How to replace walking boot laces (and what length)

When to replace laces

Check your laces each time you clean your boots. Replace them if the outer sheath is worn through and you can see the inner core, if they have frayed where they run over hooks, if the aglets (the plastic or metal tips) are missing, or if they have stretched so much that you cannot get a firm tie. Worn laces tend to break when you pull hard, usually at the worst moment.

Many walkers replace laces at the same time as reproofing their boots, once or twice a year depending on use.

How long should walking boot laces be?

Measure the old lace if you have it, holding it straight without stretching. That is the most reliable guide. If not, count the pairs of eyelets, D-rings and hooks from toe to top. The table gives rough lengths; brands differ in spacing, so treat it as a starting point.

If in doubt, go slightly longer. You can tuck spare length into the boot cuff, but a short lace cannot be tied properly over the top hooks.

Round or flat laces?

Most walking boots use round, braided laces because they run smoothly through hooks and are easy to tension. Flat laces grip better in eyelets and hold a knot well, and some walking shoes use them. Replace like with like where possible, because the eyelets and hooks are designed around the original lace.

Look for laces described for outdoor or hiking boots. They tend to have a tough outer braid that resists wear on metal hooks. Waxed laces hold a knot well and shed water but can be harder to adjust.

How to re-lace walking boots

Take a photo of the original lacing before you remove it, so you can copy any special pattern.

1. 1

   Remove the old lace and clean the eyelets and hooks.

2. 2

   Thread the new lace through the lowest pair of eyelets so both ends are even.

3. 3

   Cross the lace and thread up through each pair of eyelets in turn, keeping the ends equal.

4. 4

   At the hooks, wrap from the outside in, so the lace sits deep in the hook.

5. 5

   Put the boot on, pull out slack from the toe up and tie off.

6. 6

   Trim nothing until you have walked in them; long ends can be tucked into the cuff.

See lacing techniques for walking boots →

Making laces last longer

Most wear happens where laces run over hooks. Rinse grit out of laces after muddy walks, because grit acts like sandpaper. Avoid yanking laces through hooks under high tension; loosen them a few hooks down first. Check metal hooks for sharp edges, which can saw through a lace, and ask a cobbler about replacing a damaged hook.

Carry a spare lace in your pack on longer walks. A length of cord can stand in at a pinch. Good lacing also helps fit: a heel-lock technique at the top hooks can cure heel lift, as explained in heel slipping in walking boots.

Alternatives to laces

Some boots use BOA dials or zips instead of, or as well as, laces. They are quick to adjust but harder to repair on the hill. Our articles on walking boots with BOA lacing and walking boots with zips cover the pros and cons. For most hill walking, laced boots such as those in our best walking boots for UK hills remain the most adjustable option.

Frequently asked questions

How long should hiking boot laces be? Measure the old lace. As a rough guide, mid boots often take around 150 to 180 cm and taller boots around 180 to 200 cm.

Can I use flat laces in walking boots? You can, but round laces usually run better through hooks. Replace like with like if possible.

Why do my laces keep coming undone? Try a double knot or a surgeon's knot, and check the laces are not worn smooth. Waxed laces hold knots well.

How often should I replace laces? When the sheath is worn or frayed, often once or twice a year for regular walkers.