Ways to tie shoes might seem simple, but there’s actually a bunch of cool tricks you can use to make them fit better. You don’t have to keep tying your shoes the same old way every day. There are 65 ways to tie your shoes, and each one helps with comfort. Some of them give you a tighter fit. Some take pressure off your foot. And others just look really cool.
Let’s get started!
65 Easy Ways to Tie Shoes

You can tie your shoes in different ways depending on how you want them to feel.
Criss Cross Lacing
You have probably seen this one since it is the most common way people lace their shoes. The laces cross over each other as they move up, which helps keep your shoes snug and even. You can use this method on almost any shoe.
Here is how you can tie your shoes with the criss cross method:
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Thread both lace ends through the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Pull them up so they are even on both sides.
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Cross the left lace over and feed it through the next eyelet on the right.
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Cross the right lace over and feed it through the next eyelet on the left.
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Keep repeating this pattern as you move up. Tie the laces once you reach the top.
Over Under Lacing
You might want to try this method if your laces come loose often. The pattern goes over on one row and under on the next.
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Begin by threading the laces through the bottom eyelets from the inside.
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Cross them over and insert them into the next eyelets from the outside.
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On the next row, cross them and go under through the eyelets.
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Keep switching between over and under as you go up.
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When you reach the top, tie your knot as usual.
Straight Bar Lacing European Style
If you want your shoes to look clean, this method works well. The laces go straight across each row, and the upward parts stay hidden inside.
You can lace your shoes with the European straight bar method by following these steps:
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Start by inserting the lace straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Take the left lace and bring it up on the inside to the next eyelet, then out.
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Pull it straight across and push it into the eyelet on the right side.
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Take the right lace up on the inside, skipping one eyelet, and bring it out.
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Pull it across to the left side and insert it from the outside.
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Keep going until both ends reach the top of the shoe.
Straight Bar Lacing American Style
This method helps you create a neat look on top while hiding the diagonal lace paths on one side inside the shoe. It can reduce tightness. It works especially well if you need more comfort in certain spots.
Here is how you can use the American straight bar lacing method:
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Thread the lace straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Take the right lace and bring it up one eyelet on the inside, then out.
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Pull it straight across to the left side and insert it from the outside.
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Take the left lace and run it up two eyelets on the inside.
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Bring it out and pull it across to the right.
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Keep repeating the pattern until you finish at the top.
Straight Easy Lacing
If you want a faster way to lace your shoes that still looks clean, this method can help. It keeps all the lace bars straight. It skips eyelets on the inside to reduce pressure.
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Start by threading the lace across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring the right lace up on the inside, skip one eyelet, and pull it out.
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Pull it across and insert it into the opposite eyelet from the outside.
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Do the same with the left lace.
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Keep going until you reach the top of the shoe.
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Tie your laces as you normally would.
Gap Lacing
You should try this method if your shoes feel too tight in one spot, like across the top of your foot. You can skip eyelets in that area to relieve pressure and create a better fit. Here is how you can tie your shoes using the gap lacing method:
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Begin with criss cross lacing at the bottom of the shoe.
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Keep lacing upward until you reach the part that feels uncomfortable.
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Skip one or two eyelets on both sides to leave a gap.
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Continue lacing above the skipped eyelets in the same criss cross pattern.
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Make sure the gap is centered where you need it.
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Tie your laces when you reach the top.
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Adjust the tension to make sure the shoe feels secure but not tight.
Window Lacing
You can use this method if your shoes feel too tight across the middle of your foot. It creates an open space by going straight up for two eyelets before crossing again. That open gap helps relieve pressure.
Here is how you can tie your shoes using the window lacing method:
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Start with criss cross lacing at the bottom two eyelets.
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When you reach the tight spot, stop crossing.
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Run each lace straight up through the next eyelet on the same side.
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After the straight section, resume crossing the laces like before.
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Continue criss cross lacing until the top.
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Tie the laces firmly without over-tightening.
High Instep Relief
If you have a high instep and your shoes press too hard on top, this lacing can help. You can loosen the laces or skip a few middle eyelets to give your foot more space. It relieves pressure across the top of your foot.
