If you're a sneaker enthusiast or just love the iconic Converse brand, you've probably thought about the best way to lace up your Converse shoes. Whether you've just unboxed a new pair of Chuck Taylors or scored a limited-edition collaboration like the Comme des Garcons low-tops, we're here to guide you through both the classic crisscross lacing method and some creative alternatives that let you showcase your personal style.
So, grab your top Converse shoes and get ready to learn how to lace them up in ways that are not only stylish but also dependable. With our step-by-step instructions, you'll be able to make your sneakers look their best while adding your unique flair.
How to lace Converse shoes
As mentioned above, the following technique is what we believe to be one of the most effective methods of lacing up a pair of Converse trainers. This lacing technique not only features prominently on Converse's website but is also one of the easiest methods to master. So, let's take a closer look at how it's done.
Step 1: Take one end of your shoelaces and pass it through the initial eyelet on the left side, then pull it through to the halfway point.
Step 2: Repeat the process with the other end of the shoelace, and then tug on both ends until a flat bar is formed between the first two eyelets.
Step 3: Using the left lace, thread it through the second eyelet on the right side of your sneaker. Guide the lace over the top and pull it through completely.
Step 4: Take the right lace and cross over the top of the left lace and feed through the second eyelet up on the left-hand side.
Step 5: Repeat this process until you reach the final row of eyelets.
Step 6: You now have the choice to either bring the two aglets across the top and tuck the ends into your shoes, or pass them underneath and tie a knot over the top of your shoes.
Top Tip: This method will also work with high-tops, you'll just need to repeat steps 3 and 4 a few more times until you reach the top of the collar.
Step 7: Repeat the whole process with your second Converse sneaker so you have a complete pair.
What type of laces do you need for Converse?
Using Chuck Taylor All-Star Lows as an example, we'd recommend picking up 45" to 47" shoelaces to reach the sixth eyelets comfortably, with enough room left over to tie the two ends together. For high-tops though, we'd recommend 50" shoelaces.
By standard, Converse sneakers come with white flat laces, so we'd recommend going with this style if you're looking to achieve the usual Converse aesthetic. However, you can pick up alternative flat laces, like these Booyckiy laces, in a range of different colours including black, yellow, and red for a more unique look.
Alternative ways to lace Converse shoes
Although our step-by-step guide details one of the most common techniques, there are several alternative ways of lacing Converse sneakers to suit a range of different styles.
Diamond laces
Also known as the criss-cross method, this technique is a great way to ensure a secure lock-in and fit.
To start this technique, feed the two ends underneath the first row of eyelets. You then want to feed the left-hand lace through the third eyelet up on the right side of your shoe, then do the opposite with the right-hand lace.
Next, take the left end, and feed it under the second eyelet on the left, repeat on the right side, then continue this alternating pattern until you reach the top.
Straight bars
The straight bar technique is one we've covered in detail in our guides to lacing Jordan 1s and Nike Dunk sneakers. Fortunately, this method is another pretty simple one to do once you know how...
Start in the same way as our first technique by creating a straight bar across the first eyelets. Next, take the left aglet and feed it through the third eyelet up on the right from underneath, then thread it through the opposite eyelet over the top to create a bar across the tongue.
Do the same with the right aglet, but instead of the third row of eyelets, feed your shoelace through the second row, leaving three neat rows of white bars.
Repeat these steps until you reach the top of your shoe and do the same with your second sneaker so you're ready to put on a complete pair.