Elevator shoes are shoes with thickened insoles or ‘shoe lifts’ that ‘elevate’ the wearer or make them feel taller. The platforms in elevator shoes generally add between 2-5 extra inches of height. What’s unique about the shoes is their ability to hide the elevating effect, leading observers unaware the shoes are anything but a regular pair.
Due to the sophisticated elevator design, the shoes are not inexpensive. However, you can be assured of high-quality materials and guaranteed durability (these shoes are fit to last!)
But what brings people to use elevator shoes? The first and most notable reason, but certainly not the only, is height. The average male height in both the US and UK is 5’ 9”. In a society where the ideal benchmark seems to be 6 feet tall, it’s natural to imagine why elevator shoes may be popular for this reason.
In addition to a greater height, they can also make a person appear more slender. Your legs look longer too and this adds to a long silhouette.
There have also been reports of people enjoying a decrease of bodily complaints. It’s said that elevator shoes can help improve long-term posture, ease pressure on knees and reduce back pain. Despite the positive health rewards, however, elevator shoes do not market themselves as anything other than shoes for people with a personal preference. Therefore, whilst it’s likely people have seen bodily improvements, they should not be leaned on in place of orthopaedic shoes on the market.
The shoes are not just designed for those unhappy with their height; anybody can feel the benefit of adding an extra inch or five. So what are those benefits?
Discretion
The height difference will be very clearly visible, but the good news is the platform won’t. Due to very careful ergonomic design, the exterior appearance of elevator shoes look perfectly ordinary. The platform is discreet and the heel does not look modified in any way. In fact, you would not be able to pick out an elevator shoe from any other pairs of shoes lined up together.
Versatility
Another great aspect is the versatility of the shoe. For so long, elevator shoes have been tarnished with an unfair reputation for being bland or obviously modified to the naked eye. Now, however, you can choose from a wide range of formal leather shoes, sports trainers and plimsolls. You can even choose from the latest trends for all occasions. Nobody would know your ‘flyknit’ running trainers had elevator support, nor your suede plimsolls. This versatility in style also means the shoes are perfect for all ages.
No negative health consequences
It’s natural to worry about the short and long-term health consequences of receiving elevator support. What you may find surprising, though, is that the shoes do not cause any negative effects. You are able to wear the shoes for normal, everyday usage, just like you would a regular pair of shoes.
