The average height of males in the USA is around 5 feet 10 inches, so in the men’s boot space it’s no surprise that this topic rarely gets discussed.
It may be embarrassing for some men to admit they want a little raise in their stature. We all have different boot needs and they’re all just as important to talk about.
If you’re of average height or taller, it’s probably never even crossed your mind. But for the rest of us vertically challenged gentlemen, elevator boots are a godsend. Here are my favorites.
Skip Ahead
What are Elevator Boots?
Elevator boots are boots for men specifically designed to provide the illusion of added height.
It’s perfectly acceptable in society for women to openly wear high heels with it even being an essential part of their wardrobe, but for men, not so much.
Therein lies the difference in approaches to how high heels for women and elevator boots for men are distinct. Elevator boots have no obvious giveaway that they are height enhancing.
How Do Elevator Boots Work?
Unlike the elevation that women get coming from the heels of their shoes, elevator boots increase height by hollowing out the inner heel part of the boot to accommodate a raised insole. This is where the illusion of height comes from and is designed that way so as to not reveal that the wearer is using a boosted boot.
Are Elevator Boots Only for Short Guys?
Believe it or not, elevator boots aren’t just worn by short guys.
These boots are also sought out by taller guys who just want to get as close to the ozone layer as possible. Granted, the majority of men who seek out elevator boots generally live in the lower altitudes, but that doesn’t mean elevator boots are exclusively made for them.
Here’s why:
Increasing your height with elevator boots isn’t just something that gives others the illusion that you’re taller but it also improves your posture in most cases.
They can be an effective confidence-boosting mechanism that’s used by businessmen, CEOs, and anyone who wants to feel like more of a boss regardless of their natural height.
The purpose of wearing elevator boots to increase your stature goes much deeper than simply appearing taller.
How Did I Come Up with My List?
Being slightly shorter than average myself, elevator boots have always had a certain appeal to me.
It’s hard enough to decide what the best boots for you are for different situations, but it’s even harder to find the best elevator boots for those exact same situations.
So I’ve put together days of research analyzing dozens of brands to come up with a list of height improving boots for you to choose from.
In order to come up with this list, I relied on my own experience as a (tad) shorter than the average male, along with hours of in-depth research, including dozens of customer experiences when selecting these boots.
And as always, style is always my first criterion.
I’ve put together a list of elevator boots for every type of guy for every occasion. Whether you’re a beanstalk or a bonsai, these elevator boots will give you the extra height and confidence to look and feel good in any situation.
6 Best Height Increasing Boots for Men
Best Overall: CMR Chamaripa Height Increasing Motorcycle Boots
The Chamaripa Height Increasing Motorcycle Boot has premium leather, water-resistant upper with a heavy rubber lug sole to help with grip and maneuvering when the bike is stationary.
Chamaripa is a well-known elevator shoe brand with plenty of styles to cover any of your needs.
The Chamaripa Height Increasing Motorcycle Boot has premium leather, water-resistant upper with a heavy rubber lug sole to help with grip and maneuvering when the bike is stationary.
What attracted me to this boot was that, unlike most motorcycle boots, these aren’t too chunky or look out of place in casual situations. These boots have a really nice mix of form and function.
They also have a material selection option that allows you to choose what material you want the upper lining to be made of. So if you are a vegan, you can ask for animal-free leather.
What I Like
For a motorcycle boot, they look stylish and not like the usual chunky and unattractive motorcycle boots you’re used to seeing.
Anti-slip heavy rubber lug soles are essential for safe maneuvering on bikes.
Side zippers make for easy on and off.
The ability to choose what materials your boot is made of is a great option.
What I Don’t Like
The boots don’t have a Goodyear welt construction which can be a deal-breaker for some.
What Other Reviewers Say
Chamaripa makes a wide variety of elevator shoes and boots but what attracts people to their Height Increasing Motorcycle Boot is the elegant and contoured aesthetic. Customers have commented that they not only use them on a motorbike but in other situations such as for work too.
The Verdict
The CMR Chamaripa Height Increasing Motorcycle Boot is one of the better looking motorcycle boots on the market,
These boots are not for the hardcore riding enthusiast, or for those who like to go offroad on dirt bikes. But if you’re just a casual cruiser who likes to look good on your beast, then these boots will serve you well on and off the bike.
The Chamaripa Height Increasing Motorcycle Boot has premium leather, water-resistant upper with a heavy rubber lug sole to help with grip and maneuvering when the bike is stationary.
