How To Put On Laces On Shoes: Styles and Techniques

Want to know how to put laces on shoes? The answer is that there are many ways! This article explores different shoe lacing techniques, lacing styles for sneakers, how to lace dress shoes, and more to help you find the best shoe lacing method for your needs. We’ll also cover lacing patterns for comfort, secure shoe lacing, and lacing for foot support.

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Selecting the Right Laces

Before delving into the various lacing styles, choosing the right laces is essential. Length, material, and style all play a role.

Choosing the Correct Lace Length

Lace length is crucial. Too short, and you won’t be able to tie your shoes. Too long, and you’ll have excessive loops that can cause tripping. Use this table as a general shoe lace tying guide for choosing lace length:

Number of Eyelet Pairs	Lace Length (Inches)	Lace Length (Centimeters)
4-5	27″ (69 cm)	70 cm
5-6	36″ (91 cm)	90 cm
6-7	45″ (114 cm)	110 cm
7-8	54″ (137 cm)	140 cm
8-9	63″ (160 cm)	160 cm
9-10	72″ (183 cm)	180 cm

Lace Material Matters

• Cotton: Soft but not very durable.
• Polyester: Strong and resists stretching.
• Nylon: Very strong and can be elastic.
• Leather: Stylish and durable, often used for dress shoes.

Lace Style and Appearance

• Flat Laces: Common, versatile, and stay tied well.
• Round Laces: Often used for dress shoes and boots. Can be slippery.
• Oval Laces: A mix of flat and round, offering good grip and style.

Basic Lacing Techniques

These are the fundamental lacing methods most people use.

Criss-Cross Lacing

This is the most common and simplest way to lace shoes.

1. Thread each end of the lace through the bottom eyelets, creating a bar across the shoe.
2. Cross the laces over each other.
3. Thread each lace through the next set of eyelets, from the outside in.
4. Repeat until you reach the top eyelets.
5. Tie your shoes.

This method is quick, easy, and works for almost any type of shoe.

Straight Bar Lacing (European Lacing)

Straight bar lacing gives a clean, parallel look. It’s often used for dress shoes.

1. Thread one end of the lace straight across the bottom eyelets, from the inside out.
2. Thread the other end through the same eyelet, from the outside in.
3. Bring one lace straight up to the next eyelet on the same side, on the inside.
4. Bring the other lace across to the opposite side, on the outside.
5. Continue alternating, keeping the laces straight across.
6. Tie your shoes.

This method can require a bit more adjustment to ensure laces are even.

Advanced Lacing Styles for Specific Needs

Beyond the basics, different ways to lace shoes can address specific needs, such as comfort and support.

Lacing for Wide Feet

If you have wide feet, you might find traditional lacing too tight. Try these techniques:

• Skipping Eyelets: Skip one or two eyelets in the areas where your foot feels tightest. This creates more room.
• Parallel Lacing with Gaps: Use straight bar lacing but create small gaps between the bars to allow for more expansion.

Lacing for Narrow Feet

Narrow feet can slip around in shoes. Use these lacing techniques to secure your foot:

• Heel Lock Lacing (Runner’s Loop): This technique helps prevent heel slippage.
  1. Lace your shoes normally, leaving the top eyelets unused.
  2. Thread each lace through the top eyelet on the same side, creating a loop.
  3. Cross each lace and thread it through the loop on the opposite side.
  4. Pull tight and tie your shoes.
• Criss-Cross Lacing with Increased Tension: Pull the laces tighter as you criss-cross to create a snug fit.

Lacing for High Arches

High arches can cause pressure on the top of your foot. Try these methods:

• Bar Lacing with a Gap: Lace the bottom section of the shoe with straight bar lacing, then skip a section around your arch before continuing.
• Offset Lacing: Lace the shoe so that the laces are not directly over the highest point of your arch. This reduces pressure.

Lacing for Foot Support

Proper lacing can provide additional foot support, especially for athletic activities:

• Power Lacing: Involves creating a series of loops and knots in the lacing pattern to provide extra support. (Note: This technique is more complex and may require visual aids).
• Using Lace Anchors: These small devices can be attached to the shoe to provide additional anchor points for the laces, enhancing support.

Creative Lacing Patterns

These lacing patterns are more about style than function but can add a unique look to your shoes.

Ladder Lacing

Ladder lacing creates a series of horizontal bars that look like a ladder.

1. Thread the laces through the bottom eyelets from the outside in.
2. Bring each lace up to the next eyelet on the same side, on the outside.
3. Thread the laces across to the opposite side, on the inside, creating a horizontal bar.
4. Continue this pattern until you reach the top.
5. Tie your shoes.

This style is visually striking and often used on boots.

Zipper Lacing

Zipper lacing resembles a zipper.

1. Thread the laces through the bottom eyelets from the outside in.
2. Cross the laces and thread them through the next set of eyelets on the opposite side, from the inside out.
3. Tuck each lace under the opposite lace, pulling them tight to create a “zipper” effect.
4. Continue until you reach the top.
5. Tie your shoes.

This style can be a bit more challenging to tighten evenly.

