How To Lace Vans Shoes: Cool and Unique Lacing Methods

What are some cool and unique ways to lace Vans shoes? There are many different ways to lace Vans shoes to express your personal style, from classic methods to more creative and eye-catching patterns. This guide explores various vans lacing techniques, offering step-by-step vans lacing instructions to help you transform your footwear. Whether you’re looking for a clean and simple look or a bold and unique statement, you’ll find inspiration here.

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Classic Vans Lacing Techniques

Before diving into more complex designs, it’s good to know the basics. These classic vans lacing techniques provide a clean and timeless look that works with any Vans style.

Straight Bar Lacing

The straight bar method gives a neat and organized appearance. It’s a popular choice for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the outside in.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Take the left end and thread it straight up on the inside to the next eyelet on the left side.
4. Bring the same end across to the opposite eyelet on the right side, threading from the outside in.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4, keeping the laces straight across each row.
6. Adjust the laces to ensure they are evenly spaced.
7. Tie the laces at the top.

Criss-Cross Lacing

Criss-cross lacing is the most common and simplest vans shoe lacing styles. It’s functional and provides a secure fit.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the inside out.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Cross the right end over to the left side and thread it through the next eyelet, going from the inside out.
4. Repeat with the left end, crossing it over to the right side.
5. Continue criss-crossing until you reach the top eyelets.
6. Tie the laces at the top.

Creative Vans Lacing: Stepping Up Your Style

Ready to get creative? These cool ways to lace vans will make your shoes stand out and reflect your personality.

Checkerboard Lacing

This method is particularly striking on Vans Checkerboard shoes, enhancing the pattern. But it can be applied to any vans style.

Instructions:

1. Lace the shoe using the straight bar method, leaving one end longer than the other.
2. Once laced, take the longer end and weave it over and under the horizontal laces, creating a checkerboard effect.
3. Continue weaving until you reach the top.
4. Tuck the ends neatly inside the shoe.

Zipper Lacing

Zipper lacing creates a unique, interlocking pattern that resembles a zipper.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the outside in.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Cross the laces, but instead of threading them through the eyelets, loop them under the lace directly below the next eyelet.
4. Pull tight to create the “zipper” effect.
5. Continue this pattern until you reach the top.
6. Tie the laces at the top.

Ladder Lacing

Ladder lacing is a strong and visually appealing method that resembles a ladder.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the outside in.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Take each end and thread it straight up on the inside to the next eyelet on the same side.
4. Bring the ends across to each other, threading under the vertical lace on the opposite side before inserting into the next eyelet.
5. Repeat until you reach the top.
6. Tie the laces at the top.

Hidden Knot Lacing

This style keeps the laces hidden inside, giving a clean and streamlined look.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the outside in.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Choose your preferred lacing method (straight bar or criss-cross).
4. As you lace, keep the laces inside the shoe.
5. When you reach the top, tie the laces inside the shoe, tucking the knot under the tongue.

Advanced Vans Lacing Styles

For those who want to take their vans lacing guide to the next level, these advanced techniques require a bit more patience and skill but offer stunning results.

Star Lacing

Star lacing creates a star pattern on your shoes, perfect for adding a unique and eye-catching detail.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the outside in.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Take one end and thread it diagonally across to the top eyelet on the opposite side.
4. Bring it straight down to the eyelet directly below, on the same side.
5. Repeat on the other side, creating a star-like pattern.
6. Adjust the laces to refine the star shape.
7. Tie the laces at the top or tuck the ends inside.

Spider Web Lacing

Spider web lacing forms an intricate web-like design, ideal for making a bold statement.

Instructions:

1. Thread the shoelace ends through the bottom two eyelets, going from the outside in.
2. Pull both ends evenly.
3. Lace the shoe using the straight bar method, but leave loops at each eyelet.
4. Once laced, take one end and weave it through the loops, creating a web pattern.
5. Repeat on the other side.
6. Adjust the loops to create an even web.
7. Tie the laces at the top or tuck the ends inside.

Lacing Variations Based on Vans Model

While many vans lacing techniques work across different models, some are particularly well-suited for specific styles like the Old Skool or Checkerboard Vans.

How to Lace Vans Old Skool

The Vans Old Skool is a versatile shoe that pairs well with many lacing styles. The classic criss-cross or straight bar lacing provides a clean look, while more creative methods like zipper or ladder lacing can add a unique twist.

How to Lace Vans Checkerboard

Checkerboard Vans are perfect for showcasing the checkerboard lacing method, but other styles like straight bar or hidden knot lacing can also complement the pattern without overpowering it.

Tips for Perfect Vans Lacing

• Choose the Right Shoelaces: Consider the color, width, and material of your shoelaces. Thicker laces work well with bolder patterns, while thinner laces are better for a more subtle look.
• Adjust Tension: Maintain consistent tension as you lace to avoid uneven patterns or discomfort.
• Keep it Clean: Clean your shoes and laces regularly to keep them looking their best.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different vans shoelace patterns until you find one you love.

Vans Lacing Styles: A Comparison Table

Lacing Style	Difficulty	Best For	Appearance
Straight Bar	Easy	Clean, minimalist look	Neat, organized
Criss-Cross	Easy	Classic, functional fit	Simple, traditional
Checkerboard	Medium	Enhancing Checkerboard pattern	Bold, patterned
Zipper	Medium	Unique, eye-catching style	Interlocking, textured
Ladder	Medium	Strong, visually appealing look	Structured, ladder-like
Hidden Knot	Easy	Clean, streamlined appearance	Minimal, discreet
Star	Hard	Unique, decorative detail	Star-shaped
Spider Web	Hard	Bold statement, intricate design	Web-like, complex

Maintaining Your Laced Vans

Once you’ve perfected your chosen lacing style, it’s important to maintain your Vans to keep them looking fresh. Regularly clean your shoes and laces to prevent dirt and wear. Consider using shoe protectors to guard against scuffs and stains.

Fathoming Shoelace Length

Selecting the right shoelace length is vital for a comfortable and stylish look. Too short, and you won’t be able to tie your shoes; too long, and you’ll have excessive lace hanging down.

• Count Eyelet Pairs: A general rule is to count the number of eyelet pairs on your Vans.

• Refer to Charts: Most shoelace retailers offer size charts based on the number of eyelet pairs.

  Eyelet Pairs	Shoelace Length (Inches)	Shoelace Length (cm)
  4-5	27″ – 36″	69 – 91
  6-7	45″	114
  8-9	54″	137
  10+	63″	160
  * Consider Lacing Style: More intricate lacing styles may require longer laces.

FAQ: Common Questions About Lacing Vans

• What is the best way to lace Vans for comfort? Criss-cross lacing is generally considered the most comfortable method, as it provides a secure and adjustable fit.
• Can I use different colored laces on my Vans? Absolutely! Using different colored laces is a great way to personalize your Vans and create a unique look.
• Who is best suited for creative lacing styles? Anyone who wants to express their individuality and add a unique touch to their footwear can enjoy creative lacing styles.
• How do I prevent my laces from coming untied? Ensure your laces are tied tightly and use a secure knot. You can also try using waxed laces, which tend to stay tied better.
• Are there any lacing styles that are bad for my feet? Lacing your shoes too tightly can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort. Make sure your laces are snug but not overly tight.
• What if my laces are too long? If your laces are too long, you can try tying them in a different knot, tucking the ends into your shoes, or purchasing shorter laces.

By exploring these various vans lacing techniques, you can transform your Vans into a unique expression of your personal style. Experiment with different vans shoe lacing styles and find the perfect look for you! Have fun with it and enjoy the process of creating your own cool ways to lace vans.