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Criss Cross LacingAlso referred to as "Traditional Lacing" or "Zig Zag Lacing" This is probably the most common method of

lacing normal shoes & boots. The laces simply criss-cross as they work their way up the shoe.

These wide, green laces make even traditional Criss Cross Lacing look great. Picture sent in by Casey.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. The ends are crossed over each other, then they go under and out through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

3. Repeat step (2) until both ends reach the top eyelets.

FEATURES:TraditionalSimple to laceComfortableCorrugates shoe

NOTE:Criss Cross is also the preferred lacing for comfort, mainly because the crossovers of lace occur in the gap between the sides of the shoe and thus aren't pressed against the foot.

Over Under Lacing A variation of Criss Cross Lacing that alternates between running over and then under. It's my own preferred method for most of my shoes & sneakers.

This picture of Converse All Stars with Over Under Lacing was sent to me by Bandit1980.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and is fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. The ends are crossed over underneath and emerge from the next set of eyelets up the shoe, then crossed over on top and fed into the next set of eyelets.

3. Repeat step (2) until both ends reach the top eyelets.

FEATURES:Ian's favourite!

DecorativeFaster & easierLess wear & tear

NOTE:If the shoe has an ODD number of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets, like my shoe at left), start with the bottom (grey section) underneath in order for the last crossover to also be underneath when you reach the top eyelets.

Straight (European) LacingSometimes referred to as "Ladder Lacing" This method of Straight Lacing shoes appears to be more common

in Europe. The laces run straight across pairs of eyelets and diagonally underneath.

The underlying zig-zag can actually look interesting. Picture sent in by Casey.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends are fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. One end of the lace (yellow end) crosses diagonally underneath, emerges and runs straight across the second set of eyelets.

3. The other end (blue end) crosses diagonally, emerges and runs straight across the next set.

4. Continue up the shoe, alternately feeding in one end and then the other.

FEATURES:Shortens endsNeat on topMessy underneath

NOTE:The underlying mess of laces is mainly noticeable when the sides that are being laced together are widely spaced, such as in these images. Though visually messy, this underlying zig-zag makes the lacing very tight & secure.

Sports / Military Advice:Like other straight lacing methods, Straight (European) Lacing has an additional benefit for sporting or military use: The upper horizontal sections of shoelace can be quickly cut through with a knife or scissors in order to more easily remove a boot from a broken, sprained or otherwise injured ankle or foot.

Note that most military forces have regulations for just about everything, so I'd recommend that military personnel check before they adopt this, or any other, possible non-regulation lacing method!

Straight (Bar) LacingOften referred to as "Fashion Lacing" or "Lydiard Lacing"

This variation of Straight Lacing eliminates the underlying diagonals, which looks neater plus relieves pressure on the top ridge of the foot.

NOTE:Straight (Bar) Lacing only works correctly on shoes with even numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 6 pairs = 12 eyelets). This is because an even number of passes across the shoe is needed for the lace ends to meet and to be tied together. Shoes with an odd number of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets) finish with the lace ends diagonally opposite each other at the top of the shoe.

Despite this limitation, Straight (Bar) Lacing is very popular. It's therefore not surprising that people have developed all sorts of ways to get it to work on shoes with odd numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. the grey Puma sneakers at left).

Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends are fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. One end of the lace (yellow end) runs straight up the right side, emerges and runs straight across the second set of eyelets.

3. Both ends now run straight up the left side, each skipping one eyelet before emerging two eyelets higher up.

4. Continue running both ends across the shoe, then straight up two eyelets at a time, until one end reaches the top.

5. The other end then runs straight across the second last set of eyelets, then straight up to the top.

FEATURES:Neatest lookingSlightly difficultOnly for even pairs of eyelets (eg. 6, 8)

Sports / Military Advice:Like other straight lacing methods, Straight (Bar) Lacing has an additional benefit for sporting or military use: The upper horizontal sections of shoelace can be quickly cut through with a knife or scissors in order to more easily remove a boot from a broken, sprained or otherwise injured ankle or foot. I've been told that Straight (Bar) Lacing is the method of choice for the Canadian Armed Forces on shoes and ankle boots (though not on combat boots).

Note that most military forces have regulations for just about everything, so I'd recommend that military personnel check before they adopt this, or any other, possible non-regulation lacing method!

Odd Workarounds As mentioned above, Straight (Bar) Lacing only works correctly on shoes with even numbers of eyelet pairs. Here's several common workarounds for shoes with odd numbers of eyelet pairs.

The first diagram (at right) shows how the lace ends don't meet at the top of a shoe with 7 eyelet pairs, instead ending up diagonally opposite each other.

Ends Don't MeetFirstly, you can accept the fact that the lace ends don't meet and simply tuck them into the shoe.

For a tighter fit, you could also knot each lace end so that they don't pull through the eyelets, then tuck them in. However, those knots can feel uncomfortable.

Skip One Eyelet PairAnother solution is to simply not use either the top or the bottom pair of eyelets. Using only an even number of eyelet pairs avoids the odd limitation.

It's also possible to skip a pair of eyelets somewhere in the middle, which breaks the lacing into two sections.

One DiagonalUse a single diagonal crossover at either the top or bottom of the lacing. At the top, it's less noticeable due to the bows & shoelace ends. At the bottom, you can also run the diagonal around the inside of the tongue, making it invisible at the expense of some slight discomfort.

One CrossoverInstead of trying to hide a single diagonal, this alternative makes a feature out of a single crossover, similar to the look of Over Under Lacing. Once again, this crossover can be added at the top, bottom or somewhere in the middle of the lacing.

Cut and Tie OffSimilar to the single diagonal shown above, the shoelace can be cut and the ends tied off on opposite sides of the shoe. The round sections show where the knotted ends are hidden underneath the bottom left eyelet and the second from bottom right eyelet.

Double OverlapThis unusual solution works by doubling up the laces through the second from bottom pair of eyelets. Because it's near the bottom of the shoe, any difficulty with tightening this section is not so noticeable as the shoe doesn't need to open wide at that point.

Across & BackThe second from bottom straight section runs across left-to-right (on top), then right-to-left (underneath), passing under itself on the left side. The underlying section is fairly well hidden by the straight section on top. It's the preferred method for dress shoes with three pairs of eyelets.

This list of workarounds is by no means complete. Once you accept that there's no perfect solution and that you must compromise in some way, it's up to you what you throw into the lacing to get it to work, whether it be a visible crossover or gap, or something invisible that may be uncomfortable.