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Begin lacing your shoes normally at the bottom.
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When you reach the middle section, either loosen the tension or skip one or two eyelets.
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Resume lacing above the skipped or loosened part.
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Keep the top rows firm so your foot stays secure. Tie a snug knot and adjust as needed.
Low Instep Lock
You should try this if your foot sits lower in the shoe.
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Start with the lace through the bottom eyelets.
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Pull the laces tight across the lower rows to lock your foot down.
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As you go higher, leave a little slack in each row.
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This creates a firm hold near your arch with more comfort on top. Finish with a normal tie at the top.
Toe Relief Lacing
If your toes feel squished or you get pressure near the front of your shoes, this method can help. You start lacing one eyelet higher to remove tension near your toes.
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Instead of using the bottom eyelets, skip them and start from the second row.
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Thread the lace straight across from the outside.
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Continue lacing in your usual criss cross pattern.
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Leave the skipped eyelets empty to give your toes more room.
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Tie your laces when you reach the top.
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Adjust until the front feels loose enough but still secure.
Heel Lock or Runner’s Loop
If your heel slips while walking or running, this method is perfect for you. Follow these steps to tie your shoes using the heel lock method:
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Lace your shoes normally until the second-to-last eyelet.
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Instead of crossing, run each lace straight up into the final eyelet on the same side.
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Do not cross them yet. This will form two small loops.
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Now take each lace end and thread it through the opposite loop.
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Pull both laces outward to tighten and lock your heel in place.
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Finish with your regular knot.
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Walk around and adjust the tension if needed.
Marathon Lacing
You can use this method if you plan to wear your shoes for a long time. It spreads out tension evenly and lowers the risk of rubbing or discomfort.
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Start with the lace through the bottom eyelets from the inside.
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Cross the laces over and feed them through the next eyelets from the outside.
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On the next row, cross them under and go through the eyelets from the inside.
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Keep alternating over and under until you reach the top.
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Make sure the tension feels even across every section.
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Tie your knot as you normally would.
Wide Forefoot Lacing
If your toes feel cramped or your shoes feel tight at the front, this method can help. Here is how you can lace your shoes for a wider toe box:
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Start by skipping the bottom one or two eyelets.
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Begin lacing from the second or third row using a criss cross pattern.
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Continue lacing normally up to the top.
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This leaves more room at the bottom where your toes need it.
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Tie your laces firmly to keep the top section secure.
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Test the fit and make changes if your foot still feels tight.
Tight Heel Cup Lacing
You can use this method if your heel keeps slipping inside the shoe. It works by pulling the top part of the shoe tighter. This helps hold your heel in place and gives you better control when walking or running.
To tie your shoes for a tight heel hold, do the following:
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Lace your shoes normally from the bottom to the second-to-last row.
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When you reach the top two eyelets, pull the laces tighter than before.
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Make sure you feel the top of the shoe hugging your ankle.
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Keep the lower part of the shoe looser if needed.
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Tie your laces tightly at the top.
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Walk around to check if your heel feels locked in.
Skate Tongue Lock
You can try this if the tongue of your skate shoe keeps sliding to the side. Wrapping the laces around the tongue helps hold it in place. This keeps your foot more stable while skating.
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Lace your shoes as you normally would until the top eyelets.
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Before you tie the bow, take each lace and wrap it once around the tongue.
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Cross the laces over each other after wrapping.
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Tie your knot on top of the wrap.
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Make sure the tongue is straight and doesn’t move around.
Snow Boot Lock
This method works well for snow boots that have hooks instead of regular eyelets. It helps keep your boots tight at the top. This stops snow or cold air from getting in. Here is how you can lace your snow boots securely:
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Lace the boots normally until you reach the top hooks.
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Wrap each lace around the hook one time.
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Go around the hook again for a second loop.
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Pull the laces tight so the loops hold the boot top firmly.
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Tie a strong knot after looping.
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Check that the top feels snug and doesn’t loosen when you move.
Deep V Lock
You can try this if your shoe feels too loose near the top. This method brings the laces closer together at the ankle. It makes a V-shape that gives you more grip.
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Lace your shoes normally until you reach the top three rows.
