Prepare to elevate your style game with our comprehensive guide on how to lace Air Jordan shoes like a pro. These iconic sneakers have graced the feet of countless basketball legends and fashion enthusiasts alike, and mastering the art of lacing them will elevate your footwear to new heights. Whether you’re seeking a secure fit for intense athletic pursuits or aiming for a stylish flair that turns heads, this step-by-step tutorial will empower you to achieve a flawless lacing technique that complements your personal style.
Before embarking on the lacing journey, it’s crucial to select the lacing method that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. For enhanced lockdown and stability during athletic activities, the “heel lock” technique reigns supreme. Alternatively, the “criss-cross” method offers a classic and versatile aesthetic that suits both casual and formal occasions. Once you’ve chosen your lacing style, gather your laces and prepare to transform your Air Jordans into a masterpiece of footwear art.
Commencing with the “heel lock” method, insert the laces through the bottom eyelets of the shoe, ensuring they emerge from the inside. Cross the laces over one another and thread them through the next set of eyelets, again from the inside. Repeat this criss-cross pattern until you reach the top of the shoe. To secure the heel lock, feed the laces through the top two eyelets on the outer side of each shoe. Pull the laces taut and knot them firmly, ensuring a snug fit that prevents heel slippage. This technique not only enhances performance but also adds a touch of sophistication to your footwear.
Selecting the Correct Lace for Your Jordans
Choosing the right lace for your Jordan sneakers is crucial to achieving the perfect aesthetic and fit. Consider the following factors when selecting your laces:
Material:
Leather: Durable, luxurious, and provides a classic look.
Cotton: Soft, breathable, and comes in various colors.
Nylon: Strong, synthetic, and moisture-resistant.
Waxed: Grippy for a secure fit and reduces fraying.
Reflective: Provides visibility at night.
Color:
Match the lace color to your sneakers’ design or opt for a contrasting shade for a bold statement. Consider using the following color combinations:
| Lace Color | Recommended Sneaker Colors |
|---|---|
| White | Black, white, gray, navy, red |
| Black | White, gray, black, navy |
| Red | Black, white, gray, navy, black |
| Blue | White, gray, navy, blue |
Thickness:
Lace thickness depends on the size of the sneaker eyelets. Use thicker laces for larger eyelets and thinner laces for smaller ones.
Preparing the Laces for Lacing
Before you start lacing your Jordan shoes, it’s important to prepare the laces properly. This will ensure that they stay tied securely and look their best.
2. Create the Initial Loop
To create the initial loop, fold the laces in half and insert the folded end into one of the bottom lace holes. Pull the laces through until the folded end is about 2 inches from the hole. This will create a small loop on the outside of the shoe.
To secure the initial loop, wrap the two loose ends of the laces around the loop and pull them tight. This will create a secure knot that will hold the loop in place. Trim any excess lace from the knot.
Repeat this process to create an initial loop on the other side of the shoe.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the laces in half and insert the folded end into the bottom lace hole. |
| 2 | Pull the laces until the folded end is 2 inches from the hole. |
| 3 | Wrap the loose ends around the loop and pull tight. |
| 4 | Trim the excess lace. |
Looping the Laces Through the Bottom Eyelets
Now, let’s loop the laces through the bottom eyelets. Start by taking the left lace and threading it through the bottom left eyelet, from the outside to the inside. Pull the lace through until there’s about 5 inches of lace left at the end.
Advanced Lacing Techniques for Bottom Eyelets
For a more secure and customized fit, consider these advanced lacing techniques:
Cross Lacing
Thread the left lace through the bottom left eyelet and cross it over to the right side. Then, thread the right lace through the bottom right eyelet and cross it over to the left side. Repeat this pattern until you reach the top.
Straight Lacing (or Ladder Lacing)
Thread the left lace through the bottom left eyelet and the right lace through the bottom right eyelet, keeping them parallel to each other. Continue lacing straight up, threading each lace through the corresponding eyelet on its side.
Cage Lacing
This technique creates a cage-like pattern that provides extra support. Thread the left lace through the bottom left eyelet and bring it over to the right side. Cross it over the right lace and thread it through the eyelet above the bottom right eyelet. Repeat this pattern on the right side, creating an X-shaped pattern. Continue lacing up, following the cage pattern.
Creating the Initial Crossover Pattern
Step 1: Thread the Lace Through the Top Lace Holes
Insert the lace through the top lace holes on both sides of the shoe, starting from the outside. Leave about 6-8 inches of lace hanging on each end.
Step 2: Cross the Laces Over
Bring the left lace over the right lace and thread it through the next lace hole on the right side. Repeat with the right lace, crossing it over the left lace and threading it through the next lace hole on the left side.
Step 3: Continue Crossing the Laces
Continue crossing the laces back and forth, creating a zig-zag pattern.
Step 4: Adjust the Lace Tension
Once you have created the initial crossover pattern, adjust the lace tension to your desired tightness.
| Lace Tension | Description |
|---|---|
| Loose | The laces are loose enough to slide easily, providing a comfortable fit. |
| Medium | The laces are snug but not too tight, offering a balance of comfort and support. |
| Tight | The laces are cinched up tight, providing maximum support and preventing the shoe from moving excessively. |
The optimal lace tension will vary depending on your individual preference and the type of activity you will be doing while wearing the shoes.
Step 5: Finish the Lacing
Once you have adjusted the lace tension, lace up the remaining lace holes until the shoe is fully laced.
Feeding the Laces Through the Middle Eyelets
Now that the laces are in place at the toe, it’s time to feed them through the middle eyelets. Start by taking the left lace and feeding it up through the second eyelet from the bottom on the left side of the shoe. Then, take the right lace and feed it up through the second eyelet from the bottom on the right side of the shoe.
