How to choose the proper shoe lace length for your sneakers.

Choosing the proper length for your shoe laces is something a lot of people have questions about so hopefully this article helps!

Turns out it's not as complicated as you may think! A lot of people think that it's based on your shoe size but no, it is actually based on the amount of lace holes (also known as eyelets) rows that your sneakers have. Picture below for reference

We want you to be confident in choosing the proper lace length. The more eyelets your sneakers have, the longer the shoe laces would need to be. This is the same system Nike, Adidas, and pretty much all other sneaker brands use to choose the length of their stock laces. BUT there are some sneakers that are exceptions which are detailed below.

Refer to our SHOE LACE SIZE CHART

POPULAR SHOES AND THEIR LACE LENGTHS

Yeezy 350 v2 - 48" 

Yeezy 700 - 48" 

Air Force One - 54" 

Nike Presto - 60"

Jordan 1 - 72" 

Ultra Boost - 42" (specialized RLS length) 

NMD - 32" (specialized RLS length) 

Vans Old Skool - 48" 

Vans Era - 36" 

Air Max 1 - 48" 

New Balance 990 - 48"

Also Read - Shoe Laces Comparison: Lengths for Every Model

IN DEPTH ANALYSIS

Now it is important to note that shoe laces are not like clothing items in the sense that if you get the wrong size they will be unwearable. You can easily use slightly longer and shorter laces in your kicks but you just have to play around with how you lace them. For example, in the pictures below, the yellow laces on the Vans are 48" and are a perfect fit but the waves laces in the other picture are 54" and still look good. This is because I just laced the waves laces looser than in the yellow picture. So if you see a length you want is out of stock then don't be afraid to go up one length. You can also go down one length but you just have to lace up tighter or use less eyelets. The difference between 48" and 54"shoe laces is not that dramatic.

Now.... there are some exceptions. Some sneakers have really wide lengths between eyelets and this makes them use more lace. For example, the Nike Air Presto, it has only 5 eyelets so using the size chart, you would need 48" laces. But in reality Prestos actually need 60" laces because the laces are so wide on the shoe as you can see from the picture. This is a very rare case but it is good to know when choosing length. 

 

Properly sized shoelaces not only ensure a secure fit but also enhance comfort and style. Finding the ideal length can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but with a few simple guidelines, you can confidently select the perfect shoelace for your sneakers. 

Also Read - How To Choose Your Shoe Lace Length: 3 Simple Steps

Factors Influencing Shoe Lace Length:

Sneaker Type: High-top sneakers naturally require longer laces than low-top models.  

Eyelet Configuration: The number and placement of eyelets significantly impact the necessary lace length. More eyelets generally require longer laces. 

Desired Lacing Style: Different lacing techniques (e.g., bar lacing, criss-cross, etc.) may require varying lace lengths.

Personal Preference: Some individuals prefer a snugger fit, while others favor a looser one. This preference will influence the desired lace length.

Determining the Appropriate Length:

Measure Your Existing Laces: If you have a pair of sneakers with a comfortable fit, measure the length of the current laces. This provides a good starting point for your next purchase.

Consult the Manufacturer's Recommendations: Many shoe manufacturers provide lace length recommendations based on specific shoe models. Check the product description or contact customer service for guidance.  

Use Online Resources: Several online resources and calculators can help determine the ideal lace length based on your shoe size and desired lacing style. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Shoelaces:

Consider Material: Opt for durable materials like cotton, nylon, or waxed cotton for increased longevity.

Choose the Right Thickness: Thicker laces provide a more secure fit but may be less comfortable for some.

Explore Different Colors and Styles: Experiment with different colors and styles to personalize your sneakers.

FAQs:

How do I know if my shoelaces are too long?

If the laces drag on the ground. they are likely too long. Create excessive bulk in the shoe: This can cause discomfort and hinder movement. Make it difficult to achieve a secure fit: You may not be able to properly tighten the laces.

What if my shoelaces are too short?

If the laces don't reach the top eyelets: You won't be able to secure the shoe properly. Feel too tight even when loosely tied: This can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort. Limit your ability to adjust the fit: You may not be able to achieve the desired level of tightness.

Can I use different lengths of shoelaces in the same shoe?

While not common, you can use different lengths of shoelaces in the same shoe, particularly for creative lacing techniques. However, it's crucial to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

How do I care for my shoelaces?

Hand wash or machine wash in a delicate bag. Air dry to prevent shrinkage. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach. Consider using a waterproofing spray to protect them from the elements.