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Instead of crossing, bring each lace straight up through the next eyelet.
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Do this again on the second row to keep the laces running straight up.
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Once you reach the final eyelet, cross the laces and tie your knot.
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The V-shape will form where the laces cross at the top.
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Tighten as needed until the ankle feels secure.
Hidden Knot
You can use this if you don’t want your laces to show. It works well for clean outfits or special occasions. The knot stays inside the shoe and out of sight.
Here is how you can hide your shoe knot:
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Lace your shoes normally all the way to the top.
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Instead of tying the knot on the outside, pull the lace ends inside the shoe.
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Tie a small knot under the tongue or near the side.
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Tuck both lace ends into the side of the shoe.
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Make sure the knot is flat so it doesn’t feel uncomfortable.
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Walk around and make sure it stays hidden and secure.
Loose City Lacing
You can use this if you want your shoes to slip on and off easily. It’s good for city walking or casual use. The laces stay loose near the top.
Follow these steps to lace your shoes for a relaxed fit:
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Use longer laces if your regular ones are short.
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Start lacing from the bottom and pull the laces loosely through each row.
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As you reach the top, stop tightening.
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Leave the final two or three rows loose.
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Tie the laces gently without pulling too tight.
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The shoe should stay on but still feel loose and easy to slip off.
Diamond Lacing
You can try this if you want your shoes to look different. The laces cross twice per row, forming diamond shapes. It looks cool but still keeps the shoe secure.
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Start by lacing straight across the bottom from the outside.
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Cross the laces and go up through the next eyelets.
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Now cross them again into the same row on the other side.
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This second cross creates the diamond shape.
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Keep repeating that pattern as you move up.
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Tie your regular knot at the top when you finish.
Star Lacing
You can use this to make your shoes stand out. The laces form a star shape across the shoe. This method is mostly for style, but it still holds your foot in place.
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Begin by threading one lace end into the bottom right eyelet.
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Pull it diagonally across to the top left eyelet.
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With the other lace, criss cross through the middle eyelets.
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Make long diagonal lines that overlap across several rows.
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Keep crossing in a way that forms a star pattern.
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Once the star shape appears, tie your laces normally.
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Adjust the laces to make the pattern look even.
Bow Tie Lacing
You can use bow tie lacing if you want your shoes to look fun and different. It makes small loops on the sides that look like little bows. This lacing style is great if you like playful designs but still want your shoes to stay on tight.
Here is how you can do bow tie lacing:
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Start by putting the lace through the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Pull both ends until they are the same length.
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Cross the laces and insert them through the next eyelets.
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Before you tighten, make a small loop with the lace on one side.
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Push the lace through the loop to form a bow shape.
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Do the same thing on the other side.
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Keep repeating this on each row until you reach the top.
Matrix Lacing
Matrix lacing makes your shoes look like a woven grid. It mixes over and under steps in a pattern that looks like a net. You can use this when you want your shoes to stand out.
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Start with the lace going across the bottom eyelets from the inside.
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Cross the laces and go over the next set of eyelets.
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In the row after that, cross the laces and go under.
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Keep going up the shoe by switching between over and under.
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Make sure the laces stay flat and the pattern stays even.
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Tie your laces when you get to the top.
Zipper Lacing
Zipper lacing creates a zigzag pattern that looks like the teeth of a zipper. You can use it when you want your shoes to feel tight and secure. This method is also good for keeping the laces from moving too much.
Here is how you can do zipper lacing:
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Start with one lace going into the bottom left eyelet from the inside.
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Pull it across and insert it into the bottom right eyelet from the outside.
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Use that same lace to keep weaving back and forth in a zigzag up the shoe.
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Use the other lace to go through the zigzag loops and hold them in place.
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Pull the laces tight to keep everything secure.
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Tie the laces together at the top.
Braid Lacing
Braid lacing makes your shoe look like it has a braid running up the middle. It wraps the laces around each other on every row. You can use this method when you want your shoes to look cool but also stay tight.
Here is how you can do braid lacing:
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Start by threading the lace across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Cross the laces over each other.
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Wrap the left lace around the right lace before putting it into the next eyelet.
