How to Choose the Best Shoelaces for Your Shoes

Your Guide to buying the best shoelaces

Overview

Shoelaces are an essential component of any shoe. Not only do they provide a secure fit, but they can also add a stylish touch to any outfit. With so many different types of shoelaces available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. This buying guide will provide an in-depth look at the features and considerations to keep in mind when shopping for shoelaces, so you can make an informed decision and find the perfect laces for your shoes.

Key features

  1. Size: shoppers should consider the length of the laces, typically measured in inches, to ensure a proper fit for the shoes they are purchasing laces for.
  2. Material: shoppers should consider the material of the laces, as some materials are more durable and comfortable than others.
  3. Color: shoppers should consider the color of the laces to ensure they coordinate with the color of their shoes.
  4. Style: shoppers should consider the style of the laces such as round, flat, or braided, to better match the look of their shoes.

See the most popular shoelaces on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - Shoelaces are designed to last, often made of strong, synthetic materials like nylon which can withstand wear and tear.
  • Style - Shoelaces come in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles, making them a great way to add a touch of personality to any outfit.
  • Price - Shoelaces are generally an affordable accessory, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
  • Functionality - Shoelaces serve a practical purpose, helping to secure shoes to your feet to ensure they stay in place during activity.
  • Versatility - Shoelaces are suitable for a variety of shoes, from sneakers to dress shoes, and can be used in both formal and casual settings.

Cons

  • Durability: Shoelaces can wear out over time, leading to fraying, breaking, and general loss of durability depending on the quality of the material.
  • Lack of Variety: Shoelaces may not come in a variety of colors/styles that would match the buyer's desired aesthetic.
  • Length: Shoelaces come in various lengths and if the wrong size is chosen they may be too long or too short for the buyer's needs.
  • Cost: Shoelaces may be relatively expensive compared to the other accessories needed to complete the look of a shoe.

Best alternatives

  1. Elastic Hair Ties - Thick elastic bands used to secure hair in a ponytail.
  2. Hook and Loop Fastener - A type of closure consisting of two strips of fabric with complementary surfaces which press together to form a tight closure.
  3. Zipper - A device for fastening two pieces of fabric or material together.
  4. Buckles - A loop of metal or plastic with two prongs that can be inserted into a hole to fasten two pieces of material together.
  5. Lacings - Long, thin pieces of material used to tie fabric together.
  6. Toggled Fasteners - A two-part fastening system consisting of a loop of material that can be pulled through a hole and then tightened.

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Common questions

  1. What materials are available for shoelaces? Shoelaces are available in a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, waxed cotton, hemp, nylon, and leather.
  2. How long should my shoelaces be? The length of the shoelaces will depend on the size and style of your shoes. Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb is to measure the length of the existing laces, and use that as a guide for selecting a new pair.
  3. What colors are available? Shoelaces are available in a wide range of colors, from traditional black and white to bright, vibrant hues.
  4. Are there any special features to look for? Special features to look for in shoelaces include reinforced tips, stretchy materials, and non-slip technology.
  5. What types of tips should I look for? The most common tip types for shoelaces are round, oval, or tear-drop shaped. Look for tips that are reinforced for extra durability.

Trivia

In 1927, the British Royal Air Force issued regulation shoelaces that were 36 inches long—twice as long as standard laces. This was to ensure that the laces of RAF personnel's boots would be long enough to tie around the ankles if they had to bail out of a plane and needed to keep their boots on. This regulation was kept in place until 1952. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.