If it’s been a while since elementary school, and you’re starting to feel discomfort in lacing your hiking boots, don’t worry. How to lace up hiking boots? This will not irritate you more.
We have the perfect remedy to help keep you on the trail – re-lacing these trusty companions with one of three methods. First up is creating a Surgeon’s Knot; this simple yet versatile trick will prevent troublesome heel slipping.
Window Lacing follows next – tailor-made for easing pressure points around the top foot area; this technique works wonders when combined with our last option: Toe-Relief Lacing. This creative lacing style is an effective stopgap fix until returning home or anywhere else along your journey.
How The Lacing Works
As any experienced hiker or climber knows, a perfect-fitting pair of boots is essential for comfort and safety. The size and width are paramount when selecting your walking or mountain gear – but it doesn’t end there. You can adjust the fit to different terrain conditions with two-zone lacing systems. Get more tips on finding that perfectly snug yet comfortable fit here: 4 tips for a perfect fit.
Zone 1
A snug fit is achieved with the lacing threaded through eyelets over the instep to add tension throughout your foot for a secure and comfortable stride.
Zone 2
Our upper boot features groundbreaking lace-hook technology which provides a secure fit, holding the ankle and heel in place for utmost comfort. The deep-pull lacing hooks are especially important; they keep your foot snugly anchored to prevent slipping, minimizing potential blistering.
Common Boot Lacing Techniques
Loop
Upgrade your shoe-lacing game with the marathon loop. This method is perfect for sneakers or low-cut shoes, as it requires creating a neat and secure loop around each hook.
First, lace down from one eyelet to make your first loop; then, take the loose end and thread it across the entire shoe before pulling through on the opposing side. Tie off in your favorite knot – now you’re ready to hit that finish line like a pro.
Surgeon’s knot
Lock your heel securely into the boot with a crisscross pattern of laces. Start at the top, give it two turns around itself before snaking up to each eyelet until you reach desired support – no need for tightness here. This will keep your foot steady, making every step comfortable and secure.
Overhand knot
Securing the fit of your shoes just got a lot simpler – with either overhand lacing or surgeon’s knotting, it takes only one simple twist to create an effective locking system and keep those pesky slip-ups away.
Other Lacing Techniques
Low-Cut Shoe Heel Lock
Secure your foot optimally with a snug heel pocket and much lace work. Leave some slack when you thread through the double eyelet loop at the top of your shoe so that discomfort will never be an issue. This method ensures stability and blood circulation for feet ready to tackle any obstacle.
Boot Heel Lock
To evenly disperse weight, tie an intricate knot between two eyelets using the laces – going up and then through before continuing in a steady climb.
Low Volume
If you’re feeling the pinch of low volume or narrow feet, why not try one of these “locking” techniques? With some experimentation, finding exactly what works best for your comfort and performance can be easy. Don’t overdo it, though; keeping the pressure at bay is key.
High Instep
Try skipping over it when lacing your shoes to ease the discomfort of having a high instep. An alternative locking procedure can help keep them secure and provide extra cushioning around the pressure points – here’s how.
Special Knot Techniques
With your boot firmly on and laces ready to tie off, ensure they’re not too tight. The last thing you want is unnecessary strain nipping at the eyelets of your beloved boots. Take a few moments beforehand to slightly loosen up their hold – this will help keep them nice for longer. Now go ahead, get those bows tied in satisfaction.
Square Knot
To fasten a square knot, start by creating an overhand loop. Then take the two ends and weave them together in a specific pattern: the right side passes over the left before shifting to the opposite direction – with the left crossing on top of the right. The final result is perfected when the loops point sideways like small bows – perfect for hiking or staying put while walking.
Granny Knot
If you need a lightweight knot, the granny is perfect – but beware. This classic tie may slip if exposed to too much stress or movement. Recognize it by its unique loops, which point both up and down.