Straight (Easy) Lacing This is a simplified variation of Straight (Bar) Lacing where one end runs straight from bottom to top whilst the other end steps through the eyelets.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends are fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. One end of the lace (blue end) is fed straight up the left side all the way to, and emerges from, the top left eyelet.

3. The other end (yellow end) runs straight up the right side, emerges and runs straight across the second set of eyelets.

4. The same end (yellow end) works its way up and across back and forth through the remaining eyelets.

FEATURES:Neatest lookingEnd lengths shiftOnly for even pairs of eyelets (eg. 6, 8)

NOTE:This lacing is best suited to shoes with even numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 6 pairs = 12 eyelets). The picture at left shows one workaround to this limitation for use on shoes with odd numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets). See my Straight (Bar) Lacing page for some other workarounds.

Sports / Military Advice:Like other straight lacing methods, Straight (Easy) Lacing has an additional benefit for sporting or military use: The upper horizontal sections of shoelace can be quickly cut through with a knife or scissors in order to more easily remove a boot from a broken, sprained or otherwise injured ankle or foot.

Note that most military forces have regulations for just about everything, so I'd recommend that military personnel check before they adopt this, or any other, possible non-regulation lacing method!

Hiking Lacing / Biking Lacing An inside-out version of Straight (Bar) Lacing, which distributes pressure evenly plus keeps the knots & ends to the side. For hiking or bushwalking, position the knots on the inside, away from snagging undergrowth. For biking or cycling, position them on the outside,away from chains & cranks.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. One end of the lace (yellow end) runs straight up the right side, is fed into and runs straight across the second set of eyelets.

3. Both ends now run straight up the left side, each skipping one eyelet before feeding in two eyelets higher up.

4. Continue running both ends across the shoe, then straight up two eyelets at a time.

5. At the top of the shoe, the laces end up on the same side and the shoelace knot is tied at that point.

FEATURES:Evens out pressureReduces snaggingLooks messy

NOTE:This lacing is best suited to shoes with even numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 6 pairs = 12 eyelets). The picture at left shows one workaround to this limitation for use on shoes with odd numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets). See my Straight (Bar) Lacing page for some other workarounds.

Using This Lacing for Hiking / Bushwalking:Lace the right shoe as pictured here and the left shoe in reverse so that the knots of both shoelaces end up towards the inside (between the ankles). This places the loops and loose ends further away from the outer

sides of the shoes, making them less likely to become snagged in undergrowth whilst hiking / bushwalking.

Using This Lacing for Biking / Cycling:Lace the left shoe as pictured here and the right shoe in reverse so that the knots of both shoelaces end up towards the outside. This places the loops and loose ends further away from the bicycle chain, cranks and other moving parts. Variations:For a neater look, the lacing can be done the same way as Straight (Bar) Lacing (instead of inside-out), with the horizontal sections on top and the vertical sections underneath, and with the only concept taken from Hiking / Biking Lacing being to finish off with the knots to the sides.

This picture, sent to me by Shawn D, shows some shoes laced this way, with the knots and loose ends positioned to the outside for cycling.

Sawtooth Lacing This variation of Straight Lacing has all of the angled underlying sections pulling the same way, which shifts the sides of the shoe out of alignment. Of dubious merit, perhaps only to correct an otherwise ill-fitting shoe.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends are fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. One end of the lace (yellow end) runs straight up the right side, emerges from and runs straight across the second set of eyelets.

3. The other end (blue end) runs diagonally underneath and, skipping the 2nd set of eyelets, emerges from and runs straight across the 3rd set of eyelets.

4. Continue running each lace diagonally across and up two sets of eyelets until one end (yellow in my example) reaches the top right eyelet.

5. The other end (blue in my example) then runs straight up the left side to emerge from the top left eyelet.

FEATURES:

Easier to tightenMis-aligns sidesModifies fit

Using This Lacing:This lacing is perhaps easier to tighten than most other forms of Straight Lacing due to the upper straight sections all pulling in one direction. However, because all of the underlying angled sections also pull in one direction, the net result is that the sides of the shoe are pulled inwards at an angle, thus shifting them out of alignment. The resultant "warping" may be useful to correct an otherwise ill-fitting shoe.

The idea is to lace the shoe so that those angled sections point towards whichever area of the shoe feels loose. For example, let's consider a left shoe that always feels a little loose around the front-left (towards the little toe). By lacing the angled sections so they point in that direction, when tightened, the left side of the shoe will pull backwards and inwards, effectively "warping" the shoe a bit to the right.

Naturally, the left and right shoes should be laced in reverse (mirror image) in order to balance both the look and the effect on both sides.

Shoe Shop LacingSometimes referred to as "Ladder Lacing" or "Single Helix Lacing" Commonly used by shoe shop assistants because it's so fast to lace new shoes, this method is another "lazy" variation of traditional Straight Lacing.

One end runs all the way from bottom to top whilst the other end zig-zags through the eyelets. Method 1 - Long Diagonal Segment

Lacing Technique - Method 1 - Long Diagonal:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends are fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. The left (blue) end of the lace is fed diagonally all the way to the top of the shoe and emerges from the top right eyelet.

3. The right (yellow) lace end is zig-zagged through the remaining eyelets, travelling diagonally underneath and straight across the top. Method 2 - Long Straight Segment

Faint sections are underneath Lacing Technique - Method 2 - Long Straight:

1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends are fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. The left (blue) end of the lace is fed straight up all the way to the top of the shoe and emerges from the top left eyelet.

3. The right (yellow) lace end is zig-zagged through the remaining eyelets, travelling diagonally underneath and straight across the top, until it reaches the second row from the top of the shoe.

4. The right (yellow) lace end is fed straight up and emerges from the top right eyelet. Shoe Shop Lacing on some black and white shoes with white laces.

More Lacing Photos FEATURES:Lazy way of lacingShortens endsEnd lengths shift

NOTE:The left and right shoes can be laced in reverse (mirror image) so as to end up with a symmetrical look.

Sports / Military Advice:Like other straight lacing methods, Shoe Shop Lacing has an additional benefit for sporting or military use: The upper horizontal sections of shoelace can be quickly cut through with a knife or scissors in order to more easily remove a boot from a broken, sprained or otherwise injured ankle or foot. I've been told that Shoe Shop Lacing was the method of choice for the British Army (until they introduced boots with both eyelets and lugs).

Note that most military forces have regulations for just about everything, so I'd recommend that military personnel check before they adopt this, or any other, possible non-regulation lacing method!

