1. Straight (bar) lacing — the clean look
Straight lacing hides the diagonal crossovers so the laces sit as neat horizontal bars across the shoe. It's the go-to for a minimal look on Air Force 1s, Dunks and Jordan 1s.
- Thread the lace straight across the bottom two eyelets, running under the sides.
- Take one end up under the next eyelet, then straight across; repeat up that side.
- Do the same with the other end, alternating so each row shows a clean bar.
- Even out the ends at the top, then tuck or tie.
2. Loose lacing — easy on, easy off
Lace normally but keep the tension relaxed and leave the top eyelets undone or loosely crossed. It gives a casual look and lets you slip the shoe on without untying — popular on high-tops worn open at the collar. Just remember that too loose means less support.
3. Heel-lock lacing — stop heel slip
If your heel lifts as you walk or run, the 'heel lock' (or 'runner's loop') cinches the ankle without over-tightening the whole shoe.
- Lace up as normal until you reach the second-from-top eyelet on each side.
- Instead of crossing over, go straight up into the top eyelet on the SAME side, leaving a small loop.
- Cross each lace end through the opposite loop.
- Pull down and out to tighten — the loops cinch around your ankle — then tie as usual.
Tip · Heel-locking is the single best fix for heel slip and blisters, especially on runners and basketball silhouettes.
4. Hide the laces — a slip-on finish
For a super-clean look, lace up leaving a little slack, then tuck the bow and any excess lace down under the tongue. The shoe reads almost like a slip-on. Works best with straight lacing underneath.
5. Swap the laces entirely
The fastest style upgrade is a fresh set of laces. Flat waxed laces sit crisp and stay tied; rope laces add texture; a contrast colour changes the whole shoe. Keep the original laces safe if the pair has any resale value — deadstock buyers want them.