Heightboosters™ Shoe lift inserts for height

Adjustable height you control, confidence you feel. Slip HeightBoosters™ Shoe Lift inserts into your favourite shoes for a hidden lift that helps you stand taller and feel more assured from the first step.

Height and confidence: a simple, hidden way to look taller

You feel it when you’re shoulder‑to‑shoulder with taller friends, lining up for a photo, or stepping into a date or an interview where first impressions stick. Most shoes add only a slight amount of height, and the higher the external heel, the more obvious it looks. One option for men is Cuban heels, but they’re not commonly worn and can draw attention; they can also feel awkward over time. For many women, high heels may be more socially accepted, but they’re often uncomfortable and can contribute to foot problems if worn for long periods. You want extra height that feels natural, stays out of sight, and keeps your style exactly as it is.

Why height shapes first impressions

Height isn’t everything, but it can shape those first few seconds when people are forming an opinion. According to workplace and social‑perception research, taller people are often seen as more confident and capable at first glance [1–3]. That doesn’t mean height defines your worth as a person, but it explains why standing a little taller can change how you feel and how you’re received. In those early moments, a subtle, natural‑looking lift can help you feel in control—calmer, more assured, and more like the version of yourself you want people to meet.

Where it matters most

Nobody wants to be known as the “short one” of the group—you want to look taller than your friends on a night out. On a first date, a little extra height can lift your confidence, help you feel less self‑conscious, and then let you relax so your personality leads. In job interviews, you want to make a strong first impression the second you shake hands. At busy social or work events, you’re tired of being literally looked down on. A discreet boost can help your posture feel more open and your stance more assured—without changing how your shoes look on the outside.

The solution: a hidden lift inside your shoes

Shoe lifts give you discreet height without changing the outside of your footwear. Each pair has a base plus one removable extra layer. Choose fewer layers for a low‑key boost or stack both included layers to reach around 38–40 mm (about 1.5 in). Because the lift sits out of sight inside your shoe, the outside look stays the same and your style stays yours. The 3/4‑length shape supports your heel and mid‑foot without crowding your toes, so your stride stays easy and relaxed.

How layers work—and why it feels natural

Set the height of your lift for what you’re doing by adding or removing layers. Use fewer layers when shoe space is tighter; use more layers in roomier footwear when you want maximum lift. A resilient silicone‑gel base softens impact so steps feel calmer, while a soft cotton top layer feels smooth against your socks. The shoe lifts slip in quickly, switch between shoes in seconds, and stay out of sight as you go about your day. If you want more height than the included layers provide, you can add compatible layers from a second pair—so long as your shoes continue to hold your heel down securely and feel stable as you walk.

What you’ll notice from day one

Expect a subtle but noticeable change in how you stand and carry yourself. You’ll stand a little taller, keep your stride relaxed, and feel more at ease. A wider, gently cupped heel base helps steady each step, and cushioning takes the edge off hard floors. Your shoes look unchanged from the outside, and the lifts are out of sight and out of mind—just a straightforward way to look taller and feel bolder without changing the footwear you enjoy wearing.

Most people choose shoe lifts for height and confidence. Many also find the same gentle rise and cushioning make standing and walking easier on their heels and tendons. If comfort and balance matter to you as well, here’s how a small heel lift can help with common foot concerns.

Why a small lift helps (in plain English)

Every step starts with your heel meeting the ground. On firm floors, that first contact can spike pressure and strain. A slight lift changes the ankle angle and can reduce load on the plantar fascia and Achilles, while cushioning spreads pressure so one spot doesn’t take the full hit. A wider, steady base under the heel also helps guide motion so it rolls less inward or outward. Together, that can mean fewer sharp jolts, smoother steps, and less end‑of‑day soreness. According to clinical guidance and research, heel lifts and cushioned support often form part of everyday self‑care for common heel and lower‑limb issues [4–6].