Best Luxury: Guidomaggi Chelsea Boot
The Guidomaggi Chelsea Boot has a premium price tag, but it’s made from Tuscan leather with calfskin lining, real silk elasticated side panels and an unmistakable handcrafted Italian design.
Guidomaggi has a reputation of being one of, if not the best elevator shoe brands in the world, and not surprisingly, their prices reflect their status.
Regardless, their dedication to quality in the elevator shoe space is unmatched so it is only fitting they make it on this list as the best overall.
Their Chelsea boot is stunning, not just because they are astonishingly vogue, but because just at a glance you can see the construction and materials scream premium. Plus, they give a height increase of up to four inches.
It has a premium price tag, but it’s made from Tuscan leather with calfskin inner lining, real silk elasticated side panels and an unmistakable handcrafted Italian design.
What made me choose this Chelsea over countless others apart from the quality was the eye-catching full-grain burgundy leather.
The other feature that stood out was the thicker, semi-rugged sole that gives the Mesa a nice contrast to the perfectly clean contours of the rest of the boot.
What I Like
The color was the first thing that struck me. It leans more formal but could easily conform to a casual situation paired with the appropriate clothes.
The heel has a nice thickness to it with a semi-rugged grip that reminds me of the Thursday Legend with their StormKing soles. It stops the boot from looking too formal making it wearable in casual situations too.
Obviously, the construction is exquisite. With high-quality materials, the Guidomaggi Mesa is a premium elevator boot.
What I Don’t Like
 The price of this boot can make it prohibitive for many.Â
What Other Reviewers Say
You don’t have to search too hard to find reviews on Guidomaggi elevator footwear.
Although elevator boots are a specialized niche market, Guidomaggi has turned it into a high-end affair. Their boots are praised worldwide not just as a premium elevator brand but as a high-end, exclusive shoe brand.
The Verdict
Everything from the design to the materials used to the quality handcrafting, it’s immaculate. If you are looking for an all-around, high-end, luxury elevator boot then you will be hard-pressed to find one better than the Guidomaggi Mesa Chelsea.
The Guidomaggi Chelsea Boot has a premium price tag, but it’s made from Tuscan leather with calfskin lining, real silk elasticated side panels and an unmistakable handcrafted Italian design.
Best Cowboy Boot: CALTO Men’s Invisible Height Increasing Cowboy Zipper Boots
The CALTO Cowboy boots are made from genuine ox hide, cloth inner lining with rubber soles that have a nice looking grip pattern.
It’s very hard to find a cowboy boot that comes in an elevation design so it’s no surprise that the CALTOs are a popular choice for shorter people looking to get their western swag on.
The boots are made from genuine ox hide, cloth inner lining with rubber soles that have a nice looking grip pattern.
The side buckle is a nice touch that accents the zipper on the other side well. Add that to a signature cowboy boot sharp-toe and this makes a great looking boot.
The CALTOs have a 2 inch stacked heel with an overall total of a 3.3-inch lift. That is quite a noticeable height increase.
What I Like
The zipper on the inner side of the boot gives it a practical yet fashionable look.
The boot has a considerable height increase for a style of boot that isn’t really known for an elevation design.
The overall design of the boot strikes me as ‘modern’ cowboy chic rather than your traditional cowboy boot.
What I Don’t Like
The boots are made in China which is disappointing because if I’m shopping for cowboy boots, I expect them to be made in the USA.
The insoles can’t be removed therefore the height is not customisable.
What Other Reviewers Say
People who own this boot have commented that there is a noticeable and satisfactory increase in height. The zipper also slides smoothly and gives the boots an easy on and off.
The fact that a cowboy boot is made in China doesn’t sit well with some people but overall the boot is well-liked for its elevation and modern, western look.
The Verdict
There’s very little choice in the cowboy elevation boot category, I assume it’s just something that cowboys don’t do, or at least admit they do.
Thankfully, the CALTO Cowboy Zipper boots are a solid option for one of the few dedicated elevation cowboy boots on the market that you can find.
And they also come in three colors black, brown and blue, giving you some versatility in a category where options are scarce.
The CALTO Cowboy boots are made from genuine ox hide, cloth inner lining with rubber soles that have a nice looking grip pattern.
Best Tactical Boot: 5.11 Tactical Men’s A.T.A.C 2.0 Waterproof Military Storm Boots
It’s hard to find a tactical boot that looks good and performs as a tactical boot should, but the 5.11 Tactical Men’s A.T.A.C 2.0 Waterproof Military Storm Boots are the exception to that rule.
It’s hard to find a tactical boot that looks good and performs as a tactical boot should, but the 5.11 Tactical Men’s A.T.A.C 2.0 Waterproof Military Storm Boots are the exception to that rule.