Display Shoe LacingSometimes referred to as "Triathlon T1 Lacing" Shoe stores often use this reversed version of Criss Cross

Lacing on their display shoes in order to end up with the lace ends neatly tucked away inside. The laces criss-

cross and feed into eyelets instead of emerging from them. Lace ends finish inside the shoe

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and is fed into rather than emerging from both bottom eyelets.

2. The ends are crossed over, then inserted into the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

3. Repeat step (2) until both ends reach the top eyelets and end up inside.

FEATURES:Neat display shoeEasier to loosenHarder to tighten

NOTE:Because it's easier to get your fingers under the laces from the top of the shoe and pull down, this lacing is easier to loosen, whilst Criss Cross Lacing is easier to tighten. Triathletes may therefore find this lacing faster for those shoes they need to remove quickly during a race.

Ladder Lacing This distinctive lacing, which looks just like a ladder, is also useful for "shortening" long lace ends. U.S. paratroopers and ceremonial guard units wear jump boots with white ladder lacing.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. The laces then go straight up and are fed into the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

3. The ends are crossed over and are fed under the vertical lace section on the opposite sides of the shoe before going straight up and into the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. At the top set of eyelets, the laces can once again cross over and pass under the straight section as shown. This not only looks consistent with the rest of the lacing but (as pointed out by Kyle B. in U.S.A.) this also forms a High Lace Lock, which tightens the lacing even more firmly.

FEATURES:Neat & distinctiveShortens moreHarder to tighten

NOTE:Whilst this lacing looks interesting on shoes and sneakers, it looks particularly effective on high boots with many eyelets, especially when contrasting laces are used.

Although this lacing is slightly harder to tighten than regular Criss Cross Lacing, this can actually assist in getting the lacing really tight because the lower sections hold more firmly whilst progressing up the shoe. This makes it a great lacing to use on hiking boots, ice skates, etc.

Spider Web Lacing Another decorative lacing method used on military boots, which is like Ladder Lacing running at an angle, creating a woven web of shoelace. You can also see a much more detailed description of this technique on Bootdog's Spiderweb Lacing page.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across and emerges from the second set of eyelets from the bottom (grey section).

2. Both ends run straight down and are fed into the bottom eyelets.

3. Both ends are crossed over underneath and emerge from the third set of eyelets up the boot.

4. The ends next run straight down and are fed under the vertical lace sections at the next lower set of eyelets.

5. The ends are crossed over underneath and emerge from the next higher set of eyelets up the boot.

6. Repeat steps (4) and (5) until both ends emerge at the top eyelets.

FEATURES:DecorativeShortens moreFirm & tightHarder to tighten

NOTE:Whilst this lacing looks interesting on shoes and sneakers, it looks particularly effective on high boots with many eyelets, especially when contrasting laces are used.

Boots with a very wide spacing between the sides (such as shown at left) display the maximum area of woven shoelace "spider web".

Double Back Lacing Although terribly awkward to tighten, this method looks interesting, holds very firmly, and can also be used if you're desperate to shorten long lace ends. There's two

variations, one for shorter laces, one for longer laces. Method 1 - Shorter Laces

Lacing Technique - Method 1 - Shorter Laces:1. The lace runs straight across the second set of eyelets from the top of the shoe (grey section).

2. Cross the ends over and feed into the fourth set of eyelets, skipping the third set.

3. Continue down the shoe two sets of eyelets at a time.

4. At the bottom, run the laces vertically between the bottom and second from bottom eyelets.

5. Double back and work your way back up the shoe through the vacant sets of eyelets.

FEATURES:Shortens endsStays very tightTerribly awkward

NOTE:This is the Neater of the two methods because, unlike the method below, it doesn't have a bottom crossover. This also means that it consumes less lace and therefore doesn't shorten the lace ends by quite as much. Method 2 - Longer Laces

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique - Method 2 - Longer Laces:1. The lace runs straight across the second set of eyelets from the top of the shoe (grey section).

2. Cross the ends over and feed into the fourth set of eyelets, skipping the third set.

3. Continue down the shoe two sets of eyelets at a time. Up to this point, this method is identical to the above method.

4. At the bottom, cross the ends over instead of running vertically as in the above method.

5. Double back and work your way back up the shoe through the vacant sets of eyelets.

Ian's Rating:Shortens moreStays very tightTerribly awkward

NOTE:This is the Messier of the two methods because, unlike the above method, it has a bottom crossover. This also means that it consumes extra lace and therefore shortens the lace ends by a little more.

Bow Tie Lacing So named because the outline resembles the shape of a bow-tie, this method makes the most efficient use of lace and thus is useful for "lengthening" short lace ends. The laces cross each other on the outside and run vertically underneath.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and is fed into both bottom eyelets.

2. The laces then travel straight up to the next set of eyelets, thus introducing a "gap".

3. The ends are crossed over on top and fed into the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. Continue up the shoe, alternating straight up underneath or crossing over on top.

FEATURES:Lengthens endsComfort "zones"Loose fit

NOTE:For shoes with an odd number of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets), start with the bottom (grey section) running underneath and emerging from both bottom eyelets, then continue from step (3). This will ensure that the laces end up on the outside at the top of the shoe.

Variations:Instead of placing gaps every second set, their positions could also be strategically chosen to coincide with tight areas of your shoes, thus giving those parts of your feet more "breathing room".

Army Lacing This inside-out version of Bow Tie Lacing is used by the British, Dutch, French and Brazilian armies (and possibly others). With the crossovers on the inside, the sides of the combat boots can flex more easily.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges from both bottom eyelets.

2. The lace ends then travel straight up and are fed into the next set of eyelets.

3. The ends are crossed over underneath and emerge from the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. Continue up the shoe, alternating straight up on top or crossing over underneath.

FEATURES:Lengthens endsAllows more flexHarder to tighten

Technical Information:Army combat boots are notorious for being made of thick, sturdy leather that does not flex very easily, making them firm and uncomfortable for any manoeuvering.

This lacing eliminates any crossovers that would hold down the sides of the boot, allowing the leather to crease more freely. These corrugations can be clearly seen in the photo at bottom-left, particularly near the ankle area.

On the other hand, if you would prefer to have a more rigid lacing, such as for parachuting, marching, or for preventing ankle injuries in rough or slippery terrain, Ladder Lacing would be a better choice

Train Track Lacing Like Army Lacing with the underlying crossovers running straight across instead of diagonally. The result looks like train tracks, and holds extremely tight because two passes of shoelace are squeezed through each eyelet.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges from both bottom eyelets.

