The Ultimate Shoelace Glossary: Every Shoelace Term Explained
Shoelaces might seem simple, but they actually have their own language.
From the plastic tips on the ends to the holes in your shoes, every part has a name.
Whether you're replacing your laces, trying a new lacing technique or simply curious, here's your complete guide to shoelace terminology.
Aglet
The small plastic or metal tip at the end of a shoelace.
Without aglets, threading laces through your shoes would be much harder - they keep the lace from fraying and make it easier to guide through each eyelet.
Fun fact: The word "aglet" comes from the Old French word aguillette, meaning "little needle."
Shoelace
The lace itself - the long cord that threads through your shoe and ties at the top.
Shoelaces come in a wide range of styles: flat, round, oval, elastic, patterned and reflective. Each suits different shoes and different occasions.
Eyelets
The holes that the shoelaces pass through.
Eyelets are often reinforced with metal rings or stitching to prevent wear and tearing over time. The number of eyelets on your shoe is one of the most important factors in choosing the right lace length.
Eyelet Pairs
You'll often see lace lengths recommended based on eyelet pairs - each pair being one hole on the left and one on the right.
| Eyelet Pairs | Recommended Lace Length |
|---|---|
| 4–5 pairs | 90cm |
| 5–6 pairs | 120cm |
| 6–7 pairs | 140cm |
| 7–8 pairs | 160cm |
| 8+ pairs | 180cm+ |
Not sure how many eyelet pairs your shoes have? Count the holes on one side only - that's your number.
Bow
The finished loops you create when tying your shoelaces.
A well-tied bow sits neatly across the top of your shoe, parallel to the toe. If yours twists and sits diagonally, try starting your knot with the opposite lace on top - it makes a surprising difference.
Knot
The part beneath the bow that keeps everything secure.
A good knot should stay tied throughout the day without becoming impossible to undo. If your laces keep coming undone, you may be tying a granny knot without realising it - starting with the wrong lace on top each time.
Lace Lock
A lace lock (also called a lace anchor or lace clip) is a small toggle or clip that holds your laces in place without needing to tie them.
Lace locks are popular in running shoes, cycling shoes and children's footwear. Some shoes also have a built-in lace lock eyelet near the top - designed specifically for the heel lock technique described below.
Heel Lock
A lacing technique that anchors your heel firmly inside the shoe, also known as a runner's loop.
It uses the top eyelet to create a small loop on each side, then threads the lace through the opposite loop before tying as normal. The result is a noticeably more secure fit that reduces heel slipping, helps prevent blisters and improves stability - particularly useful for walking, running and golf.
If you've never tried it, it's worth the extra thirty seconds.
Criss-Cross Lacing
The most common lacing pattern in the world. Laces cross over each other diagonally from eyelet to eyelet, alternating left and right from bottom to top. Simple, effective and used on the vast majority of everyday shoes.
Straight Bar Lacing
A clean, horizontal lacing style where the lace runs straight across each row of eyelets with no visible diagonal crossings on top.
It gives a much neater, more premium appearance and is popular on smart trainers and fashion footwear. It does use slightly more lace length than criss-cross, so worth bearing in mind if you're switching styles.
Barrel Lacing
A lacing technique where the lace wraps around itself between eyelets, creating a series of small barrel-shaped coils along the side of the shoe.
Less common than criss-cross or straight bar, but increasingly popular amongst sneaker enthusiasts who want a distinctive, considered look.
Lace Length
The overall length of the shoelace from tip to tip.
Getting the right length matters - too short and you can't tie a proper knot, too long and the loops drag on the ground. When in doubt, count your eyelet pairs and refer to the table in the Eyelet Pairs section above.
Flat Shoelaces
The most popular shoelace style by far. Flat laces have a wide, ribbon-like profile and sit neatly on top of your shoe. They're found in the majority of trainers, golf shoes and casual footwear, and are available in the widest range of colours and patterns.
Browse our full range of flat shoelaces - from classic whites to bold designs.
Round Shoelaces
Round laces have a cylindrical profile and a more traditional look, commonly found in walking shoes, boots and outdoor footwear. They're easy to tighten firmly and tend to be very durable.
Explore our round shoelaces for a clean, classic finish.
Patterned Shoelaces
Shoelaces featuring colours, prints or designs - the easiest way to add personality to any pair of shoes.
Popular styles include Heart Shoelaces, Tartan Shoelaces, Floral Shoelaces, Rainbow Shoelaces and Animal Print Shoelaces. A small change that makes a big difference.
Why Does Any of This Matter?
Understanding shoelace terminology makes it easier to choose the right length, pick the right style, try new lacing techniques and keep your shoes comfortable. Most people never think twice about their laces until something goes wrong - but a little knowledge goes a long way.
Once you know the difference between an aglet and an eyelet, a heel lock and a lace lock, you'll never look at your shoes the same way again.
And yes - you'll probably spend the rest of today telling people that the plastic tip on a shoelace is called an aglet. 😄
Ready to put your new knowledge to use? Shop all shoelaces at Love Your Laces - premium quality from just £6.