{"id":468,"date":"2024-02-24T00:03:56","date_gmt":"2024-02-24T01:03:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/s1aircon.com\/?p=468"},"modified":"2024-03-15T16:21:27","modified_gmt":"2024-03-15T16:21:27","slug":"how-to-lace-hiking-boots-shoes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/s1aircon.com\/index.php\/2024\/02\/24\/how-to-lace-hiking-boots-shoes\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Lace Hiking Boots & Shoes"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"A
Salomon Quest 4 GTX<\/a> \u2013 Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

How many ways can you tie your shoes? If you like to hike, you\u2019ll need more than one. Whether you\u2019re a seasoned backpacker or new to the trail, proper lacing can be the difference between a pleasant trek and a painful outing. Tying your shoes for comfort means prioritizing flexibility, support, and ventilation. Keep reading to find the best lacing setup for your hiking boots and re-master the art of tying your shoes.<\/p>\n

\"A
Altra Lone Peaks<\/a> \u2013 Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

WHY LACING MATTERS<\/h2>\n

Everyone\u2019s feet are different, and lacing patterns can accommodate a variety of foot sizes, arch heights, and foot shapes. The right lacing configuration distributes tension how and where you want it. Proper lacing should help ventilate the foot and allow your ankle, heel, and forefoot to flex naturally as you move.<\/p>\n

Lacing techniques are an easy way to stay comfortable on the trail. Different lacing patterns create a smarter fit for your foot if you have pain or pressure points.\u00a0With that in mind, no fancy lacing can fix poor-fitting footwear. Opt for comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes or boots built for the specific terrain you\u2019re exploring. To see our top footwear suggestions for the trail, take a look at our Best Hiking Shoes for Men<\/a> and Best Hiking Shoes for Women<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\"Crisscross
Crisscross Lacing on Lowa Renegade GTX<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\"Animated
Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

LACING TECHNIQUES<\/h2>\n

Crisscross Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

You\u2019ve probably been using Crisscross Lacing since the first grade. It\u2019s the default for everyday shoes and most activities.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Other names: <\/strong>Over-Under, Roman Lacing, Traditional, Cross X Lacing<\/p>\n

When to use it: <\/strong>Crisscross lacing is the basis for most other lacing techniques, and chances are high that your shoes are laced this way right now. This method is versatile because it works well for all activities, from casual city walks and everyday shoes to intense sports and long hikes. Crisscross lacing offers a predictable, snug fit and even pressure distribution across the top of the shoe. The biggest con of Crisscross Lacing is it can\u2019t be adjusted if you\u2019re dealing with foot pain, pressure, or a wonky-fitting shoe.<\/p>\n

How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.<\/li>\n
  2. Crisscross<\/strong> \u2013 Lace your shoes in a crisscross pattern: cross the left lace to the right side and insert it into the second eyelet on the right side. Cross the right lace to the left side and insert it into the second eyelet on the left side. Repeat with the opposite lace to the opposite side. Continue to repeat this pattern, \u201ccrisscrossing\u201d the laces from each eyelet.<\/li>\n
  3. Finish lacing<\/strong> \u2013 Adjust tension as you are lacing. Crisscross laces to the top of the shoes, then lace through the top eyelets as usual.\u00a0<\/li>\n
  4. Tie<\/strong> \u2013 Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
  5. Test<\/strong> \u2013 Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Dual-colored
    Surgeon\u2019s lacing on Lowa Renegade GTX<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \"Animated
    Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Surgeon\u2019s Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Surgeon\u2019s lacing is a simple alteration to Crisscross Lacing (or Ladder Lacing, described below) that makes every \u201ccrossing\u201d of the laces more secure, and less likely to loosen.\u00a0<\/p>\n

    When to use it:<\/strong> Not to be confused with the Surgeon\u2019s Knot (detailed below) Surgeon\u2019s Lacing technique wraps the laces around each other when the laces cross. This adds extra security so the laces don\u2019t move as much, or at all. Surgeon\u2019s Lacing is best used at the top few eyelets or eye hooks before tying a knot, to \u201clock\u201d the laces at a certain pressure. Surgeon\u2019s Lacing is handy because it can be used in conjunction with any other lacing method in this guide.<\/p>\n