Common foot concerns and how a lift can help

Small functional leg‑length difference (disparity). A small difference between sides can tilt the pelvis and leave you feeling uneven with each step. Adding a modest lift on the shorter side can help level things out so standing and walking feel more balanced. Start with fewer layers, add gradually, and make sure your shoes continue to hold your heel down without lifting or slipping. According to review evidence, minor discrepancies are common and may respond to simple, incremental lifts when used sensibly [7].

Plantar fasciitis. The strong band under your foot (the plantar fascia) can become irritated, often causing sharp first‑step pain and a dull ache later in the day. A slight rise can reduce the stretch on that band during walking, while cushioning spreads heel pressure so one spot doesn’t take the full hit. According to clinical guidelines and trials, supportive foot devices—including heel support—can reduce pain in plantar heel pain over time when combined with sensible activity [4,8,9].

Heel spurs. Small bony growths near where the fascia or Achilles attaches can make the area sensitive under repeated impact. A modest lift with cushioning softens landings and reduces local pressure over tender spots, making firm floors more tolerable. According to research, cushioning and support help lower peak heel pressures and ease symptoms in plantar heel pain [4,8,9].

Achilles tendinopathy (mid‑portion). Repeated loading irritates the tendon’s mid‑section; greater ankle bend raises day‑to‑day strain. A small heel rise reduces this bend during stance, which may lower peak tendon load so walking feels easier. According to Achilles guidelines, temporary lifts can help reduce strain in the short term while normal activity continues [5].

Insertional Achilles irritation. Where the tendon meets the heel bone, tension plus compression can aggravate symptoms. A modest rise reduces ankle dorsiflexion at contact, easing compression at the insertion during daily movement. According to clinical summaries, this angle change can reduce irritation while you stay active within comfort [5].

Calf tightness (functional equinus). Limited ankle bend from tight calves makes walking feel stiff and shifts load into the heel and arch. A controlled lift compensates for restricted bend so your stride feels smoother and less forced. According to everyday clinical practice, short‑term heel lifts are commonly used to improve comfort while flexibility is addressed separately [5].

Retrocalcaneal bursitis/Haglund’s discomfort. Rubbing and compression at the back of the heel can flare with certain shoes. Raising the heel a little changes the angle at the back of the shoe and can ease rubbing during daily wear. Conservative care often includes measures that reduce direct pressure and friction while you remain active within comfort [5].

Heel fat‑pad soreness. The fat pad under the heel (your built‑in cushioning) can feel bruised, making each landing on hard floors feel sharp. Cushioning that compresses and rebounds spreads impact across a wider area and can soften that sensation. According to pressure‑mapping studies and clinical trials, cushioned heel devices can lower peak heel pressures and improve reported comfort [8,9].

General heel fatigue on hard floors. Long hours on concrete or wood deliver repeated, unforgiving impacts that add up. Gel cushioning reduces peak pressures, and a small rise can make firm floors feel more tolerable across long days. According to research and guidance on plantar heel pain, cushioning and supportive devices are sensible options to ease symptoms during daily activity [4,8].

Mild rearfoot overpronation or supination. If your heel rolls inward (overpronation) or outward (supination) more than feels comfortable, unsteady motion can strain tissues around the heel and ankle. A wider, steady heel base can guide a more neutral motion and support calmer steps. According to conservative care strategies, stability and support features can help moderate excessive rearfoot motion for everyday comfort [4–6].

What these inserts do—and what they don’t

They help you look taller and can make everyday standing and walking more comfortable. They don’t diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions, and they’re not a substitute for clinical care. If symptoms persist, worsen, or limit your activity, seek professional guidance. If you’re thinking about using a lift on one side only to even out a difference, ask a clinician first.

Why choose these shoe lifts: the features that set them apart

Adjustable layers to set your height

Set the height of your lift for what you’re doing by adding or removing layers. Each pair includes a base plus one removable extra layer, so you can choose a subtle boost with fewer layers or go up to around 38–40 mm (about 1.5 in) with both included layers. Because adjustments happen one layer at a time, you can find a height that looks natural and feels steady. If you want additional height, you can add compatible layers from a second pair—always ensuring your shoes still hold your heel down securely and feel comfortable when you walk.

