The Art Of Tying Sebago Boat Shoes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boat shoes are a type of moccasin-like footwear that are known for their low cut, hand-sewn construction, soft, white, non-skid, non-marking, siped rubber sole, and distinctive lacing. The laces on boat shoes are typically made from leather and are threaded not only through 2-3 eyelets on top of the shoes but also in and out of their sides, allowing for a 360-degree cinch for a tighter fit. While there are various ways to tie boat shoes, one popular method is the Heaving Line Knot or Boat Shoe Knot, which creates decorative coils instead of knots. This technique involves coiling each end of the shoelace around itself until all the remaining lace is consumed, resulting in two tight coils dangling freely at the end.

The 'Granny Knot'

The Granny Knot is a decorative knot that is often used on boat shoes or moccasins with leather laces. It creates decorative coils instead of knots, and the shoe becomes a slip-on. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tie the Granny Knot:

• Form a "loop" by doubling one end of the shoelace back onto itself, leaving a fairly long trailing end.
• Wrap the end of the shoelace once around the bottom of the loop. It doesn't matter which direction you wrap it in.
• Wrap the end of the shoelace once more around the loop, this time wrapping it immediately above the first wrap.
• Continue winding the end around the loop until it reaches the top. Try to wrap tightly and snugly, forming a tight coil of lace.
• Feed the end of the shoelace through the top of the loop.
• Pull the whole "coil" upwards to tightly pinch the top of the loop and secure the loose end.
• Repeat steps 1-6 with the other end of the shoelace, resulting in two separate coils.

The finished Granny Knot should have two tight coils, each dangling freely at the end of a short length of shoelace. This knot is a simple and decorative way to consume the excess length of loose ends. It is important to note that this knot does not provide the most security for your shoes, but it adds a stylish touch to your boat shoes or moccasins.

The 'Heaving Line Knot'

The Heaving Line Knot is a popular way to tie your boat shoes, also known as the "barrel lace". It is a classic look that will bring you boatloads of compliments. This method is a "twist" on the barrel lace and is a fun way to avoid relacing your shoes.

To tie the Heaving Line Knot, also known as the "barrel lace", you simply coil each end of the shoelace around itself until all the remaining lace is consumed. This creates decorative coils instead of knots.

The Heaving Line Knot is a great way to add a unique touch to your boat shoes and is a fun alternative to traditional lacing methods. It is also a secure way to tie your shoes, ensuring that they won't come untied during your adventures on the water.

This method is perfect for those who want to add a bit of personality to their boat shoes while also ensuring a secure fit. So, if you're looking for a new way to tie your Sebago boat shoes, why not give the Heaving Line Knot a try? You might just fall in love with this classic and stylish look.

The 'Barrell Tassel'

The Barrel Tassel, also known as the Eastland Knot, is a stylish way to tie your boat shoes without having to re-tie them every time you put them on. It is a more complicated version of the barrel knot, but it provides a tighter lace, minimising the chances of your shoes coming loose. Here is how you tie the Barrel Tassel:

Start by crossing your laces, creating an "X" pattern. Place the right lace under the left lace and then tighten.

Take the left lace and place it over the right, creating a square knot.

Hold the end of the left lace and form a loop.

Wrap the remaining lace around the loop you've just created. Pull and tighten.

Repeat on the other side and tighten to adjust the fit to your preference.

Trim any excess lace if necessary.

The 'Secure Variation'

The Secure Variation

The "Secure Variation" is a method of tying Sebago boat shoes that offers a more secure alternative to the traditional boat knot. This variation ensures that the laces remain tight and do not dangle loosely. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this knot:

Step 1:

Start by feeding the lace a second time through the last eyelet, forming a loop. This extra loop provides more security for the knot.

Step 2:

Bend the loop downwards to the position it will dangle in when you have finished tying the knot. This ensures that the loop is neat and does not stick out awkwardly.

Step 3:

Hold the loop in position and wrap the loose end of the lace tightly around it, starting close to the eyelet. This step helps to secure the loop and prevents it from coming undone.

Step 4:

Continue wrapping the lace tightly around the loop until you reach the end. This ensures that the knot is secure and that there are no loose ends sticking out.

Tips:

• Practice this knot a few times to get the hang of it.
• Experiment with different lacing techniques to find the one that suits your style and provides the desired level of security.
• Remember that boat shoes, especially those with leather laces, require more complex knots to prevent the laces from coming loose.

The 'Reef Knot'

The reef knot is a secure way to tie your Sebago boat shoes. It is recommended to use this knot if you want to ensure your shoes are securely fastened.

To begin, create a starting loop with one end of your shoelace. The loop should be fairly long, with a trailing end that doubles back onto itself. Next, wrap the end of the shoelace around the bottom of the loop. It doesn't matter which direction you choose to wrap it in. Then, wrap the end of the shoelace once more around the loop, this time wrapping immediately above the first wrap.

Continue to wind the end of the shoelace tightly and snugly around the loop until you reach the top. Once you've reached the top, feed the end of the shoelace through the top of the loop and pull the whole coil upwards. This will pinch the top of the loop tightly and secure the loose end. Repeat this process on the other side, resulting in two separate coils.

Your finished reef knot should have two tight coils, each dangling at the end of a short length of shoelace. This will ensure your Sebago boat shoes are securely fastened and won't come undone easily.

Frequently asked questions