Display Lacing

Display lacing focuses on showing off the laces themselves.

1. Thread the laces through the bottom eyelets from the outside in.
2. Bring each lace straight up on the inside of the shoe.
3. Thread them through the top eyelets.
4. Cross the laces and weave them around the vertical laces in a decorative pattern.
5. Tie your shoes at the bottom or tuck the ends inside the shoe.

How to Thread Shoe Laces: Step-by-Step Guide

Before you can experiment with different lacing styles, you need to know how to thread shoe laces correctly.

1. Remove Old Laces: Take out your old laces carefully. This gives you a clean start.
2. Straighten the Lace: Make sure the end of the lace is straight and not frayed. If it’s frayed, you might need to trim it or use a bit of tape to make it easier to thread.
3. Insert into Bottom Eyelets: Push each end of the lace through the bottom two eyelets. You can thread from the inside out or the outside in, depending on the lacing style you want to use. Most commonly, for a criss-cross, you thread from the outside in.
4. Ensure Even Length: Pull the laces through until both sides are even. This is important for a balanced and comfortable fit.
5. Begin Lacing: Follow the specific steps for your chosen lacing style (criss-cross, straight bar, etc.).
6. Adjust as Needed: As you lace, make small adjustments to ensure the laces are snug but not too tight.
7. Tie Your Shoes: Once you reach the top eyelets, tie your shoes using your preferred knot.

Lacing Styles for Sneakers

Sneakers often benefit from specific shoe lacing techniques that cater to athletic activities and comfort.

Standard Criss-Cross for Everyday Wear

The criss-cross pattern is great for sneakers you wear every day. It’s simple and works well for walking or light activities.

Heel Lock Lacing for Running

For running sneakers, use heel lock lacing to prevent your heel from slipping. This keeps your foot secure and reduces the risk of blisters.

Wide Foot Lacing for Comfort

If your sneakers feel too tight, try skipping eyelets or using parallel lacing with small gaps. This gives your feet more room.

How to Lace Dress Shoes

Dress shoes require a more refined lacing style.

Straight Bar Lacing for a Clean Look

Straight bar lacing is ideal for dress shoes. It looks neat and formal. Make sure the laces are even for a polished appearance.

Round or Flat Waxed Laces for Durability

Use round or flat waxed laces for dress shoes. These laces are strong and add a touch of elegance.

Avoiding Over-Tightening

Do not over-tighten the laces on dress shoes. A snug fit is good, but you want to avoid creasing or damaging the leather.

Tips for Secure Shoe Lacing

A secure knot is just as important as the lacing pattern.

The Surgeon’s Knot

The surgeon’s knot is a simple knot that adds an extra twist to prevent slipping.

1. Tie a regular shoelace knot.
2. Before tightening, loop one or both laces around the loop again.
3. Tighten the knot.

This knot is less likely to come undone during activity.

Overhand Knot

Adding a simple overhand knot before tying your shoelaces can provide extra security.

1. Before tying your laces, make a loose overhand knot with both laces together.
2. Tighten the knot slightly.
3. Tie your shoelaces as usual.

Using Lace Locks

Lace locks are small devices that clamp onto the laces, preventing them from loosening. They are great for activities where you need extra security.

Caring for Your Shoe Laces

Proper care can extend the life of your shoe laces.

Washing Your Laces

Hand-wash your laces with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the material.

Replacing Worn Laces

Replace your laces as soon as they show signs of wear, such as fraying or stretching. This prevents them from breaking unexpectedly.

Storing Your Laces

Store your shoes with the laces tied to prevent them from getting tangled or lost.

Fathoming Lacing Patterns for Comfort

Different lacing patterns can affect how comfortable your shoes feel.

Reducing Pressure Points

If you experience pressure points on your feet, try skipping eyelets in those areas. This reduces the pressure and makes your shoes more comfortable.

Distributing Tension Evenly

Make sure the tension is evenly distributed across the laces. This prevents some areas from being too tight while others are too loose.

Experimenting with Different Styles

Try different lacing styles to see which one feels the most comfortable for your feet. What works for one person may not work for another.

FAQ: All About Shoe Laces

What is the best shoe lacing method for running?

Heel lock lacing is the best method for running. It prevents heel slippage and provides a secure fit.

Can I use different lacing styles for different activities?

Yes, you can and should! Different activities require different levels of support and comfort.

Who is the best person to ask about shoe lacing techniques?

A shoe store employee or a podiatrist can offer personalized advice based on your foot type and activity level.

What is the easiest way to thread shoe laces?

The easiest way is to make sure the lace end is straight and firm, then insert it into the bottom eyelets.

How do I prevent my shoe laces from coming untied?

Use a surgeon’s knot or add an overhand knot before tying your laces. Lace locks can also help.

What do I do if my shoe laces are too long?

You can tie them in a double knot, tuck them inside your shoe, or buy shorter laces.

How often should I replace my shoe laces?

Replace your laces as soon as they show signs of wear, such as fraying or stretching.

By mastering these shoe lacing techniques and styles, you can enhance the comfort, support, and appearance of your shoes. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for you and your feet!