How to choose shoelaces for men's shoes? Colors, materials, binding methods

Why do shoelaces matter?

Red or blue? Subdued or expressive? Leather or fabric? Laces are a detail that is often overlooked, but is of great importance for the final appearance of the shoes and the entire styling.

Properly selected laces can change the appearance of shoes - add character, match their style or, on the contrary, spoil an elegant outfit with the wrong color or material.

In this guide, you'll learn how to match shoelaces to your shoes, what color and material they should be, and what lacing methods look best.

How to choose the color of shoelaces?

Rule 1: Match the color of your shoes

This is the safest and most elegant option:
- Black shoes → black laces
- Brown shoes → brown laces (match the shade - light brown for light shoes, dark brown for dark shoes)
- Burgundy shoes → burgundy or dark brown laces
- Navy blue shoes → navy blue or black laces

Rule 2: Match the most dominant color in the outfit

If you wear navy blue pants and brown shoes, you can choose navy blue laces - you will create a subtle combination.

Rule 3: Contrasts for sneakers

You can experiment with casual sneakers - white shoes with black laces, black shoes with white laces. This adds character and is acceptable in streetwear.

Rule 4: Avoid bright colors in formal shoes

Red, yellow or green laces in Oxfords or Derby shoes are a fashion faux pas. Leave them for sneakers and very casual shoes.

Shoelace materials – what to choose?

Leather laces

When: Elegant formal shoes (Oxfords, Derby, Brogue)
Why: They look luxurious, match the character of leather shoes, and do not unravel.
Attention: Less durable than cotton, they may crack under high tension.

Cotton flat shoelaces

When: Sneakers, casual shoes, canvas shoes
Why: Durable, easily accessible, comfortable, and hold well.
Attention: They can come unraveled - use a double knot.

Cotton round shoelaces

When: Trekking shoes, work boots, sports shoes
Why: Very durable, easy to lace, do not unravel.
Attention: They look too sporty in elegant shoes.

Waxed laces

When: Work boots, ankle boots, Chelsea boots, hiking boots
Why: Water resistant, very durable, holds the knot well and does not unravel.
Attention: They may be more difficult to tie.

Elastic laces (no tie)

When: Sports shoes, sneakers for everyday use
Why: Convenience - no need to tie them, ideal for older people or people with mobility problems.
Attention: Not suitable for elegant shoes.

Shoelace length – how to choose?

General rule:
Length = number of holes × 15 cm + 30 cm for the bow

Length table:
- 2-3 holes: 60-70 cm
- 4-5 holes: 75-90 cm
- 6-7 holes: 100-120 cm
- 8-9 holes: 130-150 cm
- 10+ holes (high shoes): 150-180 cm

How to check?
Fold an old shoelace in half and measure - this will be the optimal length.

Lacing methods - which method to choose?

Criss-Cross (classic)

The most popular and universal method. The shoelace is crossed alternately. Perfect for all types of shoes.

Straight Bar (straight grille)

Elegant, minimalist - the laces run straight horizontally. Looks great in Oxfords and formal shoes. More difficult to tighten.

Over-Under

Reduces friction and facilitates removal. Perfect for trekking and sports shoes.

Heel Lock (lock on the heel)

An additional loop at the last holes prevents the shoe from slipping off the heel. Perfect for runners and trekking.

Hidden Knot (hidden knot)

The bow is hidden inside the shoe - elegant, minimalist. Great for loafers and sneakers.

Ladder Lacing

Aesthetic and very strong - often used in the army. Great for work boots and trekking shoes.

Replacing and maintaining shoelaces

When to replace shoelaces?

- When they are damaged, frayed or dirty
- When they lost their elasticity
- When the plastic aglets have fallen off
- When they don't hold the knot

How to maintain shoelaces?

- Cotton: washing machine (place in a laundry bag), low temperature
- Leather: wipe with a damp cloth, apply a little leather cream
- Waxed: wipe with a dry cloth, do not soak

Where to buy replacement shoelaces?

- Shoe stores (basic colors)
- Online stores: Shoelaces Express, Amazon, AliExpress (wide selection of colors and materials)
- Shoe accessories stores: Tarrago, Kiwi

Summary

Shoelaces are a detail that matters. Properly selected - in color, material and length - they can emphasize the elegance of the shoes and complement the styling. The wrong ones can ruin even the best footwear.

Apply the principle of matching the color of shoes in formal situations, experiment with contrasts in sneakers, choose materials appropriate to the type of shoe and learn different lacing methods to find the most comfortable and aesthetic one.

Remember: changing laces is the easiest and cheapest way to refresh old shoes.