How to Choose and Replace Sneaker Laces
By Premium Italian Shoes and Sneakers | Premiata® - Premiata.us | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to pick the right sneaker laces and replace them for a fresh, updated look. This guide covers length, material, and simple steps.
Quick answer
To refresh your sneakers, choose laces that match your shoe's eyelet count and your preferred style, then replace them in a few simple steps.
Why replacing laces makes a difference
Swapping out old, worn, or mismatched laces is one of the fastest ways to update the look of your sneakers without buying new shoes. It's also a chance to add a personal touch, whether you prefer classic flat laces, round ones, or a pop of color.
The key is getting the length right. Laces that are too short won't tie securely, while overly long ones look messy and can trip you up. Most sneakers use laces between 100 cm and 160 cm, but the exact length depends on the number of eyelet pairs.
Step-by-step guide to replacing your sneaker laces
- Measure your current laces or count eyelets: Remove one lace and lay it flat. Measure from tip to tip. Alternatively, count the number of eyelet pairs on your shoe: 4-5 pairs usually need 100-120 cm, 6-7 pairs need 130-150 cm, and 8+ pairs need 160 cm or more. Common mistake: Guessing the length. Always measure or count to avoid laces that are too short or too long.
- Choose the right lace material and style: Flat cotton laces stay tied well and suit casual sneakers. Round polyester laces are durable and work for athletic or fashion sneakers. Waxed laces add a polished look but can be slippery. Checkpoint: If your sneakers have metal eyelets, avoid thin round laces that may wear through over time.
- Remove the old laces completely: Unlace each eyelet, starting from the top. If the lace is stuck, use a tweezers or a small pin to push it through. Remove both laces. Common mistake: Leaving one lace in while threading the new one can cause tangles. Remove both first.
- Thread the new laces through the bottom eyelets: Start from the bottom pair of eyelets, pushing the lace tips through from the outside in. Pull both ends evenly so the lace is centered. Checkpoint: Make sure the lace isn't twisted before moving to the next eyelet.
- Lace up in your preferred pattern: Crisscross is the most common and secure pattern. For a cleaner look, try straight bar lacing where the lace runs straight across each row. Feed each tip into the opposite eyelet, working upward. Common mistake: Pulling too tight can warp the shoe shape. Keep tension even but gentle.
- Tie and adjust for comfort: Once both sides are laced to the top, tie a standard bow. Adjust the tension by pulling on the lace sections near the tongue. Trim any frayed ends if needed. Checkpoint: If the laces feel too loose or too tight, re-lace with a different tension or pattern.
Product details
- LACCI 140 CM: LACCI 140 CM is a unisex Premiata accessory in the laces category, offered in a single Standard option. At 140 cm, these laces fit most sneakers with 5 to 7 eyelet pairs, making them a versatile replacement choice for both men's and women's shoes.
LACCI 140 CM