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Now wrap the right lace around the left lace and insert it into the next eyelet.
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Keep wrapping and crossing on each row.
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Try to keep the braid even as you go.
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Tie your knot once you reach the top.
Ladder Lacing
Ladder lacing looks like a ladder running up your shoe. It makes straight bars across and vertical loops that lock the laces in place. You can use this if you want your shoes to feel firm and steady.
Here is how you can do ladder lacing:
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Start by putting the lace across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring both lace ends up inside and out through the next eyelets above.
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Pull the left lace straight across and feed it under the vertical lace on the right side.
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Do the same with the right lace.
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Keep making horizontal bars and looping under the vertical sections.
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Go all the way up until you reach the top.
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Tie your laces at the end.
Double Ladder Lacing
Double ladder lacing is like the regular ladder method but with extra wraps. You can use it if you want your shoes to feel extra strong. The double wraps make the bars thicker and tighter.
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Start by lacing across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring both laces up through the next eyelets on the inside.
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Wrap each lace under its own vertical part before crossing over.
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Now pull the left lace to the right and thread it under the opposite vertical bar.
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Do the same with the right lace.
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Repeat this all the way to the top.
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Tie the laces once the pattern is complete.
Paratrooper Lacing
Paratrooper lacing uses straight lines on the outside of the shoe and hidden crosses on the inside. You can use this if you want a clean look on the outside and strong support on the inside.
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Thread the lace straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Pull both ends up on the outside to the next eyelet above.
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Bring each lace into the shoe from the outside.
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Cross the laces inside the shoe.
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Bring them out through the next open eyelets.
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Repeat this pattern until you reach the top.
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Tie your laces like normal.
Army Lacing
Army lacing gives your shoes even pressure from top to bottom. It also helps your foot feel more stable. You can use this method if you want comfort and control at the same time.
Here is how you can do army lacing:
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Start by lacing straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring one lace up on the outside and the other up on the inside.
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Cross the laces and thread them into the opposite eyelets.
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Switch the inside and outside positions on each row.
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Keep the pattern going all the way up.
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Tie your laces tightly once you reach the top.
Basket Weave Lacing
Basket weave lacing looks like the pattern of a woven basket. You can use this if you want a bold, decorative style that still holds your foot in place. It loops over two eyelets, then goes under one in a repeating pattern.
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Start with the lace going across the bottom eyelets from the inside.
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Pull the laces up and cross them over two eyelets instead of just one.
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Bring the laces back under and go down through the third eyelet.
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Repeat this pattern by skipping two eyelets, then going under one.
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Make sure the laces stay flat as they weave.
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Continue up to the top and tie your laces like normal.
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Adjust the spacing to keep the pattern even.
Checkerboard Lacing
Checkerboard lacing uses two laces to create a pattern that looks like a checkerboard. You can use this if you want your shoes to stand out with a bold, two-color design. This method is all about looks. It works best on shoes with lots of eyelets.
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Start with one lace and thread it horizontally through every eyelet from the inside.
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Make sure the bars go straight across and lay flat.
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Take the second lace and begin weaving it vertically through the horizontal bars.
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Go over one bar, then under the next, repeating the pattern.
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Pull the vertical lace tight to form a grid.
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Weave all the way from bottom to top.
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Tuck both lace ends inside the shoe or tie them carefully at the top.
Cage Lacing
Cage lacing wraps your laces around the outer eyelets and forms a cage shape. You can use this when you want the sides of your shoe to feel tight and supportive. It also gives your shoes a cool and aggressive look.
Here is how you can lace your shoes using the cage method:
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Start by inserting the lace across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Pull both lace ends straight up and thread them into the next eyelet on the same side.
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Cross the laces over the shoe and feed them into the opposite eyelet.
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Now pull the laces straight up again and repeat the pattern.
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Keep wrapping around the outside edge of the shoe.
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Tie your laces at the top once you reach the final eyelets.
Spider Web Lacing
Spider web lacing spreads the laces outward like a web. You can use this if you want your shoes to look unique from every angle.
Just do the following:
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Start by placing the lace through the middle eyelets of the shoe.
