Amanda Knapp
When it comes to basketball, shoes are a vital piece of equipment. The right basketball shoe for you is one that feels good and helps you move comfortably. Under Armour offers a range of basketball shoes for men, women, and kids, including high-tops, mid-tops, and low-tops. Knowing how to lace your basketball shoes can also make a difference in your performance and comfort. This includes lacing techniques that provide more control or comfort, depending on your preference.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shoe type | High-top, mid-top, and low-top |
| Shoe features | Tough, comfortable, light, fast, grippy, and durable |
| Shoe fit | Stability, no irritation, and good "spring" in the insoles |
| Lacing style | Crisscross "X" pattern, skipping two or three eyelets in the center, and tying a double knot |
| Lacing tension | Wear tight for more control or loose for more comfort |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Criss-cross lacing pattern
The criss-cross lacing pattern is a popular method for lacing up normal shoes and boots. It is reasonably comfortable and is considered the most basic, traditional lacing method. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the criss-cross lacing pattern:
- Start with the bottom horizontal section running straight across the outside, with the first crossover on the inside.
- At each eyelet pair, cross the ends, feeding them under the sides and out through the next higher set of eyelets.
- Repeat this process until lacing is completed.
The length of shoelace required for Criss Cross Lacing is the baseline length against which all other shoe-lacing methods are compared. This lacing method is visually consistent and practical, with the crossovers of shoelace occurring in the gap between the sides of the shoe. This means that the laces are not pressed against the top of the foot.
A subtle variation of this lacing pattern starts with the lace ends fed into the bottom eyelets and tucked away neatly inside the shoe. This variation was likely a result of manufacturers seeking to cut costs by reducing the amount of lace used per shoe.
Understanding the 2-Point Rate in Basketball
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Lacing for high arches
The right lacing technique for your Under Armour high-tops will ensure your feet feel secure and ready for action on the basketball court.
If you have high arches, you are vulnerable to the outward foot roll motion while running, which can lead to severe pain and instability. The right lacing technique will help to prevent supination from getting in the way of comfort.
Firstly, thread the lace through the bottom eyelets until there is an equal amount on either side of the shoe. Then, thread your left lace through the right eyelet and your right lace through the left eyelet, creating a crisscross "X" pattern. Repeat this pattern for the next two eyelets. At the centre of the shoe, skip two or three eyelets (whichever is needed to remove pressure on the top of your arch and offers the most comfort). Then, return to the crisscross "X" pattern of lacing at the fourth or fifth eyelet and continue until you reach the top.
You can wear your laces tight for more control or loose for more comfort and less constriction on high arches. It is recommended to use the 7th lace hole and make a loop lacing lock to enhance performance and improve foot stability.
Basketball Rules Evolution: Changes Over the Years
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Double knot for a tighter feel
To achieve a double knot for a tighter feel, you can use the Double Overhand Stopper Knot. This is a reliable, moderately large knot that is based on the Overhand Knot with one additional turn. Here are the steps to tie this knot:
- Form a loop with the lace.
- Pass the end of the lace through the loop.
- Pass the end through the loop again.
- Tighten the knot to secure it.
Alternatively, you can use a slip knot (or noose) if you don't need a very tight knot. This is a convenient option as it doesn't require access to either end of the lace. To secure it further, you can tie the loop in an overhand knot around the now-tighter lace.
Handicap Points: Basketball's Intriguing Scoring System Explained
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$42.99 $53.99
Lacing for comfort and less constriction
When it comes to lacing your Under Armour high-top basketball shoes for comfort and less constriction, there are a few techniques you can try. The right basketball shoe is one that feels good and allows you to move comfortably, so it's important to find a lacing method that suits your needs.
One popular method is the criss-cross lacing technique. This method involves lacing the shoelaces in an "X" pattern, diagonally crossing each other as they move up the shoe. This classic technique is versatile and provides a secure and comfortable fit. To start, thread the lace through the bottom eyelets, ensuring even length on both sides. Then, take the right lace and cross it to the left, threading it through the next eyelet from the outside in. Repeat this with the left lace, crossing it to the right side. Continue this pattern as you move up the shoe.
Another option is the straight bar lacing method, which creates a clean and streamlined look. This technique eliminates diagonal crosses and instead creates horizontal bars, distributing pressure evenly across the foot. This method is ideal for those with wider feet or those who want to showcase unique or colourful laces. With this method, the shoelaces lie flat and straight across the eyelets, creating a visually appealing series of horizontal bars.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of shoelaces to find the perfect pair that enhances the comfort, durability, and aesthetics of your high-tops. For example, premium shoelaces like Loop King Laces are known for their quality and attention to detail, elevating your shoe game to the next level.
Remember, the way you lace your high-top basketball shoes is not just about functionality but also about expressing your personality and customising your footwear to your liking. So, feel free to explore different lacing techniques, tension levels, and even shoelace types to find the combination that works best for you.
Leaping to Success: Basketball's L-Themed Starting Lineup
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Lacing for more control
The right lacing technique can help you play better and prevent injury. The best method for you will depend on your foot shape, tension preference, and ankle support needs.
If you have high arches, you might benefit from a high-arch lacing style. Start by threading the lace through the bottom eyelets until there is an equal amount on either side of the shoe. Thread your left lace through the right eyelet and your right lace through the left eyelet, creating a crisscross "X" pattern. Continue this pattern for the next two eyelets. At the centre of the shoe, skip two or three eyelets to remove pressure on the top of your arch and offer the most comfort. Then return to the crisscross "X" pattern of lacing at the fourth or fifth eyelet and continue until you reach the top. To ease pressure on the bridge of your foot, tie and tuck the laces behind the tongue.
If you want more control, wear your laces tighter. For more comfort and less constriction on high arches, wear them looser. It's important to find the right balance between comfort and safety. Your laces should be tight enough that your foot doesn't move around and stays centred in the footbed, but loose enough that the muscles in your feet have room to flex.
For a symmetrical lacing method that applies even pressure from all angles, start at the bottom eyelets and pull your laces straight through both of them evenly. Crisscross each end all the way up, ensuring that you don't miss any eyelets. Once you reach the top of the shoe, double-check that your laces are still even by pulling them straight. If so, secure them using a traditional double knot.
The Basketball Sleeve: Who Pioneered This Trend?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
High-top basketball shoes are shoes with collars that extend over the ankle. They were the first basketball shoes ever introduced and were designed to protect players' ankles.
Thread the lace through the bottom eyelets until there is an equal amount on either side of the shoe. Thread the left lace through the right eyelet and the right lace through the left eyelet, creating a crisscross "X" pattern. Continue this pattern for the next two eyelets. Skip two or three eyelets at the centre of the shoe, whichever removes pressure on the top of your arch and offers the most comfort. Return to the crisscross "X" pattern of lacing at the fourth or fifth eyelet and continue until you reach the top. Finally, cross the laces once more and pull tight, tying them in a double knot.
Research shows that there is no difference in the incidence of ankle sprains in basketball players based on their shoe collar height. Therefore, wearing high-top basketball shoes does not necessarily prevent ankle injuries any better than wearing low-top basketball shoes.
