What's the Difference Between 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm Heel Lifts?

Heel lifts are available in a range of different heights, with 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm being among the most common options. While the differences may appear small, each height provides a different amount of elevation inside the shoe.

One of the most common questions we receive is: "What's the difference between a 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm heel lift?"

The simple answer is that each heel lift provides a different amount of elevation beneath the heel. However, there are also differences in how they fit inside footwear and the amount of correction they provide.

What Is a Heel Lift?

A heel lift is a device placed inside the heel area of a shoe to elevate the heel. Heel lifts are available in a variety of materials, including EVA foam and poron.

They are commonly used by people seeking additional heel elevation inside their footwear and are available in a range of heights to suit different requirements.

Why Are Heel Lifts Available in Different Heights?

Not everyone requires the same amount of elevation.

Different heel lift heights allow healthcare professionals and individuals to select the amount of lift that best suits their particular circumstances, footwear and comfort requirements.

The higher the heel lift, the greater the amount of elevation it provides.

4mm Heel Lifts

A 4mm heel lift provides approximately 4mm of elevation at the back of the heel.

These are generally the lowest-profile heel lifts available and are often easy to accommodate inside most types of footwear.

Key Features

Low-profile design

Typically easy to fit into most shoes

6mm Heel Lifts

A 6mm heel lift provides approximately 6mm of elevation depending on the manufacturer this can be under the middle heel or at back of the heel.

Compared to a 4mm heel lift, a 6mm heel lift provides more elevation while still remaining relatively easy to accommodate inside most footwear.

Key Features

Approximately 6mm of heel elevation

Generally suitable for a wide range of footwear styles

8mm Heel Lifts

An 8mm heel lift provides approximately 8mm of elevation at the back of the heel.

This height provides twice the elevation of a 4mm heel lift and is often chosen when a greater amount of lift is required.

Key Features

Approximately 8mm of heel elevation

Greater lift than 4mm and 6mm options

Often used where a more substantial elevation is required

10mm Heel Lifts

A 10mm heel lift provides approximately 10mm of elevation beneath the heel.

This is one of the highest off-the-shelf heel lift heights commonly available and provides a noticeable increase in heel height.

Key Features

Approximately 10mm of heel elevation

May require slightly more room inside footwear

Heel Lift Height Comparison

Heel Lift Height Approximate Elevation 4mm Low elevation 6mm Moderate elevation 8mm High elevation 10mm Greater elevation

While the difference between each height may seem small on paper, even a few millimetres can create a noticeable change in heel position inside the shoe.

Does a Higher Heel Lift Mean Better Support?

Not necessarily.

A higher heel lift simply provides more elevation. It does not automatically provide more support, comfort or a better outcome.

The most appropriate heel lift height depends on the reason for use, the type of footwear being worn and any advice provided by your podiatrist, physiotherapist or other healthcare professional.

Soft vs Firm Heel Lifts

In addition to height, heel lifts are also available in different materials.

Soft Heel Lifts

Soft heel lifts, such as Poron heel lifts, provide excellent cushioning and shock absorption. They are often chosen when comfort is a priority asnd as they compress more when standing do not offer the same degree 

Firm Heel Lifts

Firm heel lifts, such as Formthotics, Trekker and Vasyli heel lifts, provide a more stable platform and maintain their height more consistently over time.

The choice between soft and firm often comes down to the intended use and whether cushioning is required.

Should Heel Lifts Be Worn in One Shoe or Both?

This depends on the reason the heel lift is being used.

For general comfort or Achilles tendon support, heel lifts are often worn under both heels.

For diagnosed leg length discrepancies, the amount of correction and whether the heel lift should be worn in one shoe or both should always be determined by your podiatrist, physiotherapist or other healthcare professional.

Final Thoughts

The primary difference between 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm heel lifts is the amount of elevation they provide beneath the heel.

While the height differences may appear small, they can have a significant effect on how a heel lift feels inside the shoe. In addition to height, factors such as material, density and footwear compatibility should also be considered.

If you have a diagnosed leg length discrepancy or have been advised to use a heel lift by a healthcare professional, always follow their recommendations regarding the most appropriate height for your individual needs.