The world of shoe laces is getting a major refresh in 2025, with new styles and creative ways to express personality through this often overlooked accessory. From retro-inspired patterns to innovative lacing techniques, let's look at what's trending and how to make the most of your shoe laces this year.

What's New in Shoe Lace Trends 2025

The fashion runways have spoken - lace-up shoes are making a strong comeback in 2025. This trend spans across various footwear styles, from classic sneakers to elegant flats. Fat shoe laces and rope shoe laces are particularly popular, adding texture and visual interest to both casual and dressy footwear.

Round shoe laces are seeing renewed interest, especially in retro-style sneakers that are dominating the 2025 footwear scene. These classic laces work perfectly with the year's biggest shoe trend - boxing-style high-tops and vintage-inspired athletic footwear.

Styling Tips for Different Shoe Types

Athletic Shoes

For sports and activewear, the focus is on both function and style. The lock lacing technique provides extra stability while maintaining a clean look. When using rope shoe laces in athletic shoes, ensure they're pulled snugly through each eyelet for maximum support during movement.

Casual Sneakers

The straight-bar lacing method is gaining popularity for everyday wear. This clean, minimalist look works especially well with fat shoe laces, creating an eye-catching pattern across the shoe's upper. For a more relaxed vibe, try the diagonal lacing pattern, which offers extra flexibility and comfort.

Dress Shoes

Round shoe laces are ideal for formal footwear. The traditional crisscross pattern remains popular, but 2025 brings a twist - hidden knots and clean lines are preferred for a more sophisticated appearance.

Popular Lacing Techniques for 2025

The Hash Pattern

This trending style creates a distinctive lattice effect across the shoe. It works particularly well with fat shoe laces and adds visual interest to plain sneakers.

Diagonal Lacing

Perfect for those seeking comfort, this method reduces pressure points and works especially well with round shoe laces. The technique involves crossing laces diagonally instead of straight across.

Hidden Knots

This sleek look is achieved by tucking the bow under the tongue of the shoe. It's particularly effective with rope shoe laces and creates a clean, minimalist appearance.

When it comes to choosing the right shoe lace length, Shoe Lace Supply offers a straightforward sizing system based on eyelet count rather than shoe size. Their comprehensive chart indicates that shoes with 3-4 eyelets typically need 36-inch laces, while 4-6 eyelets require 48-inch laces. 

For shoes with 6-8 eyelets, 54-inch laces are recommended, and shoes with 9-11 eyelets should use 72-inch laces. This sizing guide serves as a reliable reference point, though it's worth noting that some unique shoe styles may require different lengths for optimal fit and styling.

Color Trends and Combinations

2025 is seeing bold color choices in shoe laces. Metallic finishes and contrasting colors are particularly popular, especially in retro-style sneakers. Some trending combinations include:

  • Neutral shoes with bright laces

  • Tonal combinations using different shades of the same color

  • Metallic laces with classic white sneakers

Maintenance and Care Tips

To keep your shoe laces looking fresh:

  • Wash light-colored laces regularly to prevent discoloration

  • Replace frayed laces promptly to maintain a polished look

  • Keep spare laces in matching colors for quick changes

FAQs

How to lace shoes?

Start by inserting laces through the bottom eyelets from underneath. Cross the laces over each other, threading through the next set of holes from underneath. Continue this pattern until reaching the top.

How to lace On Cloud shoes?

Thread the laces through the bottom eyelets, then cross diagonally to the next eyelet on the opposite side. Continue this pattern, ensuring even tension throughout.

How to tie a shoe lace?

Cross one lace over the other, loop under and pull tight. Make a loop with one lace, wrap the other around it, push through the hole created, and pull both loops tight.

What's the best lacing technique for wide feet?

Skip the first few eyelets near the toes and start lacing from the middle of the shoe for more toe box space.

How often should shoe laces be replaced?

Replace laces every 3-6 months with regular wear, or sooner if they show signs of fraying or damage.

The right shoe laces and lacing technique can transform your footwear and enhance your overall style. As we move through 2025, experiment with different patterns and styles to find what works best for your shoes and personal taste.



January 14, 2025 — Maya Deiss