How to Lace Up Equestrian Long Boots

Unlike paddock boots or regular shoes, tall boot laces don't tie at the opening of the boot. Someone, probably hundreds of years ago, decided tall boots should tie in the middle of the row of laces. Trying to identify the right boot lace configuration can leave the weary rider frazzled and downright annoyed. Here's the catch, it's really not that hard. Just follow along with the diagram and you'll be laced up in just a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• 45- to 47-inch boot laces

Instructions

1. 

   Extend the boot lace so it isn't looped or folded. Insert one end through the outside of Hole #1. Pull it through until there is 8 to 9 inches of lace left on the outside.

2. Insert the lace on the underside of Hole #2, pulling the slack all the way through. Make sure you leave the 8 to 9 on the outside of Hole #1.

3. Cross the lace over to Hole #3, inserting it on the outside and pulling it through the inside. Repeat the process until you get to Hole #7. If you have more holes on your boot than are noted on the diagram, just keep going until you reach the top right hole.

4. Cross the lace beneath all the lacing you just performed, inserting the end into the inside of Hole #8. Cross it over and insert it into the outside of Hole #9.

5. Repeat the upward lacing pattern until you reach Hole #14, or the last hole on your boot.

6. Tie the two ends of the lace in a double knot.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all boots have the same number of holes. The more holes you have, the less lace you'll have to pull through Hole #1.