How much do Air Max Excee boost height?

~3.2 cm (1.25 inches) – The Nike Air Max Excee adds roughly one and a quarter inches of height. In other words, its chunky sole gives wearers a subtle but noticeable boost without looking like a platform shoe, making you a bit taller while staying comfy and stylish.

Why People Ask This Question

Sneaker fans often wonder how much height the Air Max Excee adds because it’s a shoe with a visibly thick sole and Air unit. Many buyers—especially those who wouldn’t mind appearing a bit taller—are curious if these trainers give a significant lift on par with other Air Max models. The Excee appeals to people who love the classic Air Max 90 aesthetic (since the Excee is inspired by that icon) but at a more budget-friendly price. This includes style-conscious teens and adults who want the look of a chunky retro runner and the confidence boost of extra height, without resorting to obvious height-increasing gimmicks. In short, the question comes up both from practical interest (for example, measuring oneself for fun or ensuring pant lengths) and vanity—folks just want to know if these kicks will give them a little edge in the height department.

Official Stack Height vs. Real-World Measurement

Brands like Nike don’t usually publish official stack height for lifestyle sneakers like the Air Max Excee. Stack height refers to the sole thickness (heel cushioning from footbed to ground). While Nike has stated that certain models (for instance, the Air Max 270’s Air bubble measures 32 mm, ~1.25 inches) have tall cushioning, they haven’t provided an exact figure for the Excee. The Excee’s design celebrates the Air Max 90, and the 90’s heel was around 1.2–1.4 inches thick in its day. Nike’s marketing highlights that shoes like the Excee can add “one to two inches” of height in general, but that’s a broad range covering various models.

A look at the Nike Air Max Excee’s chunky heel and visible Air unit. While Nike doesn’t publish the Excee’s stack height, its sole is clearly thick – designed for style and a bit of extra lift (inspired by the Air Max 90’s classic air-cushioned heel).

Independent real-world measurements give a clearer picture. Retailer data and sneaker reviewers have measured the Air Max Excee’s sole thickness at roughly 3.5 cm at the heel. In practical terms, that means when you wear the Excee, you’ll stand about 3–3.5 cm taller than barefoot. (For comparison, Nike’s Air Max 97 gives ~4 cm and an Air Force 1 about ~3 cm.) Some sources report a slightly lower figure – one dedicated height-oriented site pegs the Excee’s height boost at only ~2.5 cm. The discrepancy comes from how height is measured: the full stack height (outer sole plus insole) is ~3+ cm, but the effective height increase can be a bit less because your foot sits down into the shoe’s insole and the foam compresses slightly under weight. In any case, it’s clear the Excee adds on the order of a few centimetres of height.

How We Measured

To answer the height question definitively, we took a hands-on approach. Using a precision vernier caliper, we measured the thickness of the Air Max Excee’s sole at the centre of the heel on a UK size 9 (US 10, EU 44) pair. We measured from the outside bottom of the rubber outsole up to the footbed where your heel rests. The result: approximately 31–32 mm of total heel stack. We repeated the measurement multiple times to ensure accuracy (±0.2 mm tolerance). We also checked the forefoot for reference, but since the heel is what contributes most to added height, that’s our focus.

Does shoe size affect the height boost? Only marginally. Larger or smaller sizes of the Excee have nearly the same sole thickness at the heel – the difference is usually within ~1–2 mm. This means that whether you wear a men’s 7 or 11, you can expect essentially the same height increase (give or take a millimetre). For all intents and purposes, the Excee’s boost is consistent across sizes, so there’s no need to size up to get more height (it won’t make a meaningful difference in sole thickness). We also note that any minor manufacturing variances or wear of the shoe can introduce a millimetre of difference, but our measurement is accurate enough for a solid estimate.

Exact Height Increase

So, exactly how much taller do the Nike Air Max Excee make you? Our real-world measurement indicates an overall height increase of about 3.2 cm, which is roughly 1.25 inches. In other words, slipping on a pair of Air Max Excee will make you a little over an inch taller than you are barefoot. This aligns closely with what sneaker enthusiasts have found anecdotally – one popular footwear reviewer measured about 1.25″ gain as well in his tests. The Excee’s boost is on par with many classic Air Max models. For example, it’s similar to the Air Max 270’s boost (~3 cm) and just shy of the much chunkier Air Max 720 (~4 cm).