Stable heel platform for balanced steps

When you increase heel height, stability matters. These shoe lifts use a wider, gently cupped base that helps steady the heel bone as you land and push off. By limiting excessive inward rolling (overpronation) or outward rolling (supination), the platform supports a more neutral position through the heel and ankle. This steadier base can reduce strain on tissues around the heel and Achilles during everyday standing and walking. Unlike tall, showy heels that can tip weight forward and feel wobbly, this hidden, balanced lift sits inside supportive shoes for a confident, composed step.

Honeycomb silicone‑gel cushioning to soften impact

Under the heel and mid‑foot, a resilient silicone‑gel honeycomb compresses on impact and rebounds as you push off. This action spreads load over a wider area and reduces sharp pressure where your heel lands, so each step feels softer. On firm surfaces like concrete or wood, the cushioning helps reduce end‑of‑day ache without adding the bulk of a full‑length insole. The gel also dampens small vibrations through the leg, which can make standing steadier over time. It’s targeted comfort you feel straight away.

Discreet 3/4‑length, low‑profile fit

The compact 3/4‑length profile lifts and cushions your heel and mid‑foot while leaving your toes free. That means no crowding in the toe box, normal lacing, and a shape that sits neatly at the back of the shoe. Because the lift is hidden inside, your footwear looks unchanged from the outside—only you know you’re wearing it. The low‑profile design also makes it easy to move the shoe lifts between pairs without trimming, so you can keep the same comfortable setup from work to weekend.

Lightweight, ergonomic design for easy swaps

These shoe lifts are light and shaped to follow the natural curve of the heel and mid‑foot, so they slip into most adult trainers, dress shoes, and boots without weighing your feet down. Smooth edges and a simple outline make them easy to remove and place in another pair within seconds. The low mass helps you avoid the clumsy, bulky feel some inserts cause, so your stride stays natural while you enjoy the extra height from your chosen layers.

Breathable holes and channels for fresher under‑heel comfort

Breathable holes and channels in the gel, combined with the open honeycomb structure, allow modest air movement under the heel and help reduce local heat build‑up. Airflow inside closed shoes is naturally limited, but these pathways give warm air a way to disperse so the area feels less stuffy over time. On long days or in warmer conditions, that can translate into a touch of freshness under the heel without sacrificing the cushioning and lift you prefer.

Plush cotton top layer for a smooth feel

A soft, breathable cotton surface sits above the gel to create a smooth interface with your socks. It reduces rubbing and hotspots, manages a little moisture, and adds a cushioned feel without extra thickness. On long days in closed shoes, the fabric helps your feet feel comfortable while the gel beneath does the heavy lifting on impact absorption. From the first wear, you get a gentle, pleasant surface underfoot—no harsh plastic feel and no scratchiness during break‑in.

Non‑slip grip to keep lifts in place

Silicone naturally grips, helping each lift stay in place against your shoe’s insole. This grip, together with the cupped heel shape, helps the lifts stay where you put them step after step, so you can focus on your day rather than adjusting anything. In shoes with a steeper heel angle—especially some dress styles—you can add a small piece of non‑permanent insole tape for extra hold, then remove it cleanly when switching footwear. The aim is simple: a hidden lift that stays put.

One size fits most, trim‑free convenience

The unisex, trim‑free design fits most adult footwear without the need to cut or shape. Because the lift supports only the rear two‑thirds of the foot, it avoids pressure on the toes and works with many shoe shapes. That makes setup straightforward and transfers between pairs fast. Use them across your wardrobe for consistent comfort and height wherever you go, all from a single pair you can move in seconds.

Easy care

These shoe lifts are simple to maintain. Wipe them with mild soap and water, then air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Do not machine wash, tumble dry, cut, or puncture the gel. Store flat in a cool, dry place between uses. Routine care keeps the surface fresh and the gel feeling consistent underfoot.

30‑day money‑back guarantee

Try the shoe lifts for 30 days. If they’re not right for you, return them in original condition for a refund under our money‑back guarantee, in line with our standard returns policy.

Ready to try these shoe lifts?