    How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.<\/li>\n
    2. Crisscross<\/strong> \u2013 Lace your shoes in a crisscross pattern: cross the left lace to the right side and insert it into the second eyelet on the right side. Repeat with the opposite lace to the opposite side.<\/li>\n
    3. Wrap as needed<\/strong> \u2013 At any intersections where the laces crisscross, wrap one lace around the other 1-2 times. You can repeat this as many times as needed to the top of the shoe, although this is most commonly used at the top 2-3 eyelets (or eye hooks on hiking boots) to keep ankle pressure tight for high-cut hiking shoes or boots.<\/li>\n
    4. Finish lacing<\/strong> \u2013 Adjust tension as you are lacing. Lace through the top eyelets as usual.\u00a0<\/li>\n
    5. Tie<\/strong> \u2013 Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
    6. Test<\/strong> \u2013 Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
      \n
      \n
      \"Dual-colored
      Loop lacing on La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      \"\"
      Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Loop Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

      Loop lacing relieves pain across the top of the foot. It uses custom, versatile loops between eyelets instead of straight lines to release pressure points, mitigate hot spots, and allow the foot to breathe.<\/p>\n

      When to use it: <\/strong>Loop Lacing is a great choice for hikers and runners who need to address multiple pain points across the foot. It\u2019s great for high arches or a high midfoot since you can loosen the shoe at specific points on the top to let the foot flex naturally. This pattern can also reduce friction in the toes or heels by allowing more room as the foot lifts. If you have comfort issues with your shoes, loop lacing is for you.<\/p>\n

      How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.<\/li>\n
      2. Crisscross<\/strong> \u2013 Lace your shoes in a crisscross pattern: cross the left lace to the right side and insert it into the second eyelet on the right side. Repeat with the opposite lace to the opposite side.<\/li>\n
      3. Make loops<\/strong> \u2013 When you reach the area where you want extra room, create loops at specific eyelets. To do this, thread one lace straight across, then straight up into the next eyelet on the same side to create a loop. Repeat with the other lace on the opposite side.<\/li>\n
      4. Lace through loops \u2013 <\/strong>After forming loops, feed the laces from the opposite side through the loops you just formed. Pull the laces tight. Then, resume the crisscross pattern afterward.\u00a0<\/li>\n
      5. More loops<\/strong> \u2013 For multiple pressure points or swollen feet, create several loops. Repeat as needed.<\/li>\n
      6. Finish lacing<\/strong> \u2013 Adjust tension as you are lacing. Crisscross to the top of the shoes, then lace through the top eyelets as usual.<\/li>\n
      7. Tie \u2013 <\/strong>Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
      8. Test<\/strong> \u2013 Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
        \n
        \n
        \"Dual-colored
        Window Lacing on Vasque Breeze<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
        \n
        \"Animated
        Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        Window Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Similar to Loop Lacing, Window Lacing alleviates pain and hot spots on top of the foot. The difference is that Window Lacing creates bigger gaps to accommodate larger hot spots, taller arches, or more intense pressure points.<\/p>\n

        Other names:<\/strong> Box Lacing<\/p>\n

        When to use it:<\/strong> This is a good option for hikers breaking in their shoes and experiencing foot pain while moving or people with wide feet. Window Lacing forms gaps or \u201cwindows\u201d by skipping an eyelet, which helps with ventilation as well. If you have significant pressure points on top of your foot or are craving more ventilation, you\u2019ll benefit from Window Lacing.<\/p>\n

        How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

          \n
        1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.<\/li>\n
        2. Crisscross<\/strong>\u2013 Lace your shoes in a crisscross pattern: cross the left lace to the right side and insert it into the second eyelet on the right side. Repeat with the opposite lace to the opposite side.<\/li>\n
        3. Form the \u201cwindow\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 After the first or second set of eyelets, run each lace straight across to the eyelet on the opposite side. Then, lace each side to the next eyelet above it (instead of crossing the top of the shoe again). By skipping an eyelet, you create the \u201cwindow\u201d in your laces. Then, resume the crisscross pattern.\u00a0<\/li>\n
        4. More \u201cwindows\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 You can create 1-2 more windows in the lacing if you need less pressure or more ventilation.\u00a0<\/li>\n
        5. Tie <\/strong>\u2013 Lace through the top eyelets as usual. Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
        6. Test<\/strong> \u2013 Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
          \n
          \n
          \"Dual-colored
          Heel Lock Lacing on HOKA Speedgoats<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
          \n
          \"Animated
          Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          Heel Lock Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

