How to Add Extra Grip to Shoelaces for a Secure Knot
Alright, let’s be real. There’s nothing more annoying than having to stop mid-run, hike, or even just a walk through the city because your shoelaces came undone. It messes with your rhythm, makes you feel clumsy, and can even be dangerous. And sure, you could double knot and hope for the best—but sometimes that just doesn't cut it.
That’s where grippy shoelaces come in. Whether you're lacing up for a marathon, a trail hike, or a skate session at the park, having shoelaces that stay tied matters way more than people give it credit for. That extra grip isn't just about convenience—it keeps you moving, safe, and focused.
So let’s dig into the hows and whys of getting a more secure knot with techniques, tips, and a few handy tricks.
Understanding the Basics of Shoelace Tying
Shoelaces might seem basic, but there’s a surprising amount of science and craft behind them.
Types of Shoelaces:
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Flat laces — They lie flat, spread tension nicely, and are less likely to come undone. Popular in sneakers.
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Round laces — Slim, stylish, but tend to loosen more easily. Usually seen in boots and dress shoes.
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Cotton laces — Classic and comfy, but can absorb moisture and stretch over time.
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Synthetic laces — Durable, slicker surface, often found in athletic shoes. Great for performance but not always the best grip unless modified.
Basic Secure Knot:
Even before we get fancy, a good ol' basic knot done right can save your day. Start with a solid overhand knot, loop your bunny ears, cross them over, and pull through. But here’s the catch—make sure the loops are even and pull the final knot tight horizontally, not upward. That little tweak makes a huge difference.
Advanced Knot Techniques for Extra Security
If you want to level up, here’s where it gets fun.
Surgeon’s Knot:
Loved by hikers and runners alike, this knot adds friction and grip to the tie.
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Tie your standard overhand knot.
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Before you make the loops (bunny ears), wrap the laces around each other twice instead of once.
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Then proceed with your regular knot.
That extra wrap gives it just enough resistance to hold firm, even under tension.
Runner’s Loop (Heel Lock):
This one’s a godsend for runners.
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Lace your shoes normally until the second-to-last eyelet.
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Instead of crossing over, go straight into the top eyelet on the same side, forming loops.
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Cross the laces and thread them through the loops on the opposite side.
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Pull tight and tie your knot.
Boom. Locked-in heel, no more shifting.
Parallel Lacing:
Especially good for folks with high arches.
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Instead of criss-crossing, thread the lace straight across each set of eyelets.
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Go up vertically and then across again.
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Finish with a secure knot on top.
It reduces pressure on the top of the foot and helps distribute the tightness evenly.
Innovative Methods to Enhance Shoelace Grip
You don’t have to just tie harder. Sometimes, the secret’s in the materials.
Waxed Laces & Textured Laces:
Waxed laces are lowkey game-changers. The wax adds natural grip and keeps them from slipping through the eyelets too easily. Textured or braided laces have a similar effect by adding friction.
Lace Locks & Add-ons:
Lace locks or toggles are clutch for keeping tension exactly where you want it. Once it’s locked in, you’re not fiddling every few minutes. Great for quick adjustments too.
Some setups use anti-slip laces with special coatings or interwoven textures designed specifically to stay put. No extra steps, just lace ‘em and forget ‘em.
DIY Solutions for Grippy Shoelaces
Feeling crafty? You can actually boost grip on your current laces with a few at-home tricks.
Rubber Cement or Silicone:
Yep, you read that right. Lightly dab rubber cement or silicone on parts of your lace. Not too much—just enough to create texture. Let it dry fully before using. Instant anti-slip laces.
Other Household Hacks:
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Run sandpaper lightly over the lace surface to roughen them up.
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Wrap a small rubber band around each loop before tying for hidden grip.
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Use heat-shrink tubing near the knot zone for added friction.
They may not look fancy, but these tricks get the job done in a pinch.
Knotting Tweaks:
Try using a double-loop at the final tie, or even a square knot finish if you’re not planning to untie often. For skate shoes or high-top boots, feed the last loop back under the tied laces for a neat, locked-in finish.
Choosing the Right Laces for Your Needs
Let’s talk shopping strategy.
Match Laces to the Activity:
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Running? Go flat, waxed, or anti-slip with a bit of flex.
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Hiking? Think thick, durable, and weather-resistant.
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Everyday casual? Comfort is key. Cotton blends or textured synthetics win.
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Style points? Leather or colored rope laces bring personality.
Lace Length Tips:
Short laces = less slack, but too short means no double knot. Long laces = more freedom, but risk of dragging or catching. Always match your lace length to your shoe's eyelet count.
Material Breakdown:
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Polyester: Durable and water-resistant.
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Cotton: Breathable but can fray.
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Leather: Stylish but not built for all-day wear.
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Nylon: High strength, minimal stretch.
Mix it up depending on what your day demands.
Maintenance and Care for Durable Shoelaces
Alright, once you've found the perfect pair of laces, don't just forget about 'em.
Clean Gently:
Hand-wash in warm water with mild soap. No bleach. No dryer. Air dry flat.
Untie After Use:
It might sound extra, but untying after every wear helps prevent warping and keeps the lace tips from shredding.
Store Smart:
Spare laces? Keep them in a clean, dry pouch. Avoid stuffing them into the depths of a gym bag where they’ll get wrecked.
Keeping your laces locked in and grippy isn’t just a style thing—it’s about comfort, performance, and safety. Whether you're out on a trail, in the gym, or hitting pavement downtown, the right knot, lace type, and small upgrades go a long way.
For those who want to step up their lace game, premium options like waxed or textured styles make a noticeable difference. Looking for variety? Lace Lab offers options that blend performance with style—for just about any type of shoe out there.
Don't settle for floppy, annoying shoelaces. Tie smart, walk better.
FAQs
1. How to tie shoelaces so they never come undone?
Use the surgeon’s knot or runner’s loop for extra security. Make sure loops are equal and pull the knot horizontally. Avoid slick or too-stiff laces if you're prone to loosening.
2. What are the best shoelaces for sports shoes?
Flat, waxed laces or anti-slip laces with some elasticity. They stay tied better and adjust well with foot movement.
3. Can you make regular shoelaces into no-tie laces?
Absolutely. Add a pair of lace locks or toggle stoppers. Elastic conversion kits also turn standard laces into stretchable, slip-on setups.
4. How often should I replace my shoelaces?
If they’re frayed, slick, or losing grip, it’s time. On average, every 6–9 months with regular use.
5. Are there eco-friendly shoelace options?
Yes, there are laces made from recycled polyester or organic cotton. For a mix of sustainability and durability, browse options that support both function and lower impact—some brands like Lace Lab offer laces that hit that sweet spot.
6. What makes a shoelace "grippy"?
Texture, coating (like wax), and material. Anything that creates friction helps the knot hold. Some laces are engineered specifically to stay put with minimal effort.