Skateboarding is a fun and challenging sport that requires both skill and proper gear. One of the most important pieces of gear is your skateboard shoes, which need to provide adequate support and grip while you’re riding. However, many skateboarders overlook the importance of properly lacing their shoes. Proper lacing can not only improve the fit and comfort of your shoes, but it can also enhance your performance and help prevent injuries.
In this article, we’ll go over the basics of how to lace skateboard shoes and the different lacing techniques you can try to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Factors To Consider When Lacing Skateboard Shoes
When lacing skateboard shoes, the following factors should be considered:
- Support: Proper lacing can provide added support for the ankles, which is crucial for skateboarding.
- Comfort: Looser lacing can provide more comfort for the feet, while tighter lacing can provide more control.
- Foot shape: The shape of your feet can affect the best way to lace your shoes. High arches, for example, may benefit from tighter lacing in the center of the shoe.
- Style of skateboarding: Different styles of skateboarding may require different lacing techniques. For example, vert skaters may prefer tighter lacing for better control, while street skaters may prefer looser lacing for more comfort.
- Shoe design: The design of the shoe can also affect the best way to lace it. Some shoes have specific eyelets or lacing configurations that work best with a certain lacing technique.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the best way to lace skateboard shoes is a matter of personal preference, so experiment to find what works best for you.
Different Lacing Techniques For Skateboard Shoes
Straight Lacing: This is the basic lacing technique where the shoelaces are threaded through each eyelet in a straight line. This is a good option for beginners as it is simple and easy to do.
Cross Lacing: Cross lacing involves crisscrossing the shoelaces in a diagonal pattern through the eyelets. This is a good option for those who need extra support for their ankles.
Loop Lacing: Loop lacing involves making loops with the shoelaces in between each eyelet. This technique is good for those who need extra support for their feet.
Bar Lacing: Bar lacing involves lacing the shoelaces straight through the first two eyelets, then making a loop around the third eyelet and going straight through the fourth eyelet. This technique is good for those who need extra support for their feet.
Staggered Lacing: Staggered lacing involves skipping one eyelet and lacing through the next. This is a good option for those who need extra space in their shoes.
Ladder Lacing: Ladder lacing involves weaving the shoelaces in and out of the eyelets in a ladder pattern. This is a good option for those who need extra space in their shoes.
Diamond Lacing: Diamond lacing involves making diamond-shaped loops with the shoelaces through each eyelet. This is a good option for those who need extra support for their feet.
Steps In Lacing Skateboard Shoes
- Choose the lacing pattern you want to use. Skateboard shoes can be laced in different patterns, including straight, criss-cross, and zigzag.
- Remove the laces from the shoes.
- Start lacing by threading one end of the lace through the bottom eyelet on one side of the shoe.
- Pull the lace through the eyelet so that there is an equal length of lace on both sides.
- Repeat the process for the other side, making sure the laces are tight.
- For the next eyelet, take the end of the lace from one side and thread it through the eyelet on the other side.
- Repeat this process for the other side.
- Continue lacing up the shoes, using your preferred pattern.
- When you reach the top of the shoes, tie a knot in the laces to secure them.
- Make sure the laces are tightened to your desired level of tightness.
- Finally, try on the shoes and make any adjustments needed to ensure a comfortable fit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lacing your skateboard shoes properly can enhance your performance and make them more comfortable to wear. Whether you prefer the traditional criss-cross method or a more specialized lacing pattern, following these steps will help you lace your shoes to meet your specific needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different lacing patterns to see what works best for you. Remember, a well-laced skateboard shoe can help you have a better and more enjoyable experience on your board.
