There’s more to shoes for short men than just platforms. There are ways to approach footwear that can highlight your frame’s best features — and it isn’t only about trying to look taller.
When it comes to style, every male body type has its pros and cons. The main reason we think short men have it particularly bad is that the clothing industry accommodates us the least. Still, many of us have been around the block enough to know best practices. Good tailoring, vertical stripes, small patterns, solid colors, and choosing the best shoes for short men are just a few.
When it comes to shoes, though, we tend to think only about adding physical height. Here’s the thing, though. Elevator shoes and platforms simply aren’t fooling anyone. I mean that with all due respect to Robert Downey Jr.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting extra height, and there’s nothing wrong with thick heels. However, visual height (over physical height) and picking footwear that flatters are also important—in fact, they may be more important.
If you’re in the market for new shoes, this guide will help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Ready to get started?
How To Utilize Thick Soles and Shoe Lifts
Again, if you want to add some physical height to your footwear, that’s fine. What you should avoid? Going for huge platform soles, stuffing your shoes with the biggest lifts you can find, and calling it a day.
Instead, use a subtle lift, one that doesn’t make your proportions look off. Your foot’s heel shouldn’t be coming out of your dress shoe. Relatedly, your foot shouldn’t equate to one-fourth of your calves in your leg silhouette.
Have the lift and the heel join forces subtly. Go for the tallest sole you can find within standard sizing. A dress shoe heel can be anywhere from less than 25 millimeters to 29 millimeters. Go for a 29 or 30. Then, go for a low shoe lift, which is usually around 4 millimeters.
Thick Soles Continued: Boots and Hybrid Shoes
You could also wear boots to look taller. Perhaps you go for dress boots instead of dress shoes. For casual outfits, you might opt for chukka boots or just classic service boots over
Generally, boots have a thicker sole and higher heel than any standard shoe. Most of them have at least a one-inch heel on top of a thick outsole. And they look more natural than elevator shoes.
If they’re your style, cowboy boots and Cuban heels offer even more height. Don’t go buying a pair of either just for the extra inches though. Above all, be yourself. There’s no point in going for footwear that doesn’t look good with anything in your closet.
Some hybrid shoes, like Amberjack, have athletic sole systems that provide height from within the shoe and via the outsole. You might consider those. Hybrid shoes have come a long way since the days when brands would just slap a sneaker sole onto a leather derby.
This is as far as I’d go when it comes to adding physical height. Everything else is about considering proportions, personal style, and visual flattery.
Best Shoes for Short Men: What Qualities To Look For
As a shorter guy, your approach to shoes should be one of practicality. Prioritize proper sizing, quality, versatility, and comfort. If you aren’t comfortable, you won’t be standing at your best and tallest.
One of my biggest style tips for smaller guys is to have good posture. Don’t underestimate the power of body language to boost confidence. When you’re confident and stand properly, you just seem taller.
I have many colleagues whose first impression of me was when I was leading a board meeting or pitch. They’re always shocked to hear my actual height. It’s to the point that I often get these guys asking me to stand side by side with them to prove how physically small I am.
Having proper shoes will give you that “board meeting mentality.” Then, consider the following qualities:
- Simple, understated designs (the better it blends with your outfit, the less it’ll cut your height)
- Related to the above, choose low-contrast colorways and monochromes
- Gently tapered toe box
For that last point, I’m not saying to ignore your personal style and preferences. Of course, you can go for slightly more squared-off shoes. Or you can go for slightly pointier shoes. Just don’t go for perfectly square, boxy toes. They make your feet look stout, and proportions are key when it comes to flattering style on short guys.
Moreover, overly pointy shoes make your feet look long and thin. For a short guy, this often results in the clown feet effect. And frankly, I think overly pointy shoes look kind of witchy — but that’s just my opinion.
And from a style perspective, boxy and pointy shoes go in and out of style constantly. They’ll never be as perpetually relevant as a more moderate shape. This is important if you want to build a minimalist wardrobe with versatile items. This allows you to essentially dress in the dark and come out looking good.