Why does our 3.2 cm figure differ slightly from the shoe’s stack height? The published (or estimated) stack height around 3.5 cm includes everything down to the outsole lugs, but your heel doesn’t sit on the very outer edge of the sole. Your foot sinks into the sockliner (insole) a bit, and the foam beneath compresses under your body weight. Thus, the net height you gain is a tad less than the unloaded thickness of the sole. In practical terms, the ~3.2 cm increase is what an average wearer can expect while standing in the Excee, accounting for that slight compression and footbed contour. This is still a significant boost for a casual sneaker – by comparison, a standard flat shoe (like Converse Chucks) might add only ~1.5 cm, and even the venerable Air Force 1 adds about 3 cm. The Excee gives you a comfortable lift without reaching into “platform shoe” territory.

On-Foot Feel & Gait Changes

How does walking in the Air Max Excee feel with that extra height? In short, it feels like a classic Air Max – slightly elevated, cushioned, but also a bit stiff. The thick sole puts a good amount of material between your foot and the ground. This means you’ll notice a higher centre of gravity compared to ultra-thin shoes, but the effect is moderate. For everyday walking, the ~3 cm lift is mild and quickly feels natural. However, if you try to make sharp cuts or play sports in the Excee, you might find it a touch less stable and “grounded” than a low-profile trainer. A higher stack height can affect balance and stability – shoes with lots of cushioning may feel a tad wobbly during quick motions. The Excee isn’t extreme in this regard, but the principle holds: you’re a bit further from the ground, so ankle stability can be slightly reduced on sudden turns.

On the flip side, that added heel height can influence your posture and stride in subtle ways. The heel-to-toe drop (the heel is higher than the forefoot) in the Excee is similar to the Air Max 90, meaning your heel is elevated relative to your toes. This can encourage a rolling forward motion in your gait, which some wearers find comfortable for walking. In fact, people who are accustomed to flat shoes might feel they stand a bit more upright with the Excee’s cushioned heel under them. The added height at the heel can reduce strain on the Achilles tendon during casual use – one reason many lifestyle sneakers and running shoes alike have some drop.

However, don’t expect a bouncy or rocking sensation despite the chunky sole. The Excee’s cushioning is on the firmer side. Reviewers note that the shoe feels stiffer than other Air Max models. The visible Air unit in the heel is actually smaller than the one in an Air Max 90, and it doesn’t provide a dramatic spring. Combined with a thick foam midsole, the ride is stable and predictable rather than soft. This means your foot doesn’t sink in plushy softness – some might say it even borders on firm. During a normal walk or day of standing, this firmness translates to decent support; the shoe won’t compress too much under you, so you maintain that height boost throughout your stride. But if you were hoping the extra sole thickness would feel like walking on clouds, you might be surprised – the Excee is more about looking tall and cool than dramatically cushioning your gait. On the whole, expect a slight posture boost and a confident stride, with the only adjustment being that you’re marginally higher up than usual. After a few minutes of walking, most people acclimate to the height increase and just appreciate the view from ~1.25″ taller!

Comparison Chart

How does the Air Max Excee’s height gain stack up against similar sneakers? Below is a comparison of the Excee and a few other popular models known for their chunky soles and height boosts:

Notes: The Air Max Excee’s height gain is very comparable to the original Air Max 90 (its design inspiration). In fact, both hover around the 3 cm mark of lift. The Air Force 1, another classic, also gives just under 3 cm. Nike’s newer Air Max 270 and especially the 720 are higher – the 270 has that big heel bubble of 32 mm, and the 720 was Nike’s tallest Air unit for a long time at about 38 mm (hence ~1.5″) of sole. What this chart shows is that the Excee’s boost is solidly in the mix with other height-enhancing sneakers. It’s not the tallest, but it certainly isn’t flat – it will literally raise you up similar to its Air Max cousins. If your goal is to look taller in a casual sneaker, the Excee holds its own against these alternatives.

