5 Different Types of Shoelaces

Sep 15 , 2021

Jhuti

Tags - Types of Shoelaces

You might think you know a lot about shoes, but have you ever given much thought to your shoelaces?

You tie and untie them everyday without thinking about it, but it’s good to be aware of what they’re made from so you know how to look after them and make them last longer.

Let’s face it, no one wants to replace their laces every few weeks because they’ve broken.

Here are 5 different types of shoelaces that are commonly used in everyday shoes.

1. Cotton

Cotton is a popular shoelace choice on tennis shoes or fashion shoes like Converse or Vans.

Typically cotton shoelaces are white, but they are available in a whole range of colours like red, blue, black, pink, glittery ones, reflective ones - you name it!

Cotton shoelaces can come in round or flat styles; this has no effect on their performance and ultimately depends on your preference.

Luckily, cotton shoelaces are super easy to clean. Simply take them out of the shoe and wash with cold water. Then let them fry in a cool, bright place and because they’re thin, they should be ready the following day.

But, if cleaning them sounds like too much effort - don’t worry. Cotton is cheap so you can easily replace them without breaking the bank, and they’re available almost anywhere.

2. Polyester

Polyester is more durable than cotton and these laces are often found on work shoes and boots due to its water resistant properties.

Shoes like ice skating boots or require textured polyester laces as they’re less likely to get tangled and put the skater in danger, for example.

Unlike cotton, textured polyester shoelaces come in a limited colour choice, so you’ll most likely be stuck with white or black.

Nevertheless, they can be easily cleaned in the washing machine and should last a long time.

3. Rawhide

Rawhide is leather that has not been exposed to tanning.

And you would have definitely seen these in shoes over the years.

Typically, rawhide laces are paired with moccasins or boat shoes and they have great durability; they’re great for outdoor shoes.

Although they’re not the most refined shoelace option, they’re quite hard to beat: they’ll never snap on you but they’re not the easiest to tie up either, so they can sometimes be a bit of a hassle.

Compared to other options, rawhide laces are less supple and knots can easily come undone.

4. Flat Waxed

Flat waxed laces are usually found in service boots and for good reason too!

Despite the weird, sticky residue it leaves on your hands, it’s used to give the laces strength and ensure they can face even the toughest elements outside.

Think about it, if you’re wearing heavy duty boots with cotton laces - they’re not exactly going to hold up are they?

Shoes like service boots are designed to protect the wearer’s feet and adding wax to laces will do the same for them too no matter the circumstance.

5. Nylon

Nylon is another durable shoelace option. It’s a thick material and tangle resistant, and it repels dirt and water with ease - what’s not to love?

Well, they’re slightly more on the expensive side compared to the other options listed above. But they’re definitely worth the investment considering how long they last.

Generally, nylon laces are used for boots that are going to be well and truly used, like hiking or snow boots or even in the military. And because nylon laces are thicker than the other options, you’ll have an easy time lacing them up, even with gloves on in the winter.

The Bottom Line

Go take a look at your favourite shoes now and see if you recognise any of these types of shoelaces mentioned above.

Other than the colour, you should now have a better idea of the different materials used to make shoe laces and the styles of shoes they’re used for.

In the meantime, check out our extended range of comfortable shoes.