What Are Elevator Shoes Made Of? Inside the Construction of Hidden Heels

There’s a quiet kind of confidence that comes with a good pair of elevator shoes — not the clunky kind that screams for attention, but the refined type that simply feels right. But what’s really going on inside these height-enhancing shoes? Are they just regular shoes with foam stuffed in? Or is there real design behind the elevation?

As someone who's worked closely with handcrafted footwear for years, let me walk you through how elevator shoes are made — and why that matters to your comfort, posture, and style.

What makes elevator shoes different from regular shoes?

At first glance, they look like any other quality shoe. But inside, there’s precise engineering happening — every layer, curve, and material is chosen for balance and discretion.

• Internal lift – Carefully shaped for height and comfort.
  

• Supportive structure – Adjusted heel cup, counter, and arch to stabilise the foot.
  

• Refined silhouette – Designed so no one sees the lift, but everyone notices your presence.
  

You’re not just buying height — you’re buying craftsmanship.

How elevator shoes are made (from the inside out)

Here’s the honest, step-by-step breakdown of how proper elevator shoes are built:

1. Shaped on a special last - The shoe’s form (called a last) is designed to fit extra internal volume without feeling bulky.
   

2. Upper construction - We use premium materials — from full‑grain leather and soft suede to durable canvas and even vegan-friendly options — each chosen for their strength, feel, and finish.
   

3. Midsole and hidden lift - The elevation comes from a high-density EVA or PU insert, shaped to support your arch and heel without compressing over time.
   

4. Outsole - Rubber, leather, or a hybrid — depending on the style. Rubber gives grip; leather gives polish.
   

5. Insole comfort layer - We line our footbeds with breathable microfibre or soft calfskin — for all-day comfort, even without socks.
   

6. Finishing - The edges are smoothed, the seams checked, and the shoes polished — by hand. Every pair gets a final once-over before it’s boxed and sent off.
   
   

If you want a closer look, we’ve got a full diagram and video review here:

 📘 See what’s inside our shoes
🎥 Watch a real cut-open review

What’s inside: outsole, midsole, and hidden lift explained

Picture this like a high-performance sandwich — each layer plays a role:

• Outsole: Durable rubber or dressy leather for traction and style
  

• Midsole platform: A solid, weight-balancing layer
  

• Internal lift: Shaped EVA or PU foam that supports your natural posture
  

• Insole lining: Cushioned and breathable for long days or long nights out
  

Unlike DIY shoe inserts, these are built to move with you — not slide, squash, or squeak.

The materials: why we use what we use

We’ve tried it all over the years, and here’s what we stand by:

• Full-grain leather – Durable, breathable, and develops character over time
  

• Suede – Soft, stylish, and great for boots or casual wear
  

• Canvas – Lightweight and perfect for summer sneakers
  

• Vegan options – Ethically made, animal-free, and still built to last
  

• Calfskin/microfibre linings – To wick moisture and reduce odour
  

• High-density EVA or PU – Maintains shape and support for years
  

• TPU or steel shanks – Prevent midfoot collapse and improve posture
  

When someone asks, “Are premium materials worth it?” — the answer is simple. Yes. Especially when the shoes are carrying more than just your feet — they’re carrying your confidence.

Internal lifts vs platform shoes — what’s the better choice?

We get asked this a lot.

Internal lifts (elevator shoes):
✔ Discreet
✔ Comfortable
✔ Naturally designed around your foot and stride

Platform shoes:
✘ Obvious
✘ Clunky
✘ Often unstable

The difference is clear: one helps you stand tall without fuss. The other feels like walking on bricks.

Do construction methods affect durability?

Absolutely. Here's what to know:

• Cemented – Strong and lightweight. Ideal for most elevator shoes.
  

• Blake stitched – Sleek and resoleable. Great for formal shoes.
  

• Goodyear welted – Traditional and long-lasting, used in some advanced designs.
  

Bonus: We’ve been making shoes since 2007, and many of our loyal customers are still wearing their original pairs — proof that when done right, these shoes last.

Styles for every moment (not just meetings)

Whether you’re dressing for a wedding, job interview, or night out, we’ve got you covered:

• Sneakers – Comfortable, casual, and height‑boosting
  

• Boots – Rugged, stylish, perfect for colder seasons
  

• Formals – Sharp enough for black-tie or business wear
  

• Casuals – Clean, comfortable everyday styles
  

And if you’re after something sustainable or animal-friendly — we’ve got vegan options too.

Elevator Shoes and Posture: The Hidden Benefit

Height isn’t the only gain. One of the often-overlooked advantages of elevator shoes is how they help align your posture. A well-designed lift supports your natural stance, encourages a straighter spine, and reduces slouching. Many wearers report not just feeling taller — but standing taller, walking more confidently, and carrying themselves with better balance. It’s a subtle change that makes a lasting impact.

Shoe care tips from the expert

Want your elevator shoes to last? Follow these simple rules:

• Rotate your pairs — don’t wear the same ones every day
  

• Use cedar shoe trees — they absorb moisture and keep the shape
  

• Wipe and condition the uppers regularly
  

• Let them dry naturally — never near a heater
  

• Store them in a cool, dry place — not the car boot!
  

Look after them, and they’ll return the favour.

So… how are elevator shoes really made?

With thought. With balance. With layers that protect your feet and lift your frame. It’s not about hiding — it’s about enhancing. The construction, when done well, disappears into the background. You just feel taller, better supported, and more put-together.

At JENNEN Shoes, we’ve been building that feeling since 2007 — and we’re proud to offer a range that suits every height goal, every lifestyle, and every occasion.

Ready to stand taller — comfortably and confidently?
Browse our handcrafted collection today and experience the quiet power of a well-built lift.  Explore our elevator shoes!