Ever looked at your brand-new sneakers, those fresh kicks you’re itching to wear, and felt a pang of…confusion? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Especially when it comes to the top two eyelets – the ones that seem to exist solely to taunt you with their lacing complexity. Fear not, fellow sneaker enthusiasts! This guide is your personal trainer, ready to walk you through the art of lacing those top two holes.
We’ll cover the basics, the common techniques, and even a few styling tips to elevate your sneaker game from ‘just okay’ to ‘wow’. Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or a complete newbie, this is your one-stop shop. Get ready to ditch the tangled knots and embrace a world of perfectly laced sneakers. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Anatomy of a Sneaker
Before we dive into the lacing techniques, let’s take a quick look at the anatomy of your sneaker. Knowing the parts will make the lacing process much easier.
Key Components:
- The Upper: This is the main part of the shoe, the material that covers your foot.
- The Eyelets: These are the holes where the laces go through. We’re focusing on the top two!
- The Tongue: The padded part under the laces that sits on the top of your foot.
- The Laces: The strings you use to tie your shoes.
Essential Lacing Tools and Materials
You don’t need a lot to get started, but having the right tools makes the job smoother.
What You’ll Need:
- Your Sneakers: Obviously!
- Your Laces: Make sure they are the correct length for your shoe.
- Patience: This is the most important tool! Don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries.
The Straight Bar Lacing Method (classic and Clean)
This method is clean, simple, and creates a neat, horizontal bar appearance on your shoe. It’s a great starting point for beginners.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Start at the Bottom: Begin by lacing the bottom eyelets in a straight bar fashion. Cross the laces horizontally across the bottom eyelets, going from the inside to the outside of the shoe.
- Upward Journey: Continue lacing upwards, crossing the laces over each other and pulling them through the eyelets.
- Reaching the Top: When you get to the top two eyelets, the method changes slightly. Instead of crossing the laces over each other, bring the laces straight up.
- The Straight Bar Finish: Now, take the lace from the left eyelet and pass it straight across to the right eyelet, going from the inside to the outside. Do the same with the lace from the right eyelet, passing it to the left eyelet. This creates the straight bar look.
- Tighten and Adjust: Pull the laces to tighten the shoe. Adjust the tension as needed for comfort.
Visual Aid:
Imagine a ladder. The laces are the rungs, and the eyelets are the sides. You’re simply creating a horizontal rung between each set of eyelets.
The Criss-Cross Lacing Method (most Common)
This is the most common lacing style, and for good reason! It’s easy, versatile, and provides a secure fit.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Starting Point: Begin by lacing the bottom eyelets in a criss-cross pattern. Cross the laces over each other, going from the inside to the outside.
- Up the Ladder: Continue lacing upwards, crossing the laces over each other and pulling them through the eyelets.
- Reaching the Top (Key Step): When you get to the top two eyelets, the process changes slightly. Cross the laces over each other, but before pulling them tight, consider how you want to finish.
- Finishing Options:
- Option 1 (Inside Out): Cross the laces and pull them through the top eyelets from the inside out. Tie your knot.
- Option 2 (Outside In): Cross the laces and pull them through the top eyelets from the outside in. Tie your knot. This can give a slightly cleaner look.
- Tighten and Secure: Pull the laces to tighten the shoe. Make sure the tension is even across the top of your foot. Tie a secure knot.
Variations:
You can adjust the tightness of the laces by how tightly you pull them through each eyelet. Experiment to find the perfect fit.
The Over-Under Lacing Method (for Comfort and Flexibility)
This method is designed to provide a more comfortable and flexible fit. It’s also known as the ‘loop’ or ‘lock’ lacing method.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Starting Point: Begin by lacing the bottom eyelets in a criss-cross pattern, similar to the standard criss-cross method.
- Up the Ladder: Continue lacing upwards, crossing the laces over each other.
- Reaching the Top (The Loop): When you get to the top two eyelets, here’s the key: pass the lace from one side *under* the lace on the opposite side.
- Creating the Loop: Pull the lace through the loop you’ve created. This creates a more secure, locked-in feel and allows for more flexibility in the ankle area.
