Replacing Boat Shoe Laces: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boat shoe laces are made of leather and are notorious for being difficult to tie. They are not like the laces in traditional shoes, as leather will come loose from normal knots very easily. If you're looking to replace your boat shoe laces, you can purchase lacing kits or replacement laces in a variety of colours and sizes.

Choosing the right laces for your boat shoes

When it comes to choosing the right laces for your boat shoes, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the type of material you choose will impact the overall look and durability of your shoes. Leather laces, typically made from rawhide, are the most traditional and quintessential choice for boat shoes. They offer both durability and a snazzier look compared to other materials such as canvas. Leather laces are also known for their waterproofing abilities, which is especially important for boat shoes.

When selecting the colour of your laces, consider the colour of your boat shoes and the overall style you want to achieve. If you're feeling bold, you can opt for a contrast by pairing brown boat shoes with yellow or white laces. For a more formal look, keep the lace colours dark, such as pairing brown boat shoes with black laces. You can also match the colour of your laces to your outfit to create a cohesive look.

The length of the laces is another important factor. Boat shoe laces typically range from 45 to 72 inches in length. Ensure you have enough length to lace up your shoes comfortably and trim any excess as needed.

Additionally, consider the thickness of the laces. Thicker laces can provide a more substantial look, while thinner laces may offer a more elegant appearance. The eyelets on your boat shoes will also determine the thickness of the laces that can be used.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the type of aglets (lace tips) that come with your laces. Metal aglets can add a touch of sophistication, while plastic aglets may be more subtle.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose the perfect laces for your boat shoes to achieve the desired look and functionality.

Using a lacing needle

Step 1: Prepare the Needle and Lace

Before you begin, ensure you have the right size of lacing needle for your boat shoes. The needle should fit easily through the eyelets of your shoes. You can find needles specifically designed for boat shoes, usually made of lightweight aluminium or steel.

For the lace, cut the end of the strip to fit the needle. If your needle has a round end, insert the lace. If your needle has a screw or threaded end, twist or screw the lace into the end securely.

Step 2: Lacing Technique

Start by unlacing one side of your shoe, keeping the other side intact so you can refer to it. Begin lacing with the needle and new lace, following the path of the old lace. Push or pull the lace through the eyelets, being careful not to put too much force on the needle.

Step 3: Troubleshooting

If your needle has a tendency to detach from the lace, try pulling on the lace directly instead of pulling on the needle. You can also try bending the needle slightly to better navigate the curve of the heel. If your needle has internal threading, ensure that the lace is properly threaded through it.

Step 4: Finishing Up

Once you've finished lacing, check that the lace is secure and trim any excess material. You can also treat the new lace with a conditioner or shoe oil to keep it supple and prevent breakage.

How to tie a square knot

To replace your boat shoe laces, you'll need to know how to tie a secure knot. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to tie a square knot, also known as a reef knot:

The square knot is a reliable way to secure your shoelaces, and it starts with a basic half knot. Take one end of your shoelace and wrap it around the other to form that initial half knot. Pull it tight to ensure a secure base for your square knot.

Now, you'll create loops with each end of the shoelace. Take one end and form a loop, then do the same with the other. You should now have two loops sitting side by side.

Here comes the crucial part: take the loop on your right and pass it over and then under the loop on the left. This action is the first half of the square knot. Pull the shoelace ends to tighten the knot, but not too tight, as you still need to work with it.

For the second half of the square knot, take the loop that is now on your right (formerly the left) and pass it over and under the other loop. Again, tighten the knot by pulling on the ends of the shoelace.

You've now created a secure square knot! Finally, adjust the loops and ends to ensure they are all roughly the same length, giving your knot a neat and tidy appearance.

The square knot is a reliable way to keep your boat shoe laces securely tied, and it's a straightforward knot to learn. Practice makes perfect, so keep at it, and you'll be tying secure square knots in no time!

Trimming excess lace

Firstly, ensure you have the right length of laces for your boat shoes. A good rule of thumb is to buy laces that are 45 inches long, as this will give you ample length to work with. Once you have your new laces, you can begin the process of trimming them to the desired length.

Before trimming, it is recommended to lace up your boat shoes fully. This will give you a better idea of how much excess lace you have to work with and ensure a more precise trim. Thread the laces through the eyelets, following the typical criss-cross pattern of boat shoes, until you reach the top.

Now, it's time to assess how much lace you need to trim. A good way to do this is to insert your index finger between the lace and the top of the shoe, where the laces emerge. Pull the laces taut and then pinch the excess lace between your thumb and index finger. This will give you a good indication of how much lace needs to be trimmed.

Using sharp scissors, carefully cut the lace at a slight angle to create a neat, diagonal finish. Be sure to cut only a small amount at a time, as you can always trim more, but you can't add length back! Ideally, you want the lace to end just above the shoe, leaving enough room to tie a secure knot without having too much excess.

Finally, consider sealing the ends of your newly trimmed laces to prevent fraying. One method is to use a small piece of heat shrink tubing and a hairdryer. Simply slide the tubing over the cut end of the lace and apply heat until it shrinks and forms a tight seal. Alternatively, you can use a small flame, such as a lighter, to carefully melt the ends of the laces and create a sealed tip.

By following these steps, you will have neatly trimmed laces that fit your boat shoes perfectly, ensuring both functionality and style.

Where to buy replacement laces

Once you've decided to replace your boat shoe laces, the next step is to purchase a new pair. Here are some options for where to buy replacement laces:

Online Shopping

The most convenient option is to purchase replacement laces online. Websites such as Amazon, Walmart, and Sebago-USA offer a wide variety of boat shoe laces in different colours and materials. Amazon offers lacing kits that include a needle and multiple strips of leather, while Walmart offers single pairs of replacement laces in various colours. Sebago-USA specialises in premium raw-hide laces, perfect for mending or adding a new accent colour to your boat shoes.

Local Shoelace Retailers

Alternatively, you can check your local area for shoe stores or sports shops that may sell replacement laces. Sometimes, it's easier to purchase laces in person, as you can physically match the colour and feel the material before buying.

Boat Shoe Manufacturers

If you're looking for laces that perfectly match your boat shoes, consider purchasing directly from the manufacturer. Many boat shoe brands sell replacement laces specifically designed for their shoes. This option ensures a perfect match in terms of colour, length, and material.

Craft Stores

For a more creative approach, you can visit craft stores to find materials for making your own replacement laces. This option allows you to customise your laces entirely, from choosing the type of leather or fabric to deciding on the colour and thickness.

Remember to consider the length, colour, and material of the laces you need before making a purchase. It's always a good idea to have a spare pair of laces on hand, so consider buying a few pairs or opting for a multipack.

Frequently asked questions