Embark on a journey to elevate your footwear game with the New Balance 997H, where sneakerhead dreams meet unparalleled comfort. Delve into the art of lacing up these masterpieces, transforming them from mere shoes into an extension of your style. Make a bold statement with every stride as you master the techniques that will unleash the true potential of your New Balance 997H.
Embrace the classic appeal of the traditional lacing method, a timeless choice that exudes sophistication. Begin by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on each side, ensuring they emerge from the inside. Cross the laces over the tongue and guide them through the next set of eyelets, creating an intricate crisscross pattern that provides a secure and comfortable fit. Continue this pattern until you reach the top, threading the laces through the final eyelets before tying a snug knot that completes the iconic look.
If you seek a more personalized touch, experiment with alternative lacing techniques. Opt for the straight lacing method, where the laces run parallel from the bottom to the top eyelets, exuding a minimalist aesthetic. Unleash your creativity with the crisscross lacing method, where the laces intertwine in a complex pattern, forming a unique and eye-catching design. Explore the double crisscross method, an intricate variation that adds depth and dimension to your New Balance 997H, making them the centerpiece of your ensemble. The possibilities are endless, inviting you to discover the lacing style that best reflects your individuality.
Unbox Your 997h
Unveiling your new pair of 997h is an exciting moment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you break them in:
Step 1: Unwrap with Care
Gently remove the tissue paper and protective plastic from the box. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and design of your new shoes. Inspect them for any blemishes or imperfections before trying them on.
Step 2: Remove the Stuffing
Inside the shoes, you’ll find some paper or foam stuffing. Carefully remove this stuffing, as it’s used to maintain the shape of the shoes during shipping. It’s also a good idea to remove the silica gel packets, which absorb moisture.
Step 3: Check the Laces
Before you lace up your 997h, make sure the laces are the right length for a comfortable fit. If they’re too long, you can trim them with scissors. If they’re too short, you can replace them with new laces.
| Lace Length Guide: |
|---|
| Men’s Size 7-9: 54″ |
| Men’s Size 9.5-11: 60″ |
| Men’s Size 11.5-13: 66″ |
Choose the Correct Lace Style
The 997H comes with two sets of laces: flat and round. Each style has its own unique look and feel. Flat laces are more common and provide a more casual look, while round laces are more formal and give the shoe a dressier appearance. Ultimately, the best lace style for you depends on your personal preference and the occasion.
Flat Laces
Flat laces are the most common type of lace used in sneakers. They are typically made of cotton or polyester and have a flat, ribbon-like shape. Flat laces are easy to tie and provide a secure fit. They are also less likely to come untied than round laces.
Round Laces
Round laces are less common than flat laces, but they are often used in dress shoes and other formal footwear. Round laces are made of a variety of materials, including leather, nylon, and silk. They have a round, cord-like shape and are typically more durable than flat laces. Round laces can be more difficult to tie than flat laces, but they provide a more polished look.
| Lace Style | Appearance | Feel | Durability |
|—|—|—|—|
| Flat | Casual | Soft and flexible | Less durable |
| Round | Formal | Firm and durable | More durable |
Insert the Laces
1. Start the laces on one of the bottom eyelets that are closest to the toes. Feed the laces through both eyelets from the inside out.
2. Cross the laces over each other, forming the first line of the lacing pattern.
3. Continue the criss-cross pattern up the rest of the eyelets, making sure to keep the laces tight. If the laces are too loose, they will slip out easily and the shoes will not be very secure. If the laces are too tight, the shoes will be uncomfortable to wear.
4. Once you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces in a bow or other knot.
Lace Variations
There are many different ways to lace up a pair of shoes. Here are a few variations:
| Lace Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Straight lacing | The most common lacing method. The laces cross over each other in a straight line from the bottom to the top of the shoe. |
| Criss-cross lacing | A variation on straight lacing. The laces cross over each other in a criss-cross pattern from the bottom to the top of the shoe. |
| Heel lock lacing | This lacing method provides extra support for the heel. The laces are crossed over each other at the bottom of the shoe, then wrapped around the heel and crossed over each other again at the top of the shoe. |
Start Lacing from the Top
Begin by inserting the laces through the top two eyelets on one side. Pull the laces up and out, leaving enough slack for adjusting later.
