How To Properly Lace Shoes: For Comfort & Performance

Are your shoes uncomfortable or do they slip? The best way to lace sneakers is often overlooked, but it can make a big difference! This article will show you different shoe lacing techniques to improve comfort, performance, and even address foot problems. We’ll cover various lacing for comfort, lacing for running shoes, how to tie shoelaces securely, and alternative shoe lacing methods to find the shoe lace patterns that work best for you. This guide will explain how tightening shoelaces properly can impact the feel of your shoes.

Image Source: content.artofmanliness.com

The Importance of Correct Shoe Lacing

Lacing your shoes correctly is more than just preventing them from falling off. Good lacing can improve how your shoes feel and perform. It can also help with common foot problems.

• Comfort: Poor lacing can cause pressure points, blisters, and general discomfort. Correct lacing distributes pressure evenly.
• Performance: For athletes, proper lacing can enhance stability and support, improving performance and preventing injuries.
• Foot Health: Different shoe lacing styles can alleviate pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel slippage.

Basic Shoe Lacing Techniques

Before diving into specialized lacing methods, it’s important to master the standard techniques.

Criss-Cross Lacing

This is the most common method and a good starting point.

1. Thread the lace through the bottom two eyelets, creating a bar across the toe box (either inside-out or outside-in).
2. Cross the laces over each other.
3. Thread each lace through the next eyelet on the opposite side.
4. Repeat until you reach the top.
5. Tie securely.

Pros: Simple, works well for most shoes.
Cons: Can sometimes create pressure points if tightened too much.

Parallel Lacing (or Bar Lacing)

This method reduces pressure on the top of the foot.

1. Thread the lace straight across the bottom two eyelets (inside-out).
2. Take one end straight up the inside to the next eyelet.
3. Thread across the outside to the opposite eyelet.
4. Take the other end straight up the inside, skipping the eyelet next above the first lace.
5. Thread across to the opposite eyelet.
6. Continue this pattern until you reach the top.
7. Tie securely.

Pros: Reduces pressure, looks neat.
Cons: Can be more difficult to adjust.

Lacing for Specific Foot Problems

Different shoe lacing techniques can help alleviate pain and discomfort related to various foot conditions.

Lacing for Wide Feet

If you have wide feet, you need to create more space in the shoe.

• Skip Lacing: Skip eyelets in areas where you feel the most pressure. This creates more room in that specific area. Start with the criss-cross method, but skip an eyelet where you need more space. This provides extra room where your foot feels tight.
• Parallel Lacing: As mentioned before, this method reduces overall pressure, which can be beneficial for wide feet.

Lacing for Narrow Feet

For narrow feet, the goal is to secure the foot and prevent it from sliding.

• Heel Lock Lacing (or Runner’s Loop): This technique prevents heel slippage.
  1. Lace the shoe using the standard criss-cross method, but leave the top eyelets unlaced.
  2. Thread each lace through the loop created by the top eyelet on the same side.
  3. Cross the laces and insert them into the loops you just created.
  4. Pull tight and tie.
• Power Lacing: This involves tightening the laces more in certain areas to create a snug fit. Focus on tightening the laces around the midfoot to prevent sliding.

Lacing for High Arches

High arches can cause pressure on the top of the foot.

• Parallel Lacing: Reduces overall pressure.
• Open Lacing: Similar to skip lacing, but you skip eyelets strategically to relieve pressure on the highest point of the arch.

Lacing for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain. Proper lacing can provide more support and reduce strain.

• Heel Lock Lacing: Prevents heel slippage, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis.
• Ensure Proper Arch Support: Combine the lacing with supportive insoles.

Lacing for Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe.

• Skip Lacing: Skip the eyelets near the bunion to reduce pressure.
• Wide Toe Box Shoes: Choose shoes with a wide toe box to accommodate the bunion.

Lacing for Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are calcium deposits that cause pain in the heel.

• Heel Lock Lacing: Secure the heel to minimize movement.
• Padded Insoles: Use padded insoles to cushion the heel.

Lacing for Different Shoe Types

The best shoe lacing techniques often depend on the type of shoe.

Lacing for Running Shoes

Running shoes require a secure and comfortable fit to prevent injuries and improve performance.

