Ever wondered why some sneakers instantly catch the eye? The secret often lies in the way they’re laced. Custom lacing can transform your Jordans from standard to standout, showcasing your personal style and making every step unique.
With countless lacing methods and creative touches, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This article breaks down exactly how to lace your Jordans in a custom way, offering simple steps, helpful tips, and inspiration to help you make your kicks truly your own.
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How to Lace Your Jordans with Custom Laces
Changing up the laces on your Air Jordans is one of the simplest and most impactful ways to personalize your sneakers. Whether you want a fresh look, eye-catching color, or a unique print, custom laces can make your favorite Jordans stand out from the crowd. This guide will walk you through the basics and beyond—how to choose, lace, and maximize your custom Jordan look.
Why Go Custom with Your Jordan Laces?
Custom laces do more than just swap out a color; they offer:
- Personal style: Show off your unique taste with prints, patterns, and materials that speak to you.
- Matching outfits: Coordinate laces with your apparel, hat, or even a favorite bag.
- Replacing original laces: Sneakers get worn down; fresh laces can revive your kicks.
- Stand-out factor: Custom laces transform classic Jordans into head-turners, perfect for sneaker events or daily wear.
Choosing the Right Custom Laces
Before you start lacing, it’s important to pick the best laces for your Jordans. Here are the key things to consider:
1. Lace Type
Jordans come with different lace styles, so think about:
- Flat laces: Classic for most Jordan models, giving a sporty and clean look.
- Rope laces: Offer a chunky, bold style often seen on modern releases or collaborations.
- Reflective laces: Add nighttime flair or extra pop under lights.
- Printed/custom designs: Showcase patterns, words, or graphic prints.
2. Material
Your lace material will affect comfort and durability.
- Cotton: Soft, moves naturally, and takes color dyes well.
- Polyester: Durable, resists fraying, and keeps color longer.
- Waxed: Slight sheen and extra strength, helps keep laces tied all day.
3. Length
The right length depends on your Jordan model. Here’s a quick reference:
- Jordan 1 (High): 72″ (standard for 9-10 eyelets)
- Jordan 1 (Low/Mid): 54″ to 63″
- Jordan 3, 4, and 5: 54″ to 63″
- Jordan 11: 45″ to 54″
Always double-check the number of eyelets on your pair before buying.
Step-by-Step Guide: Lacing Your Jordans with Custom Laces
Ready to give your sneakers a facelift? Here’s how:
1. Remove the Old Laces
- Gently unthread the current laces from each eyelet, being careful not to tear the lace holes.
- Clean the tongue and lace holes while the laces are out—you’ll thank yourself later.
2. Choose a Lacing Style
There are several popular ways to lace Jordans:
a. Classic Criss-Cross
The original look. Seen on most new pairs:
- Insert both lace ends down through the bottom eyelets, keeping them even.
- Take the left lace and cross it over to the right, inserting up through the next eyelet. Repeat with the other side.
- Continue crossing all the way up.
- Tuck the ends inside or tie them as desired.
b. Straight Bar Lacing
Gives a clean, uniform look. Great for showing off bold laces:
- Take both lace ends and insert them down through the bottom eyelets.
- Pull one end straight across to the opposite second eyelet (outside).
- Feed the other end straight across to the next available eyelet, continuing this pattern up the shoe.
- Adjust so each bar is flat and tight.
c. Loose Lace/Hidden Knot
A favorite for sneaker displays or if you like your shoes loose:
- Lace up as with the criss-cross, leaving the laces loose.
- Tuck the ends behind the tongue rather than tying.
- Great for easy slip-on, but less secure.
3. Thread the Laces
- Start at the bottom and work your way up, keeping the lace flat and untwisted.
- Check that both lace ends remain even as you go.
4. Secure and Style
- Tie your laces to your preference, or leave them loose for style.
- Adjust the tension so the shoe fits comfortably—but doesn’t pinch.
Tips and Best Practices for Custom Lacing Your Jordans
Maximize style, comfort, and lace longevity. Here’s what sneakerheads recommend:
Keep Laces Even
Start with the lace tips perfectly even. This ensures a balanced lace-up and an even knot.
Color Coordination
- For a subtle touch, pick laces that subtly contrast or match your shoes’ accent colors.
- For high-impact style, select neon laces, reflective options, or custom prints that pop against the upper.