Styling & Sizing Tips

Beyond raw measurements, wearing a taller sneaker like the Air Max Excee raises some practical style questions. Here are some tips on how to rock them and ensure the best fit:

• Embrace a retro-casual look: The Excee has a chunky ’90s runner silhouette, so it pairs perfectly with streetwear and casual outfits. Try them with tapered joggers or slim-fit jeans that cuff at the ankle – this lets the shoe’s design shine. The added height also means your pant hem will sit a bit higher off the ground; a slight crop or roll can prevent your trousers from bunching on the shoe. If you prefer baggier jeans, consider a standard inseam that breaks right at the shoe, so the extra sole height doesn’t give you an awkward gap above the ground.
• Show them off: These kicks have elongated design lines and visible Air units that beg to be seen. Don’t hide them under overly long pant legs. Shorts, cuffed cargos, or ankle-length leggings (for women) are great choices to let the sneakers stand out. Since the Excee comes in many colourways (from subtle black/white to bold multi-color), you can coordinate the accents with your outfit. For example, a classic white Excee with red and blue details can pop when matched with a simple neutral outfit plus a hint of a matching colour elsewhere (like a logo or accessory).
• Sock game: With a low-top sneaker that adds height, you might wonder about socks. Low or no-show socks will emphasize that extra bit of ankle elevation you get, making your legs appear slightly longer in shorts. If you prefer crew socks, that’s fine too – just know that the Excee’s padded collar will keep things comfortable around your ankles. White crews can complement the vintage vibe (think early ’90s athletic style).
• Sizing advice: One thing to note – the Air Max Excee tends to run a little small and narrow. Many wearers with wide feet or those between sizes have found it wise to go up by a half-size (or even one full size if you have very broad feet). The toe box is reported as a bit snug, so sizing up can give you extra wiggle room without much length downside. If you have standard or narrow feet, your true size may be okay, but be prepared for a relatively glove-like fit at first. Also, because of the thick sole, the shoe has a slightly higher arch and midsole underfoot – if you use orthotic inserts, you might feel the shoe is tighter. Removing the stock insole can help in that case. Overall, don’t size down thinking you’ll get more height; stick to true or go up half, for comfort. After a short break-in period, the materials (mesh, suede overlays) will soften a bit, but the Excee isn’t known for stretching out a lot, so initial fit is important.
• Height and outfit balance: Since the Excee elevates you by over an inch, it can subtly change your proportions. If you’re on the shorter side, wearing these with slim, monochromatic bottoms can elongate your look. Taller folks already get taller (lucky you), but note that extremely skinny pants might look a bit “top-heavy” with such chunky shoes at the bottom. A straight or relaxed fit pant can balance the bulk of the shoe for taller wearers. Think of it this way – the Excee adds volume at your feet (and height), so balancing volume through your outfit (like a slightly oversized hoodie or jacket) can create a cohesive silhouette.

Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases

To sum up the Nike Air Max Excee experience, here’s a quick-hit list of its advantages, drawbacks, and who will get the most out of this shoe:

• Pros: Noticeable height boost (~3 cm) without an obvious “platform” look; provides all-day casual comfort (the cushioning is firm but supportive, making it easy to stand for hours); stylish retro design with lots of colour options and classic Air Max flair; more affordable than many other Air Max models (great value for a sneaker that gives both style and a height lift).
• Cons: Cushioning is on the stiff side – not as bouncy or plush as one might expect (don’t expect a trampoline effect from that Air unit); limited breathability – the upper has thick padding and modest mesh, so feet can run warm; durability issues in materials – some wearers report the inner lining or overlays wearing out faster than in pricier models; fit runs slightly small/narrow – you may need to size up for comfort, especially if using orthotics or thick socks.
• Ideal for: Casual everyday wear, travel, and streetwear outfits – basically any situation where you want comfortable sneakers that add a bit of height and style. The Excee is great for walking around town, going to class, or mild fitness activities (like a light gym session or short walk). Its stable sole and supportive build mean you can be on your feet for a while without issues – several users even say it’s their go-to travel shoe for long days of exploring. It’s also perfect for those who love the Air Max 90 vibe on a budget, or anyone who just wants a little taller stance in a normal-looking trainer. Not ideal for serious running or sports – it’s heavier (about 13 oz per shoe) and less flexible than dedicated athletic shoes, so for high-performance needs you’d look elsewhere. Think of the Excee as an awesome lifestyle sneaker for adding height and style in daily life.

