How to Lace Hiking Boots

Lace your hiking boots tightly to prevent sprained ankles.

Tying the laces of your hiking boots before hitting the trials can mean the difference between having a successful hike or suffering a serious injury, such as sprained ankles and knees. Hiking boots are designed with extra comfort and good treading to provide support to your lower legs, especially your ankles. Most boots are equipped with D-shaped rings, which make it easier to lace up during times of darkness or cold fingers.

Instructions

1. Pull one end of the shoe lace through one of the bottom D-shaped rings. Repeat with the other end of the shoe lace, except through the other D ring.

2. Make a crisscross pattern with the laces, sliding and pulling them to the next set of D rings and so forth. For example, if you started lacing from the bottom left, you would go to the next D ring on the right side and vice-versa.

3. Tighten the laces each time they pass through the D ring by slightly tugging on them. Continue Steps 2 and 3 until you finish weaving the laces through each ring.

4. Tie the top portion of your laces in a knot, similar to tying your laces on a regular shoe. If you have another preference of tying your shoe laces, follow your own shoe-tying technique. Pull the knot tightly to prevent any feet movement within the shoe.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on the difficulty of your hiking terrain, improper lacing and fastening of knots can result in slipping that can cause serious injuries such as ankle and knee sprains.

References

• Hit the Trail: Boot lacing Technique
• Go For a Walk: Footwear for Hiking