Tactical boots are designed for rugged environments. Their sole purpose (pun intended) is to protect your feet at all costs, that includes your ankles when you’re hiking over rugged terrains.
Too much of a height increase can throw you off balance and risk twisting an ankle when pursuing the activities you normally would while wearing these boots.
For that reason, I’ve decided to choose a non-elevator tactical boot because the natural height increase of up to 1.5 inches is already plenty and because if it’s an elevator design, then it’s not really practical or tactical. An elevator-style boot isn’t something I’d feel comfortable wearing hiking, camping or fishing, let alone into battle.
What I Like
The convenient side zipper entry makes the boot quick to put on and take off which is a smart feature for an 8-inch boot.
 A hidden ankle pocket adds tactical utility for you to hide whatever small gear you want, adding more street cred to the class it’s in.
The boot’s height can keep your pants dry and mud-free in those less than ideal environments.
The boots have antibacterial Drilex lining which is beneficial for many of the functions and environments this boot is used for.
 A combination of full-grain leather and nylon construction makes the boot both sturdy and comfortable.
What I Don’t Like
The fit can be a little bit tight due to it being a slimmer tactical boot which can make ordering the right size a problem.
Due to the height of the boot, they can get a bit stuffy in high heat making your feet sweat. These perform best in mild to moderate weather environments.
What Other Reviewers Say
These boots are very popular with law enforcement, forest rangers, security guards, first responders or anyone with an active lifestyle. Many people say the boots are comfortable and feel like sneakers rather than heavy-duty boots. Â
The 5.11 Tactical Men’s A.T.A.C 2.0 Waterproof Military Storm Boots have a loyal following in many of the occupational areas mentioned.
Some people claim that they have received two different size boots so A.T.A.Cs quality control may not be ideal. Additionally, sizing is a known issue with these boots with complaints that the boots are generally half a size too small.
The Verdict
These A.T.A.Cs do it all. Waterproof, stand at a height of 8 inches which is standard military issue to keep your pants clean and dry, oil and slip-resistant outsoles, open-cell foam cushions for an extended comfort period and sturdy toe reinforcement. Plus the hidden ankle pocket if you like to be sneaky and hide something like a Swiss Army Knife is enough to make any big kid want to lace these bad boys up.
The best part is you get all of this good stuff for a very reasonable price. It’s no wonder why they are so popular in the tactical boot class.
It’s hard to find a tactical boot that looks good and performs as a tactical boot should, but the 5.11 Tactical Men’s A.T.A.C 2.0 Waterproof Military Storm Boots are the exception to that rule.
Best Work Boots: Shoes That Make You Taller Men’s Elevator Work Boot
These boots come well-constructed with a Goodyear welt, leather uppers, thick rubber soles and an attractive microfibre ankle lining that demonstrates that you are there to work, but with style.
The term ‘work’ boot doesn’t only apply to the heavy-duty, industrial type of work. There are plenty of options for that type of occupation. But if your job requires you to be on your feet all day like a waiter, a courier or a cleaner, then the Shoes That Make You Taller brand’s Elevator Work Boot is the perfect boot for the job, while still giving you that extra lift.
These boots come well-constructed with a Goodyear welt, leather uppers, thick rubber soles and an attractive microfibre ankle lining that demonstrates that you are there to work, but with style.
They are an ideal work boot for the busy person who doesn’t necessarily need something too hardcore ‘industrial’ but still wants to look professional at what they do.
What I Like
Very good construction and materials such as a Goodyear welt, fully rubberized soles and cool microfibre ankle lining make the boot functional but also fashionable.
They can double as work boots and as modern urban streetwear. These are an all-day boot ideal for younger people who need something reliable, adaptable and trendy.
That tan coloured cowhide is attractive and is my preference but the boots also come in black if your workplace requires a little more subtlety.
What I Don’t Like
The grip pattern on the sole doesn’t give me confidence in a slippery environment such as a wet kitchen floor.
What Other Reviewers Say
Value for money. Shoes That Make You Taller aren’t a well-known brand in the elevator footwear scene but considering the quality you get, these boots are considered some of the best value for money you can buy in the genre. Unlike other elevator ‘work’ boots these are actually boots that work well in most occupational situations and look the business.
The Verdict
With any type of utility boot, it’s not always a good idea to have too much elevation just because of the nature of what you use them for. For that reason, it was difficult to find a proper ‘work boot’ with an elevator design.
