Tips for replacing laces on fave hiking boots

The laces tend to be the first of your hiking boot to break.
Photo courtesy of Photoree.

Usually the first thing to break on hiking boot are the laces. That’s because they endure a lot of chafing as you walk and they are stretched whenever you put on the boot and tie a knot.

Hiking boot laces typically are made from braided nylon cords. Because of this, they tend to last longer than standard shoe laces, which can be made of cotton. When buying new laces, always stick with braided nylon cords and opt for those that are tubular rather than flat laces, as the latter are more likely to break.

How long the boot lace should be depends on the number of eyelets on your boot. Before going to the store, either count the number of eyelets on your hiking boot or measure the lace in inches.

Generally, a hiking boot with 4-5 pairs of eyelets needs a 50-inch boot lace, 6-8 pairs of eyelets require a 60-inch lace, and nine or more pairs of eyelets demand a 72-inch lace.

When replacing a broken lace, always do so on both pairs of boots. This ensures that both boots are laced with the same amount of tension, which can add to your comfort level.

Consider buying an extra pair of laces to keep in your backpack. Should a lace break while on the trail, you now don’t have to improvise by tying the two torn sections of a lace – which will create a pressure point on your foot. They’re also handy during emergencies when you need to tie something, such as a tarp in a makeshift shelter.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.