Don’t Over-tighten
Too tight, and you could damage the lace holes or the sneaker shape. Just snug enough for comfort.
Extra Flare: Add Accessories
Consider adding lace locks, aglets (tips), or charms for extra style.
Cleaning and Care
- Remove custom laces before washing your Jordans or the laces themselves.
- Hand-wash or machine-wash laces in a mesh bag, then air-dry.
Where to Buy Custom Laces for Jordans
Quality is key for both appearance and durability. Here are features to look for from reputable sellers:
- Premium materials: Durable cotton or polyester blends resist fraying.
- Custom printing: Some shops let you design graphics or names directly onto laces.
- Replacement options: Exact matches for classic Jordan models or bold upgrades.
- Worldwide shipping: Many specialty lace shops ship internationally—factor in shipping times and costs.
Saving on Costs and Shipping
- Bulk discounts are common; buy for multiple pairs at once.
- Look for free or discounted shipping if your order qualifies.
- Double-check return or replacement policies for custom (non-returnable) items.
Customizing Laces: Matching Your Jordan Model
Each Jordan silhouette has its own style and history. Custom laces can amplify or update that vibe.
Jordan 1
- Classic or modern colors.
- Leather upper pairs well with cotton or waxed laces.
- 1980s inspiration? Try vintage-style flat laces.
Jordan 3, 4, and 5
- Rope or reflective laces fit the 90s look and feel.
- For Jordan 4, custom lace tags or hangtags add extra flair.
Jordan 11
- This model shines with clean, simple laces—try a glossy or reflective twist for a fresh look.
Troubleshooting and Common Challenges
Custom lacing isn’t always straightforward. Here’s how to solve common issues.
Laces Feel Too Short or Too Long
- Double-check the recommended length for your model.
- If too long, try an alternate lacing method or double up on knots.
- If too short, order a longer set or try skipping every other eyelet.
Laces Won’t Stay Tied
- Consider waxed or textured laces for extra grip.
- Try a double knot or a lace lock accessory.
Laces Fray Quickly
- Choose high-quality laces with sturdy aglets.
- Avoid sharp metal eyelets, and regularly inspect for wear.
Creative Custom Lacing Ideas
Want to get noticed? Try these ideas:
- Gradient or ombre laces: Shift colors from toe to collar.
- Glow-in-the-dark: Lights up your step at night.
- Graphic text: Your nickname, favorite saying, or brand printed on the laces.
- Mismatched colors: One color per shoe, or “split” laces for a bold look.
The Benefits of Custom Lacing Your Jordans
Personalizing your laces is about more than just looks:
- Expression: Sneakers become a canvas for personal stories and inspiration.
- Renewal: A quick lace update makes old kicks feel new again.
- Attention: Stand out in a crowd of similar Jordans.
- Functionality: Choose laces that fit your lifestyle—performance or leisure.
Conclusion
Customizing the laces on your Jordans is an affordable, fun, and highly visible way to show off your personality and breathe new life into your sneakers. Whether you love vintage vibes, modern boldness, or playful graphics, there’s a lace—and a lacing method—for everyone. Bonus: it’s a safe, non-permanent way to update your style as often as you like. All you need is a pair of fresh custom laces, a little creativity, and you’re ready to step out with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know what length of laces to buy for my Jordans?
Measure from the bottom eyelet to the top and multiply by the number of eyelet pairs. Or, refer to guides for your specific Jordan model—most Jordan 1 Highs use 72-inch laces, while mids and lows need shorter lengths.
Can I put custom printed laces on any type of Jordan?
Absolutely. Custom printed laces come in various widths and lengths, so you can match them to almost any Jordan model. Just ensure the lace width fits easily through your shoe’s eyelets.
Are custom laces durable enough for everyday wear?
Most quality custom laces are made from durable materials like polyester, cotton, or waxed blends. For heavy daily use, look for laces with reinforced tips (aglets) and tight weaving to prevent fraying.
Do custom laces cost more than standard laces, and is it worth it?
Custom laces tend to be pricier than generic replacements, especially if printed or embroidered. However, the uniqueness, durability, and potential for bulk discounts can make them a good investment for sneaker enthusiasts.
How do I care for or clean custom laces?
Remove the laces and hand-wash them with mild detergent, or use a mesh bag to machine-wash. Avoid hot water or bleach for printed laces. Let laces air-dry flat before re-lacing your sneakers.