INFORMACIÓN DE MODA, TECNOLOGÍA Y MERCADOS PARA LA INDUSTRIA DEL CALZADO
NEWS | TECHNICAL
TECHNICAL | 15/10/2026

Choosing the right shoelaces

Recommendations and descriptions of the main types of shoelaces, based on the characteristics and functions required for different footwear categories.

Shoelaces are a defining component of footwear, despite the existence of laceless designs. The following examples illustrate the main types and their characteristics, along with recommendations for different footwear categories. Each image is a close-up highlighting the texture, material and specific type of shoelace in its ideal application.


1. Formal / Dress Footwear (Oxford)

  • Recommendation: Thin, round waxed cotton laces.
  • Description: A detailed close-up of an impeccable black patent leather Oxford shoe. The very thin (2 mm), round, black waxed lace is threaded through blind eyelets, subtly reflecting light while maintaining a firm, elegant structure.

2. Casual / Urban Footwear

  • Recommendation: Thin, flat combed cotton laces.

  • Description: A close-up of a casual Derby shoe in sand-colored suede. The thin, flat lace (5 mm), made from light brown combed cotton, crosses through metal eyelets, revealing the soft, matte texture of the natural fiber.

3. Classic / Fashion Sneakers

  • Recommendation: Wide, flat heavyweight cotton laces.
  • Description: A detailed view of a retro-style white canvas sneaker. The lace is flat and very wide (9 mm), made from heavyweight cotton with a visible, sturdy weave that fills the large eyelets, adding volume and a casual appearance.

4. Sports / Running Footwear

  • Recommendation: Flat, ribbed high-tenacity polyester laces.

  • Description: A technical close-up of a high-performance running shoe with breathable mesh. The flat blue polyester lace features subtle transverse ribs that prevent the knot from slipping under vibration.

5. Work Boots / Outdoor Footwear

  • Recommendation: Thick, round laces with a nylon or Kevlar core.
  • Description: A close-up of a rugged mountain boot made from oiled leather. The lace is round and very thick (6 mm), brown with yellow flecks, made from braided nylon over an inner core, designed to withstand tension and abrasion against metal speed hooks.

6. Boat Shoes

  • Recommendation: Square-cut strips of heavy cowhide leather.
  • Description: A detailed view of a classic dark brown leather boat shoe with a white rubber sole. The lace is a square-cut strip of raw, medium-brown leather, threaded through the perimeter eyelets and tied in a barrel knot, revealing the natural texture and stiffness of the leather.

7. Technical Footwear (No-Tie)

  • Recommendation: Elastic laces with a quick-lacing system.

  • Description: A detailed close-up of a technical trail running shoe. The gray elastic lacing system is tensioned by a black plastic, spring-loaded quick-release mechanism, with no visible knot, allowing immediate adjustment.

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