Shoe Lace Length Chart
Lace Lab Shoe Lace Sizing Chart*
| Eyelets (total) | Pairs | Lace Length | Length in Centimeters | Common shoe types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 eyelets | 1-2 | 30 Inches | 76 cm | Kids shoes, low slip-ons |
| 4 eyelets | 2 | 36 Inches | 91 cm | Jordan 4, low-top sneakers |
| 5-6 eyelets | 3 | 45 Inches | 114 cm | Nike Air Max, casual sneakers |
| 6-7 eyelets | 3-4 | 54 Inches | 137 cm | Jordan 1, running shoes, skate shoes |
| 7-8 eyelets | 4 | 63 Inches | 160 cm | High-top basketball, hiking boots |
| 9 eyelets | 5 | 72 Inches | 183 cm | Tall work boots, combat boots |
*Sizing varies from shoe to shoe. Please use this chart as a rough estimate. For best results, measure the length of your original laces. If you are between two sizes, we recommend choosing the shorter length for most applications.
TIP BOX: No original lace to measure from? Thread a piece of string or yarn through your shoe the same way a lace would go, tip to tip. Lay it flat and measure. That's your exact replacement length. When in doubt, size up rather than down.
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Shoe Lace Length Chart Infographic
FAQs
How do I choose the right shoe lace length?
Choose shoe lace length by counting the eyelet pairs, then consider shoe height, eyelet spacing, lacing route, fit preference, and bow size. Low-top shoes with closely spaced eyelets usually need shorter laces, while mid-top shoes, high-tops, boots, and footwear with wider spacing or longer lace paths often need longer laces. Allow more length for a larger bow or longer ends, and choose less for minimal tails or a snug fit.
How do I measure shoelaces for the right replacement length?
Measuring your existing lace is one of the easiest ways to find a suitable replacement shoe lace length, especially if the current fit and bow already work well.
- Remove the existing lace and lay it flat without stretching it.
- Measure from one end to the other in inches or centimetres.
- Compare the measured length with the shoe lace length chart and eyelet pairs.
- Choose a similar length for the same fit and bow size.
- Choose a shorter lace for smaller tails or a longer lace for larger loops and extra tying room.
Does the lacing pattern affect shoe lace length?
Yes, lacing patterns change the route and distance a lace travels through the eyelets. Criss-cross, straight/bar, over-under, and ladder lacing each use different crossing and segment lengths, so two shoes with the same eyelet count may need different lace sizes. Wider eyelet spacing and more extended routes can also increase the shoe lace length required.
Do lace thickness, shape, material, or stretch affect the length I need?
Yes, thick, wide, flat, round, or oval laces can pass through eyelets differently and change how much length remains for tying. Cotton, polyester, nylon, leather, and elastic laces also vary in flexibility and stretch, which can affect tension, fit, and bow size. For the closest replacement, match the new lace profile and material with the existing shoelace as well as its measured length.
What shoe lace length should I choose for different types of shoes?
Shoe type can change the lace length needed because trainers, sneakers, dress shoes, boots, hiking boots, and skates use different eyelet layouts, spacing, and upper heights. Low-top shoes often need shorter laces, while high-tops and boots usually require more length to cover a taller lace route. For styles such as Converse, Vans, Jordans, Dr Martens, or Merrell footwear, check the eyelet pairs and measure the current lace before choosing a replacement size.