Do Height Increasing Inserts and Insoles Work?

Designed to add extra height discreetly, height increasing inserts and insoles are popular products that can be found in various forms such as shoe inserts, insoles or lift pads.

They are commonly used to enhance a person's stature without altering their footwear but do these height boosting insoles actually work? And how effective are they?

Who They Are Designed For

There are a variety of reasons why someone may want to wear height increasing insoles. Here are some of the primary groups of people who might benefit from using these insoles:

People who want to appear taller

Many people use height insoles to boost their confidence by appearing taller in social or professional settings.

Individuals in professions where appearance can influence success (e.g., actors, models, sales people) might use height insoles to gain a competitive edge.

Others might wear them for special occasions such as weddings or other events where they want to appear taller temporarily.

Some may want to achieve a better fit with certain types of clothing or shoes that look more appealing with added height.

People with medical related issues

People with leg length discrepancies whether congenital or acquired (e.g., due to injury or surgery), might use height insoles to balance their gait, relieve pain and improve overall comfort.

Some height increasing insoles are designed with ergonomic features to help with foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or heel spur, providing both height and therapeutic benefits.

Those who spend long hours on their feet (e.g. retail workers and hospitality staff) may benefit from insoles that offer both height and additional comfort.

Properly designed insoles can help improve posture by encouraging proper alignment of the feet, ankles, and spine.

Athletes and active individuals

For people who want enhanced performance in sports may use insoles that provide a slight lift along with added cushioning and support, which can help improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.

Height boosting insoles with added arch support and shock absorption can also be beneficial for athletes recovering from foot or leg injuries.

How They Work

Height increasing insoles and inserts typically consist of layers of materials like foam, gel or rubber that’s designed to fit within footwear. They can be positioned at the heel or the entire footbed to add height.

They come in various thicknesses and styles, allowing users to choose the amount of height they want to add, ranging from a small increase of about 1cm to larger lifts that can add several centimetres.

Are They Effective?

Whether or not height increasing insoles and inserts are effective for their intended use depends on multiple factors including the design of the product, the height of the lift, the footwear it’s worn inside of and the foot health of the user.

Before using height insoles, here are some considerations to take:

• Proper Fit – It’s crucial to choose height insoles that fit well and do not cause discomfort. Inserts that are too thick or poorly designed can lead to issues such as blisters, foot pain or instability.
• Correct Footwear – There’s no point in using insoles and inserts if it doesn’t fit correctly within the footwear. Make sure that there’s enough room inside for the insoles/inserts so when you put on your shoes, they fit snugly with little movement.
• Adjustment Period – Users may need some time to get used to the added height, especially if they are new to using insoles. Gradually increasing the height can help minimize discomfort.
• Wear Duration – Over-wearing certain types of height insoles/inserts particularly ones with too much added height, can damage your feet since because there’s less support. Be sure to limit the duration of wear according to the design of the insoles and the comfort of your feet.
• Durability and Quality – The effectiveness and comfort of height insoles can vary significantly based on the quality of materials and construction. High-quality insoles are more likely to provide lasting comfort and support without wearing out quickly.

Not a Permanent Solution

Height boosting inserts and insoles are a non-surgical, non-permanent solution to adding height. They are effective for short-term use but do not alter bone structure or height permanently.

Over-reliance on these types of insoles, especially if they are not well-designed, can potentially affect foot health. It is important to use them in as recommended and not to exceed the suggested height increase or duration.

An alternative that many people who want to increase their height is just to wear footwear with a thick outsole. This method can sometimes be structurally better for the feet providing the insoles are good quality.