          Are you dealing with heel slippage or loose shoes? Heel Lock Lacing is your best bet to prevent hotspots and rubbing at the back of your foot. With two simple loops at the top of the shoe, it secures your foot and offers more stability.<\/p>\n

          Other names:<\/strong> Lock Lacing, Runner\u2019s Lacing<\/p>\n

          When to use it:<\/strong> Heel lock lacing is popular with long-distance runners, thru-hikers, and backpackers. This pattern is helpful when tackling steep, uneven ground and lots of elevation change. Heel Lock Lacing keeps your shoe tight to your foot, adding both ankle and heel stability. It\u2019s also the best configuration for inflexible soles or a long break-in period since this pattern maximizes contact between the sole of your foot and the sole of the shoe. Though there are lots of great ways to prevent hotspots and blisters, Heel Lock Lacing is a fast and effective tool to help. For more blister prevention tips, see our guide How to Treat Blisters While Hiking<\/a>.<\/p>\n

          How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.<\/li>\n
          2. Crisscross<\/strong>\u2013 Lace your shoes in a crisscross pattern: cross the left lace to the right side and insert it into the second eyelet on the right side. Repeat with the opposite lace to the opposite side.<\/li>\n
          3. Repeat almost to top<\/strong> \u2013 Continue crisscross lacing until the second-to-last set of eyelets on each side at the tongue.<\/li>\n
          4. Make loops<\/strong> \u2013 At the second-to-top eyelets, instead of crossing the laces over, make a small loop on each side. To do this, feed the lace back on itself to form a loop. If your shoe or boot has double eyelets set close together, feed the lace through the second eyelet to create a loop.<\/li>\n
          5. Lace through loops<\/strong> \u2013 Insert each lace into the loop formed on the opposite side.<\/li>\n
          6. Tighten<\/strong> \u2013 Pull laces to tighten the loops. This should cinch the shoe around your ankle and pull the shoe around your heel.\u00a0<\/li>\n
          7. Tie <\/strong>\u2013 Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
          8. Test<\/strong> \u2013 Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
            \n
            \n
            \"Dual-colored
            Toe Lacing on Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
            \n
            \"Animated
            Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

            Toe Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

            Whether you\u2019re dealing with toe swelling, forefoot pain, or you just need more flexibility for the front of your foot, we highly recommend mastering a lacing technique specifically for your toes.<\/p>\n

            Other names:<\/strong> Forefoot Lacing, Ball-of-foot Lacing<\/p>\n

            When to use it:<\/strong> For anyone spending long amounts of time walking, toe-friendly lacing should be a part of your skill set. Toe Lacing helps your toes breathe and spread out (as much as the shoe allows). It accommodates a wider forefoot. If you\u2019re dealing with swollen or jammed toes, Toe Lacing helps relieve the pressure buildup. A good Toe Lacing technique can reduce the chance of getting black or \u201cdead\u201d toenails that intense movement can cause.<\/p>\n

            Fast version of toe lacing: <\/em><\/p>\n

            Skip bottom eyelets<\/strong> \u2013 For the fastest version of toe lacing, simply skip the first two eyelets near the toe, and start lacing at the second eyelets with the pattern of your choice from there. This will immediately create more room and flexibility, and remove pressure from the toes and forefoot.<\/p>\n

