Do Taller Shoes Make You Walk Slower?

Ever Felt a Bit Clumsy in New Shoes?

Picture this: You put on a new pair of shoes, step outside, and suddenly, walking feels… different. Your steps aren’t as smooth, and maybe you’re moving a bit slower. Is it all in your head, or do certain shoes change how fast you walk?

How Shoes Can Change the Way You Move

Balance is More Important Than You Think

When you wear shoes that make you taller, your centre of gravity shifts. Even a small change can affect how steady you feel. If your body isn’t used to the extra height, you might slow down a little to stay balanced.

Most people don’t even notice the difference after a few minutes.

Do Heavier Shoes Make You Slower? Not Always.

Taller shoes often mean more material—extra padding, thicker soles, and stronger heels. If they’re too heavy, your legs have to work harder, which can slow you down.

That said, modern footwear design helps prevent this problem. Lighter materials and even weight distribution—like in Levante’s lifts—make sure your stride stays natural and comfortable.

Longer Steps, Fewer Steps?

Shoes with higher soles can slightly increase your step length, but they might also reduce how many steps you take per second. Because both affect your overall walking speed, the result depends on the person. Some might walk faster, while others slow down to adjust.

Well-made height-boosting shoes are designed to keep you moving smoothly without affecting your natural rhythm.

The Science Behind It

Your Muscles Work Differently

When your foot sits higher off the ground, your leg muscles have to adjust. Some shoes make you use your calves and ankles more, while others put more pressure on your knees and hips. This can make walking feel a little different at first.

But with the right design, your body quickly gets used to the change. A well-balanced lift, like Levante’s, allows for a smooth, natural stride.

More Time on the Ground

When you take a step, there’s a moment when your foot is flat on the ground. Taller soles can slightly increase this time because your foot needs to stabilise before lifting again. Over a long walk, even small delays can add up.

However, shoes that spread the weight evenly help reduce this effect, making any difference barely noticeable.

Energy Matters

Running trainers are designed to return energy with each step, helping you move faster. In contrast, thick, stiff soles tend to absorb impact rather than pushing you forward, which can make walking feel less efficient.

But not all height-boosting shoes have this issue. Levante’s lifts are designed for both comfort and movement, keeping your stride easy and natural.

Different Shoes, Different Effects

Platform Shoes: The Biggest Change

Platform shoes add height across the entire sole, but they also limit flexibility. This can make walking feel a bit heavier and less smooth, since you have to use your knees and hips more instead of rolling from heel to toe.

Elevated Trainers: A Small But Noticeable Shift

Some casual trainers add extra height without looking bulky. They may not feel heavy, but they can still change your balance slightly, especially if they have a thicker heel that shifts your weight forward.

Dress Shoes with a Lift: Feels Natural With the Right Design

Formal shoes with a raised heel change how your foot hits the ground, which can slightly alter your posture and step length. Many people naturally take shorter, more controlled steps to adjust.

However well-balanced lifts—like Levante’s 6cm (2.4") boost—are designed to feel natural, so you get the extra height without noticing a difference in your walk.

Boots with Thick Soles: Made for Stability, Not Speed

Chunky boots add both height and weight. They often provide great ankle support, but they also restrict movement, which can slow you down compared to lighter shoes.

How to Get Used to Taller Shoes Without Slowing Down

Start with Shorter Walks

If you’re new to thicker soles, your body needs a little time to adjust. Start with shorter walks before expecting to move at full speed.

Strengthen Your Ankles and Calves

Stronger lower leg muscles help you stay stable and walk more confidently, even in taller shoes. Simple exercises can make a big difference.

Focus on Good Posture

Standing tall with your shoulders relaxed and your core engaged helps keep your balance. Good posture makes walking smoother, even in bulkier footwear.

Get the Right Fit

A well-fitted shoe stops your foot from moving around inside, making walking feel more natural. Secure lacing and a snug fit give you better control over your stride.

Final Thoughts

Shoes that add height can sometimes affect walking speed, but it depends on the design, weight, and how quickly your body adjusts. Some people get used to them straight away, while others naturally slow down to stay balanced.

If you want extra height without losing speed, go for lightweight shoes that spread the weight evenly—like Levante’s signature 6cm lift. It’s carefully designed to keep your stride feeling natural, and after just a few minutes, you won’t even notice the difference.

The best shoes are the ones that let you move confidently. Whether you want style, comfort, or performance, knowing how different soles affect your stride helps you make the right choice