Concert Shoes for Short Guys
Okay, now let’s talk practicality. This is the only time I advocate short men focus on adding actual height to their shoes. You might need tall shoes if you’re at a music festival, summer concert, or in the standing room of some event. Yes, the best solution really is to get front-row seats or box tickets. That, however, isn’t realistic for all of us.
So, when it comes to concert shoes for short guys, feel free to go for elevator shoes. And feel free to try lifts, as well. You don’t want that tall guy in front of you blocking you from some face-melting guitar riff. The most important thing here is comfort. If you’re standing for hours, a Cuban heel might allow you to see the show, but your feet might get sore early in the show.
I know that barefoot shoes are super comfortable. I personally like Xero shoes. However, the point of barefoot shoes is to have minimal or no drop from the heel to the toe. They don’t make men’s shoes for short guys. You’re basically standing just a few millimeters past your shoeless height. By all means, wear barefoot shoes during errands and runs, but not if you’re standing at an event where you need to see a stage.
Conclusion: Shoes for Short Men
Every man should try to be confident in his own skin (and shoes). That being the case, approaching shoes for short men isn’t just about adding height.
Again, there’s nothing wrong with adding just a little more height if it makes you more confident. Shoes add height anyway. Just don’t count on it to fix your insecurities, and don’t just pick the biggest soles and largest lifts you can find. It’s about comfort, confidence, proportion, and timeless style.
Questions? Comments? Let us know below.
Omid Farshi says
I’m hundred percent sure the writer of the crap is a tall or above average guy because no short guy would write this if you don’t know how is it out there. So please write something that benefit everyone instead bringing fake solutions
Aljon says
Hi, you got a nice Thursday boot captain there, I have the same in different colours. I wonder if Thursday boot explorer would be okay for me, Im a 5’5 btw. Thursday boot Explorer is a combat boot so it is way taller than other regular boots; Do you think that will make my legs look shorter even though I go monochromatic style?
I would really appreciate if you give me an advise on this matter. Thank you!
Davy says
For a guy like me who’s 5.4″ and a shoe size 7″ I want to wear Timberland shoes but I don’t know if it’s good for for me and my height.
Byon says
Hi Brock, quick question please. How does the sizing of your Beckett Simonon Reid sneakers compares to your Park Ave AE?
Henry says
Health benefits were the exact reason why I started wearing barefoot minimalist shoes. But 98% of them look absolutely atrocious.
Charlie says
Are Nike Air Max 90s ok for a 5’5 guy to wear?
Brock says
Yes!
Mohit says
Hi Brock,
I am 5’5 and I just ordered chunky sole shoes from zara size 6, although a size 5 would fit perfectly i can still manage with the extra space with the 6 and it’s not a big issue. Should i return them as they tend to look a bit bulky for my short frame?? I personally think they look alright and overtime i will get used to it. This is my first time wearing this kind of boot and hence a bit uncomfortable. Or should i just avoid the category of bulky shoes altogether?
https://www.zara.com/in/en/share/-p12406820.html?utm_campaign=productShare&utm_medium=mobile_sharing_iOS&utm_source=red_social_movil&v1=129198614
Brock says
If you like them, wear them. Don’t overthink it!
impossible says
In US sizes, I’d have to use men’s size 5. I’ve never seen men’s shoes in sizes smaller than what’s equivalent to US men’s 7 or so. I’ve always had to buy women’s shoes just to find numeric sizes, and as with clothing, finding the right length won’t also grant you anywhere near enough width. My shoes have always looked feminine, and walking is painful and undesirable because women’s shoes are too narrow to accommodate the natural expansion of a foot when putting weight on it.