            Fast version of toe lacing: <\/em><\/p>\n

            How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

              \n
            1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Make sure one shoelace is about \u2154 of the length of the other. Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.\u00a0<\/li>\n
            2. First shoelace \u2013 <\/strong>Feed the shorter shoelace from the first eyelet at the bottom of one side directly into the top eyelet on the opposite side. Now, your shoelace should run diagonally across the whole top of the shoe. This allows you to loosen the entire shoe from the toe with a single lace.<\/li>\n
            3. Second shoelace <\/strong>\u2013 For the longer, opposite shoelace, feed it directly into the second eyelet of the opposite side, crossing the shoe at an angle. Then, run the shoelace horizontally to the second eyelet on the original side. Repeat this: run the longer shoelace up to the third eyelet of the opposite side, then again horizontally to the third eyelet on the original side.\u00a0<\/li>\n
            4. Long lace on top<\/strong> \u2013 Take care that the \u201clonger\u201d lace always goes over the shorter lace as you work your way up the shoe. This longer lace creates the tension for this pattern, keeping the shoe snug.<\/li>\n
            5. Repeat \u2013 <\/strong>Repeat this pattern to the top of the shoe.<\/li>\n
            6. Tie <\/strong>\u2013 Put longer lace through the top eyelet as usual. Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
            7. Test<\/strong> \u2013 To loosen the toe area, untie the shoes and loosen the \u201cshorter\u201d lace that runs diagonally from toe to tongue beneath the \u201clonger\u201d lace. Since it\u2019s directly connected to the eyelets at the toe, you can now easily loosen the lacing at the forefoot. Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
              \n
              \n
              \"Dual-colored
              Ladder Lacing on Oboz Bridger WP<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
              \n
              \"Animated
              Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

              Ladder Lacing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

              The straight-across repetition of the laces, paired with the laces sitting outside the eyelets, gives the shoe a \u201cladder\u201d look. But Ladder Lacing is not just for aesthetics. It allows you to tighten your laces to a specific pressure at small intervals across the top of the foot.\u00a0<\/p>\n

              Other names:<\/strong> Straight Bar, Fashion Lacing<\/p>\n

              When to use it:<\/strong> Ladder lacing is popular for locking your laces securely in place. It works well for hikers who don\u2019t like to re-lace their shoes at all. If you know exactly how you like your laces positioned and don\u2019t want them to move or loosen throughout the day, this pattern is a good option. This technique is also popular with folks who have wider feet or toe pain since it can give more control over how much pressure or how tight laces are across the top of the foot. Ladder Lacing is often used in the military because it\u2019s so secure. It\u2019s not as easy to adjust as others on this list, so be careful to tension laces as you go.<\/p>\n

              How to lace it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                \n
              1. Begin<\/strong> \u2013 Starting at the toe of the shoe, feed shoelaces through the first set of eyelets.<\/li>\n
              2. Up one eyelet <\/strong>\u2013 Feed your lace through the second set of eyelets on the same side so it enters on the outside of the shoe. The aglet should be pointed inside towards the opposite side. Do this on both sides.<\/li>\n
              3. Straight across <\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>Next, feed each lace through the second eyelet on the opposite side. The laces should be fed through the same eyelet you just used for the opposite lace. Set the laces so they sit flat on top of the other for a clean look. This is the first \u201crung\u201d of the ladder.<\/li>\n
              4. Optional looping<\/strong> \u2013 You can also put shoelaces through the loops formed on the outside of the shoe and tighten, but this would be similar to Loop Lacing (the second technique we discussed above). When tightened, these loops can be adjusted to relieve pressure.<\/li>\n
              5. Repeat to the top<\/strong> \u2013 Repeat this process: up one eyelet on the same side, through the same holes on the opposite side for a \u201cladder\u201d. Continue to the top set of eyelets on the shoe.<\/li>\n
              6. Keep it clean <\/strong>\u2013 \u201cClean\u201d the laces for extra stability by making sure they aren\u2019t folded or twisted.<\/li>\n
              7. Tie <\/strong>\u2013 Tie laces with a simple bow or knot.<\/li>\n
              8. Test<\/strong> \u2013 Walk or run to test the fit. Loosen or tighten the shoes as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                \n
                \n
                \"Dual
                Standard knot on Salomon Quest 4 GTX<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
                \n
                \"Animated
                Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                KNOT TECHNIQUES<\/h2>\n

                Standard Knot<\/h3>\n

                The standard knot is probably how you\u2019ve tied shoelaces since you first learned.<\/p>\n

