Laces are an essential component of many types of clothing and footwear, providing a secure and adjustable fit. However, learning how to put in laces can be a frustrating experience, especially for beginners. The process can seem complex and the results often appear messy and untidy. Despite its perceived difficulty, mastering the art of lacing is a simple task that can be achieved with a little patience and the right technique. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your laces are always secure, comfortable, and stylish.
The first step in lacing is to create a loop at one end of each lace. This loop will serve as the anchor point for the lacing pattern. Next, cross the two laces over each other and pull them through the opposite eyelets on the other side of the shoe. Continue this process, alternating which lace goes over and under, until you reach the top of the shoe. Once all the eyelets are filled, tighten the laces by pulling on both ends simultaneously. However, be careful not to pull too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and damage the laces.
There are many different lacing patterns available, each with its own unique look and purpose. The most common pattern, known as the straight lace, is suitable for most types of shoes and provides a secure and comfortable fit. However, if you are looking for a more decorative or functional lacing pattern, there are numerous options to choose from. For example, the criss-cross lace creates a stylish and eye-catching design, while the double crossover lace provides extra support for high-top shoes. By experimenting with different lacing patterns, you can customize the look and feel of your shoes to match your personal style and preferences.
The Classic Cross Method
Step 1: Feed the laces through the bottom holes
Start by feeding the laces through the two bottom eyelets on either side of the shoe. Lace from the inside out, meaning the laces should be coming from the inside of the shoe and threading through the eyelets on the outside. This will create two equal length laces on each side of the shoe.
Step 2: Cross the laces
Take the right lace and cross it over the left lace, bringing it up and through the left eyelet above. Do the same with the left lace, crossing it over the right lace and bringing it up through the right eyelet above. This will create an “X” shape with the laces.
Step 3: Feed the laces through the next set of eyelets
Now, take the right lace and feed it through the next eyelet up on the right side of the shoe, from the inside out. Do the same with the left lace, feeding it through the next eyelet up on the left side of the shoe, also from the inside out.
Step 4: Repeat steps 2-3
Repeat steps 2 and 3, continuing to cross the laces and feed them through the next set of eyelets. Continue until you reach the top of the shoe.
Step 5: Tie the laces
Once the laces reach the top of the shoe, tie them together in a knot or bow as desired. You can also use a lace lock or other locking device to keep the laces from loosening.
The Bunny Ears Approach
This classic method is known for its simplicity and effectiveness. Here’s how it works:
- Straighten your laces: Uncross the ends of your shoelaces and pull them straight to remove any tangles.
- Make the bunny ears: Take one lace and create a loop by bringing its ends together. Bend the loop into two equal-sized “bunny ears,” ensuring they overlap slightly in the middle.
- Cross the bunny ears: Cross the right bunny ear over the left bunny ear and pull it through the hole. Repeat this step with the left bunny ear, creating an X shape.
- Pull the bunny ears tight: Hold the center of the X and pull both bunny ears firmly to tighten the knot.
- Repeat the bunny ears process: Make another pair of bunny ears and cross them through the opposite hole, forming another X shape.
- Pull tight and tuck: Just like before, pull both bunny ears tight to secure the knot. Then, tuck the ends of the laces into the nearby holes to prevent them from coming undone.
Additional Bunny Ears Tips
* For a secure knot, cross the bunny ears multiple times – usually twice or three times is sufficient.
* If the knot seems too loose, try pulling the bunny ears tighter or making a second knot.
* To prevent fraying, pass the ends of the laces through the hole before tucking them in.
* This method can be adapted for different types of laces and shoe styles, including boots and sneakers.
The Ladder Technique
This method, also known as the criss-cross technique, is the classic way of lacing shoes, and it’s a great choice for everyday wear. It creates a secure and comfortable fit that keeps your feet supported.
Step 1: Cross the laces at the bottom.
Take the two laces and cross them over each other at the bottom of the shoe, with the left lace going over the right lace.
Step 2: Make a “hole” with the right lace.
Bring the right lace under and through the next pair of laces, creating a loop or “hole” with the lace.
Step 3: Thread the left lace through the “hole”.
Take the left lace and thread it through the loop you created with the right lace. Pull the lace tight to close the hole.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe.
Tips for the Ladder Technique:
– Keep the laces loose while you’re lacing, and tighten them at the end.
– If you want a tighter fit, you can cross the laces over each other more than once at the bottom.
– To create a looser fit, you can skip a pair of laces occasionally when threading the laces through the holes.
The Bar Lace Method
The bar lace method is a popular and versatile way to lace shoes. It is suitable for most types of shoes, from sneakers to dress shoes. The bar lace method creates a secure and comfortable fit, and it is also easy to adjust.