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Pull the lace ends outward so each side has the same length.
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Thread one lace down through a lower eyelet.
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Take the other lace up through a higher eyelet.
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Cross the laces and pull them through opposite sides to form a web shape.
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Keep building outward from the center row.
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Tie your knot once you reach the top eyelets.
Hex Web Lacing
Hex web lacing creates a series of connected hexagons on your shoe. You can use this if you want a pattern that looks like a beehive. This method takes more time but looks very detailed and strong.
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Begin with the lace across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring each lace up and out the next eyelet on the same side.
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Cross the laces diagonally two eyelets higher and insert them from the inside.
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Loop them back down to the middle eyelet on the opposite side.
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Pull each lace up again and repeat the hex shape.
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Follow the same pattern until you reach the top.
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Tie your knot when the hex pattern is complete.
Dragon Spine Lacing
Dragon spine lacing forms a raised ridge along the center of your shoe. You can use this when you want a strong center grip and a unique 3D look. The laces loop over each other to build the spine.
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Start by threading the lace straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Cross the laces and pull them through the next eyelets from the inside.
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Before tightening, take one lace and loop it over the center of the cross.
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Do the same with the other lace.
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The two loops stack in the middle to form the raised spine.
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Keep repeating the same steps as you move up the shoe.
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Tie your laces tightly at the top to hold the shape.
Cobra Weave Lacing
Cobra weave lacing builds a thick, paracord-style pattern across the middle of your shoe. You can use this when you want a bulky and bold design that looks like a rope.
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Start by lacing your shoes in any basic pattern up to the middle.
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Cut a second lace and tie it near the center of the first lace.
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Begin wrapping the second lace over and under the main lace to create the weave.
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Keep the wraps tight and even on both sides.
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Stop once you reach the top eyelets.
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Tie both ends and tuck them into the shoe.
Roman Cross Lacing
Roman cross lacing forms diagonal X shapes that look like Roman crosses. You can use this when you want a clean pattern.
Here is how to do Roman cross lacing step by step:
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Start with the lace across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring both laces up on the inside and skip one row.
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Cross them diagonally and insert them into the second set of eyelets above.
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Bring the laces up on the inside again.
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Repeat the same diagonal cross pattern every two rows.
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Finish at the top and tie your laces normally.
Celtic Knot Lacing
Celtic knot lacing looks like the loops found in old Celtic art. You can use this if you want your shoes to stand out with an artistic and woven look. This style is best for shoes with a lot of eyelets.
Here is how to lace shoes with a Celtic knot pattern:
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Start by threading the lace straight across the bottom from the inside.
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Cross the laces and insert into the next eyelets.
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Loop each lace around the vertical lace on the same side.
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Pull the lace through its own loop to form a knot.
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Keep repeating the same looped knot as you move up.
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Make sure the knots are tight and even.
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Tie a simple knot at the top.
Samurai Harness Lacing
Here is how to do samurai harness lacing:
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Begin with the lace going straight across the bottom eyelets.
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Cross the laces and pull them through the next eyelets from the inside.
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Wrap each lace under and then over the previous lace bar.
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Keep layering each row over the one below it.
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Make sure the layers stay flat and firm.
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Go all the way to the top.
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Tie a strong knot when you are done.
Criss Weave Double Back
Criss weave double back lacing adds extra tension by reversing direction. You can use it when you want your shoe to feel extra secure. This works well for athletic shoes or hiking boots.
Here is how to lace shoes using the criss weave double back method:
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Lace normally up through several eyelets using criss cross style.
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Once halfway, stop and reverse the lace direction.
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Go back down through the same eyelets in reverse order.
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Keep the laces snug as you go back down.
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Once you reach the bottom, tie your knot.
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Tuck the ends or tie them loosely for easy adjustment.
X Frame Lacing
X frame lacing creates large X shapes across your shoe. You can use this if you want a bold pattern that also spreads pressure evenly. The X shapes give your shoes a wide and open look.
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Start by threading the lace across the bottom from the outside.
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Pull each lace diagonally to the opposite eyelet two rows above.
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Insert the laces from the inside.