2. The lace ends then travel straight up and are fed into the next set of eyelets.

3. The ends are run alongside each other underneath and emerge from the same set of eyelets on the other side. This will be a tight squeeze because it will be the second pass of shoelace through those eyelets.

4. Continue up the shoe, alternating straight up on top or straight across underneath.

FEATURES:NeatHolds very tightVery hard to tighten

NOTE:This lacing works best with thinner or flat laces because several eyelets have to accommodate two passes of shoelace. Variations:Used inside-out, the result is quite a different lacing, both visually and functionally. The sides of the shoe are held in by the "sleepers" of the train tracks (ie. the horizontal crossovers), which secure those sides much more firmly and resist flexing. The "sleepers" are also raised off the upper ridge of the foot, which both increases comfort and makes it easier to get fingers underneath to pull the lacing tight.

Double Helix Lacing This method was invented and patented by Monte Fisher for faster lacing of boots. The laces run in a double helix, angled one way on the outside and the other way on the inside.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. Starting at the bottom, the left (blue) end emerges from the left eyelet whilst the right (yellow) end is fed into the right eyelet.

2. The left (blue) end is fed into the next highest right eyelet, whilst the right (yellow) end emerges through the next highest left eyelet.

3. Repeat step (2), going up the shoe in a double spiral (or "Double Helix") pattern, until both ends emerge at the top eyelets.

FEATURES:DecorativeFast & easyLess wear & tear

NOTE:The left and right shoes can be laced in reverse (mirror image) so as to end up with a symmetrical look.

Using This Lacing:The idea behind this lacing is that there is less friction between the laces and the edges of the shoe flaps, plus negligible contact between overlapping laces, reducing friction even further. This makes tightening and loosening easier, whilst the fact that groups of two adjacent laces can be grabbed and pulled simultaneously makes it fast as well, especially on tall boots with many eyelets (as shown at left).

Sports / Military Advice:Like various straight lacing methods, Double Helix Lacing has an additional benefit for sporting or military use: The upper sections of shoelace can be quickly cut through with a knife or scissors in order to more easily remove a boot from a broken, sprained or otherwise injured ankle or foot.

Note that most military forces have regulations for just about everything, so I'd recommend that military personnel check before they adopt this, or any other, possible non-regulation lacing method!

Double Cross Lacing This blend of Over Under Lacing and Hash Lacing creates overlapping "crosses", which can also be woven into the most intricate "macrame".

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. Skipping two sets of eyelets, cross the ends over and feed into the fourth set of eyelets.

3. Cross the ends over and go down one eyelet to emerge from the third set of eyelets.

4. Continue up the shoe, each time crossing over on top and going up three sets of eyelets, then crossing over below to emerge from the next set of eyelets below.

FEATURES:DecorativeHarder to tightenIf woven, very tricky to tighten

NOTE:This method looks best on shoes with even numbered pairs of eyelets (eg. 8 pairs = 16 eyelets). If you use this method on a shoe with, for example, 7 pairs (14 eyelets), you'll reach the top of the shoe without skipping the second-last eyelets. This results in the last sections of lace running at a slightly different angle. You can choose to do this at the top of the lacing or at the bottom of the lacing (as shown in the picture at left). You could also do a standard criss-cross of lace at the top.

If your shoes do have even numbered pairs of eyelets, you may also prefer to do this at both ends in order to avoid having empty eyelets.

This lacing can be woven into the most intricate "macrame", as shown in the picture at left, by lacing it with the large crossovers on the outside and the small crossovers on the inside (ie. inside-out), then bringing the small crossovers over the top. Whilst it looks great, do note that it is terribly difficult to tighten or loosen. It's best used on low shoes or sneakers, such as the one pictured, which can be removed without loosening and thus disturbing the interwoven sections.

Hash LacingSometimes referred to as "Trellis", "Noughts & Crosses" or "Tic Tac Toe Lacing" When used on modern boots and sneakers with a wide gap and many eyelets, the result resembles a diagonal series of hash "#" symbols. The laces run three steps forwards, one step backwards.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. Skipping two sets of eyelets, cross the ends over and feed into the fourth set of eyelets.

3. Both ends now run straight down one eyelet and emerge from the third set of eyelets.

4. Continue up the shoe, each time crossing over and going up three sets of eyelets, then straight down to emerge from the next set of eyelets below.

FEATURES:DecorativeShortens endsHarder to tighten

NOTE:This method looks best on shoes with even numbered pairs of eyelets (eg. 8 pairs = 16 eyelets). If you use this method on a shoe with, for example, 7 pairs (14 eyelets), you'll reach the top of the shoe without skipping the second-last eyelets. This results in the last sections of lace running at a slightly different angle. You can choose to do this at the top of the lacing or at the bottom of the lacing (as shown in the picture at left).

If your shoes do have even numbered pairs of eyelets, you may also prefer to do this at both ends in order to avoid having empty eyelets. This also uses up slightly more shoelace, which helps when you have laces that are too long.

Lattice Lacing Great for boots and sneakers with a wide gap, this method forms a neat woven lattice in the middle of the lacing. Works best on shoes with six pairs of eyelets (ie. 12 eyelets). There's two variations, one for shorter laces, one for longer laces.

Method 1 - Shorter Laces

Faint sections are underneath

Lacing Technique - Method 1 - Shorter Laces:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges from both bottom eyelets.

2. Cross the ends over and feed into the 4th set of eyelets up the shoe (skip past 2 sets of eyelets).

3. Both ends now run straight up and emerge from the 5th set of eyelets.

4. Cross the ends over and feed into the 2nd set of eyelets up the shoe (skip past 2 sets of eyelets).

5. Both ends now run straight up and emerge from the 3rd set of eyelets.

6. Cross the ends over, feed under and emerge from the top set of eyelets (skip past 2 sets of eyelets). Alternatively, feed the laces into the top two eyelets; this makes for a neater lattice, though the knot is then a little more difficult to tie.

Method 2 - Longer Laces

Faint sections are underneath

Lacing Technique - Method 2 - Longer Laces:1. The lace runs straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges from both bottom eyelets.

2. Cross the ends over and feed into the 4th set of eyelets up the shoe (skip past 2 sets of eyelets).

3. Both ends now run straight down and emerge from the 2nd set of eyelets (skip past 1 set of eyelets).

4. Repeat steps (2) and (3), crossing over and feeding into the 5th set of eyelets, then straight down to emerge from the 3rd set of eyelets.