Dress shoes are a really basic thing that tend to look the same a lot of the time, so boy’s dress shoes will do. But it doesn’t help much because I have a dressy event like that maybe once in three to five years. While dress shoes can be found, boys’ range for all the other shoes doesn’t impress me: It’s a narrow range, and they’re far too boyish and sporty. It’s impossible to find shoes that fit, look adult, and also have a little bit of character instead of looking like something that had to be slapped together quickly because the kid’s gonna grow out of them within a year.
Chris says
Look into boot brand Txture and Sagara, they just might have your size, and the character you’re looking for in a boot that will stand the test of time. Balanced height increasing soles too.
Alvin says
What about Thursday boot company’s diplomat boot. It’s their moc toe boot. Too chunky for short men? Their toe box profile looks slimmer than most moc toe boots. More on the casual end
Brock says
Great choice. Definitely not too chunky for shorter guys!
Bert says
5’4″, size 7. Agree with all you’re saying, Brock. We’re talking about appearance, so I’d add that I don’t want to appear to be trying to look taller with my choice of shoes.
Jess says
Thank you very much for this forum …. I have a similar problem … but shopping online does not always satise me … sometimes it’s not what you expect. I still prefer to shop physically at stores. In spite of how uncomfortable the laughter or the comments are … I wear a 5 uk and in the shops, the staff usually refer me to models of girls or children …
Graham says
i wear size 6 or 6.5 but have very wide feet (4E or 5E). Is there a way to tell width, not just length, on shoes internationally? Thanks.
Nelson Gan says
Are gum sole sneakers fine with short guys?
Brock says
Absolutely!
Nelson Gan says
Thanks for the quick response.
Wouldn’t the gum color (on white) drive visual attention downwards? Which is counter to short guys where we want attention upwards.
Brock says
I don’t think so. That’s one of those “tips” that isn’t actually true IMO. People are going to look at your shoes no matter what.
Chris says
The white gum will darken naturally over time 😊
Victor Dimitri says
Nice post! Can you tell me what is the proper length for a dress shoes. I found some nice ones but I though it was too long although the width seems nice, so how long for it from the the toes to the tip of the shoes 🙂 ?
fkncarlo says
what brand are those shoes? thanks
Qamarul says
Im from Singapore. And I wear a US 7 size. It is really hard for me to get dress shoes of my size. Is there a reliable website where I can get shoes of my size?
Brock says
Have you tried Amazon and Zappos yet?
Chris says
Ask Mason & Smith’s shoeshine & shoe store in Singapore 👍
ribery12 says
Hi! Brock!
Is it ok to wear white trainers like Stan Smith for short men? thanks
Brock says
Definitely! I just got a pair of Onitsuka Tigers (white, red and blue) for myself.
ribery12 says
my thought is that white sneakers will attract the eye to your feet haha
Brock says
They definitely will. If you don’t want that, grey or navy are good alternatives that are almost just as versatile.
ribery12 says
thanks man!
Paul says
For short guys who neeed to look taller, try high heel men shoes with hidden lifts which are looked like normal dress shoes
http://www.jotashoes.com
Lawrence says
I have no experience owning proper shoes, but am trying to finally build an adult wardrobe. What sorts of shoes are appropriate with a suit? Would a brogue be okay or is that considered too casual/too dressy? I’m really out to sea here with this. I’m also a 6 or 6.5 so my options tends be limited to whatever I can find on Zappos or Shoebuy.
Clarence says
Hi Brock,
For a guy like me who’s 5’6″ and a shoe size 8, looking to buy a pair of oxfords, which styles should I gravitate towards or stay away from? For instance, is it alright to go for cap toe? Wingtip? Perforated? Or should I just stick to plain toe? Many thanks!
Brock says
Clarence,
Any style is perfectly fine. Whatever you prefer. Just know that, typically, more decoration = less formal. So wingtips would be less “dressy” than plain toe.
But this has nothing to do with height or size… just get what you like!
