If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to the laces on your hiking boots. You just figure they’re probably long enough; if they’re not, you can always replace them with a longer pair.
But what if you could find the perfect length laces for your boots?
That would be ideal, right?
Well, it turns out that there is such a thing as the perfect length for your boot laces, and it depends on the number of eyelets length on your boots.
If you have a boot with 16 or fewer eyelets, the average lace length is 63 inches. However, if you have a boot with more than 16 eyelets, you’ll need a longer lace – the average length for boots with more than 16 eyelets is 84 inches.
Read our full guide to learn more about determining the right length laces for your hiking boots, how to measure your laces, and tips for tying your boot laces.
How To Determine The Right Length Laces For Your Hiking Boots
When you’re lacing up your hiking shoes, the last thing you want is your laces to come undone mid-hike. It is annoying and can also be dangerous if you’re in a remote location.
So how can you ensure that your laces have the right lace length?
The easiest way to do this is to check the number of eyelets on your shoes. Let’s take a closer look :
Under 16 Eyelets
If your boots have 16 or fewer eyelet pairs, you’ll need laces that are 63 inches long on average.
Between 16 and 20 Eyelets
If your boots have between 16 and 20 lace hooks, you’ll need laces that are 72 inches long on average.
Over 20 Eyelets
If your boots have more than 20 eyelet pairs, you’ll need laces that are 84 inches long on average.
As you can see, the number of eyelets on your shoes will determine the shoelace length based on the average size.
Keep in mind that these are just averages – your old laces may be a bit longer or shorter and still work well for your shoes.
Other Factors That Contribute to Different Length Laces for Hiking Boots
In addition to the number of eyelets, a few other factors can contribute to the different lengths of shoelaces for hiking boots.
Boot Height
The height of your boot will also affect the shoelace length. Taller boots will require longer laces, while shorter shoes can get away with shorter shoelaces.
The reason for this is that taller boots cover more of your leg, which means the laces need to be long enough to reach all the way up the boot.
On the other hand, shorter shoes don’t cover your leg as much, so the shoelaces don’t need to be as long.
Width of Boot
Another factor that comes into play is the width of the boot. Narrower boots will require shorter laces because there’s less surface area for the shoelaces to cover.
Wider boots will need longer laces because there’s more surface area for the shoelaces to cover.
Low top hiking shoes will need shorter laces than high top hiking shoes.
Width of the Eyelets
The width of the eyelets can also contribute to the different lengths of laces. Wider eyelets will need longer laces so that you can tie them properly.
For example, if you have wide-set eyes, you might need to use laces that are a few inches longer than usual.
On the other hand, if your eyes are closer together, you might be able to get away with using shorter laces.
Ultimately, it is important to experiment with different lace lengths to find what works best for you, no matter what length the original laces are. Don’t be afraid to mix and match until you find the perfect combination.
Type of Terrain
The type of terrain you’ll be hiking on can also affect the shoelace length. If you’re hiking on rougher terrain, you may need longer laces to double-knot them for extra security.
For example, if you’re hiking on rocky ground or through thick underbrush, you’ll want to make sure your laces are long enough to allow you to tie them securely.
On the other hand, if you’re hiking on smoother trails, shorter laces may be sufficient.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider the terrain you’ll be hiking on when choosing the length of your laces.
By taking into account the challenges of the trail, you can ensure that your laces will provide the optimal level of support and security.
Regardless of the factors involved, make sure you choose the right length laces for your hiking boots so that you can enjoy a comfortable and safe hike.
How To Measure Your Current Laces
If you’re not sure if your current laces are the right length, it’s easy to measure them. Just follow these steps :
1. Unlace your shoes and lay the laces flat on a surface.
2. Use a ruler or tape measure to measure the laces from end to end.
3. Compare your measurements to the average length for your boot’s eyelet count (as mentioned above).
4. If your laces are too short or too long, you’ll need to replace them with the right length.
Now that you know how to measure your current laces, let’s take a look at some tips for tying your Hiking boot laces.
Types Of Knots To Tie Your Hiking Boot Laces
There are a few different knots you can use to tie your hiking boot laces. Let’s take a closer look:
The Standard Knot
This is the most common way to tie your laces and is probably the knot you use most often in your everyday life.
To tie a standard knot, simply thread one lace over the other and pull tight. You can then tuck the excess lace under the loop or trim it off.
This knot is quick and easy to tie but is not the most secure. If you’re hiking on rough terrain, you might want to consider using a different knot.
The surgeon’s Knot
The surgeon’s knot is a little more complicated than the standard knot, but it’s also more secure.
To tie a surgeon’s knot, start by threading one lace over the other and pulling tight. Then, take the end of the top lace and thread it underneath the bottom lace. Finally, pull both laces tight.
This knot is more secure than the standard knot but can be a little tricky to tie at first. With a little practice, you’ll be able to tie it quickly and easily.
The Double Knot
The double knot is similar to the standard knot but adds an extra step. To tie a double knot, start by threading one lace over the other and pulling tight.
Then, take the end of the top lace and thread it over the bottom lace. Finally, pull both laces tight and tuck the excess lace under the loop.
This knot is even more secure than the surgeon’s knot and is a good choice if you’re hiking on rough terrain.
The only downside is that it can be a little tricky to untie, so ensure you’re comfortable with the knot before using it.
Window Lacing
Window lacing is a good choice if you’re looking for a secure knot that’s also easy to tie and untie.
To tie window lacing, start by threading one lace over the other and pulling tight.
Then, take the end of the top lace and thread it under the bottom lace. Finally, pull both laces tight and tuck the excess lace under the loop.
This knot is secure and easy to tie and untie, making it a good choice for all types of hikes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the length of your hiking boot laces will depend on the number of eyelets on your shoes and the height and width of your shoes.
Other factors such as the width of the eyelets and the type of terrain can also affect the length of your laces.
Ultimately, it is important to experiment with different lace lengths to find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to mix and match until you find the perfect combination.
Now that you know how to determine the right length for your laces, measure your current ones and replace them if necessary.
And finally, follow our tips for tying your laces so that you can enjoy a comfortable and safe hike.