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Now bring each lace back down and insert into the skipped row. This creates a large X on each level.
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Keep repeating this up the shoe. Tie your laces tightly when you finish.
Sawtooth Lacing
Sawtooth lacing creates a series of diagonal lines that look like teeth on one side. You can use this if you want a sharp, tilted pattern with a one-sided style. It works best with longer laces.
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Start with the lace going straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Pull one lace straight up through the next eyelet on the same side.
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Take the other lace and cross it into the open eyelet on the opposite side.
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Continue pulling the first lace upward each time.
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Always cross the second lace diagonally across to meet it.
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Keep building the sawtooth pattern row by row.
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Tie the laces when you reach the top.
Serpentine Lacing
Serpentine lacing moves the lace back and forth like a snake. You can use this when you want no crossings, just a smooth and curved line across the shoe. It creates a gentle and clean look.
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Thread the lace into the bottom left eyelet from the inside.
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Pull the lace across and insert it into the right side.
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Move the lace up one eyelet on the same side.
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Pull it back across and insert into the opposite side again.
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Keep going back and forth in a smooth wave.
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Make sure the lace stays flat and follows the shape.
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Tie your knot once you reach the top.
S Curve Lacing
S curve lacing moves the lace sideways on each row to form a smooth, curved path. You can use this when you want your shoes to look soft and flowy. The pattern looks like a stretched letter S.
Follow these easy steps:
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Start by threading the lace across the bottom eyelets from the inside.
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Bring the right lace straight up through the next eyelet on the same side.
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Pull it across to the left and insert it into the next eyelet.
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Do the same on the other side, always moving the lace sideways.
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Keep following the curve shape as you move up the shoe.
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Tie your knot when you reach the top.
Wave Lacing
Wave lacing creates a flowing wave effect across your shoe. You can use this when you want a stylish and soft-looking pattern. It uses diagonal lace paths and changes the tension on each row.
Here is how you can lace your shoes with a wave effect:
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Start by running the lace straight across the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Cross the laces diagonally and insert them into the next eyelets.
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Pull one lace tighter than the other to curve the shape.
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Switch the tightness on the next row to reverse the curve.
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Keep adjusting tension on each row to build the wave.
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Tie your laces once you reach the top.
Infinity Lacing
Infinity lacing creates loops at the top that resemble an endless figure eight. You can use this when you want a looping style that adds extra hold around the ankle. The shape looks like an infinity symbol.
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Lace your shoes normally until you reach the top two rows.
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Take each lace up through the final eyelet on the same side.
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Cross the laces and loop them down into the opposite top eyelet.
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Bring them back up and cross again through the same loop.
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Repeat the loop to form an infinity shape.
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Tie your knot when the loops are firm.
Heart Shape Lacing
Heart shape lacing forms a heart in the center of your shoe tongue. You can use this when you want a cute or romantic style. It is a great design for special events or fun outfits.
Here is how to lace your shoes into a heart shape:
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Start by threading the lace into the middle eyelets on each side.
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Pull both ends out evenly.
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Loop each lace downward and outward to the lower eyelets.
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Bring the laces inward again, meeting in the center.
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Adjust the lace so it curves into a heart shape.
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Tie gently to keep the heart in place.
Butterfly Lacing
Butterfly lacing forms stacked loops that look like butterfly wings. You can use this when you want a decorative and layered lace design. The loops stay centered and rise up the shoe.
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Begin by placing the lace straight across the bottom from the outside.
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Pull both laces through and bring them up to the next eyelets.
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Form a loop by wrapping the lace outward and back in. Stack the loop above the last one to form a wing shape.
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Repeat the loops all the way to the top.
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Tie the laces gently to keep the wings in place.
Lotus Bloom Lacing
Lotus bloom lacing fans the laces outward like flower petals. You can use this when you want a soft, blooming look in the center of your shoe. The laces move outward from a middle row.
Here is how to make a lotus bloom pattern:
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Start lacing from the middle eyelets on each side.
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Pull the laces out to the lower eyelets in a diagonal.
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Then cross upward and out to the upper rows. Keep the lace centered while spreading each row outward.
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Let each loop widen like a petal. Stop when the shape feels full.
