Lace up your Air Forces with style and precision! Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or a novice fashionista, mastering the art of lacing these iconic kicks will elevate your footwear game. With our comprehensive guide, you’ll learn every intricate step to create stunning lace patterns that will turn heads wherever you go. Join us on this sartorial journey as we unravel the secrets to lacing Air Forces like a pro.
First and foremost, gather your arsenal: all you need are a pair of fresh Air Forces and your choice of laces. To achieve the classic crisscross lacing, start by threading the lace through the bottom two eyelets on the outer side of the shoe. Cross the laces and feed them through the opposite eyelets on the inner side. Continue this pattern until you reach the top, creating an alternating X shape. This timeless style not only complements the sleek silhouette of Air Forces but ensures a snug and secure fit.
However, if you’re craving a more daring look, experiment with unconventional lacing techniques. For a touch of asymmetry, lace the inner and outer sides of the shoe differently. Or, create a unique pattern by skipping eyelets or threading the laces through multiple times. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize your Air Forces to match your personal style. Embrace your creativity and let your laces become an extension of your fashion flair.
Selecting the Right Laces
Lace selection is crucial for both style and proper fit. Consider the following factors:
Material:
Flat Laces: Woven with a single layer of fabric, creating a classic and versatile look. Common materials include cotton, polyester, and waxed cotton.
Round Laces: Constructed with multiple strands of yarn or fiber tightly twisted together, resulting in a thicker and more durable option. Suitable for athleisure or streetwear.
Rope Laces: A thicker and more textured variety, resembling a miniature rope. Made from sturdy materials such as nylon or cotton, rope laces offer durability and a unique aesthetic.
Length:
Lace length should be appropriate for your foot size and the lacing style you choose. The standard lace length for Air Forces is as follows:
| Shoe Size | Lace Length |
|---|---|
| US Men’s 4-6 | 33 inches |
| US Men’s 7-9 | 40 inches |
| US Men’s 10-12 | 45 inches |
Color:
Lace color can complement or contrast with the Air Force’s upper. Consider matching the laces to the shoe’s accents or choosing a contrasting shade for a bolder look.
Preparing the Shoe for Lacing
Prepare the laces
Select suitable laces and cut them to the desired length. The length will depend on the lacing style and the size of the shoe. As a general guideline, for a standard lacing method on a mid-top Air Force shoe, aim for lace length of approximately 54 inches.
Dress the shoe
Put on the shoe and insert a lace into each of the bottom lace holes. Create a small loop at the end of each lace to prevent it from slipping out while lacing.
Tighten the heel
Partially lace the shoe by pulling the laces through each set of lace holes up to the second-to-last pair from the top. This provides a snug fit around the heel and prevents heel slippage, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
Threading the Laces Through the Lower Eyelets
**Step 1: Cross the Laces and Thread Them Through the First Eyelets**
Take the right lace and cross it over the left lace. Insert the right lace through the first eyelet on the inside of the left shoe.
**Step 2: Pull the Laces Tight**
Tighten the laces snugly, but not too tight. This will create a secure base for the lacing pattern.
**Step 3: Lace Over, Under, and Through**
Take the left lace and cross it over the right lace. Insert it through the second eyelet on the outside of the left shoe.
| Lace | Motion | Eyelets |
|---|---|---|
| Left | Over | Right lace |
| Left | Under | Second eyelet, outside left shoe |
| Right | Over | Left lace |
| Right | Through | Third eyelet, inside left shoe |
Repeat this pattern for the remaining lower eyelets, alternating the laces between over, under, and through the eyelets.
Creating the Lace Crossover
Once the laces pass through the top two eyelets, it’s time to create the lace crossover. This is what gives Air Forces their signature look. Here’s how to do it:
- Take the right lace and pass it over the left lace.
- Then, bring the right lace back underneath the left lace and pull it through the loop created in Step 1.
- Tighten the laces to secure the crossover.
- Now, repeat Steps 1-3 with the left lace, passing it over the right lace.
- Tighten both laces to complete the lace crossover.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of Step 4:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 4a | Take the left lace and hold it over the right lace, as if you’re making a “4.” |
| 4b | Bring the left lace underneath the right lace and pull it through the loop created in Step 4a. |
| 4c | Tighten the left lace to secure the crossover. |
Lacing the Middle Eyelets
To lace the middle eyelets, follow these 5 steps:
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Cross the laces under the first middle eyelet on the bottom row. Bring the right lace over the left lace and under the eyelet.
