Lacing tennis shoes is not a difficult thing and is quite essential. Loosely tied shoes can be uncomfortable and risky as they can quickly come off your feet while running or playing. As a result, you may succumb to injuries.
Likewise, shoes that are too tight can also be painful and cause blisters. Hence, it is essential to know how to lace tennis shoes properly. However, if you don’t know how to, don’t worry; we’re here to help. In this article, we will show you the step-by-step process of how to lace tennis shoes.
A Step By Step Guide
There are different ways to lace tennis shoes, and your method will depend on your preference. Some people like to lace their shoes tightly, while others prefer a looser fit. Here are two significant ways to lace your tennis shoes.
Method 1: Criss-Cross
Tennis shoes usually have two sets of eyelets, the inner and outer. For this method, follow these steps:
Ensure Both Ends of the Races Are Even
Start by untying your shoelaces and holding each end in one hand. You want to make sure that both ends are of even length. If one end is longer than the other, adjust it accordingly. This will make lacing easier and ensure a tight knot when you’re finished.
Thread One End Through the Eyelets
Now take one end of the lace and thread it through the bottom outside eyelet from front to back. Then, pull it up towards the top outside eyelet, ensuring there’s some slack. Next, thread this same lace under the inside eyelet from back to front before pulling it up towards the top outside eyelet again. You should now have two laces on either side of the shoe – one going over the top and one going under.
Thread the Other Lace Through the Eyelets
Take the other lace and thread it through the bottom inside eyelet from front to back. Again, ensure there’s some slack before pulling it up towards the top outside eyelet. Next, thread it under the outside eyelet from back to front before pulling it up towards the top outside eyelet. You should now have two laces on either side of your shoe – both going over the top.
Tighten and Knot The Laces
Now that both laces are in place, you can start tightening them by pulling on each end. Once tight enough, tie a knot at the end of each lace to keep them in place. And that’s it; you’re done!
Method 2: Two Lace Loops
This method is similar to the criss-cross method but has minor tweaks. The main difference is that you’ll create loops with your laces instead of threading them over and under the eyelets. Follow these steps:
Start With Laces Loose and Untied
This is the first step for any of the methods. Next, you’ll need to ensure your laces are entirely loose and the shoe is untied. Then, if you’re starting with new laces, thread one lace through each eyelet from the inside of the shoe towards the outside.
Tie a Basic Knot
Once the laces are in place, it’s time to tie a basic knot at the end of each lace. This will keep them from slipping out of the eyelets while working.
Create the First Lace Loop
Now it’s time to start creating loops with your laces. First, take one lace in each hand and cross them in the middle, ensuring that the lace in your left hand goes over the lace in your right hand. Then thread the lace in your left hand underneath the lace in your right hand and pull up on both laces until the loops are tight against the eyelets.
Create the Second Lace Loop
The second loop is created the same way as the first, except that you’ll cross the laces in the opposite direction. So this time, cross the lace in your right hand over the lace in your left hand before threading it underneath and pulling up on both laces.
Tighten and Tie Off
Once you’ve created both loops, it’s time to tighten them so that they’re snug against the shoe. You can do this by pulling on each end of the laces. Once they’re tight, tie off the laces in a basic knot, and you’re all done!
Why It’s Important to Lace Your Tennis Shoes Properly
While it may seem small, lacing your tennis shoes properly can make a big difference in your game.
Properly laced shoes will provide better support and stability. They’ll also help you maintain proper form and technique while playing. Lacing your tennis shoes correctly isn’t just crucial for style points; it can improve your game. That’s because adequately tied and supported shoes will help you maintain proper form and technique while playing and prevent injuries.
So next time you head to the court, take a few extra minutes to ensure that your shoelaces are tied correctly. It could make all the difference in your game.
Conclusion
Lacing your tennis shoes correctly is essential for style, proper form, and preventing injuries. There are many ways to lace them, but the two most popular methods are the criss-cross method and the two loops method. Whichever method you choose, ensure that your laces are tied securely so they don’t come undone during play. Why not try both methods mentioned above and choose one that is easier and more convenient for you?