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If you’re short, it’s only natural that you might want shoes that make you taller. But you should be inconspicuous about it. You need a shoe that’s subtle and not super obvious so you don’t look like you’re walking on stilts.
Fortunately, the chunky–soled thing is very much in for every style of shoes, from sneakers and sandals to boots and loafers, so dressing for height won’t make you stick out. In fact, it’s right on trend.
There is a fine line, however, between working the chunky look into your pre-existing wardrobe and finding the tallest, trendiest shoes that give you height. You want to make sure you’re wearing a shoe that suits your style, is appropriate for the setting, and isn’t absurdly tall. A couple of inches should suffice—unless you’re a fashionista, then by all means, secure those sky-high Balenciaga Crocs.
That being said, let’s take a peek at the 8 best men’s shoes that make you taller outlined below.
Key Takeaways
In my search for shoes that make you taller, I scoured the internet and took inventory of my own closet to determine which shoes are trending and which ones add lots of height. I was able to whittle the list down to the best and most essential options.
My top pick is the New Balance Made in USA 990v6 sneaker because they’re trendy yet approachable, chunky, and unbelievably comfortable. Plus, they have 6 different widths to choose from. For seasonal options, consider an Alexander McQueen Hybrid Slide or the beautiful Moncler Hevea Chelsea Boots.
Why it’s Great: New Balance has always been a solid brand, but lately, it’s cooler than Nike, with sturdier, more comfortable shoes to boot. While technically a running shoe, the 990v6 has undergone a performance-inspired update, which includes an even chunkier sole and a speedy, streamlined look. This is great news if you’re in search of sneakers that make you taller. And it’s pretty awesome they accommodate every foot width, from x-narrow to xx-wide.
How they feel: It’s modern, it’s fresh-looking, and it comes with FuelCell midsole cushioning to cradle the foot and provide a boost behind every step.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: While they do come in two solid neutral colors, I wish there were more to choose from. Check out the marblehead and vintage indigo version—if you can find your size.
Sizes Available: 7-16 | Colors available: 2 | Fit: X narrow- XX wide | Material: Suede, mesh, rubber | Height added: Not listed
Why it’s Great: A crisp white sneaker is a must for everyone’s wardrobe, and Oliver Cabell crafts a well-made pair using eco-conscious materials. If you’re looking for shoes that add height, the sole is thick, giving you an extra boost in a pretty discrete fashion. You can choose an all-white style, if that’s your vibe, or select a fashion color stripe to pair back to your go-to colors.
How they feel: Lined in bamboo and soled in rubber, the Vegan 581 sneaker is a dream on the foot, even if you wear it all day long.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: This shoe is known for running slightly small, so if you’re in between sizes, you’ll want to size up.
Sizes Available: 6-14 | Colors available: 6 | Fit: Standard | Material: Vegan corn, 50% natural and 50% recycled rubber | Height added: Not listed
Why it’s Great: Snow boots are awesome for short guys because they’re usually chunky by nature in order to lift your feet out of the snow and provide traction to grip the ice. Moncler Hevea Chelsea Boots are substantial, with a thick rubber sole for resilience, stability, and several inches of height. I love that it’s a Chelsea boot, so there’s no laces to fuss over in the cold, and you can slide them right on with the pull tab.
How they feel: The waxed leather is very luxurious, and because both the ball and the heel are the same height, the sole is thick yet flat, making it easy to walk in.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Price-wise, they’ll set you back a pretty penny, but they’re worth it in terms of quality. Resilient natural rubber, calf leather linings, waterproof upper—these materials are built to last.
Sizes Available: 6-13 | Colors available: 2 | Fit: Wide | Material: Leather | Height added: 3inches
Why it’s Great: If chunky soles are on trend, it’s no surprise that dad shoes are too, with their thick, supportive soles. This is all excellent news for short guys interested in the best elevator shoes, because wearing shoes to make you taller isn’t just appropriate, it’s literally in style. Skechers make a cozy, sought-after pair for a very affordable price.
How they feel: Cloudlike, really. A memory foam insole, padded collar, cushioned mesh tongue—all of these elements contribute to a soft, supportive feeling on the foot, whether you’re wearing them for sport or fashion.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: It’s a good thing the memory foam insole is removable, because some reviewers don’t find it to be up to snuff if you stand for long periods of time. At least this shoe is cheap, so it might be a good idea to invest in a solid insole.
Sizes Available: 6.5-16, X-wide available | Colors available: 14 | Fit: Standard, wide | Material: Leather and synthetic | Height added: 2 inches
Why it’s Great: Everyone needs a solid loafer in their closet. Fortunately, Prada makes a gorgeous chunky pair that’s right on trend. It has a modernist maxi sole in a timeless silhouette, bearing that iconic metal triangle logo, of course. I like that they aren’t too polished, either, with a brushed leather finish that keeps them from looking overly shiny.
How they feel: Though the sole is thick, it’s made of light rubber, and doesn’t feel too heavy on the foot. They’re comfortable, ridiculously stylish, and easy to pair back to shorts or trousers. Throw on a cross-body bag and be prepared to get papped.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Okay, I know a cool grand on a pair of shoes is problematic for most, but if you’re interested in a knock-off version, Steve Madden makes a great one.