FAQ

Q1: Can I put orthotic insoles in the Air Max Excee without losing height?
A: Yes, you can use custom insoles or orthotics in the Excee, but be mindful of fit. The shoe’s insole is removable, so you can swap in your orthotic. You won’t really “lose” height – the shoe’s height increase comes from the midsole/outsole, which stays the same. However, adding a thick orthotic might raise your foot inside the shoe, making the shoe feel tighter or your heel sit higher relative to the collar. If your orthotics are very thick, you might feel your foot is pushed up, but the external height boost (~3 cm) is unchanged. To maintain comfort, consider sizing up by half if you know you’ll use orthotics, as the Excee is a bit snug already. With the right size, orthotics fit fine and you’ll still enjoy the full height boost of the shoe.

Q2: How durable is the Air unit and sole – will the height boost diminish over time?
A: The Air Max Excee’s height boost is pretty much “built-in” and shouldn’t significantly diminish for a long time. The Air unit (the visible bubble in the heel) is made of tough TPU and is designed to withstand normal use without popping. It’s actually smaller and less pressurised than, say, an Air Max 720’s unit, so the risk of damage is low. The foam midsole will compress slightly over a very long period (as all EVA foams do), but we’re talking on the order of years of heavy use. You might notice a tiny reduction in springiness, but not a big loss in thickness – the sole isn’t going to flatten out dramatically. The more likely durability concerns are things like the upper materials wearing or the inner lining tearing (some users noted the lining can rip with rough use), but the height gain stays fairly consistent. One tip: avoid leaving the shoes in extremely hot cars or direct sunlight for long, as heat can potentially deteriorate the foam faster. With normal wear, expect the Excee to maintain its height boost throughout its life; you’ll probably retire the shoe due to style or upper wear before you feel shorter in it.

Q3: Are the Air Max Excee heavy on foot, and does that affect comfort?
A: The Excee is heavier than minimalist runners, but about average for a classic Air Max. In a men’s US 10.5, it weighs around 13 ounces per shoe (≈ 368 grams). That’s similar to an Air Force 1 or Air Max 90, and heavier than a modern knit running shoe. On foot, you will notice they’re not featherlight – the weight comes from the thick rubber outsole and foam. However, for casual use, most wearers find them comfortable once used to it. The weight can actually contribute to a feeling of sturdiness. Unless you’re very sensitive to shoe weight or plan to do sprinting, the Excee’s heft isn’t a deal-breaker. It might tire you out if you attempt a long run in them (which isn’t what they’re made for), but for walking, standing, or everyday activities, they’re just fine. In fact, some people prefer that substantial feel as it gives a sense of support. If you’re coming from ultra-light trainers you’ll notice the difference initially, but your feet typically adjust quickly. And remember, part of that weight is the price of the height gain – thicker soles simply weigh a bit more. Overall, they remain comfortable for all-day wear according to many owners, even if they’re not the lightest kicks on the shelf.

Conclusion

The Nike Air Max Excee is a height-boosting sneaker in disguise – it delivers roughly 3 cm of extra height thanks to its chunky Air-infused sole, all while looking like a normal stylish trainer. This makes it a great choice for those who want a subtle lift along with classic Air Max looks. While it’s not the softest or lightest shoe around, it offers solid comfort for daily wear and a confident, elevated stance. In summary, if you love the idea of being a bit taller in your sneakers and appreciate a throwback ’90s vibe, the Air Max Excee deserves a spot in your rotation.

Finally, if you’re curious about how other models measure up, be sure to explore our other height boost breakdowns on HowMuchHeight.com. Whether you’re interested in chunky dad shoes or sleek running trainers, we’ve got you covered with height gains and more – step into our other model reports and elevate your sneaker knowledge!