5. Complete the lacing by crossing over, feeding under and emerging from the top set of eyelets. Alternatively, feed the laces into the top two eyelets; this makes for a neater lattice, though the knot is then a little more difficult to tie.

More Lacing Photos

FEATURES:Very popular!

Very decorativeShortens moreHarder to tighten

TIP:It's easier to do the weaving and get all the "Overs" and "Unders" correct if you firstly lace one end all the way to the top of the shoe. For example, complete the left (blue) end, then weave the right (yellow) end in and out.

NOTE:Because of the way this lacing exactly fills 6 adjacent pairs of eyelets (ie. 12 eyelets), the pattern can't simply be continued through any number of eyelets. In other words, it can't be used the same way on all shoes. See below for some variations of Lattice Lacing to suit shoes with different numbers of eyelet pairs.

Because of the variety of methods, I've only provided Shoelace Length Calculations for shoes that will fit exact multiples of complete lattices, ie. those with 6, 11, 16, 21, 26 etc. pairs of eyelets.

Lattice Lacing Variations Although Lattice Lacing works best on shoes with six pairs of eyelets, here's some simple diagrams for adapting it to work with different numbers of eyelet pairs. The light yellow sections are on top whilst the dark grey sections are underneath:

5 Pairs or LessAny less than 6 pairs of eyelets results in a variation of Hash Lacing.

6 PairsPerfect! Create a single lattice as shown above.

7 PairsAdd either a vertical pass or a crossover at either the top or the bottom.

7 PairsSkip the middle pair of eyelets, running the lacing at a steeper angle.

8 PairsAdd either a vertical pass or a crossover at both the top and the bottom.

8 PairsUse variation 2, running the lacing at a steeper angle to create a four-way lattice.

10 PairsRun the lacing at an even steeper angle to create a five-way lattice.

11+ PairsJoin two complete lattices.

These are only some of the many possible variations. Use your imagination to combine lattices with crossovers, vertical sections, etc.

Zipper Lacing Though awkward to tighten, this lacing holds very firmly, making it great for lacing skates tightly. It also looks interesting, a bit like a giant zipper.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. The ends are looped back under the lace where it feeds under the side of the shoe.

3. The ends are then crossed over each other, then they go under and out through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. Repeat steps (2) and (3) until both ends reach the top eyelets.

FEATURES:DecorativeHolds very firmlyHarder to tighten

NOTE:Although this lacing is slightly harder to tighten than regular Criss Cross Lacing, this can actually assist in

getting the lacing really tight because the lower sections hold more firmly whilst progressing up the shoe. This makes it a great lacing to use on hiking boots

Riding Boot LacingOften referred to as "Bal-Lacing" This method is specifically for riding boots (motorbike or equestrian) in which the part that is tightened and loosened is at the middle of the boot (near the ankle). The laces zig-zag from both ends and fasten in the middle.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run diagonally (grey section) and emerges from the bottom left and the top right eyelets.

2. The top (blue) end of the lace is zig-zagged from the top set of eyelets down to the middle eyelets in a similar manner to the Shoe Shop Lacing.

3. The bottom (yellow) end of the lace is similarly zig-zagged from the bottom set of eyelets up to the middle eyelets.

FEATURES:Unusual layoutNeat appearanceSpecific use only

NOTE:This method is not really meant to be used on normal shoes, boots or sneakers, although it can be used on them to achieve an unusual look (such as shown in the first picture at left). It's specifically intended for riding boots (as shown in the second picture) in which the part that is tightened and loosened is at the middle of the boot (near the ankle). This means that they lace up from both ends and fasten in the middle. On boots such as these, the sides come completely together, hiding all the angled underlying sections of shoelace.

This method is shown on the Dehner Boot site for lacing their 9 Eyelet Field Boots:http://www.dehner.com/dehner/lace.html

One Handed Lacing As an alternative to the One Handed Shoelace Knot, this way of lacing eliminates the need to even tie a knot by leaving one end loose. The friction of the eyelets is sufficient to keep the lacing fairly tight.

Here, the lace is tied to the top eyelet rather than having a knot that sits underneath, which can feel uncomfortable. Lacing Technique:

1. Take a lace that's slightly shorter than usual and begin by tying a knot in one end.

2. Feed the un-knotted end of the lace from inside the top right eyelet and pull it through until stopped with the knot snug against the eyelet.

3. Zig-zag the lace through the eyelets down to the bottom of the shoe similar to Shoe Shop Lacing.

4. The loose (blue) end can simply be tucked into the lacing to keep it from being stepped on.

FEATURES:Handicapped useSurprisingly easy

Loose fit

Using This Lacing:The idea is that shoes have the most tension at the top of the lacing and very little at the bottom. With the knot holding the bulk of the tension at the top end, the friction of the lace passing through every eyelet is sufficient to stop the bottom end from slipping out even though it is "loose". (This works best with either small eyelets or fat laces).

To tighten, start at the top of the lacing and work towards the bottom. To loosen, work from the bottom of the lacing back towards the top. Variations:1. The left and right shoes can be laced in reverse (mirror image) so as to end up with a symmetrical look.

2. If having the knot inside the shoe is uncomfortable, position it on the outside by feeding the knotted lace into the top right eyelet. Alternately, you can feed the lace through the eyelet and then tie the lace back onto itself. In other words, knot the lace onto the eyelet (as shown in the above photo).

3. For a tighter, more secure fit, substitute either thicker laces or cotton laces with a rougher surface.

4. The loose end may also be passed a second time through the bottom right eyelet (or any convenient eyelet). Because this eyelet ends up with two passes of lace, it will be quite a tight fit, which will stay pretty secure.

5. For maximum security, pass the loose end back out through the top left eyelet, then tie it off with a simple loop knot as shown in the One Handed Shoelace Knot.

Segmented LacingSometimes referred to as "Zoned Lacing" This variation divides the lacing into two or more "segments", each of which can be laced up as tightly or loosely as necessary to achieve a comfortable yet secure fit for "difficult" shoes or feet

.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. Instead of a single long lace in each shoe, start out with two laces, each around half the length of the original shoelace.

2. The first lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and is laced with standard Criss Cross Lacing to about the middle of the shoe.

3. Starting from the next higher set of eyelets, the second lace is similarly laced to the top of the shoe.

4. Each "segment" is then tightened to suit your preference and knotted. For example, tighten the bottom segment more if you have narrow feet, less if you have wide feet.