Sizes Available: 5-13 | Colors available: 2 | Fit: Standard | Material: Leather and rubber | Height added: 2.36 inches
Why it’s Great: Since the 1940s, Dr. Martens has been making incredibly durable work boots that have become an iconic closet staple. They’re always fashionable and last forever, and I love the Jadon body because it has a chunky heel with an easy inside zipper so you don’t have to bother with the laces. They make even chunkier boots, but if you go taller, you run the risk of trying too hard.
How they feel: As a Dr. Martens gal myself, I’ve lived in my multiple pairs for well over a decade, regardless of the season, and can attest to their comfort and overall foot support. I love how they add edge to every outfit.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Because they’re durable, these boots are pretty thick, and should be broken in before wearing all day long (trust me).
Sizes Available: 4-13 | Colors available: 8 | Fit: Standard | Material: Leather and rubber | Height added: 1.97 inches
Why it’s Great: Athleisure is now a firmly cemented category in the fashion world, and the Atom sneakers from Loci are the perfect men’s shoes that make you taller. Here is a rather elevated-looking sneaker that’s both versatile and fashionable, especially when it comes to sustainability. It’s pretty cool that they use corn waste and bamboo to make their sneakers.
How they feel: Cozy foam midsoles feel luxurious on the feet. I can imagine pairing this shoe with basketball shorts around the house or slacks for a night out.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: While you can definitely run in this shoe, it’s not exactly designed for performance. If you need a crosstrainer, check out Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV.
Sizes Available: 7-13 | Colors available: 5 | Fit: Standard | Material: 50% maize waste, 50% PU, recycled biodegradable upper | Height added: Not listed
Why it’s Great: I might have had too much fun searching for sandal shoes for height. There are just so many options on the market right now because chunky is in. Anyways, I ended up choosing a sandal from Alexander McQueen because they’re a solid minimalist brand with an approachable touch of cool. The Hybrid Sandal is made from rubber in an understated slide style that you can throw on with anything.
How they feel: These sandals are easy to wear on the day to day, and even dress up with a linen pant if needed. The slide has a round toe profile with an attached metal bar slide and is very comfortable to wear.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: It is a slide after all, and doesn’t exactly cling to the foot. If you’re in need of a more secure, sportier option, I love the Y-3 Rivalry sandals from Adidas.
Sizes Available: 39-45.5 (IT) | Colors available: 2 | Fit: Standard | Material: Rubber | Height added: Not listed
What To Look For In Shoes That Make You Taller
Height added
When looking for shoes that make you taller, 2-3 inches is an ideal height. Anything shorter, and you’re not getting much benefit. However, if you go too tall, you’ll look like you’re trying too hard. Most of the shoes on this list are between 1 ½ and 3 inches tall.
Style
By now, you’re probably getting that chunky-soled shoes are popular right now, which is like music to the ears of short guys looking to slip in a few extra inches of height. The best chunky styles are sneakers, loafers, boots, and sandals, but the list can go on. As long as you’re true to your own unique style, you can ‘chunk it up.’
Occasion
If you want to appear taller, you can’t just throw on any tall shoe, you’ve got to dress for the occasion. Try a chunky loafer for work, an athleisure sneaker for social time, and a sandal for summer events. Bottom line: make sure your shoes that make you taller match the environment you’re in.
How We Chose
Our selection process for identifying the best shoes that can make you taller is meticulous and based on several key factors to ensure both style and functionality. Rachel Cascella, with extensive experience in fashion journalism, leverages her expertise to curate these recommendations. We analyze reviews from fashion experts and real user experiences to gauge comfort, style, and effectiveness.
Only shoes that add a significant boost in height, typically between 1.5 to 3 inches, make the cut. We prioritize brands known for quality and innovation, ensuring each recommendation is durable and fashionable.
Lastly, we select shoes that complement various outfits and occasions, from casual sneakers to formal loafers. Rachel has previously covered related topics, such as stylish men’s sneakers and best winter boots, providing a comprehensive understanding of the footwear market.
Why you should trust us
As a fashion and grooming writer at Fashionbeans, it’s my job (and my passion) to bring you the best of the best, especially when it comes to shoes that make you look taller. I use my years of expertise in the fashion industry to inform all of my decisions, and couple it with countless hours of research to narrow any list down to the top picks available on the market. I make sure there is a shoe for every dude, no matter what.
Final Verdict
In your search for shoes that make you look taller, look for soles that are 2-3 inches tall for discrete height. Ultimately, the shoes should make you taller, but they should also be comfortable and relatively on trend, much like New Balance Made in Usa 990v6 sneakers. These shoes are wildly supportive, super chunky, and versatile. A running shoe with plenty of style.
FAQ
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Most sneakers add around 1 inch of height, but the best shoes that make you taller should add 1 ½ to 3 inches to your frame.
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These days, all types of shoes can make you taller, but sneaker brands are the easiest to sneak in height because they’re subtle and trendy. Look for New Balance or Nike. If you’re into boots, Dr. Martens makes plenty of chunkers.
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To avoid looking clownish, aim for 1 ½ to 3 inches of height for your elevator shoes.
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Rachel Cascella is an in-house writer at Fashion Beans with 14 years of experience in the fashion industry, balancing her knowledge of cutting-edge trends with a penchant for truly timeless style.