-Brock
IAN says
It’s been a soaker the past few days and I’ve gotten myself convinced that I’ve got to get a good pair of rain boots that I could wear to work since I walk and take the subway. I always see the ladies wearing boots and they can walk through puddles without any thought. I’ve been wearing my sneakers to work and changing into my dry shoes. It’s not what I want to continue doing. Any thoughts on a good pair of rain boots that are stylish and can also work for the winter ahead? I’m considering boots from LL Bean or maybe some hiking boots from REI, but maybe you or others have some better ideas?
Brock says
Yeah it’s been non-stop rain here in DC. If you want straight up rain boots that you would take off once you got to work, I’d go with a cheap pair from Amazon.
Otherwise, LL Bean or Zappos would be a good place to get some better-looking waterproof boots that you could wear throughout the day.
-B
Jeff says
We short men are in big trouble because if we want a shoe that feels decent we feel short and you can’t put in lifts, if you get a shoe with lifts it doesn’t feel comfortable I feel really trapped, that why I cannot believe that there is a god because if there was he wouldn’t of don’t this to me nad made me only 5.4″ he or it would of made me to be at lease the regular American height which is 5.8” or taller , its a disaster to be short for a male.
Mahi says
I have to disagree with you on the lift shoes – I use a pair and I find they work great, both style wise and through a nice height boost. The reality is that we’re short, that’s fine, but there’s also nothing wrong with the outside world seeing you as a little taller from time to time. I use ones that give about 5cm / 2 inches, and although that still gets my frame to below average height, it’s a nice welcome boost. I use these, my first purchase, and plan to buy different varieties in the future: http://secretshoes.co.uk/Mens-Height-Increasing-Casual/Mens-Height-Increasing-Casual-CORRADO—6cm.aspx
Brock says
Mahi,
Although these shoes look better than most “risers”, I have to respectfully disagree that heightening shoes are ever a good idea. Should we try to trick people? They know how tall we are already, or if they don’t, they will likely find out eventually.
I would much rather focus on how a shoe looks and how it fits my wardrobe and personal sense of style. If it has a thick sole and gives you a boost, fine, but I would never buy a shoe just for that reason. Accept who you are, don’t try to change it.
Just my opinion!
-Brock
Jessy says
If you think finding 7.5’s is difficult, just try to find a 6.5. My options are very very very limited. I usually stick with a 7 and add an insole or deal with it if there’s not a lot of heel slippage.
admin says
Yeah I bet 6.5 is tough. After I find a shoe I like, I don’t even bother going to the store, I just order it online. Of course, this works much better if you’ve actually tried the shoe on and are buying it for the second time.
-B
Ennis says
If you think that’s hard, try finding size 5 or 4 in literally anything. It’s depressing.
Brock says
I bet. Do you use Zappos or Shoes.com?
Ennis says
I live in Australia, so neither of those is especially convenient. Zappos doesn’t even ship here, I don’t think. Right now I’m getting a pair custom-made from a (hopefully legitimate) seller on Etsy, https://www.etsy.com/shop/AGUASshoes . The Philippines is a good place to get quality things for less if you know where to go/look. When I was over there visiting my father I had a suit made for around $200 from a professional tailor.
Usually though, I get my shoes from the kids section >_> 95% of the stuff is awful but occasionally there will be something worthwhile. Lately I’ve been looking into aliexpress.com, which while significantly less legit than even ebay, looks to have a selection of mens or at least unisex styles going down to very small sizes. However, since I don’t really need any more shoes right now I’ll probably only check it out later.
Jesse says
I’m size 5 so I feel your pain. Here are some of the brands I would recommend:
White Sneakers – Adidas (Stan Smith, Samba, etc), Nike Kill Shot, Converse (Chuck Taylor, Jack Purcell)
Dress Shoes/Boots/Loafers – Allen Edmonds (smallest is size 5)
Casual Loafer – Jay Butler
Casual Boots – Solovair Astronaut boot (nice leather, way better than DocMartens)
Casual Chelsea Boots – Blundstone 130x (Dress series)