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Bring the left lace up and over the right lace, then under the second middle eyelet on the bottom row.
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Pull both laces snugly.
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Repeat steps 1-3 for the third and fourth middle eyelets on the bottom row.
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To create a crisscross pattern, cross the laces over and under the second and third middle eyelets on the top row. Bring the right lace over the left lace and under the second eyelet, then bring the left lace up and over the right lace and under the third eyelet. Pull both laces snugly.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cross the laces under the first middle eyelet on the bottom row. |
| 2 | Bring the left lace up and over the right lace, then under the second middle eyelet on the bottom row. |
| 3 | Pull both laces snugly. |
| 4 | Repeat steps 1-3 for the third and fourth middle eyelets on the bottom row. |
| 5 | To create a crisscross pattern, cross the laces over and under the second and third middle eyelets on the top row. |
Tightening the Laces
Once you’ve laced up your Air Forces, you’ll want to tighten them to ensure a snug fit. Here’s how to do it:
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Pull both ends of the laces upward and cross them over each other, forming a V-shape.
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Bring the left lace over the right lace and pass it through the opening in the hole below.
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Pull the right lace up and over the left lace, then pass it through the opening in the hole above.
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Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe.
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When you reach the top hole, pull both ends of the laces tight.
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To create a more secure fit, tie a double knot at the end of the laces.
Additional Tips for Tightening the Laces
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use thin laces | Thin laces will tighten more easily than thick laces. |
| Use beeswax | Applying beeswax to the laces can help them grip better and stay tight. |
| Lace from the bottom | Start lacing from the bottom of the shoe instead of the top, as this will create a more secure fit. |
Securing the Laces
Now that your laces are threaded through the eyelets, it’s time to secure them. Here are the steps:
1. Cross the Laces
Cross the laces over each other, with the right lace over the left.
2. Loop the Left Lace Through the Right Side Eyelets
Take the left lace and pass it through the first right-side eyelet (the outer eyelet on the right shoe).
3. Pull the Lace Tight
Pull the left lace tight, but not too tight that it cuts off circulation.
4. Loop the Right Lace Through the Left Side Eyelets
Take the right lace and pass it through the first left-side eyelet (the outer eyelet on the left shoe).
5. Pull the Lace Tight
Pull the right lace tight, just like you did with the left lace.
6. Repeat Steps 2-5 for the Next Eyelets
Repeat steps 2-5 for the remaining eyelets, alternating the laces and pulling them tight.
7. Double-Knot the Laces
Once you reach the top eyelets, double-knot the laces to secure them. To do this, follow these steps:
- Cross the laces over each other again.
- Tie a simple overhand knot.
- Take the right lace and wrap it around the back of the left lace, creating a loop.
- Pull the right lace through the loop and tighten the knot.
Your Air Forces are now securely laced!
Styling Variations
Classic Cross Lacing
This is the most basic and standard lacing method, offering a secure and comfortable fit. Cross the laces over and under the opposite holes, continuing until you reach the top.
Bar Lacing
For a more decorative look, thread the laces over the opposite holes, then under the holes next to those. Continue in this pattern until you reach the top.
Lace Lock Lacing
Secure your laces by creating a lock with the bottom laces. Cross them over, then loop the right lace under the left and pull it back through the hole. Repeat with the left lace.
Straight Lacing
This method involves lacing the laces straight up and down the holes, creating a clean and minimalist look. Ideal for those who prefer a simple and functional style.
Heel Lock Lacing
For extra ankle support, create a heel lock by looping the laces around the top two lace holes. Then, tie the laces as usual.
Double Cross Lacing
This variation enhances the stability of the shoe by crossing the laces twice at each hole. Suitable for high-intensity activities or for those who need extra support.
Checkerboard Lacing
Create a unique and eye-catching pattern by lacing the shoes in a checkerboard pattern. Alternate between crossing the laces over and under the opposite holes.
8. Off-Center Lacing
This lacing method is perfect for those who want to customize their style. Instead of lacing the shoes through the center holes, use the holes slightly to the side. This creates a more asymmetrical and edgy look.
Off-Center Lacing Table:
| Offset | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Half Hole | Lace through the holes that are half a hole to the side, alternating between left and right. |
| One Hole | Lace through the holes that are one hole to the side, creating a more significant offset. |
| Double Hole | Lace through the holes that are two holes to the side, resulting in a pronounced asymmetrical look. |
Tips for a Perfect Lace-Up
1. Use the Right Lace Length
Measure the distance from the bottom of the shoe to the top lace hole. Add an extra 6-8 inches to this measurement for a comfortable lace-up.
