How to Tie Shoes the Skater Way

Skaters try their hardest to lace up their shoes as tightly as possible. They use several lacing techniques to achieve this. One of these techniques is called lock lacing, which helps to hold your heel firmly in the shoe. It is especially beneficial for rock climbers or downhill runners, who are both at risk of twisting their ankles and injuring themselves.

Things You'll Need

• Shoes
• Laces

Instructions

1. Thread the laces through the bottom eyelets, moving from the tongue of the shoe outwards.

2. Check that the two resulting laces are of equal length.

3. Cross the laces and pull them tight. Then thread them through the next set of eyelets, moving from the tongue of the shoe outwards.

4. Continue until you reach the second set of holes from the top of the shoe.

5. Instead of crossing the laces, pull them upwards and thread them through the top eyelets. Leave them loose.

6. Cross the laces and slip each one under the vertical section of the opposite lace. Pull to secure.

7. Tie the laces in a regular bow.

Tips & Warnings

• Use wax laces for additional friction, if desired.

• If your shoes are too loose on your feet, do not use lock lacing. Instead, buy a pair of shoes that fits more snugly.

Resources

• Illustration of Lock Lacing