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Tie the laces softly at the top.
Vine Wrap Lacing
Vine wrap lacing spirals around the eyelets like a climbing vine. You can use this when you want a twisting, nature-inspired style. It adds texture and movement to the shoe.
Here is how to lace shoes using the vine wrap method:
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Begin at the bottom and insert the lace from the outside.
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Wrap the lace around the next eyelet before inserting.
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Move upward in a spiral shape on one side.
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Do the same spiral wrap on the other side.
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Keep the lace smooth as it wraps.
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Tie the ends at the top once the spirals are even.
Temple Arch Lacing
Temple arch lacing makes a raised loop near the center that looks like an arch. You can use this when you want a high middle shape that stands out. It’s a unique design that draws attention to the tongue area.
To tie your shoes, do these steps:
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Start with the lace across the bottom from the outside.
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Lace upward normally until the middle rows.
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Loop each lace into the same eyelet again to form a raised arch.
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Lock the loop by crossing into the next set of eyelets.
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Keep the arch centered between both sides.
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Finish lacing up to the top.
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Tie your laces tightly to hold the arch.
Bandolier or Diagonal Lacing
Bandolier lacing runs diagonally from bottom to top without crossing. You can use this when you want a clean, one-directional lace path. It gives your shoe a slanted look like a bandolier strap.
Here is how to do diagonal bandolier lacing:
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Thread one lace end through the bottom left eyelet.
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Pull it across to the top right eyelet in a single line.
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Use the other lace to fill the empty eyelets on the opposite sides.
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Weave it up without crossing the other lace.
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Keep both laces going in a straight upward line.
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Tie the laces together at the top.
Phoenix Coil Lacing
Phoenix coil lacing wraps the lace around each vertical section as it climbs. You can use this if you want a bold and coiled look with extra grip. It adds strong texture to each row.
To lace your shoes using phoenix coils, follow these steps:
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Start with the lace straight across the bottom from the outside.
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Bring the laces up through the next eyelets.
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Wrap each lace once around the vertical section you just made.
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Pull the lace through and continue to the next eyelet.
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Keep wrapping at every step up the shoe.
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Finish by tying the laces firmly at the top.
Spiral Overlay Lacing
Spiral overlay lacing gives your shoes a coiled look. You create this by layering a second lace on top of your regular lacing. You can use this if you want a bold spiral pattern that stands out.
Here is how you can do spiral overlay lacing:
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Start by lacing your shoe normally using a criss-cross pattern.
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Cut a second lace and start it from the bottom of the shoe.
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Weave this second lace over each row of the base laces.
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Continue weaving in a spiral pattern until you reach the top.
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Tuck the lace end inside the shoe or tie it at the back.
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Adjust the spiral so it looks smooth and even.
Lattice Strap Lacing
Lattice strap lacing makes your shoes look like they have flat straps across them. You can use this method when you want a wide and open look. It is simple and gives the shoe a clean pattern.
Here is how you can lace shoes:
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Thread the lace through the bottom eyelets from the outside.
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Bring each lace end up to the next eyelet on the same side.
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Repeat the same step for two more rows.
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Weave each lace under and over the horizontal parts across the shoe.
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Pull the laces gently to flatten the pattern.
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Finish lacing and tie your knot at the top.
Royal Lattice Lacing
Royal lattice lacing forms a tight square grid on your shoe. You can use it when you want something formal and well-structured. The result looks very clean and polished.
Here is how you can do royal lattice lacing:
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Start by lacing straight across the bottom from the inside.
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Take each lace and pull it diagonally to the second eyelet above on the opposite side.
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Bring the lace back down into the skipped eyelet.
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Keep repeating the diagonal cross and back pattern.
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Make sure the lines stay tight and even.
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When you reach the top, tie your laces firmly.
Spider Stair Lacing
Spider stair lacing creates bars that look like steps going up the shoe. You can use this when you want something layered and bold. It is great for high-top shoes or boots.
Do these steps to tie your boots:
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Begin by threading the lace straight across the bottom from the outside.
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Pull the left lace up through the third eyelet on the same side.
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Pull the right lace through the second eyelet on its side.