My search led me to the Shoes That Make You Taller Elevator Work Boots. The name says it all and they actually look like something you would wear at the aforementioned occupations. As soon as I saw them I pictured a young barista busily running around caffeinating people.
Not to mention they come with all the higher-end features such as a Goodyear welt that you would only expect from boots in a higher price range.
Priced at only a smidgen over USD $100, they are the least expensive boots on this list which made me love them even more.
These boots come well-constructed with a Goodyear welt, leather uppers, thick rubber soles and an attractive microfibre ankle lining that demonstrates that you are there to work, but with style.
Best Chelsea Boot: Jennen Mr Norris Brown Chelsea Elevated Boot for Men
I’d highly recommend Jennen boots if you’re looking for something in the low to mid-range price bracket. They offer solid quality and excellent customer service giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Seeing as my overall best elevator boot is a Chelsea also and it’s in a price range that may not be realistic for everyone, I’ve decided to go down the other end of the spectrum and review a slightly more affordable Chelsea from a reasonably popular Australian company that also specializes in elevator footwear, Jennen.
Jennen has a wide range of elevator footwear that mostly sits in the low to moderate price range. You can pick up the uber suave Mr Norris’s for approximately USD $160 which isn’t too bad for the quality and style they deliver.
These boots come in black or brown, with premium-grade cow leather for the body and premium rubber soles and are best suited for the office or formal situations.
What I Like
A really stylish Chelsea boot that doesn’t look or feel cheap. The high collar is what got my attention.
You can opt for an even higher lift by ordering separate insoles giving you up to an extra 1.6cm.
Jennen has a good reputation for customer service that makes ordering online easy and reliable, including free returns.
What I Don’t Like
More information on each boot on their website would be nice. There are not too many specifics such as sole construction etc.
What Other Reviewers Say
The testimonials for Jennen shoes are overwhelmingly positive.
The common theme in most of the testimonials is how good the customer service is, so Jennen are obviously extremely customer-focused
The Verdict
I’d highly recommend Jennen boots if you’re looking for something in the low to mid-range price bracket. They offer solid quality and excellent customer service giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
The Mr Norris’s are a polished, handsome boot that perfectly suits an office environment and have a reputation for boosting your height as well as your confidence.
I’d highly recommend Jennen boots if you’re looking for something in the low to mid-range price bracket. They offer solid quality and excellent customer service giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Best Insoles to Increase Height
You might be asking, why don’t you just get any pair of boots you like or already have and just add some height enhancing insoles yourself?
That’s a good question and there’s nothing stopping you from doing that, but there are a few things you should consider first.
Elevator boots are built from the ground up to accommodate the height augmenting insoles so that your foot has ample room to breathe without discomfort.
The boots you already own probably fit you perfectly, so adding an extra couple of inches into the boot is more than likely going to cause you a lot of soreness due to your foot being squashed. That’s because your boot wasn’t designed to house another insole.
The complications that can occur from adding a third party heel lift to your standard boot can lead to many short and long term side effects, including knee, hip and back problems.
However, this isn’t always the case as orthopedic insoles have been around for a long time and can actually correct any abnormalities in your knees, hips, back, and overall posture.
So if your shoe can accommodate an insole then there are plenty of heel lifts that can give you a visible height improvement in the boots you already own.
Some of the best elevator insoles you can buy are from the brands that make elevator shoes. They understand ergonomics so you can trust that their insoles are a safer bet.
CALTO Heel Lifts can add several inches to your height in your normal boots if you already own a pair and don't want new boots.
My top choice for height increasing insoles are the CALTO Ergonomic Heel Lifts. They can add several inches to your height, but just make sure you can remove the current insoles from your boots before you get these.
The Tall and Short of It
There are dozens of brands out there that sell height increasing footwear, but if you treat it like any other type of boot shopping (look for the quality of the materials and construction, reviews, testimonials and price) you can find the perfect elevator boot for you.
That’s why I chose the Chamaripa Moto Boot as my overall best boot. Yes, they aren’t cheap but they leave an impression even before you take into consideration the height increase you get.
The Chamaripa Height Increasing Motorcycle Boot has premium leather, water-resistant upper with a heavy rubber lug sole to help with grip and maneuvering when the bike is stationary.
My runner up would be the Shoes That Make You Taller Men’s Elevator Work Boot. I feel that I could wear those boots in so many situations, jeans, shorts, anything. They are a very cool urban style boot that would fit a variety of casual attires.
Elevator boots do a great job of boosting your height, posture and confidence and they’ll also help fine-tune your look, but at the end of the day, nothing screams confidence more than being comfortable in your own skin.