                Other names:<\/strong> Bunny Ears, Loop Knot, Loop, Swoop and Pull<\/p>\n

                When to use it:<\/strong> This is the most common and practical way to tie everyday hiking and running shoes. The Standard Knot is a secure, balanced knot that\u2019s easy to tie since it\u2019s already habit for most people. However, the Standard Knot is unreliable because it comes apart easily over time. For long adventures, it will likely need to be re-tied or adjusted several times. <\/p>\n

                How to tie it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                  \n
                1. Starting position<\/strong> \u2013 <\/strong>Form a starting knot by wrapping the left lace around the right lace once.<\/li>\n
                2. Form a loop <\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>Form the right lace into a loop.<\/li>\n
                3. Wrap it around<\/strong> \u2013 Wrap the left lace first around the back, then the front, of the loop you just formed with the right lace.<\/li>\n
                4. Push the lace through<\/strong> \u2013 Push the left lace through the hole formed at the bottom to create another loop.<\/li>\n
                5. Pull both loops<\/strong> \u2013 Pull the left lace loop and the right lace loop at the same time to tighten.<\/li>\n
                6. Optional repeat<\/strong> \u2013 Repeat steps c to e again to add extra security to this knot.<\/li>\n
                7. Tighten<\/strong> \u2013 Clean the knot. Make sure loops and ends are approximately the same length, and the knot is tight.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                  \n
                  \n
                  \"Dual-colored
                  Surgeon\u2019s knot on HOKA Speedgoats<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
                  \n
                  \"Animated
                  Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                  Surgeon\u2019s Knot<\/h3>\n

                  This knot prevents your laces from coming undone by adding an extra loop to the standard knot.<\/p>\n

                  Other names: <\/strong>Sherpa Knot<\/p>\n

                  When to use it:<\/strong> This is the technique surgeons often use when they\u2019re tying off sutures, since it maintains tension through the whole stitching system without coming undone. It\u2019s a highly effective knot if you want a one that\u2019s familiar, but stronger and more durable than the standard.\u00a0<\/p>\n

                  How to tie it:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

                    \n
                  1. Starting position<\/strong> \u2013 <\/strong>Form a starting knot by wrapping the left lace around the right lace once.<\/li>\n
                  2. First loop <\/strong>\u2013 Make a loop out of one lace.<\/li>\n
                  3. Loop the loop <\/strong>\u2013 Wrap the opposite lace behind the loop on the first lace and around it to the front.<\/li>\n
                  4. Through<\/strong> \u2013 Push the opposite lace through the hole formed at the bottom. Form a second loop.<\/li>\n
                  5. Through again<\/strong> \u2013 Wrap the newly formed second loop back through the hole again.<\/li>\n
                  6. Loop toe loop again<\/strong> \u2013 Pull the second loop all the way through the hole for the second time.<\/li>\n
                  7. Tighten<\/strong> \u2013 Pull both ends of the laces and loops to tighten the knot.<\/li>\n
                  8. Clean and stage<\/strong> \u2013 Make sure the knot is secure, loops and ends are mostly equal in length, and laces are out of the way.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                    \n
                    \n
                    \"Dual-colored
                    Double slipknot on Oboz Bridger 8\u201d BDry<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
                    \n
                    \"Animated
                    Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                    Double Slipknot<\/h3>\n

                    This is a less popular but seriously effective knot that, once set, rarely comes undone. It\u2019s a great \u201cset-it-and-forget-it\u201d knot.<\/p>\n

                    Other names: <\/strong>Quick-Release, Draw Knot, Ian Knot<\/p>\n

                    When to use it:<\/strong> A Double Slipknot may be too much for casual shoes but this is a great one to master for endurance sports and long hikes. It works well for low-tension laces and is a reliable option when your shoes just won\u2019t stay tied, since an effective double slipknot is strong. As a bonus, Double Slipknots still come apart quickly \u2013 but only when you\u2019re ready.<\/p>\n