2. Start with the Bottom Lace Hole
Thread the laces through the bottom lace holes from the outside of the shoe.
3. Create a Crisscross Pattern
Cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next pair of lace holes.
4. Alternate Lace Holes
Repeat step 3, alternating lace holes each time.
5. Tighten as You Go
Pull the laces snugly as you thread them through the lace holes.
6. Reach the Last Lace Hole
When you reach the last lace hole, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the hole from the inside of the shoe.
7. Lace Up the Other Side
Repeat steps 2-6 on the other side of the shoe.
8. Adjust the Tension
If the lace-up is too loose or too tight, adjust the tension by loosening or tightening the laces.
9. Tie the Laces
Tie the laces in a double knot or a bow. Here is a detailed breakdown of how to tie a double knot:
| Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Create a loop with one lace and wrap it around the other lace. |
Pass the end of the wrapped lace through the loop. |
Pull the laces tight to create a secure knot. |
10. Tuck in the Laces
Once the laces are tied, tuck any excess lace into the shoe or cut it off.
Troubleshooting Common Lacing Issues
1. Lace is too loose:
- Tighten the top lace to create tension.
- Repeat the lacing pattern with more force.
- Use a toggle or lace lock to secure the lace.
2. Lace is too tight:
- Loosen the top lace and pull the aglets out slightly.
- Retrace the lacing pattern with less force.
3. Laces keep coming undone:
- Double knot the lace at the end.
- Use a lace lock or toggle.
4. Lace is breaking:
- Replace the lace with a new one.
- Avoid overtightening the lace.
5. Laces are too short:
- Order longer laces.
- Try a different lacing method that uses less lace.
6. Laces are too long:
- Cut the laces shorter.
- Loop the excess lace through the top lace holes.
7. Laces are frayed:
- Replace the lace.
- Apply nail polish or super glue to the frayed tips.
8. Laces are too stiff:
- Dip the laces in warm water to soften them.
- Rub wax or Vaseline on the laces.
9. Laces are too slippery:
- Apply a small amount of hairspray or non-slip spray to the laces.
10. I can’t find a lacing pattern that works for me:
- Go online and search for different lacing patterns.
- Experiment with different patterns and find one that suits your foot shape and comfort level.
- Consider using a lace tightening device or a lace lock to customize the fit.
- You can also try using different types of laces, such as round laces, flat laces, or elastic laces.
- If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to seek help from a shoe expert or a lacing enthusiast.
How To Lace Air Forces
When it comes to sneakers, few are as iconic as the Air Force 1s. With their timeless design and comfortable fit, they’re a favorite among sneakerheads and casual wearers alike. But what really sets Air Force 1s apart is their versatility. They can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion.
One of the best ways to customize your Air Force 1s is to lace them differently. There are endless possibilities when it comes to lacing, so you can find a style that’s unique to you. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to lace Air Force 1s:
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets.
- Cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe.
- Tie the laces in a knot and trim any excess.
Here are a few different lacing styles that you can try:
- The Classic Lace: This is the most common way to lace Air Force 1s. It’s simple and easy to do, and it creates a clean and classic look.
- The Criss-Cross Lace: This lacing style adds a bit of flair to your Air Force 1s. It’s a bit more challenging to do than the classic lace, but it’s worth it for the unique look.
- The Barrel Lace: This lacing style is perfect for giving your Air Force 1s a more casual look. It’s easy to do, and it creates a relaxed and comfortable fit.
People Also Ask About How To Lace Air Forces
How do you lace Air Force 1s with two colors?
To lace Air Force 1s with two colors, start by threading one color through the bottom two eyelets. Then, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe. Now, take the other color of lace and start threading it through the eyelets in the same way. When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the two laces together in a knot and trim any excess.
How do you lace Air Force 1s straight across?
To lace Air Force 1s straight across, start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets. Then, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets on the same side. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe. When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces in a knot and trim any excess.
How do you lace Air Force 1s like sneakers?
To lace Air Force 1s like sneakers, start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets. Then, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe. When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces in a knot and trim any excess. Now, take the laces and wrap them around the back of the shoe, creating a loop. Thread the laces through the loop and tighten them to create a snug fit.