Cross the Laces
Cross the right lace over the left lace and thread it into the right eyelet of the second row. Cross the left lace over the right lace and thread it into the left eyelet of the third row.
Cross the Laces Again
Repeat the lace crossing pattern as you move down the row. Cross the right lace over the left lace and thread it into the right eyelet of the fourth row. Cross the left lace over the right lace and thread it into the left eyelet of the fifth row.
Tighten and Adjust
Once the laces reach the bottom of the row, pull on both ends to tighten the laces. Make sure the laces are evenly distributed and adjust the tension as needed. You can now wear your 997h with style and comfort.
Lace the Middle Section
Next, thread the laces through the middle eyelets. Start from the bottom and work your way up, alternating between the inside and outside of the shoe. To create a secure hold, pull the laces snugly but not too tightly.
5. Tighten and Lock
Once the laces are through all the middle eyelets, tighten them by pulling both ends simultaneously. This will bring the two sides of the shoe closer together and provide a snug fit. To secure the fit, slide the lace ends through the top eyelets and tie them firmly. Make sure the knot is tight and centered for optimal support and comfort.
| Lace Position | Lacing Technique |
|---|---|
| Bottom Middle Eyelets | Thread laces from bottom to top, alternating sides |
| Middle Eyelets | Pull laces snugly for a secure hold |
| Top Eyelets | Thread laces through and tie firmly for a locked fit |
Secure the Last Loop
To finish lacing your 997h, secure the last loop by Threading the right lace through the last eyelet on the right side. Pull the lace through until there is about 2 inches of lace left.
Next, thread the left lace through the last eyelet on the left side. Pull the lace through until there is about 2 inches of lace left.
| Lace | Eyelet | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Right | Last eyelet on right side | Thread through from the outside |
| Left | Last eyelet on left side | Thread through from the inside |
Finally, tie the laces together using a square knot or a bow. Make sure the knot is secure and the laces are not too tight or too loose.
Double-Knot the Laces
Once you’ve laced up your shoes, it’s important to double-knot them to prevent them from coming untied. Here’s how to do it:
- Cross the right lace over the left lace.
- Bring the right lace under the left lace.
- Pull the right lace through the loop you just created.
- Tighten the knot.
- Cross the left lace over the right lace.
- Bring the left lace under the right lace.
- Pull the left lace through the loop you just created.
- Tighten the knot.
Your laces are now double-knotted and secure.
Tips for Double-Knotting Laces
- Make sure the knots are tight.
- If you’re having trouble tying a double knot, try using a different type of knot.
- You can also use a lace lock to keep your laces from coming untied.
Troubleshooting Double-Knotted Laces
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The knot is too loose | Tighten the knots. |
| The knot is too tight | Loosen the knots. |
| The knot is coming untied | Tie a different type of knot. |
Trim the Excess Lace
Once you’ve reached the desired tightness, it’s time to trim the excess lace. This will give your New Balance 997h a clean and finished look. To trim the lace, simply follow these steps:
1. Decide How Much Lace You Want to Remove
This is a matter of personal preference. Some people like to keep their laces short, while others prefer them to be longer. If you’re unsure how much to remove, you can always start small and cut more later if needed.
2. Cut the Lace
Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the lace at the desired length. Be careful not to cut the lace too short, as you can’t add lace back on once it’s been cut.
3. Heat-Seal the Ends (Optional)
If you want to prevent the ends of the lace from fraying, you can heat-seal them. To do this, simply hold a lighter or match to the end of the lace for a few seconds. The heat will melt the fibers together, creating a strong and durable seal.
4. Tuck the Lace Ends
Once you’ve trimmed the excess lace, tuck the ends into the shoe. This will help to keep them out of the way and prevent them from getting caught on anything.
| Lace Length | Description |
|---|---|
| Short | Laces that are trimmed to just below the ankle |
| Medium | Laces that are trimmed to mid-calf |
| Long | Laces that are trimmed to just above the knee |
Adjust the Fit
Once you’ve chosen the right lacing style, it’s time to adjust the fit of your 997H to ensure maximum comfort and support.