FEATURES:CustomisableMany usesLooks messy

NOTE:This page shows two segments; you may prefer three or more segments, and may also choose to use another lacing instead of "Criss Cross" as shown.

Knotted Segment LacingSometimes referred to as "Permanent Zoned Lacing" A more attractive though less flexible variation of Segmented Lacing in which a knot makes the lower segment of shoelace permanently tighter or looser.

Lacing Technique:1. Start with a lace that's slightly longer than the original lace.

2. Use standard Criss Cross Lacing to about the middle of the shoe, laced as tightly or loosely as you prefer. For example, tighten the lower segment more if you have narrow feet, less if you have wide feet.

3. To permanently set the tightness of the lower segment, tie a "Reef Knot" at this point, ie:- Left end over Right end & through, then -- Right end over Left end & through.

4. Continue the Criss Cross lacing to the top of the shoe. This upper segment is then the only part that is tightened and loosened, with the tension variable independently of the lower segment.

FEATURES:CustomisableMany usesHarder to get foot into shoe

NOTE:These pictures show the knot exactly in the middle. You may choose to have it higher up or lower down.

Hidden Knot Lacing By hiding the knot underneath, the result is an uninterrupted series of straight "bars" that looks particularly distinctive on dress shoes or sneakers alike.

Faint sections are underneath

Here's where the knot is tied. Finished lacing with knot and loose ends tucked into the shoe.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. Lace the shoe as per Straight (Bar) Lacing, except that the left (blue) end is made shorter and the right (yellow) end is made longer.

2. Run the the left (blue) end only as far as the second eyelet from the top left, ending up inside the shoe.

3. Run the right (yellow) end across the top pair of eyelets, also ending up inside the shoe.

4. The ends now meet between the top left eyelet and the next eyelet down. Carefully tie the knot inside the shoe at that point. This can either be tied with a Standard Shoelace Knot or with a simpler knot like a Reef Knot (as shown in the diagram at left).

5. Finally, tuck the loose ends inside the shoe wherever they are most comfortable.

FEATURES:Very distinctive

Tricky to tie knotSlight discomfort

NOTE:Any discomfort that may be caused by the knot and loose ends being tucked into the shoe can be reduced by positioning the knot on the outer side of your foot.

Note also that, like some other versions of Straight Lacing, this method is limited to shoes with even numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 6 pairs = 12 eyelets). For example, the shoes at left have only been laced through 6 of the 7 pairs of eyelets. See my Straight (Bar) Lacing page for some other ways of varying this lacing for use on shoes with odd numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets).

Bi-Colour LacingA multi-coloured variation of "Straight (Bar) Lacing" Here's a way of lacing to end up with two different colours alternating up the shoe. Two shoelaces are cut and joined, then laced as per Straight (Bar) Lacing.

Lacing Technique:1. Take two different colour laces, each a tiny bit longer than the correct length for the shoes. (I was lucky to receive two such pairs with my last pair of sneakers!)

2. Cut them not quite in half, but offset by two or three centimetres. See below for how to calculate the difference in length between the two halves.

3. Tie one longer piece of one colour (purple in my diagram) and one shorter piece of the other colour (orange in my diagram) firmly together and trim off the excess. For extra security, add a dab of glue. Use the remaining pieces to make the bi-colour lace for the other shoe.

4. Pull the longer (purple) end out through the bottom right eyelet, feeding from inside the shoe, until stopped by the joining knot.

5. Now lace the rest of the shoe as per Straight (Bar) Lacing.

FEATURES:

Very decorativeWork requiredSlight discomfort

NOTE:Any slight discomfort the knot may cause can be minimised by positioning it on the side nearest your little toe. Even or Odd?Because this method is based on Straight (Bar) Lacing, it needs a slightly different method for shoes with even or odd numbers of eyelet pairs:

For even numbered (eg. 6 pairs = 12 eyelets), the two laces are tied together as shown above, with the knot at the bottom right.

For odd numbered (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets), each cut end should be knotted or fitted with a lace stop to prevent it from passing through the eyelet. One end then starts from the bottom right eyelet, whilst the other end starts from the left eyelet 2nd from bottom (ie. diagonally across from the bottom right eyelet).

This ensures that the laces end up across from each other at the top of the shoe, and overcomes the even number of eyelet pairs restriction. See my Straight (Bar) Lacing page for more details. Cutting to Length:The lengths to which the laces are cut also depends on whether the shoe has an even or odd number of eyelet pairs:

For even numbered, the difference in length is the horizontal distance (H) between the bottom two eyelets plus the vertical distance (V) between the bottom and 2nd from bottom eyelets (ie. H+V).

For odd numbered, the difference in length is only the vertical distance (V).

If you then take half that calculated difference in length, the result is the offset from the middle of the lace at which you should cut the laces. In other words, fold a lace in two, then from that centre fold, measure half the calculated difference in length towards one end and cut the lace at that point.

If this all sounds too complicated, use my Shoelace Length Calculator to get the exact lengths of each lace. Symmetry Between Shoes:Because each coloured lace has been cut into one long piece and one short piece, your colour combination will also alternate between the two shoes. For example, one shoe will have the purple lace at the bottom whilst the other shoe will have the orange.

If you would prefer both shoes to look identical, you'll need to begin with one longer lace of one colour and one shorter lace of the other colour, each cut exactly in half. Then each shoe will be laced with the same coloured longer end at the bottom.

Double LacingAnother way of ending up with two colours is to interweave two laces up the shoe, ending up with four lace

ends, which can then be tied creatively. It's a great way to display your country or team colours. The four ends of the two shoelaces end up at the top of the shoe.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. Start with two different coloured laces, each shorter than the original laces from that shoe.

2. Feed one lace (purple in my diagram) straight across the bottom and emerge from the bottom two eyelets.

3. Cross the ends over and, skipping one set of eyelets, feed under and emerge from the third set of eyelets.

4. Continue crossing over and going up two sets of eyelets at a time until you reach either the top or second from top set of eyelets.

5. Take the other lace (orange in my diagram) and, starting from the second set of eyelets, repeat steps (2) through (4) until the remaining eyelets are laced with the second lace.

FEATURES:Very decorativeCreative optionsNeeds new laces

NOTE:If your shoes have odd numbers of eyelet pairs (eg. 7 pairs = 14 eyelets), one lace will pass through more

eyelets than the other. The two laces will therefore need to be different Lengths. Tying Off:When finished, this method ends up with four lace ends at the top of the shoe. Here's where you have plenty of creative options for tying your shoes:

Tie two knots, one using the ends across the top set of eyelets, the other with the ends across the second from top set of eyelets.