- Repeat on the Other Side: Do the same thing on the other side. Pass the lace under the opposite lace and create a loop, pulling the lace through.
- Tighten and Secure: Adjust the laces for comfort and tie a secure knot.
Benefits:
This method offers excellent ankle support and prevents the laces from loosening during activity. It’s a great choice for sports or any situation where you need a snug fit. (See Also: What to Spray Sneakers with for Athlete’s Foot: A Complete…)
Want a cleaner look and to hide your knot? This is the technique for you.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Criss-Cross or Straight Bar: Lace your sneakers using either the criss-cross or straight bar method, up to the top two eyelets.
- The Final Cross: On the top two eyelets, cross the laces over each other.
- The Hidden Knot: Before you tie your knot, tuck each lace under the criss-cross you just created. This will hide the knot beneath the laces.
- Tighten and Secure: Pull the laces tight to secure the knot. The knot should be hidden.
Styling Tip:
This method works especially well with minimalist sneakers, creating a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.
Lacing for Different Sneaker Styles
The best lacing method can depend on the style of your sneakers. Here’s a quick guide:
High-Top Sneakers:
High-tops often benefit from a secure lacing method like the over-under, to provide ankle support. The criss-cross or straight bar methods also work well.
Low-Top Sneakers:
Low-tops offer more flexibility. Criss-cross, straight bar, or even a more decorative lacing pattern like the ‘ladder’ or ‘sawtooth’ can work.
Running Shoes:
Running shoes often require a secure and comfortable fit. The over-under method, or a modified version of it, can be beneficial, as well as the standard criss-cross.
Fashion Sneakers:
Fashion sneakers offer more room for experimentation. Try different lacing styles to find what looks best and complements your outfit.
Troubleshooting Common Lacing Problems
Even with the best instructions, you might run into a few snags. Here’s how to solve them.
Laces Too Short:
If your laces are too short, you might not be able to tie a secure knot. Consider buying longer laces or using a different lacing method that requires less lace length. (See Also: Why Do Some Sneakers Have Zip Ties?)
Laces Too Long:
Long laces can be a tripping hazard. Tuck the extra length under the laces, tie a double knot, or consider shorter laces.
Laces Loosening:
If your laces keep coming undone, try a double knot, the over-under method, or consider using lace locks.
Uneven Tension:
Make sure you’re pulling the laces evenly when tightening. If one side is tighter than the other, adjust accordingly.
Advanced Lacing Techniques and Styling Tips
Ready to level up your lacing game?
The Ladder Lace:
This creates a ladder-like appearance. It’s more complex, but it looks great on certain sneakers. Search online for tutorials.
The Sawtooth Lace:
Similar to the ladder lace, this creates a zig-zag pattern. This method can add a unique visual element to your sneakers.
Color Coordination:
Experiment with different colored laces to match your outfit or add a pop of color to your sneakers.
Lace Materials:
Consider different lace materials, such as waxed cotton or flat laces, to change the look and feel of your sneakers.
Lace Locks:
Lace locks are a great way to secure your laces and prevent them from coming undone. They’re especially useful for sports or running. (See Also: What Sneakers Does Khloe Kardashian Wear? A Sneakerhead’s)
Mixing and Matching:
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different lacing methods on different parts of your shoe, or combine different lace colors.
Maintaining Your Laced Sneakers
Proper care will keep your sneakers and laces looking their best.
Cleaning Your Laces:
Wash your laces regularly, either by hand or in the washing machine. Remove them from the shoes first.
Cleaning Your Sneakers:
Follow the care instructions for your specific sneakers. Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean the uppers.
Replacing Laces:
Replace your laces when they become worn or frayed.
Final Verdict
Mastering how to lace the two holes on sneakers is a small skill with a big impact. With the right techniques, you can transform your sneakers from ordinary to extraordinary. Experiment with different styles, find what works best for you and your shoes, and most importantly, have fun!
Keep practicing, and you’ll be lacing like a pro in no time. Your sneakers (and your feet) will thank you. Now go out there and show off your perfectly laced kicks!
Recommended Products
