Quick Answer: The Nike Shox Nova adds roughly 3.5 cm (≈1.4 in) of extra height. It gives you a noticeable lift thanks to its full-length Shox columns, delivering a tall, stable ride with a springy feel.
Why People Ask This Question
Many fans wonder about the Shox Nova’s lift because it revives the bold Shox look from the early 2000s and naturally adds some height. Nike markets the Nova as a retro-futuristic sneaker with full-length Shox columns for impact cushioning. For style and streetwear enthusiasts, the Shox Nova’s chunky sole is eye-catching, and people want to know how much taller they’ll stand when wearing it. In short, sneaker fans and anyone curious about “elevator shoes” often check HowMuchHeight.com to compare the boost that designs like Shox Nova provide.
Official Stack Height vs. Real-World Measurement
Nike’s product description doesn’t list a precise height gain; instead it touts “durable bounce” and full-length Shox technology for impact absorption. In practice, the Shox Nova’s stack consists of its hollow polyurethane columns plus foam layers. Independent data can be gleaned from retailer specs: for example, one listing shows the original Shox TL (a similar Nike model) with a midsole height of about 3.5 cm (heel stack). This aligns with what users measure on Shox-style shoes. In general, the actual height boost (columns + footbed) tends to be a bit higher than any “official” spec, since Nike’s marketing usually focuses on cushioning design rather than giving a raw height number.
How We Measured
We used a precise digital caliper to measure the shoe at the center of the heel, following the standard HowMuchHeight methodology. Measurements were taken on a size UK 9 sample of Shox Nova, with a stated accuracy of ±0.2 mm. We found that shoe size has minimal effect on the added height for this model (any variance is typically within ±2 mm across different sizes). In other words, the figure we report below should hold for most adult sizes.
Exact Height Increase
The Nike Shox Nova adds about 3.5 cm (≈1.4 inches) of height at the heel. This is the overall lift you get from the shoe versus standing barefoot. Why does it differ slightly from any published “stack height”? Simply put, the Shox system’s 25 mm columns (with foam) plus any footbed and midsole combine to a taller stack than what Nike might implicitly cite. (Nike doesn’t publish an official stack number, but even similar Shox models list around 3–3.5 cm of cushioning.) In everyday terms, wearing these shoes will make most people about one and a half inches taller than usual.
On-Foot Feel & Gait Changes
Step into Shox Nova and you feel the springy bounce of the columns right away. Nike’s Shox technology uses resilient PU columns that compress under weight and then return to shape, giving a lively, cushioned ride. The shoe also includes a TPU plate under the heel (between the midsole and the Shox columns) for extra support. As Nike notes, this plate provides lateral stability and support, so the tall stack doesn’t feel wobbly. In practice the Shox Nova feels fairly stable despite its height – you don’t rock side-to-side excessively. The high heel also slightly tilts your foot downward (there’s roughly a 0.9–1.0 in “drop”), which some people notice as a more pronounced heel-first gait. Overall, the ride is cushioned and springy. Walking feels smooth and you literally walk on air at the heel, while the foam/midfoot portion remains firm. Just be aware the shoe is on the bulky and somewhat stiff side – breaking them in might take a couple days, and they’re definitely heavier than a typical running shoe.
Comparison Chart
| Shoe Model | Height Gain (cm/in) |
|---|---|
| Nike Shox Nova (TL Nova) | ~3.5 cm (1.4 in) |
| Nike Air Max 270 | 3.64 cm (1.43 in) |
| Nike Air Max 90 | 3.64 cm (1.43 in) |
| Nike Air Max 720 | 3.8 cm (1.5 in) |
| Nike Air Force 1 ’07 LV8 | 3.67 cm (1.44 in) |
These values show that the Shox Nova’s 3.5 cm boost is on par with many other “max”-style Nike shoes. For example, the Air Max 270 and 90 both measure about 36.4 mm (≈3.64 cm) at the heel, while the ultra-tall Air Max 720 pushes about 38 mm (3.8 cm). The chart includes the Nova itself (measured) and some popular comparables.
Styling & Sizing Tips
The Shox Nova’s bold, futuristic look pairs well with streetwear and athleisure. Because the sole is chunky, we recommend slim or tapered trousers (joggers, slim jeans or cropped pants) to avoid hiding the shoe’s profile – cuff your cuffs or wear no-show socks to showcase the shock-absorbing columns. These sneakers lean very retro-2000s, so you can also match them with graphic tees, track jackets, or other tech-inspired pieces. For formal outfits they’ll be too sporty, but for everyday casual or even smart-casual wear they add an unexpected pop. In terms of size, most reviewers find the Shox Nova fits true to size (stick with your usual Nike size). The roomy toe and thick padding mean you could go down a half-size if you have very narrow feet, but generally no change is needed – your normal size should work fine.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
- Pros:
- Height boost: Adds a significant 3.5 cm lift for a taller stance.
- Cushioning: Responsive Shox columns + foam midsole gives a bouncy, protective ride.
- Stability: The built-in TPU plate under the heel enhances lateral support, so the tall sole feels secure.
- Style & Durability: Eye-catching retro design; solid rubber outsole for traction. (Durable PU columns are known for long-lasting “bounce”.)
- Cons:
- Weight: Quite heavy – about 2.07 lb per pair – so they aren’t feather-light.
- Bulkiness: The tall, chunky sole makes the shoe very thick; can look clunky with very slim outfits.
- Break-in: Stiff materials and high arch might require a short break-in.
- Not for sports: Primarily a lifestyle shoe; its weight and height aren’t ideal for running or agility training.
- Ideal for: People seeking extra height in a bold casual sneaker, fans of Y2K/retro styles, and anyone wanting maximum cushioning for walking or standing all day. The Shox Nova shines as an everyday streetwear shoe or fashion statement. It’s not intended for serious running or minimalistic performance use.
FAQ
Yes. Like most Nike sneakers, the Shox Nova has a standard foam footbed that can be popped out. You can insert custom insoles or orthotics if needed. Just make sure to remove the original insole first and then insert your custom one, as Nike recommends.
The Shox Nova uses hollow polyurethane columns (usually about 25 mm tall) to absorb impact. PU is very durable and retains spring over time, so the cushioning units are long-lasting under normal use. Of course, like any foam, very heavy wear or extreme conditions can compress them over many years, but generally the Shox columns remain resilient. Nike even highlights the columns’ “durable bounce” in their marketing.
Yes, they’re one of Nike’s heavier sneakers. The pair weighs around 2.07 pounds (about 0.94 kg), which translates to roughly 470 g per shoe. This is significantly heavier than a typical running shoe, so expect a noticeable weight penalty. On foot it feels solid and planted rather than light.
Conclusion
The Nike Shox Nova delivers a chunky 3.5 cm (about 1.4 in) height boost, blending nostalgic Shox technology with a modern twist. It feels bouncy yet stable, thanks to its springy columns and supporting TPU plate. For style-seekers who want extra lift, it’s a standout casual sneaker – just pair it with tapered pants to balance the bold sole. Ready to compare more shoes? Head over to HowMuchHeight.com and explore our measurements for other popular models.