Tie two knots, only instead of tying across the shoe, tie them up the shoe - one knot on the left side using the two left ends and the other knot on the right side using the two right ends.

Take the two ends at each side and hold them together like a single lace, then tie only one knot using those double-thickness laces. (Works best with flat laces).

Tie only the top ends, whilst the second from top ends are simply tucked into the shoe.

These are only some of the possibilities. Your only limit is your imagination and your definitions of "decorative" and "messy". Variations:The above technique is effectively a double variation of Criss Cross Lacing, which is only one of several lacing methods that work well with two different coloured laces. Several other lacing methods apply themselves equally well to Double Lacing, such as this double variation of Hash Lacing (see photo at right), which can even be woven to look like a bi-colour Lattice Lacing..

In most cases, you can turn a normal lacing method into a double lacing method by following the instructions for one lace using the odd numbered pairs of eyelets (ie. 1st, 3rd, 5th pair), then the other lace using the even numbered eyelet pairs (ie. 2nd, 4th, 6th pair, etc).

Here's a list of lacing methods that combine well with Double Lacing: Over Under Lacing Shoe Shop Lacing Straight Bar Lacing Spider Web Lacing Bow Tie Lacing Army Lacing Double Helix Lacing Hash Lacing Lattice Lacing (with 12 eyelet pairs) Zipper Lacing Loop Back Lacing Knotted Lacing Twistie Lacing

Checkerboard Lacing This interwoven lacing forms an attractive two-colour checkerboard pattern that looks fantastic on today's wide fronted sneakers.

This pic of blue and white Nikes with Checkerboard Lacing was sent to me by "dalyte1".

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. Start with two pairs of different colour laces, preferably the wide, flat variety. (I was lucky to receive two such pairs with my last sneakers!)

2. With one colour (orange in my diagram), lace the shoe using Straight (Easy) Lacing.

3. With the other colour (purple in my diagram), start at the bottom of the shoe and weave the lace in and out of the other lace until you reach the top.

4. Fold around the top lace and head back down, weaving out and in until you reach the bottom.

5. Continue across the shoe until you're out of room or out of lace, whichever comes first.

6. Tuck all the loose ends of the laces into the shoe.

FEATURES:Very decorativeSlip-on or off (no knot required)Loose fit

NOTE:When completed, this lacing forms a sort of loose, springy weave that does not bind strongly. It's designed for the latest fashion of wide-fronted sneakers that people usually wear loose with the laces dragging. Sort of like a trendy slip-on.

Variations:1. For a slightly tighter fit, use wider or rougher laces to increase friction and thus support more tension.

2. For greater security, do the checkerboard lacing only up to the second eyelet from the top, then tie your shoelaces normally across the top two eyelets.

3. Instead of using two different coloured laces, you can use a single long shoelace. Tuck in or tie off one end at the bottom of the shoe, then lace up the shoe running across and back like Straight (Easy) Lacing. At the top, weave that same end up and down through the lacing, then once again tuck in or tie off the e

Loop Back Lacing Each side loops back on itself down the middle, rather like when two springs become intertwined. However, those loop-backs tend to shift off-centre.

The cover of my book, Laces, comes pre-laced with Loop Back Lacing!

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. The left (blue) end is spiralled up the left side of the shoe, with the end fed under and emerging from each eyelet.

3. The right (yellow) lace is spiralled up the right side of the shoe, at each eyelet looping through the left (blue) lace in the middle of the shoe before feeding under and emerging from the next eyelet.

FEATURES:DecorativeLaces wear moreCentreline shifts

Using This Lacing:Loop Back lacing looks best on shoes with thick, round laces, especially light coloured laces on dark coloured shoes. These accentuate the fact that the laces loop back on themselves rather than crossing over each other.

Knotted Lacing Adding an overhand knot at each crossover increases friction and keeps the lacing much firmer. Ideal for tightening ice skates, rollerblades, etc.

More Lacing Photos Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. The ends are crossed over each other and are then knotted with a single overhand knot, which is identical to the Starting Knot.

3. The ends then continue across to the opposite sides, where they go under and out through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. Repeat steps (2) and (3) until both ends reach the top eyelets.

FEATURES:Keeps lacing tightAssists tighteningHarder to loosen

Knotted Lacing Theory:With each stage of this lacing given a single overhand knot, the result is a very firm lacing. This is of most benefit whilst tightening, as the lower sections are less inclined to loosen in the process, making it ideal for tightening ice skates, rollerblades, etc.

Twistie Lacing Like a combination of Loop Back and Knotted Lacing, the laces are twisted together with a vertical overhand knot at each crossover before continuing to the other side.

Lacing Technique:1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and emerges through both bottom eyelets.

2. The ends are twisted together with one complete twist in the middle of the shoe.

3. The ends then continue across to the opposite sides, where they go under and out through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. Repeat steps (2) and (3) until both ends reach the top eyelets.

FEATURES:DecorativeKeeps lacing tightHarder to loosen

Using This Lacing:Twistie lacing looks best on shoes with thick, round laces, especially light coloured laces on dark coloured shoes. These accentuate the fact that the laces are twisted together before crossing over each other.

Roman Lacing Alternating X-I-X-I on top of the shoe, which looks a little like Roman numerals. It's most effective on dress shoes where the sides of the shoe meet in the middle.

Note that the lacing technique depends on the number of eyelets in the shoe. This is because an "X" and an "I" form an odd number of passes across the sides of the shoe, and an even number is needed for the lace ends to meet and to be tied together.

Dotted sections are underneath

This shoe has seven pairs of eyelets, hence it uses a slightly different technique to that shown above.

IXIX Roman Laced dress shoe.

More Lacing Photos

Lacing Technique: 6 Eyelets = XIXI:1. The lace is fed into the bottom left eyelet, runs vertically (grey section) and emerges from the next eyelet above.

2. Both ends are crossed over each other on top of the shoe and are fed into the two eyelets on the bottom right side.

3. The bottom (yellow) end runs straight up the right side, skipping one eyelet before emerging from and running across the third set of eyelets.

4. The left (yellow) end, which was fed into the third eyelet, now runs straight up the left side and emerges from the fourth eyelet.