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Cross both laces and insert them into the open eyelets across.
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Repeat the pattern by always going high on one side and low on the other.
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Tie your knot when you finish lacing.
Chain Link Lacing
Chain link lacing forms loops that link together across the shoe. You can use this when you want a pattern that looks like real chain links. It gives the shoe a bold and unique look.
Here is how to do chain link lacing:
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Start by placing the lace straight across the bottom from the outside.
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Make a loop with one lace and feed it into the next eyelet.
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Do the same with the other lace.
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Cross the loops and feed each lace through the loop on the opposite side.
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Keep making loops and crossing them row by row.
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Tie a soft knot at the top once all loops are made.
Double Helix Lacing
Double helix lacing twists your laces together like a DNA strand. You can use this when you want a strong grip. It’s perfect for sneakers!
Follow these steps to tie your sneakers:
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Thread the lace across the bottom from the inside.
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Before lacing the next row, twist the two lace ends around each other one time.
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After the twist, feed each lace through the next eyelet.
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Repeat the twist before every row.
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Keep the twists tight so they hold their shape.
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Tie your laces firmly at the top.
Galaxy Spiral Lacing
Galaxy spiral lacing wraps the lace around the tongue in a wide spiral. You can use it when you want a round, spaced-out pattern that looks like a galaxy swirl.
Here is how to lace your shoes:
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Insert one lace into the bottom left eyelet.
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Pull it across and insert it into a higher eyelet on the right side.
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Take the lace back to the left, going one row higher.
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Keep going back and forth, rising one row each time.
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Continue spiraling until you reach the top.
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Tuck the end inside the shoe to hold it.
Net Overlay Lacing
Net overlay lacing adds a soft net design over your main laces. You can use it to layer a second lace on top for a textured look.
Here is how to lace a shoe with a net overlay:
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First, lace the shoe normally using a criss-cross pattern.
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Take a second lace and weave it under and over the criss-cross rows.
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Move in a zigzag as you go up.
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Make sure the lace stays loose to keep the net soft.
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Once you finish weaving, tuck in the ends or tie them.
Knotless Weave
Knotless weave lacing hides the knot inside the shoe. You can use this if you want a clean finish without tying a bow.
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Lace the shoe normally from bottom to top.
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Pull both ends inside the shoe instead of tying them.
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Weave each lace through the inner loops of the laces.
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Tuck the ends near the tongue or between eyelets.
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Pull slightly on the laces to make sure they hold.
Single Pull Speed Lacing
Single pull speed lacing lets you tighten the whole shoe in one motion. You can use this when you want quick on-and-off shoes.
Here is how to lace for single pull use:
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Start with one long lace and thread it through the bottom eyelets.
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Weave it in a zigzag all the way to the top.
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Do not cross back at each row.
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Once at the top, pull both lace ends at the same time.
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The whole shoe will tighten evenly.
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Use a clip or lock to hold the lace ends.
Surgeon’s Knot Tie Lock
The surgeon’s knot helps your shoes stay tied longer. You can use this if your laces often come undone.
Here is how to tie a surgeon’s knot:
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Start with a regular knot by crossing the laces.
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Wrap one lace around the other two times instead of once.
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Pull the laces tight after the double wrap.
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Finish tying a bow like normal.
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Check that the knot feels tight and doesn’t slip.
Double Slip Quick Release Knot
Double slip knot lets you take off your shoes quickly with one pull. You can use this when you need speed and easy release.
Here is how to tie shoes:
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Make two loops, one with each lace end.
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Cross the loops over each other.
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Pull one loop through the gap to form the knot.
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Tighten both loops until they hold in place.
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To untie, just pull one lace end straight.
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The knot will come apart instantly.
Conclusion
Now you’ve seen 65 different ways to tie shoes. Some are great for comfort. Some help your shoes stay tight all day. And some are just fun and make your shoes look way more interesting.
You don’t need anything new. Just your regular shoes and a few minutes to try something different. If one method doesn’t feel right, try another.
The way you lace your shoes should work for you. And when it does, walking just feels better.
So go ahead and try one. Your feet will be glad you did.



