How to lace football (soccer) boots like a pro [2 easiest ways]

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If you’re like most people, you probably don’t put a lot of thought into how to lace football boots. But the truth is, the way you lace your boots can have a big impact on your game. In this blog post, we’ll show you the best way to lace your football boots and some top lacing techniques for maximum comfort and better performance.

How to lace football boots

If you’ve ever searched up ‘how to tie laces’ you’ll find a whole array of different tricks and techniques – some will make your mind boggle! But when it comes to football boots, there are really two ways to lace them that you need to know.

#1 The criss cross method.

There are a few different ways to lace your football boots, but our preferred method is the “criss-cross” method.

To do this, simply start at the bottom of the boot and thread the laces through the eyelets in an “X” pattern. Once you reach the top of the boot, make sure the laces are the same length, then tie the laces in a double knot. This method provides good support and tightens evenly across the foot.

criss cross diagonal laces instagram post

#2 The ladder method.

If you find that the criss-cross method is too tight or uncomfortable, you can try the “ladder” method. This involves threading the laces through the eyelets in a straight pattern, similar to how you would lace a regular pair of sneakers.

Once you reach the top of the boot, tie the laces in a double knot. This method is more relaxed and doesn’t provide as much support, but some people find it more comfortable. 

ladder laces football boots instagram post

How do you lace football boots step by step?

Step 1: Start at the bottom

Start by threading one side of the lace through the bottom eyelets on the boot. Then, thread the other side of the lace through the hole on the opposite side. This will create a “X” shape at the bottom of the boot. 

Step 2: Go up a level

Now, take both laces and thread them through the next set of holes above the last eyelets ones you just used. Once again, you should end up with a “X” shape, but this time it will be at the second level up from the bottom. 

Step 3: Repeat step 2 

Keep repeating step two and thread your laces through until you reach the top of the boot or soccer cleat. 

Step 4: Tie off the laces 

When you reach the top of the boot, tie off the laces so they don’t come undone. For this you can do two lace loops like bunny ears in a bow and pull them tight in a double knot. You can also use the hidden know method to tuck your laces underneath that we all love shown in the video below.

And that’s it! You’re now ready to hit the pitch with your snazzy looking football boots or soccer cleats and show everyone how it’s done. 

Watch and learn: How to lace football boots.

Here’s a great video that shows you how to properly lace your boots and how to lace football cleats using the hidden knot method!

This is where you tie your lies in a knot and tuck it under the tongue of your boot. It’s a great trick to learn if you hate having your lace bows flapping around we do!

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How do footballers players tie their laces?

It’s a question that has baffled many a football fan: how do those professional players tie their laces so perfectly?

With their laces always managing to look neat and tidy, it’s no wonder that people have been left wondering what sort of magic they’re using.

The answer, however, is actually quite simple.

Footballers tie their laces in a way that ensures they stay tight and don’t come undone during the game. There’s no difference between men’s and women’s football boots when it comes to how they’re laced.

The most common method is known as the “claspers technique”, involves threading the laces through the loops on the sides of the shoe and then tying them in a double knot.

The result is a secure fit that won’t come undone, no matter how much running or kicking is involved.

While there are variations on this method, it is generally agreed that this is the best way to ensure that your laces stay secure throughout the entire match.

How tight should football boots be laced?

Every football player has their own opinion on how tight their boots should be laced, but there is one rule that everyone agrees on: never lace them so tight that you can’t get them off at the end of the game.

Beyond that, it’s really up to personal preference.

Some players like to have snug fitting football boots, while others prefer a little bit of extra room. There are even some players who lace their boots in different ways depending on which part of their foot they want to focus on.

What many players may not realise is that how you lace up your boots can also make a difference. For instance, lacing your boots too tightly can restrict blood flow and lead to fatigue.

On the other hand, lacing them too loosely can cause blisters and other problems. So how can you find the perfect balance? A good rule of thumb is to lace your boots snugly but not too tight, and to leave a little bit of room at the toe for movement. 

The bottom line is that as long as you’re comfortable, you’re probably doing it right. So go out there and give it your all – your boots will thank you later.

how to lace football boots

How do you tie football boot laces so they don’t come undone?

There’s nothing worse than having your shoelaces come undone in the middle of a game. You’re chasing after the ball and suddenly, trip over your own feet. As you hit the ground, all you can think is, “If only I had tied my laces properly!”

But don’t worry, we’ve all been there.

The good news is that there’s a simple fix. All you need to do is tie your laces using a double knot.

Start by threading one lace over the other, then pull tight. Next, take the end of the first lace and thread it over the second lace.

Finally, pull both laces tight and you’re done! Using a double knot may take a little longer to do up initially, but it will save you from embarrassment (and potential injury) down the road.

You can also try tucking the ends of the laces into your boot for extra protection. With this method, you won’t have to worry about your laces coming undone ever again.

The final score.

Now that you know how to tie football shoes like a pro, it’s time to hit the pitch and show everyone what you’re made of. Remember, there’s no such thing as too tight – just make sure you can still get your boots off at the end of the game.

And most importantly, have fun!

This article was written by

  • Anna Adams, Creative Director & Content Lead

    Hi there! I'm Anna Adams, your go-to source for all things women's soccer. I've been crazy about soccer for over 20 years, ever since I was kicking a ball around with my brothers as a kid. I've turned my passion into a career where I get to share all the cool stuff about soccer with you. As a content lead, I've had the awesome opportunity to work with various sports brands and publications. Whether it's the latest gear, pro tips, or just some cool soccer trivia, I'm all about making soccer ac...