5. The right (blue) end runs straight up the right side, skipping one eyelet before emerging from the fourth eyelet.

6. Both ends are crossed over each other on top of the shoe and are fed into the fifth pair of eyelets.

7. Both ends run straight up the shoe and emerge from the top eyelets, where they are tied to form the final "I".

FEATURES:DecorativeGreat on dress shoesHarder to tighten

NOTE:If this 6-eyelet-pair technique is started with an "I" straight across the bottom, the lacing becomes "IXIX" instead of "XIXI" (the exact reverse). The main difference is that the lace ends finish up inside the shoe on the left side like Hidden Knot Lacing, which looks distinctive but is quite tricky to tie and can feel uncomfortable. Many of the variations of Roman Lacing can also be reversed in order to finish up with the lace ends on the inside (like Display Shoe Lacing), which is a little easier to tie.

Techniques For 3 to 14 Eyelet Pairs Here's some simple diagrams for Roman Lacing on shoes having between 3 and 14 pairs of eyelets. The light yellow "X" and "I" sections are on top whilst the dark grey sections are underneath. Many diagrams can also be reversed to give even more variations.

3 4OR

5 6

7

8OR OR

9

10OR

11

12

13

14

OR

OR

Footbag LacingOften referred to as "Hacky Sack Lacing" Footbag players use this lacing to open up the front of their shoes, making it easier to catch or otherwise control the footbag (or "Hacky Sack"). This page shows four popular variations of Footbag Lacing, the common element being long, straight segments along the outside that pull the toe section outwards. Method 1

Lacing Technique - Method 1:1. The lace runs straight across and emerges from the third set of eyelets from the bottom (grey section).

2. Both ends run straight down and are fed into the second set of eyelets from the bottom.

3. Both ends again run straight down and emerge from the bottom set of eyelets.

4. Both ends now run straight up along the outside and are fed into the fourth set of eyelets (the first vacant pair).

5. The ends are crossed over each other, then they go under and out through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

6. Repeat step (5) until both ends reach the top. Method 2

Lacing Technique - Method 2:This method is almost identical to Method 1 (above) except for -

At steps (2) and (3), the lace ends are run loosely around the edge of the shoe and are fed back under and out through the next lower set of eyelets.

At step (4), the ends are then fed through the loops that were thus formed before continuing upwards and into the fourth set of eyelets.

This results in a neater finished lacing because the long, straight segments don't stick out from the sides of the shoe quite as much, being held alongside by the loops of lace. However, it's less effective at opening up the front of the shoe. Method 3

Lacing Technique - Method 3:The first three steps of this method are identical to Method 1 (above), after which -

4. Both ends now run straight up along the outside and are fed into the fifth set of eyelets (skip one vacant pair).

5. The ends are crossed over each other, then they go under and out through the fourth set of eyelets (the next lower pair).

6. The ends are run straight up and are fed into the sixth set of eyelets.

Complete the lacing as per Method 1 (above), continuing from step (5).

This method allows the front of the shoe to open wider than either Method 1 or 2 (above). Method 4

Lacing Technique - Method 4:1. The lace runs straight across and emerges from the third set of eyelets from the bottom (grey section).

2. The ends run straight up and are fed into the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

3. The ends are crossed over each other, then they go under and out through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.

4. Both ends run straight down and are fed into the second set of eyelets from the bottom.

5. Both ends again run straight down and emerge from the bottom set of eyelets.

6. Both ends now run straight up along the outside and are fed into the sixth set of eyelets up the shoe.

Complete the lacing as per Method 1 (above), continuing from step (5).

This method is similar to Method 3 (above), just starting in a slightly different sequence, so it should allow the front of the shoe to open up a similar amount.

More Lacing Photos FEATURES:Great for Footbag FreestyleLess bindingDistorts shoes

Variations:1. Instead of Criss Cross Lacing on the upper sets of eyelets, use Army Lacing, or any other method that doesn't have passes of lace across the top of the shoe. With less restriction on the sides of the shoe, they are free to open up wider.

2. To open up the front of the shoe even further, start the lacing from the fourth set of eyelets from the bottom and skip the third set of eyelets. You can even start from higher up, although this makes for a loose fit. Note that this can also be helpful if you have shoes that are a little too tight, even for those who don't play footbag (see photo at bottom left).

In short, there is no fixed technique. People use all sorts of methods to open up the front section, even going to the extent of modifying their shoes. You're welcome to use your own variations to create a method that balances function, style and comfort to your individual taste.

Lock LacingOften referred to as "Lace Locks" Not a lacing method as much as a technique for creating a super-tight finish. It's often recommended for lacing running shoes to help prevent heel slippage, particularly when running downhill, as well as for rock climbers to prevent any movement or twisting of the shoe under the stresses of climbing.

Method 1: High lace lock

Method 2: Low lace lock

Method 3: Looped lace lock

Close-up showing detail of Lock Lacing Method 1. Lacing Technique:1. The shoe is laced until the lace ends emerge from the second set of eyelets from the top.

2. The ends run straight up and are fed into the top eyelets.

3. The ends are crossed over, then each end is fed under the vertical section on the other side.

FEATURES:Tightens firmlyReduces slippageHarder to loosen

NOTE:Whilst Criss Cross Lacing is shown in these examples, and is the probably the most common method used, the shoe can be laced with almost any lacing method. In fact, as pointed out by Kyle B. in U.S.A., Ladder Lacing naturally ends with a High Lace Lock.

Variations:1. One variation is to run the vertical section from top to bottom instead of bottom to top, as shown in the second diagram at left. This results in the knot sitting slightly lower.

2. Another variation, as shown in the third diagram, is to feed the lace out and then back into the top eyelet, forming a loop instead of a straight vertical section. This results in the tightest lace lock, at the expense of being harder to loosen.

Lock Lacing Theory:Many shoe stores recommend Lock Lacing techniques to help prevent slippage, and many people swear by them. In fact, many sports shoes have twin eyelets at the top to suit Lock Lacing. So what's behind the "magic"?

The answer is simple leverage, which helps pull the lacing very tight. When the ends are tied, the upper straight sections get pulled sideways, acting like "pulleys" to provide just that little bit of extra tension, more than is possible by pulling in a straight line.

If you're suffering from slippage, it's more likely that your shoes don't fit properly, and a far better solution would be to get a pair that does. When shopping for shoes, don't be too impressed by a savvy shoe salesperson using Lock Lacing to make an otherwise loose pair of shoes feel nice and snug!

Lock Lacing also creates more friction, which should help prevent the knot coming loose, especially if you have slippery synthetic laces or are unknowingly using a Granny Knot. Replacing slippery laces or changing your Shoelace Knot are better alt