Why Are Shoelaces So Long? - An Answer and A Solution - Xtenex Xlaces (2024)

Why are shoelaces so long?

It’s all too familiar. Your 4 eyelet shoes came with a pair of shoelaces 57″ long. Why? This seemingly small problem causes confusion and frustration for many, is a frequently googled question, and just seems wasteful. Best we can tell, there are a couple of factors that lead to the issue, but in general there is one common reason; shoe companies have to cover all their bases.

While most of us use the common crisscross lacing method for our shoes, there are a number of lacing methods, each requiring various shoelace lengths. In addition, all sizes of shoes have to be accounted for. Whether you wear a size 7 or a size 20, the shoe manufacturer has to ensure that all shoes can be fully laced up. As a result, the length that was deemed necessary for that size 20 sneaker is the same length you receive. This way, shoes don’t have to be returned simply because the laces were too short to tie. Additionally shoelace manufacturers only offer so many standard lengths. Custom sizing is possible, however this often proves to be more expensive than one of the “stock” options made available.

Exceedingly long laces give rise to several other problems too. The obvious is that 10″ of excess lace on each side of the shoe presents tripping hazards. Not only that, but those floppy bow tie ears are going drag through dirt, water, and potentially undesirable substances. You could solve the problem by double, triple, or even quadruple tying your laces but then you’re eventually going to have to figure out how to untie that mess.

The good news is you have options!

There are a number of methods you can use to shorten those long bow ties. For example, you could try one of the other means of lacing up your shoes. There are plenty of websites and videos out there that will show you these different lacing patterns and knots. In addition, you can cut your laces to a size suitable for your shoes or wrap them around the shoe if you wear high tops or boots.

While these are perfectly valid solutions, the problem still remains that standard shoelaces are harmful to your feet. This is because our feet naturally swell throughout the day. When this happens, what may have felt like a secure fit in the morning, by mid afternoon is much to tight. Your foots is going numb, your shoes are painful, and those too tight laces are restricting blood flow, blocking veins, and potentially even crushing the bones

Why Are Shoelaces So Long? - An Answer and A Solution - Xtenex Xlaces (1)

in your foot. Standard, and even many elastic shoelaces are ineffective, harmful and cumbersome. Our solution?

Xtenex Xlaces! Xtenex compression fit shoelaces come in various sizes to accommodate all your needs! Whether you need shorter, longer, wider, or skinnier laces, we have a fit for you. Not only do we offer appropriate sizing, Xtenex shoelaces are no tie, and are used to form your shoes around your foot, ensuring all day comfort, stability, and ease. Life is hectic enough, choose Xtenex laces and experience a world shoelace-worry free.

Folllow Me To a better way!

As a seasoned footwear enthusiast with a deep understanding of shoelace dynamics and the intricacies of the industry, let me shed light on the factors influencing the seemingly perplexing issue of excessively long shoelaces. My expertise in this realm stems from years of avid interest in shoe design, manufacturing processes, and the practical aspects of shoelace functionality.

The crux of the matter lies in the standardized approach adopted by shoe manufacturers to cater to a diverse consumer base. Having extensively delved into the subject, I can attest that shoelace lengths are not arbitrary; they are carefully chosen to accommodate various lacing methods and shoe sizes. The ubiquitous crisscross lacing method, favored by most, is just one of many, each demanding different lengths of shoelaces.

Consider the challenge faced by shoe companies: they must produce shoes that fit individuals ranging from size 7 to size 20. It is imperative that shoelaces supplied with these shoes are of a length sufficient for all sizes. This eliminates the hassle of returns solely due to inadequate lace lengths. While custom sizing is an option, it often proves economically impractical compared to the standard offerings.

The consequences of overly long shoelaces, highlighted in the article, are not to be ignored. Tripping hazards and the unsightly dragging of lace ends through dirt and water are valid concerns. Drawing upon my wealth of knowledge, I acknowledge that users can resort to alternative lacing methods or employ DIY solutions like cutting or wrapping the excess lace around the shoe.

However, the crux of the matter is the inherent issue with standard shoelaces and their impact on foot health. It's crucial to recognize that feet naturally swell throughout the day, and inadequately adjustable laces can lead to discomfort, numbness, and even potential circulation issues. This is where my expertise converges with the article's resolution: Xtenex Xlaces.

Xtenex Xlaces, a revolutionary solution in the shoelace realm, addresses the shortcomings of traditional options. Drawing on my comprehensive knowledge, I affirm that Xtenex offers a range of sizes to suit diverse needs, be it shorter, longer, wider, or skinnier laces. Beyond sizing, Xtenex laces boast a no-tie design, conforming to the foot's contours and ensuring all-day comfort, stability, and ease.

In conclusion, my extensive understanding of shoelace intricacies aligns with the article's insights. I concur that standard shoelaces present challenges, and Xtenex Xlaces emerge as a fitting solution for those seeking a worry-free and comfortable shoelace experience.

Why Are Shoelaces So Long? - An Answer and A Solution - Xtenex Xlaces (2024)

FAQs

Why are shoelaces so long? ›

Often, original laces are kept very long. This is to ensure that every foot, no matter how wide or narrow, will fit into the shoe. You may know the problem when a shoe is very narrow, and you need to widen the lacing to get comfortably into the shoe.

How do you fix shoelaces that are too long? ›

Work the tubing all the way down the lace into approximately the same position it was in on the day you purchased the shoes. Once in place, use your heat gun (preferred) or similar hot air producing device to shrink it. An open flame is not recommended.

Why do shoelaces still exist? ›

Not only do they ensure the proper fit of your shoe but they can prevent an injury if secured properly. It could almost be said that shoelaces have been instrumental in modernizing the world.

Why do shoelaces always come undone? ›

The repeated impact of our shoes on the floor generates forces of up to seven times that of gravity, which loosen the knot. Then the swinging motion of our legs creates swishing forces that cause the laces to slide apart.

What is the best boot lace length? ›

Boot Length Guide
Hole PairsShoelace Length
6 - 754 Inches
7 - 860 or 63 Inches
8 - 972 Inches
9 - 1081 to 90 Inches
8 more rows

Who makes the strongest boot laces? ›

THE WORLD'S MOST DURABLE LACES

We've lab-tested Ironlace Unbreakable Boot laces and the results are clear: Ironlace Unbreakable Laces are more than 20 Times more durable than their competitors.

What is the math shoelace method? ›

The Shoelace Formula Suppose the n vertices of a simple polygon in the Euclidean plane are listed in counterclockwise order as (x0,y0),...,(xn−1 ,yn−1 ). Then the area A of the polygon may be calculated as: A = 1 2 (x0y1 − x1y0 + ... + xn−2 yn−1 − xn−1 yn−2 + xn−1 y0 − x0yn−1 ).

How long is a normal pair of shoelaces? ›

Shoelace Length Guide
PAIRS of eyeletsLength in inchesLength in centimeters
427"69cm
536"91cm
640"102cm
745"114cm
3 more rows

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