• Heel Lock Lacing: Essential for preventing heel slippage during runs.
• Adjustable Lacing: Experiment with different shoe lace patterns to find the right balance of support and flexibility.
• Consider the Distance: For longer runs, consider lacing techniques that reduce pressure and allow for foot swelling.

Lacing for Hiking Boots

Hiking boots need to provide ankle support and stability on uneven terrain.

• Reinforced Lacing: Use thicker laces and ensure they are tightly secured.
• Heel Lock Lacing: Prevents heel lift on steep inclines.
• Separate Ankle Lacing: Some hiking boots have separate eyelets near the ankle, allowing you to tighten the ankle area independently for better support.

Lacing for Dress Shoes

Dress shoes often prioritize aesthetics, but comfort is still important.

• Parallel Lacing: Creates a clean and polished look.
• Consider Waxed Laces: Waxed laces stay tied better and maintain a neater appearance.

Lacing for Skate Shoes

Skate shoes need to be durable and provide good board feel.

• Reinforced Lacing: Protect laces from abrasion with lace protectors or by running the laces under the sole.
• Avoid Over-Tightening: Over-tightening can restrict blood flow and reduce board feel.

Alternative Shoe Lacing Methods

Here are some unique shoe lace patterns you may want to try.

• Ladder Lacing: Creates a ladder-like appearance and provides a very secure fit.
• Spider Web Lacing: A more decorative pattern that can be used for a unique look.
• Hidden Knot Lacing: Hides the knot for a cleaner look.

How to Tie Shoelaces Securely

Knowing how to tie shoelaces securely can prevent them from coming undone during activities.

1. The Standard Knot:

   • Tie a basic overhand knot.
   • Make a loop with each lace.
   • Tie another overhand knot with the loops.

2. The Surgeon’s Knot:

   • Tie a basic overhand knot.
   • Wrap one lace around the other twice instead of once.
   • Make a loop with each lace.
   • Tie another overhand knot with the loops.

3. The Ian Knot: A faster and more secure method. You can find video tutorials online.

4. Double Knot: Tie a regular knot, then tie another knot on top of it. While effective, this can make the knot very bulky and difficult to untie.

Tips for Tightening Shoelaces Properly

• Start from the Bottom: Tighten the laces gradually from the bottom up.
• Maintain Even Tension: Make sure the tension is consistent throughout the laces.
• Don’t Over-Tighten: Over-tightening can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.
• Adjust as Needed: Check the tightness of your laces periodically and adjust as needed, especially during physical activity.

Choosing the Right Shoe Laces

The type of laces you use can also affect comfort and performance.

• Flat Laces: Common and versatile.
• Round Laces: Often used for dress shoes and hiking boots.
• Waxed Laces: More durable and stay tied better.
• Elastic Laces: Provide a snug fit without needing to be tied, good for those with limited mobility or children.

When to Replace Your Shoelaces

Replace your shoelaces when they become frayed, worn, or lose their elasticity.

Fathoming Shoe Lace Length

Shoe lace length depends on the number of eyelet pairs on your shoes. Here’s a general guide:

Eyelet Pairs	Lace Length (Inches)	Lace Length (Centimeters)
2-3	27″	69 cm
4-5	36″	91 cm
6-7	45″	114 cm
8-9	54″	137 cm
10+	63″	160 cm

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best way to lace shoes for running?
  Heel lock lacing is crucial to prevent heel slippage. Experiment with different lacing styles to find the right balance of support and flexibility.

• Can I use different lacing techniques for each foot?
  Yes! If you have different foot problems or different foot sizes, you can use different lacing techniques on each foot.

• Who is most likely to benefit from alternative shoe lacing methods?
  People with foot problems like bunions, plantar fasciitis, high arches, or wide feet can benefit significantly. Athletes looking to improve performance can also benefit.

• How often should I replace my shoelaces?
  Replace your shoelaces when they show signs of wear, such as fraying or loss of elasticity.

• What are the signs that my shoelaces are too tight?
  Numbness, tingling, or pain in your feet are signs that your shoelaces are too tight.

• How do I prevent my shoelaces from coming untied?
  Use a secure knot like the surgeon’s knot or the Ian knot. You can also try waxed laces.

By mastering these shoe lacing techniques, you can improve the comfort, performance, and longevity of your shoes, and address specific foot problems. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for you!