I've noticed that there is a serious lack of standardization in how shoe heel heights are reported. My preference is to know the heel height in terms of how much taller I will be with the shoes on relative to bare feet. For these shoes, that height is about 1 inch (not 1.5 as advertised here).  So yes, these are deceptive, and look like they have more height than they do. They are, however, very comfortable. The leather is extremely soft and smooth and the foot bed provides some nice cushioning. It feels good stepping into them. They are beautifully made, with a quality look. I wear them with nicer leggings or slim leg pants, and they work well. They have a sort of chic, equestrian style, without being full-fledged "cowgirl mules."