9. Create a Secure and Snug Fit
**Step 1: Snug Up the Forefoot:** Start by pulling the laces tight enough to secure your forefoot comfortably in place. Ensure there’s no excessive movement or slippage when walking or running.
**Step 2: Create a Heel Lock:** To keep your heel secure, apply additional tension to the laces in the top two or three eyelets near the heel. This creates a heel lock that prevents your heel from slipping out of the shoe.
**Step 3: Dial-In the Midfoot:** Adjust the laces in the eyelets around the midfoot to fine-tune the fit. Tighten the laces稍微 to provide support and stability, but avoid over-tightening, which can cause discomfort or pressure.
**Step 4: Check the Pressure Points:** Once you’ve laced up your 997H, check for any pressure points or areas of discomfort. If any areas feel too tight, loosen the laces slightly in those eyelets. Conversely, if you feel the fit is too loose, tighten the laces as needed.
| Eyelets Involved | Adjustment Purpose |
|---|---|
| Forefoot (1-4) | Secure the forefoot and prevent slippage |
| Heel (7-8, 9-10) | Create a heel lock and prevent heel slip |
| Midfoot (5-6) | Provide support and stability without over-tightening |
Style Your 997h
Lace Up Your 997h
Step 1: Insert the laces through the bottom two eyelets.
Step 2: Lace the laces across each other and through the third eyelet on the opposite side.
Step 3: Continue lacing in this criss-cross pattern until you reach the top eyelets.
Step 4: When you reach the top eyelets, loop the laces around the metal hooks and then back down through the next eyelet.
Step 5: Keep alternating between wrapping the laces around the hooks and lacing them through the eyelets until you reach the bottom.
Step 6: When you reach the bottom, double-knot the laces to secure them.
Step 7: Tuck the excess lace inside the shoe for a clean look.
Step 8: If desired, you can add a lace lock or lace anchors to keep the laces in place.
Step 9: Choose a lace color that complements the shoe color or adds a pop of contrast.
Step 10: Experiment with different lacing styles to create a unique look. Try lacing under-and-over instead of criss-crossing, or create a criss-cross pattern that only goes halfway up the shoe, leaving the top eyelets unlaced.
How To Lace Up New 997h
The New Balance 997H is a classic running shoe that has been updated with modern style. The shoe features a comfortable mesh upper with suede overlays, a cushioned midsole, and a durable rubber outsole. One of the unique features of the 997H is its lacing system, which allows for a custom fit.
To lace up your new 997Hs, follow these steps:
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on each side of the shoe.
- Next, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets.
- Continue crossing the laces over each other and threading them through the remaining eyelets.
- Once you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces together in a bow.
You can also experiment with different lacing techniques to create a custom look. For example, you could try lacing your shoes with a criss-cross pattern or a straight-across pattern. You can also use different colored laces to add a pop of color to your shoes.
People Also Ask
How can I make my 997Hs more comfortable?
There are a few things you can do to make your 997Hs more comfortable. First, make sure that the shoes fit properly. If the shoes are too tight, they can cause blisters and other foot pain. If the shoes are too loose, they can cause your feet to slide around inside the shoes, which can also be uncomfortable.
Another way to make your 997Hs more comfortable is to wear them with socks. Socks help to absorb sweat and keep your feet dry. They can also help to reduce friction between your feet and the shoes, which can help to prevent blisters.
Finally, you can try adding a pair of insoles to your shoes. Insoles can help to provide additional cushioning and support, which can make your shoes more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
How can I clean my 997Hs?
To clean your 997Hs, you can use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. You can also use a mild soap solution to clean the shoes, if necessary. Be sure to rinse the shoes thoroughly with water after cleaning them.
If your 997Hs are made of suede, you can use a suede brush to clean them. Be sure to brush the shoes in the direction of the nap. You can also use a suede eraser to remove any dirt or stains from the shoes.
Do not put your 997Hs in the washing machine or dryer. This can damage the shoes.