Materials
You will need the following materials to lace your shoes using the bar lace method:
- A pair of shoes with laces
- A lace-tying device (optional)
Instructions
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on one side of the shoe.
- Cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets up.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe.
- To create the bar, take the lace from the left side of the shoe and cross it over the lace from the right side. Then, thread the lace through the next eyelet on the left side.
- Repeat step 4 to create as many bars as desired.
- Once you have created the desired number of bars, continue lacing the shoes normally.
- Thread the laces through the top two eyelets on each side of the shoe.
- Cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets down.
- Repeat steps 8 and 9 until you reach the bottom of the shoe.
- Tie the laces in a bow or knot.
Tips
- If you are having difficulty threading the laces through the eyelets, you can use a lace-tying device.
- You can adjust the tightness of the laces by creating more or fewer bars.
- The bar lace method can be used to create a variety of different looks. Experiment with different numbers of bars and lace colors to create a unique style.
| Number of Bars | Look |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Casual |
| 3-4 | Dressy |
| 5+ | Formal |
The Surgeon’s Knot Variation
The surgeon’s knot is a variation of the square knot that creates a more secure bond. It’s commonly used in fields like climbing and surgery where knots must be reliable and unyielding. To tie a surgeon’s knot:
- Create an overhand knot with one end of the lace.
- Pass the other end of the lace through the hole created by the first knot, forming a second overhand knot.
- Pull both ends to tighten the first knot.
- Repeat steps 1-3 with the other end of the lace, creating a second overhand knot.
- Pull the end that was originally on the bottom through the hole created by the last knot, forming a third overhand knot that locks the previous knots in place.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Create an overhand knot with one end of the lace. |
| 2 | Pass the other end of the lace through the hole created by the first knot, forming a second overhand knot. |
| 3 | Pull both ends to tighten the first knot. |
| 4 | Repeat steps 1-3 with the other end of the lace, creating a second overhand knot. |
| 5 | Pull the end that was originally on the bottom through the hole created by the last knot, forming a third overhand knot that locks the previous knots in place. |
The Bow Tie Lacing Option
This technique creates a secure and decorative bow at the top of the shoes.
Step 1: Create Two Bunny Ears
Cross the two laces over each other to form a cross shape. Take the right lace and bring it over the left, forming a "bunny ear." Repeat with the left lace over the right, creating a second bunny ear.
Step 2: Make the First Tie
Hold the bunny ears firmly and make a simple overhand knot. This will create the center of the bow.
Step 3: Create the Left Bow Loop
Take the right bunny ear (the one that crossed over first) and bring it under and over the center knot. Pull it back up through the space between the center knot and the original cross.
Step 4: Create the Right Bow Loop
Repeat step 3 with the left bunny ear, bringing it under and over the center knot and pulling it back up through the opposite space.
Step 5: Adjust the Bow
Pull the two bow loops evenly to tighten the laces and create the desired bow size.
Step 6: Double-Knot for Extra Security
Create Overlapping Loops
After the bow is tied, create two overlapping loops by crossing the left loop over the right and then the right loop over the left.
Make the Double Knot
Take the bottom loop and bring it up behind the top loop. Pass the bottom loop through the hole created in the top loop.
Tighten the Knot
Pull both ends of the laces simultaneously to tighten the double knot. This will prevent the laces from coming undone easily.
The Straight Bar Lace Technique
The Straight Bar Lace Technique is a simple and effective way to lace your shoes securely and comfortably. Here are the steps:
1. Cross the Laces
Start by crossing the two laces over each other, forming an “X” shape.
2. Pass Through the Bottom Hole
Take the right lace and pass it through the bottom hole on the left side of the shoe.
3. Pass Through the Top Hole
Next, take the same lace and pass it through the top hole on the right side of the shoe.
4. Cross the Laces Again
Cross the laces over each other again, forming another “X” shape.
5. Pass Through the Opposite Bottom Hole
Now, take the left lace and pass it through the bottom hole on the right side of the shoe.
6. Repeat Steps 2-5
Repeat steps 2-5 until you reach the top of the shoe.
7. Tie the Laces
To finish, tie the laces together by creating a double knot. To make the knot extra secure, loop one lace around the other twice before tying it.
Lace Tension Tips:
| Lace Tension | Description |
|---|---|
| Loose | For a comfortable fit with minimal pressure on the feet. |
| Medium | Provides a secure fit without being too tight. |
| Tight | For activities that require extra ankle support, such as running or hiking. |
The Loop-and-Cross Lace-Up
This is the most common lacing method and is suitable for most shoes. It creates a secure and comfortable fit that evenly distributes pressure across the foot.
Step 1: Create a loop
At the bottom of the shoe, form a loop with one lace on the right and the other lace on the left.
Step 2: Cross the laces
Cross the right lace over the left lace and bring it up through the loop.
Step 3: Pull through
Pull both laces through the loop to tighten.
