Shoelaces: how to choose length, color, and style
Shoelaces — one of the cheapest and quickest ways to refresh your shoes and express your style. By replacing simple white laces with leopard print, reflective, or glittery ones, you can transform the same pair of shoes into something completely new in just a couple of minutes. In this guide, we'll explain how to choose the right shoelace length, width, color, how to lace them, and how to care for them.
- Length depends on the number of eyelet pairs: for low-top sneakers ~60–120 cm, for high-top shoes ~120–140 cm.
- Flat laces are most popular for sneakers; round laces are suitable for classic shoes.
- Color and pattern change the character of the shoes — leopard, zebra, reflective, glittery.
- The price of new laces starts from €4.99 — cheaper than new shoes.
Why you should change your shoelaces
Laces are the smallest detail of a shoe that makes the biggest visual difference. There are at least three reasons to change them:
- Self-expression. A bold pattern or color immediately makes your shoes stand out from the crowd.
- Refreshment. Worn-out or dull laces make even good shoes look old — new ones "revitalize" them.
- Sustainability and cost. Instead of buying a new pair, you get the effect of "new" shoes for a few euros.
How to choose the right shoelace length
The correct length is the most important factor for laces to look good and tie comfortably. There are two simple ways to determine it:
- Measure the old lace. Remove the existing lace, straighten it, and measure it in centimeters — this is the most accurate method.
- Count the pairs of eyelets (pairs of holes on one side of the shoe) and refer to the table below.
Shoelace length chart
| Eyelet Pairs (per side) | Shoe Type | Recommended Length |
|---|---|---|
| 2–3 | Low-cut shoes, espadrilles | 45–60 cm |
| 3–4 | Low-top sneakers | 60–80 cm |
| 4–5 | Classic casual shoes | 90–110 cm |
| 5–6 | Higher "chunky" sneakers | 110–120 cm |
| 6–7 | High-top casual shoes | 120–140 cm |
| 7–8 | Boots, hiking boots | 140–160 cm |
Baltic Knots' versatile 120 cm and 140 cm laces are suitable for most sneakers and high-top shoes — these are the most popular lengths for everyday footwear refreshment.
Flat or round? Choosing width and shape
The shape of the laces changes both their appearance and how securely they stay tied:
- Flat laces — most popular for sneakers. They appear wider in the eyelets, better display the pattern, and hold a knot more securely.
- Round laces — more suitable for classic or leather shoes, providing a neat, more formal look.
When choosing the width, it's important that the lace can freely pass through the shoe's eyelets. A wide flat lace requires larger eyelets, typical for sneakers and "chunky" models.
Colors, patterns, and materials
It is the pattern that gives the shoes character. The most popular trends include:
- Animal prints — leopard, zebra, snake. Bold, fashionable, suitable for minimalist white shoes.
- Reflective laces — reflect light in the dark and increase safety when walking or cycling at night.
- Glittery laces — with glitter or metallic shades, perfect for an evening look.
- Solid colors (OG) — when you want a clean, neat tone that matches all styles.
How to lace and tie shoelaces
Lacing new laces takes a couple of minutes. The most popular methods are:
Criss-cross lacing (classic)
- Thread the lace through the bottom eyelets from the outside in, ensuring both ends are of equal length.
- Cross the ends and thread them through the next eyelet on the opposite side.
- Repeat until the top and tie a regular knot.
Straight lacing ("bar lacing")
This method creates neat horizontal bars and is often used for sneaker aesthetics. The lace runs straight across the eyelets, and the crossovers are hidden inside the shoes.
How to care for and wash shoelaces
- By hand: Soak in warm water with a drop of soap, rub, and rinse.
- In the machine: Place in a laundry bag and wash at 30 °C with clothes.
- Drying: Dry naturally, not on a radiator — this will preserve their shape and color.
Frequently asked questions
What length shoelaces do I need?
Depends on the number of eyelet pairs. For 3–4 pairs — 60–80 cm, for 4–5 pairs — 90–110 cm, for 6–7 pairs — 120–140 cm. The most accurate way is to measure an old lace.
Are reflective laces really visible in the dark?
Yes — they reflect headlight beams, making you more visible during darker hours.
Are these laces suitable for any shoes?
Flat laces are suitable for most sneakers and high-top shoes if you choose the right length and width.
How much do laces cost?
Baltic Knots laces start from €4.99, so you can refresh your shoes for just a few euros.
Refresh your shoes today
One pair of laces — and the same shoes look like new. Browse the entire shoelace collection: from animal prints to reflective and glittery options.