all types of footwear.
There is a top layer of sweat-absorbent fabric to keep the feet from overheating and feeling sore, which is also anti-slip.
This is housed on top of a PU Foam unit and a medical-Grade Gel bottom which is soft, yet sturdy to walk on, striking a fine balance that ensures the feet remain comfortable
The honeycomb bottom layer helps to absorb impact and has a patterned design that keeps the insole firmly in place as you walk.
Summary - Well constructed with soft cushioning, supporting daily wear.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable For: All shoes
- Height Increase: 0.6 inch, 1 inch, 1.5 inch
The Bad Stuff:
- Not suited for wider shoes/feet
12: Height Increase Insoles - Unisex
These cut-to-size full-length insoles are ideal for those who are accustomed to cushioning. The soft velvet is housed on top of closed-cell polyurethane foam, resistant to water penetration and moisture build-up.
The cupped heel will help your feet fall into place, adding comfort and stability, while encouraging proper walking form.
They also have high levels of arch support which is ideal for those who want to remain steady on their feet, relieving arch pain while standing all day long.
Summary - If stability and high levels of cushioning sound like your thing then these are the height-increasing insoles you need!
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable For: All shoes
- Height Increase: 2cm, 3cm, 5cm
- Cut-to-size
- Soft cushioning
- Good arch support
The Bad Stuff:
- high cushioning = compression and lost height from insole
- Not for those who like sturdy footbeds
13: Height Increasing Layer Silicone Inserts - Unisex
The Transparent and 100% silicone material has an invisible design that will sit unnoticed in any shoe of your choice.
There are 5x layers that can be adjusted accordingly and stick together firmly. The top layer has a curved edge that secures your heel in place, so you won't slip out of them.
They can easily be wiped down or washed to keep them fresh, and they are going to remain sturdy and durable.
Summary - For a discreet and easy to clean option of increasing height, these are going to work nicely.
The Good Stuff:
- Suitable For: All shoes
- Height Increase: Up to 1.53 inch, 5x detectable layers - 1x 0.59 inch and 4x 0.23 inch
- Transparent and Invisible Design
The Bad Stuff:
Advice On Buying Your Height Insoles
Here are some things to consider when choosing your insoles. You need to find the right balance that can provide stability, support and comfort when pairing them with shoes.
Height
The reality is that when first starting out with height insoles, the more height you add inside of a shoe, the greater the likelihood of your foot being tilted at an uncomfortable angle and you may quickly realize that you made the wrong choice. This is why it is best to start off small and work your way up to your desired height increase.
It is common to gain less added height than advertised with the inserts. This is because the height is often taken from measuring the back of the insert, and the height you will actually gain is from the point the foot pivots, further down the insole. Compression is also another issue with some designs, and as the insole flattens, height will be lost.
Shoe Type
If you are adding inserts into shoes that are not designed to fit them, then it is important to remember that this has not been recognized as a safe combination for the feet. But there are some general guidelines you can follow to make things easier.
You are going to want to have a minimum of 2.3-5 inches (around 6cm) height from the footbed to the back of the heel, which ensures your heels will not slip out of the shoe. To work this out, you can measure your desired pair of shoes with a ruler from the footbed to the top of the heel area, and if this measures 2.5 inches or more you are good to go.
In general, there are 3 basic types of shoes available: low top, medium top, and high top, with lift-height guidelines for each.
Low-top - up to half an inch (1.3cm)
Low-top styles are going to fit up to half an inch of lift inside them. Any more than this and you will struggle to keep your feet inside the shoe, and you will have to tie your shoelaces very tight to do so, which is not advisable.
It is recommended with this style to buy adjustable lifts in layers, so you can find what suits your shoe.
Medium-top - up to 1 inch (2.54cm)
Medium-tops will have a higher back and sides than lower top shoes and are suitable for a lift up to around 1 inch.
It is recommended with this style to buy adjustable raises, as styles have footbeds varying in height and therefore a 1-inch raise might be too much for some.
High-top - up to 1.5 inch (3.6m)
Due to the high back and sides, high-tops are going to be suitable for a higher rise of 1.5 inches. You are going to want the side of the shoe you choose to be firm, as this will prevent your ankles from slipping when wearing a higher lift.
It is not recommended to jump straight in the deep end, and rather to start small and work your way up to a higher lift (over 1 inch)
It is best to avoid high tops with that use a zip, such as a zip-up boot. The reason a zip is used is to really secure the foot inside the boot, so there is not going to be much room to add a raise inside.
Shoe Size
Another thing to consider is shoe size. If you buy shoes that are tight-fitting, to begin with, then adding insoles to them is going to compress the feet, restrict blood flow, and is going to be uncomfortable. In some cases, buying shoes that are half an inch bigger than your usual size will be perfect for adding a lift.
It is always best to check up on the sizing of your preferred shoes that you will be using the lift in before purchasing them.
Half Length VS Full Length Insole
Most height-increasing Insoles have been tested and vetted for foot health. They have a slope that complements your natural stride, conforming to the foot and easing the pressure off of the arch.
The angle of the slope is a key determinant when choosing insoles that fit. Like high heels, the steeper the incline the more practice you are going to need to walk in them.
Half Length
With this style of an insole, it is advised to not go over an inch in height, as they will be too slanted which is going to tilt your foot at a high angle, causing pain.
It is important to remember that while high heels are designed in such a way that has been vetted for foot health, a random combination of a heel lift and shoe has not, so choose insoles that have a gradual slope, which will help to ease your feet into the shoe.
Full Length
These often have the added benefit of being cut-to-size, which can ensure that they fit the custom shape of your feet.
Depending on the width of your shoe/feet, you might need to buy shoes at least half an inch larger, or loose-fitting in order for the full-length insoles to fit comfortably around the toe area.
Quality of Materials
- Some insoles have multiple thick layers of rubber and a cheap air cushion that become unstable at any moment (avoid). With detachable insoles, you want to keep the lift smaller, as they are usually higher in quality, and large pieces have more chance of dethatching inside of the shoe.
- Materials such as memory foam will feel nice to begin with, but with repeated steps, it wears out much faster than other materials, losing comfort. Also, this material is often added as a thin layer on top of low-quality materials with little support.
- With quarter/half length insoles, avoid overly soft materials, as too much compression causes uneven pressure throughout the foot, as half of your foot will be on an overly cushioned insole and half on the harder front foot-bed of the shoe. This can negatively impact joints, muscles and may cause back pain which is going to stop you from using them.
- Cheaper insoles will often permanently compress faster than a higher quality insole, and as a result, lose their advertised height gain.
The best option is to find a balance of compression, durability and size by reading reviews.
Other Tips
- You can remove the original insole inside of the shoe to accommodate your new ones, and glue them down if needed
- You can use a pen and trace a cutting line around the original insole of the shoe
- Insoles should be replaced around each 3 month period of use for maximum effectiveness
The Bottom Line
Whether you are a casual looking for a quick height fix, or a seasoned veteran of the height game, there is something on this page to satisfy your needs. These days there are a plentiful amount of insoles that make you taller that can accommodate all foot types, thin, wide, big, and small, that make all-day wear a joy to behold.
Bear in mind though, that foot safety should be number 1 on any list, and for under 10$ you can buy good quality inserts that will do you proud.