                    How to tie it:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      \n
                    1. Starting position<\/strong> \u2013 <\/strong>Form a starting knot by wrapping the left lace around the right lace once.<\/li>\n
                    2. Form two loops <\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>Form the right lace and the left lace into separate loops.<\/li>\n
                    3. Cross the loops<\/strong> \u2013 Cross one loop over the other.<\/li>\n
                    4. Wrap left over right<\/strong> \u2013 Wrap the left lace loop first around the back, then the front, of the right lace loop.<\/li>\n
                    5. Wrap right over left<\/strong> \u2013 Wrap the right lace loop around the back of the left lace loop.<\/li>\n
                    6. Push the loops through<\/strong> \u2013 Push the left and right lace loops through the hole formed at the bottom.<\/li>\n
                    7. Pull both loops<\/strong> \u2013 Pull the left lace loop and the right lace loop at the same time to tighten.<\/li>\n
                    8. Tighten<\/strong> \u2013 Clean the knot and make sure the loops and ends are approximately the same length and the knot is tight.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                      \"Closeup
                      La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX<\/a> \u2013 Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

                      TIPS FOR OPTIMAL LACING<\/h2>\n

                      Experiment <\/strong>\u2013 Different shoes and activities require different lacing techniques. We recommend trying lacing patterns to find the best one for you. Lacing helps cater footwear around your foot shape. If you\u2019re dealing with issues like bunions, hammertoes, or wide feet, try new lacing techniques to make your shoes work for you.<\/p>\n

                      Use quality laces <\/strong>\u2013 Shoelaces are as much about fashion and aesthetics as they are about functionality and activity. If your hiking shoe laces are too short, stiff, or difficult to tighten, it\u2019s time to replace them. Swap out old laces that are worn or unraveling for a better fit. Look for more durable, high-quality laces that don\u2019t fray or break easily.<\/p>\n

                      Don\u2019t over-tighten <\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>If your laces are too tight, they can cut off circulation to your feet and injure your ankles. Tight shoes can often cause more problems than they fix. Be patient when re-lacing as you find the Goldilocks zone between too loose and too tight.<\/p>\n

                      Give your toes a break <\/strong>\u2013 <\/strong>Space around your toes is important. If they\u2019re tightly squished together, you could end up with hot spots, damaged nails, and compounding injuries. Make sure your lacing gives toes room to move naturally and breathe to avoid discomfort.<\/p>\n

                      Lock the lace ends<\/strong> \u2013 When your lace ends are loose, they\u2019re more likely to become untied, get caught on objects, and trip you up. Tuck laces into your shoes or back into the lacing pattern to stop them from flopping around while on the trail.<\/p>\n

                      Check and adjust<\/strong> \u2013 Laces are only as good as they are secure. Remember to check and adjust laces and knots during a hike to keep your footwear feeling stable and comfortable on roots, rocks, or dirt.<\/p>\n

                      Try other lacing systems <\/strong>\u2013 These days, traditional shoelaces are not the only option. If you\u2019re tired of traditional laces options like Velcro, slip-on designs, and single pull-tab systems might be a better fit.<\/p>\n

                      \n
                      \n
                      \"Salomon\u2019s
                      Quicklace system on Salomon Speedcross<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
                      \n
                      \"Animated
                      Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                      CHOOSE THE RIGHT LACES<\/h2>\n

                      Flat laces <\/strong>\u2013 Flat laces are wide but not thick. They are most commonly found on everyday and casual shoes. Flat laces are usually less durable and don\u2019t handle wear and tear as well as round laces. They do tend to hold a knot better, but often that\u2019s because of the material they\u2019re made from (usually cotton) more than the shape.<\/p>\n

                      Round laces \u2013 <\/strong>Round laces are regularly used in athletic and hiking shoes. The cylindrical shape is durable since there are no edges to fray and tangle. Round laces like thin paracord often have a \u201ccore\u201d \u2013 a different material on the inside that makes them stronger \u2013 and a \u201csheath\u201d on the outside made of durable material like nylon or polyester so they shed dirt and moisture more easily.<\/p>\n

                      Material<\/strong> \u2013 Shoelace material is important to determine how easy your laces are to tie, how much water they hold, and how long they last.<\/p>\n