Waxed boot laces have a wax coating that sheds water and dirt, grips the eyelets, and holds a knot better than plain laces, which makes them a good choice for leather boots, work boots, and dress boots. Lace Lab Waxed Shoe Laces come in 45", 54", and 63", which fits most boots with 5 to 8 eyelet and hook pairs. For heavier work and hiking boots or 72" lengths, Lace Lab Boot Laces are a heavy-duty polyester alternative.
Find your boot length in the shoelace size chart, including Timberland, Dr. Martens, and Red Wing.
Waxed laces vs. heavy-duty boot laces
| Waxed Shoe Laces | Boot Laces | |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Wax coated, slight sheen | Thick polyester |
| Lengths | 45", 54", 63" | 45", 54", 63", 72" |
| Best for | Dress boots, Dr. Martens, everyday leather boots | Work boots, hiking boots, snow boots, tall boots |
| Holds a knot | Very well | Well |
| Water and dirt | Sheds both | Durable for daily wear |
| Lace Lab style | Waxed Shoe Laces | Boot Laces |
Benefits of waxed boot laces
- Stay tied. The wax adds grip, so knots hold longer.
- Shed water and dirt. The coating helps laces stay cleaner in rain and mud.
- Resist fraying. Waxed fibers hold together at the tips and eyelets.
- Look sharper. A slight sheen dresses up leather boots.
What length waxed laces do boots need?
| Eyelet and hook pairs | Lace length |
|---|---|
| 3 (chukkas, Dr. Martens 1461) | 30", use Waxed Dress Shoelaces |
| 5 to 6 | 45" |
| 6 to 7 (Timberland 6-inch, Dr. Martens 1460) | 54" |
| 7 to 8 | 63" |
| 8 to 9 (tall boots) | 72", use Boot Laces |
How to use waxed laces on boots
- Remove the old laces and wipe the eyelets and hooks clean.
- Thread the bottom eyelets with even ends.
- Criss-cross or ladder lace up through the eyelets, then wrap the laces around the hooks from the outside in.
- Pull each section snug as you go, since waxed laces grip and don't slide back.
- Tie a double knot, or wrap and tuck the extra lace at the top.
For lacing patterns, see military-style boot lacing and how to lace Timberlands.
Caring for waxed and boot laces
- Wipe waxed laces with a damp cloth instead of soaking, which can strip the wax.
- Wash heavy-duty boot laces in warm water with a little Angelus Easy Cleaner and air dry.
- Condition leather boots with Angelus Mink Oil and protect them with Angelus Water & Stain Repellent.
FAQs
What are waxed boot laces?
Waxed boot laces have a wax coating that sheds water and dirt, grips the eyelets, and holds a knot better than plain laces.
Are waxed laces good for boots?
Yes, waxed laces suit leather, dress, and everyday boots because they stay tied, resist fraying, and look polished.
What lengths do Lace Lab waxed laces come in?
Lace Lab Waxed Shoe Laces come in 45, 54, and 63 inches.
What laces should I use for work boots?
Heavy-duty Lace Lab Boot Laces in 45 to 72 inches are made for work, hiking, and snow boots.
How do you clean waxed laces?
Wipe waxed laces with a damp cloth instead of soaking them, which can strip the wax coating.
Laces for every boot
Shop Waxed Shoe Laces in 45" to 63" and heavy-duty Boot Laces in 45" to 72".
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