Choosing a single pair of shoes from hundreds of options can be a daunting task. But do you know what is even more challenging? Choosing the laces for the same.
Most of the shoes come with the laces intact, but ever so often, these laces can either be too long or too short. In such circumstances, you might have to replace it. This can be difficult, especially if you are unaware of the required length of the boot laces. If you find yourself in a similar situation, read ahead and get a bunch of detailed information about shoelaces and their size.
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Determine your Bootlace Length
You could face one of these situations: either your laces are on the brink of breaking (maybe your dog bit them), or the laces are not of the exact length.
If these are your scenarios, you will have to buy new laces to complement your shoes. The only way you can get the right size is by measuring the existing shoelaces.
In case your shoes are new, and the laces are too long or too short, you can measure the laces of any of your old boots.
Start by removing the lace from the boots. Measure it from tip to tip with a measuring top. In the event of your laces being too long, you can measure till the required part and do the mathematics accordingly.
Find Out the Type of Your Shoes
After measuring the laces, the next step is to determine the type of shoes you own. Most people are unaware of the fact that every kind of shoe has its distinctive laces.
There are different kinds of boots like hiking, canvas, sneakers, service, full-waxed, nylon, etc. As these shoes differ in terms of material, their laces vary too.
Let us look at some of the laces that can fit as per your shoe type.
Cotton Laces
As the name suggests, cotton laces are paired with canvas shoes or sneakers. They are easy to find, highly inexpensive, easy to replace, and even durable. Moreover, you can clean them quickly without any extra effort.
Rawhide Laces
Boat shoes use rawhide laces. They are highly durable due to rawhide construction. However, due to their unique texture, they might be more challenging to tie up. Moreover, they could get undone quickly.
Full-Waxed Laces
Service boots have full-waxed laces. The waxing strengthens the laces, elevating their durability.
However, they could leave individual traces on your fingers. Along with that, they could be difficult to tie and untie.
Braided Nylon Laces
Braided nylon laces are a good option for hiking or snow boots. Frequently, they are used in military shoes due to their high endurance.
As braided nylon has a thick structure, it is challenging to break. Moreover, they are tangle-free and can be laced up pretty quickly.
As nylon is resistant to water, you need not worry about the laces’ material being compromised.
Count the Eyelets of your Shoes
As laces need to be laced up for a snug and comfortable fit, you must consider the number of eyelets provided on your shoes.
On average, most of the shoes have 5-7 eyelets on each side. The length of the laces is directly related to the number of eyelets. If there are fewer eyelets, you will require a shorter one. Likewise, if you have more number of eyelets on your shoes, you will need a longer alternative.
Length Required for 4 Eyelets
If you have four eyelets on your boots, you will need lace ranging from 30-36 inches. It is seen in street shoes.
Length Required for 5 Eyelets
In the case of five eyelets, the length of the lace should be 36-45 inches. This is a common sight in street shoes.
Length Required for 6 Eyelets
The laces of the length 45-54 inches will work fine for shoes with six eyelets. This is mostly seen in hiking boots.
Length Required for 8 Eyelets
If your shoe has eight eyelets, you will need the lace length to be 70 inches. This is mostly seen in work boots.
Boot Laces Size Chart
| Number of Eyelets | Length of Lace (inches) | Length of Lace (cm) | Type of Boots |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-3 | 27 | 68 | Street boots |
| 3-4 | 30 | 76 | Street boots |
| 4-5 | 36 | 91 | Street boots |
| 5-6 | 45 | 114 | Low top Hiking shoes |
| 6-7 | 54 | 137 | Hiking and Workboots |
| 7-8 | 63 | 160 | Hiking, Work, and Sneakers |
| 8-9 | 72 | 182 | Workboots |
| 9-10 | 84 | 213 | Tall boots |
| 10-11 | 96-108 | 243-274 | Tall boots |
| 11-12 | 108-120 | 274-304 | Tall boots |
The bottom line
Getting the right kind and size of shoelaces is a pre-requisite for the overall functioning of the shoes. If you end up with longer ones, you could trip on them and fall off. On the other hand, shorter laces might not give you the right amount of comfort and support.
The next time you go shopping for shoelaces, adhere to the chart mentioned above and make the right decision.
William has hands-on experiences with construction sites, and the hazards employees face while working. He has been a dedicated worker since 1995 and is currently looked up to by many of his subordinates for the work he has done throughout his tenure. He has passed several certifications regarding safety at the workplace, including OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Silica in Construction Certificate, and the National Association of Safety Professionals Certification.
He has ample experience in woodwork and welding and understands the importance of a tough work boot in dangerous occupational environments. His achievements, experience, and knowledge allow him to be an expert in the field of work boots. He selects and tries all the products that he reviews and presents to his readers. As per him, the safety of the boot is beyond the beauty of it. He carefully scrutinizes each aspect of work boots, including flex, laces, length, breathability, strength, and more.