Next, take the left lace and cross it over the right lace. Then, feed the left lace down through the third eyelet from the bottom on the right side of the shoe. Take the right lace and feed it down through the third eyelet from the bottom on the left side of the shoe.
Continue to lace the shoes in this manner, alternating between the left and right laces and crossing the laces over each other as you go. Once you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces together in a bow.
Tips for Feeding the Laces Through the Middle Eyelets
- Use a lace-threading tool if you have difficulty threading the laces through the eyelets.
- Make sure that the laces are crossed over each other before feeding them through the next eyelet.
- If the laces are too long, you can trim them to the desired length after you have tied them together.
| Eyelet | Left Lace | Right Lace |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Up | Up |
| 2 | Down | Up |
| 3 | Up | Down |
| 4 | Down | Up |
| 5 | Up | Down |
| 6 | Down | Up |
| 7 | Up | Down |
| 8 | Down | Up |
| 9 | Up | Down |
| 10 | Down | Up |
| 11 | Up | Down |
| 12 | Down | Up |
Shaping the Central Cross
Now that you have the laces threaded through the bottom and top eyelets, it’s time to form the central cross that characterizes the classic Jordan lace-up style. Follow these steps:
1. Cross the Right Lace Over the Left
Take the right lace and cross it over the left lace, forming an “X” shape.
2. Thread the Right Lace Through the Right Eyelet
Take the right lace and thread it through the right eyelet directly above the one it just crossed.
3. Pull Tight
Gently pull both laces tight to form the first part of the cross.
4. Repeat on the Left Side
Repeat the same process on the left side: cross the left lace over the right, thread it through the left eyelet, and pull tight.
5. Secure the Cross
Once you have both sides of the cross formed, gently pull on both laces to make sure they’re secure and tight.
6. Double-Cross Lacing (Optional)
For a more secure and decorative hold, you can perform a double-cross lacing by repeating the following steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a. | Cross the right lace over the left twice. |
| b. | Thread the right lace through the right eyelet. |
| c. | Pull tight. |
| d. | Repeat on the left side. |
| e. | Pull both laces tight to secure the double cross. |
Lacing Up the Top Half of the Shoe
Once you’ve got the lace through the bottom half of the shoe, it’s time to tackle the top half. This is where you can get creative with your lacing style.
7. Cross the Laces Over
Bring the left lace over and under the right lace, then up through the next hole. Repeat this process with the right lace, bringing it over and under the left lace, then up through the next hole. Continue this pattern until you reach the top of the shoe.
| Lace | Action |
|---|---|
| Left | Over and under right, up through next hole |
| Right | Over and under left, up through next hole |
Finishing the Lacing at the Collar
Once you’ve threaded the laces through the top eyelets, you’re ready to finish the lacing. You can do this in a variety of ways, but the most common method is to simply tie the laces together in a bow.
To do this, hold the two ends of the laces in your hands and make a small loop with one end. Then, wrap the other end of the lace around the loop and pull it tight. You can make the bow as tight or loose as you like, depending on your preference.
Once you’ve tied the bow, you can trim the excess laces if you want. To do this, simply cut the laces with a pair of scissors, leaving about an inch of lace at the end of each bow knot.
Here are some additional tips for finishing the lacing at the collar:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a double knot. | This will help to keep the laces from coming loose. |
| Tuck the ends of the laces inside the shoe. | This will help to keep them from getting caught on anything. |
| Be creative. | There are many different ways to finish the lacing at the collar. Experiment until you find a style that you like. |
Tightening and Securing the Knot
Once you’ve laced your shoes, it’s important to tighten and secure the knot to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Here are the steps to do this:
1. Pull the laces tightly:
Grip both ends of the laces and pull them firmly to tighten the knot. Ensure that the laces are not too tight, as this can cause discomfort or restrict blood flow. You should aim for a snug fit that allows your feet to move comfortably.
2. Create a simple knot:
To create a simple knot, cross the right lace over the left and then pass the left lace under the right. Pull the laces through the loop to form a basic overhand knot.
3. Double knot for extra security:
For added security, you can create a double knot by repeating step 2. This involves creating a second overhand knot on top of the first one. The double knot helps prevent the laces from loosening during activity.
4. Tuck the loose ends:
Once you’ve created a secure knot, tuck the loose ends of the laces into the shoe to prevent them from dangling or getting caught. This also gives your shoes a cleaner and more polished look.
5. Adjust the tension:
If the knot feels too tight or too loose, you can adjust the tension by loosening or tightening the laces accordingly. Keep in mind that the ideal tightness may vary depending on the type of shoe and your personal preference.
6. Use a lace lock (optional):
For extra security and a more custom fit, you can use a lace lock. A lace lock is a small device that holds the laces in place after you’ve tightened the knot. This can be especially useful for athletic shoes where you need a secure fit during intense activity.
7. Check the knot regularly:
It’s a good idea to check the knot regularly, especially if you’re involved in strenuous activity. Ensure that the knot is still tight and secure and adjust it as necessary.
8. Replace laces when necessary:
Over time, laces can become worn or frayed. Replace the laces when they show signs of damage to maintain a secure and comfortable fit.
9. Practice makes perfect
As with any skill, practice makes perfect when it comes to lacing shoes. Take some time to practice the steps outlined above until you become proficient and can quickly and easily lace your shoes properly.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pull the laces tightly |
| 2 | Create a simple knot |
| 3 | Double knot for extra security |
| 4 | Tuck the loose ends |
| 5 | Adjust the tension |
| 6 | Use a lace lock (optional) |
| 7 | Check the knot regularly |
| 8 | Replace laces when necessary |
| 9 | Practice makes perfect |
Stylizing the Laces for a Custom Look
10. