Heel Lifts - Choosing the Right Type for Your Needs

Heel lifts are a simple yet powerful solution for improving balance, reducing pain, and correcting leg length discrepancies. Whether you’re managing an injury, supporting an orthotic treatment plan or looking for extra comfort - selecting the right lift for your shoes and activity level is key to getting the best results.

Different Lifts for Different Shoes

It’s quite common to need different heel lifts for different pairs of shoes. No single style works perfectly for every situation. To get the full therapeutic benefit, it’s best to wear your lift in all the shoes you use regularly - that way, your feet and legs remain properly supported throughout the day.
Before choosing, think about whether your need for heel elevation is temporary (such as during injury recovery) or long-term (for chronic conditions or anatomical differences). Temporary use may require gradual height changes over time, while long-term users should focus on comfort, durability and maintaining normal shoe fit.

How Much Heel Elevation Is Safe?

In most cases, adding more than 12mm of heel elevation inside a shoe can feel unstable and uncomfortable. This upper limit depends on the shape and size of the shoe — and your foot. People with smaller feet can usually accommodate less height, while those wearing lace-up shoes often have more flexibility than those wearing loafers or slip-ons.
If your condition requires more than 12mm of elevation, part of the lift should be made externally by a footwear technician or podiatrist, ideally under both the heel and forefoot to preserve balance and gait control.

Matching Lifts to Shoe Type

The type of shoe you wear plays a big role in which heel lift works best:

• Closed-heel shoes - These are easiest to adapt. Most in-shoe lifts fit comfortably inside trainers, work boots, or walking shoes.
• Dress shoes and loafers - Use low-profile or suede-topped lifts to prevent slippage and maintain shoe appearance.
• Sandals or open-backed shoes - Transparent or discreet silicone lifts are best for aesthetics and comfort.
• Custom footwear - For higher lifts or permanent correction, a shoe-repair professional can build a wedge or platform into the sole.

When to Modify the Shoe

For lifts over 12mm, balance and safety become more important than convenience. External shoe modifications help maintain lower-limb alignment and reduce stress on the knees, hips, and spine. Extending elevation under the entire foot, not just the heel - is the safest approach for long-term comfort and biomechanical stability.

Height Increase and Cosmetic Lifts

“Height increase” insoles that add more than 12mm are often unstable — your heel can easily slip out of the shoe when walking. If you’re seeking extra height for aesthetic reasons, it’s far safer and more comfortable to wear shoes specifically designed with built-in lifts rather than inserting aftermarket devices.

Sports and Activity Use

Using heel lifts for sports or high-impact activity should be done cautiously. Elevating the heel too much during active movement reduces stability, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and Achilles tendon strain. For athletic use, choose lifts made with firm, supportive materials that maintain control and prevent unwanted movement inside the shoe.

Key Takeaways

• Use lifts consistently across all shoes for best results.
• Limit in-shoe height to 12mm or less for safety.
• Choose firm, stable materials for sports and long wear.
• Consult a podiatrist for external modifications over 12mm.

Need Help Choosing?

Algeos Australia offers a range of heel lifts and wedges designed for both temporary and long-term correction. From Adjust-a-Lift modular lifts to Silipos Gel Heel Cushions, you’ll find options to fit almost any shoe type or clinical need.

Tip: Always start with the lowest comfortable height and increase gradually if needed, especially during rehabilitation or post-injury recovery.