Step 4: Repeat steps 1-3
Repeat steps 1-3 with the next pair of loops.
Step 5: Create double loops
When you reach the top of the shoe, create two small loops with each lace.
Step 6: Lace the double loops
Loop one lace through the other and tighten.
Step 7: Tie a knot
Tie the remaining laces in a square knot.
Step 8: Double-Check the Fit
Put on the shoes and ensure they fit comfortably. Adjust the tightness of the laces as needed to prevent blisters or discomfort. Here’s a table summarizing the fit adjustments:
| Fit Issue | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Too tight | Loosen the loops closer to the toes. |
| Too loose | Tighten the loops closer to the ankles. |
| Pressure on the instep | Loosen the loop where the pressure is felt. |
| Heel slippage | Tighten the loops near the top of the shoe. |
The Heel Lock Method
This is a quick and easy method that creates a secure lock that will keep your laces in place. It’s perfect for running, hiking, or any other activity where you need your shoes to stay tied.
To do the heel lock method, follow these steps:
1.
Start by crossing the two ends of your laces over each other, making an “X” shape.
2.
Bring the left end of the lace over the right end and under the left lace, creating a small loop.
3.
Bring the right end of the lace over the left end and under the right lace, creating another small loop.
4.
Pull both loops tight to create a knot.
5.
Take the left end of the lace and wrap it around the back of the right heel cup.
6.
Bring the left end of the lace back over the top of the right heel cup and under the right lace.
7.
Bring the right end of the lace over the left end and under the right lace, creating another small loop.
8.
Pull both loops tight to create a knot.
Step 9: Repeat steps 5-8 for the left heel cup
Once you’ve tied both heel locks, your laces should be securely in place. If you want to make them even more secure, you can double knot them by repeating steps 1-4.
This method is also known as the “surgeon’s knot” because it is often used in the operating room. It is a very strong and secure knot, and it is perfect for any situation where you need to keep your laces tied.
Troubleshooting Lace Hiccups
1. Lace is Too Long
If your laces are too long, they can get tangled and cause your shoes to come untied. To fix this, simply trim the laces to a length that is comfortable and doesn’t drag on the ground.
2. Lace is Too Short
If your laces are too short, they won’t be able to reach the top of your shoes. To fix this, simply replace the laces with longer ones.
3. Lace is Knotted
If your laces are knotted, they can be difficult to untie. To fix this, simply untie the knot and re-lace your shoes.
4. Lace is Broken
If your laces are broken, they will need to be replaced. To do this, simply cut off the broken section of the lace and replace it with a new piece.
5. Lace is Slippery
If your laces are slippery, they may come untied easily. To fix this, try using a different type of lace, such as a waxed lace or a lace with a grippy texture.
6. Lace is Loose
If your laces are loose, they may come untied easily. To fix this, simply tighten the laces by pulling them tighter and tying them securely.
7. Lace is Deformed
If your laces are deformed, they may not be able to be tied properly. To fix this, simply replace the laces with new ones.
8. Lace is Frayed
If your laces are frayed, they may break easily. To fix this, simply replace the laces with new ones.
9. Lace is Dirty
If your laces are dirty, they may be difficult to tie and may come untied easily. To fix this, simply clean the laces by washing them with soap and water.
10. Other Causes
If you have tried all of the above troubleshooting tips and your laces are still giving you problems, there may be another underlying cause. Some possible causes include:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Laces come untied easily | The lace holes are too large | Use a smaller lace or insert lace anchors into the holes |
| Laces are difficult to tie | The lace holes are too small | Use a larger lace or punch out the lace holes |
| Laces are uncomfortable | The laces are too thick or too thin | Use a lace that is the right thickness for your feet and shoes |
How To Put In Laces
When it comes to putting in laces, there are a few different methods you can use. The most common method is the “criss-cross” method, which is what we’ll be explaining in this article.
Step 1: Start by threading the laces through the bottom two holes on one side of the shoe.
Step 2: Cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two holes on the other side of the shoe.
Step 3: Repeat these steps until you reach the top of the shoe.
Step 4: Tie the laces in a bow or a knot.
People Also Ask About How To Put In Laces
How do you lace shoes without tying them?
There are a few different ways to lace shoes without tying them. One popular method is the “heel lock” method, which involves looping the laces around the heel of the shoe and then threading them through the top two holes on the other side of the shoe. Another method is the “bunny ear” method, which involves creating two loops with the laces and then tying them together at the top of the shoe.
How do you put in long laces?
If your laces are too long, you can either trim them or tuck them into the shoe. To trim the laces, simply measure them against your shoe and cut off any excess. To tuck the laces into the shoe, thread them through the holes as usual and then loop them around the back of the heel. Tuck the laces under the tongue of the shoe and you’re done.
