Ah, Sperry sneakers. Those iconic shoes. They’re stylish, comfortable, and perfect for a casual day out. But what happens when your laces get frayed, worn out, or simply aren’t looking their best? Time for a refresh! Relacing your Sperry sneakers is a simple task that can breathe new life into your favorite footwear. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in how they look and feel.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering your supplies to achieving that perfect, polished finish. We’ll cover everything, including how to choose the right laces, the proper techniques for lacing, and some tips for maintaining your newly laced sneakers. Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or new to the world of shoe maintenance, you’ll find this guide easy to follow and incredibly helpful. Let’s get started and give those Sperrys a fresh look!
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather your supplies. Having everything ready makes the process much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- New Laces: This is the most important item. Choose laces that match the original style or experiment with a new color or material. Consider the length; measure your old laces or consult a sizing guide.
- Scissors or a Lighter (Optional): For trimming and sealing the ends of your laces.
- Tweezers or a Small Tool (Optional): To help thread the laces through the eyelets, especially if the aglets are damaged.
- Your Sperry Sneakers: The stars of the show! Make sure they’re clean and ready for their makeover.
Choosing the Right Laces
Selecting the right laces is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. Here’s what to consider:
Type of Lace
Sperry sneakers often come with flat or round laces. Consider the original style of your sneakers. Flat laces typically offer a more modern look, while round laces provide a classic, nautical feel. If you’re unsure, try to match the original type or experiment with a different style. Other options include:
- Flat Laces: Common and versatile, good for a clean look.
- Round Laces: Classic and often found on boat shoes and sneakers.
- Waxed Laces: Offer a polished look and are water-resistant.
- Rope Laces: Give a more rugged, outdoorsy aesthetic.
Material
Lace material impacts durability and appearance. Common materials include:
- Cotton: Soft and comfortable, but can fray easily.
- Polyester: Durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Nylon: Strong and water-resistant.
- Leather: Premium look, often waxed for durability.
Color and Style
This is where you can personalize your sneakers. Consider the following:
- Matching Colors: Choose laces that closely match the original color for a classic look.
- Complementary Colors: Pick a color that complements the shoe’s primary color.
- Contrast Colors: Use a contrasting color for a bold statement.
- Patterns: Consider patterned laces for a unique touch.
Length of Laces
Getting the right length is important. Measure your old laces before ordering new ones. If you don’t have the old laces, use the following guide: (See Also: How to Clean Suede Vans Sneakers: A Step-by-Step Guide)
| Number of Eyelets per Side | Recommended Lace Length |
|---|---|
| 3-4 Eyelets | 27-30 inches (69-76 cm) |
| 5-6 Eyelets | 36-40 inches (91-102 cm) |
| 7-8 Eyelets | 45-50 inches (114-127 cm) |
Step-by-Step Relacing Guide
Now, let’s get down to business. Follow these steps to relace your Sperry sneakers:
Step 1: Remove the Old Laces
Carefully remove the old laces. Untie the knots and pull the laces out of the eyelets. It’s a good idea to take note of how the old laces were threaded, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. You can even take a picture for reference. This will make it easier to replicate the original lacing style or create your own.
Step 2: Threading the Laces
There are several lacing styles you can choose from. Here are two popular methods:
Criss-Cross Lacing (most Common)
- Start at the Bottom: Insert the lace ends from the bottom, going up through the first pair of eyelets. Ensure the lace ends are of equal length.
- Criss-Cross: Cross the laces over each other and insert them through the next set of eyelets, going from the outside in.
- Continue: Repeat the criss-cross pattern until you reach the top eyelets.
- Adjust: Ensure the laces are snug but not too tight.
Straight Bar Lacing
- Start at the Bottom: Insert the lace ends from the bottom, going up through the first pair of eyelets.
- Straight Across: Bring one lace straight across to the opposite eyelet on the same side, going from the outside in.
- Up and Across: Bring the lace up to the next eyelet on the opposite side, going from the inside out.
- Repeat: Continue this pattern until you reach the top.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
Once you’ve laced your sneakers, there are a few finishing touches to consider:
- Tie the Knot: Tie your laces using your preferred knot. Experiment with different knots for a unique look.
- Trim Excess (Optional): If the laces are too long, trim them with scissors.
- Seal the Ends (Optional): If you trimmed the laces, you can seal the ends to prevent fraying. Use a lighter to carefully melt the ends or apply a small amount of clear nail polish.
- Adjust and Tighten: Make sure the laces are comfortable and the sneakers fit well. Adjust the tightness as needed.
Advanced Lacing Techniques
For those looking to get creative, consider these advanced lacing techniques:
Bar Lacing
This method creates a clean, parallel look. Thread the laces horizontally across each pair of eyelets.
Hiker’s Lacing
This technique provides extra support and can help prevent your heel from slipping. It involves a specific lacing pattern with a ‘heel lock’ at the top. (See Also: Are Sneakers Called Kicks? The Ultimate Sneaker Slang Guide)
This method hides the knot inside the shoe for a cleaner appearance. It requires a bit more effort to tie, but it creates a sleek look.
Maintaining Your Newly Laced Sneakers
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your laces and sneakers:
Cleaning Your Laces
Wash your laces periodically to keep them clean. You can hand-wash them with soap and water or toss them in a mesh laundry bag and machine-wash them. Replace laces when they become too dirty or frayed.
Protecting Your Sneakers
Use a shoe protector spray to protect your sneakers from dirt and stains. This will keep your shoes looking fresh longer.
Storing Your Sneakers
Store your sneakers in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the colors of your laces and shoes. Consider using shoe trees to maintain the shape of your sneakers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to solve them:
Laces Are Too Long
Trim the excess lace and seal the ends (as described above). (See Also: How Many Miles on Running Sneakers? Your Ultimate Guide)
Laces Are Too Short
Order longer laces. In the meantime, adjust the lacing style to conserve lace length.
Laces Keep Untying
Try different knotting techniques or use waxed laces, which tend to stay tied better.
Eyelets Are Damaged
If the eyelets are damaged, you may need to take your sneakers to a shoe repair shop for professional repair or consider replacing the eyelets yourself if you have the skills.
Final Verdict
Relacing your Sperry sneakers is a simple yet rewarding task. With a little time and the right materials, you can easily refresh the look of your favorite shoes and make them feel brand new. Remember to choose the right laces, use the proper lacing techniques, and maintain your sneakers for long-lasting style and comfort. Enjoy your newly laced Sperrys!
Relacing your Sperry sneakers might seem like a small detail, but it can significantly impact both the look and feel of your footwear. By following these steps, you can easily refresh your sneakers and keep them looking their best. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lace colors and styles to personalize your look. Happy lacing, and enjoy your stylish Sperrys!
Remember to regularly check your laces for wear and tear and replace them as needed. With a little care and attention, your Sperry sneakers will continue to be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. Relacing is a simple act of care, that shows you value your footwear, and enjoy a fresh look.
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