Choose your layers, slip the lifts into your shoes, and step out taller—without the giveaway of obvious heels. You’ll set your height a layer at a time, keep your shoes looking the same, soften every landing, and feel steady in the moments that matter: dates, interviews, events, and long days on your feet. It’s confidence you can set in seconds, comfort you feel all day, and a simple habit you’ll use again and again.

Using your shoe lifts — how to fit, wear and care

Start simple. Slide the lifts all the way to the back of your shoes so your heels sit fully down and don’t lift or slip as you walk. Begin with the base only, then add the extra layer once you feel steady and comfortable. Keep both sides even unless a clinician has advised using a lift on one side only to even out a small leg‑length difference. If you add layers from a second pair, increase height gradually and check that your shoes still hold your heels down securely and feel stable at each step.

First wears. Use the lifts for 1–2 hours on day one, then add about an hour per day as comfortable. Choose fewer layers for longer wear; save more layers for shorter periods in supportive shoes when you want extra height. You should feel steady and natural—if your shoes feel tight or your heels start to lift, remove a layer or switch to a roomier pair.

Footwear choice. Lifts work best in closed footwear with a firm heel counter, such as trainers, dress shoes, and boots. Avoid backless or loose styles. In shoes with a steeper heel angle, add a small piece of non‑permanent insole tape under the lift to reduce any slip, and test at home before heading out. Compared with tall, showy heels that push weight forward and can feel wobbly, this hidden, balanced lift sits inside supportive shoes to help you stay steady and comfortable.

Care and replacement. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Store flat in a cool, dry place. Like any cushioning that carries your body weight, the gel will slowly compress the more you use the lifts. If you notice visible flattening, reduced spring, loss of height, slippage, or edge tears, replace them so you keep the comfort and height you expect.

Who should use these shoe lifts

Choose them if you want a discreet, natural‑looking boost in height without changing how your shoes look on the outside; if you spend long hours on firm floors and want softer landings; or if you’re managing everyday heel and Achilles irritations where a small rise and cushioning can make movement feel easier. They can also help if you have a small functional leg‑length difference and have been advised to try a modest lift on one side—layer by layer, at a pace that feels steady.

Who should get advice first

If you have diabetes, reduced foot sensation, poor circulation, balance problems, or a history of falls, speak to a clinician before use. Do the same if you have ongoing heel, Achilles, ankle, knee, hip, or back pain; if you’re thinking about using a lift on one side only; or if you’ve had a recent injury or surgery. A few minutes of advice helps you choose the right number of layers, the right shoes, and the right wear time.

Important information

These shoe lifts can support everyday comfort and may ease symptoms for the concerns listed above. They do not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease, and they are not a substitute for professional assessment, rehabilitation, or prescribed orthoses. They are not a treatment for sprains. If pain persists, worsens, or limits your activity, stop use and seek clinical advice.

References

1. Judge TA, Cable DM. The effect of physical height on workplace success and income. Journal of Applied Psychology, 2004.
2. Stulp G, Buunk AP, Verhulst S, Pollet TV. Human height is positively related to interpersonal dominance, particularly in men. Biology Letters, 2013.
3. Blaker NM, Romund L, et al. The height leadership advantage in men and women: Testing evolutionary hypotheses on leadership perceptions. Evolutionary Psychology, 2013.
4. Martin RL, Davenport TE, et al. Heel Pain–Plantar Fasciitis Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 2014; revised 2023.
5. Martin RL, Chimenti RL, et al. Achilles Tendinopathy Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 2018.
6. Rome K, Howe T, Haslock I. Risk factors associated with the development of plantar heel pain in athletes. The Foot, 2001.
7. Knutson GA. Anatomic and functional leg‑length inequality: A review and recommendations. Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 2005.
8. Landorf KB, Keenan AM, Herbert RD. Effectiveness of foot orthoses to treat plantar heel pain. Archives of Internal Medicine, 2006.
9. Pfeffer G, Bacchetti P, et al. Comparison of custom and prefabricated orthoses in the initial treatment of proximal plantar fasciitis. Foot & Ankle International, 1999.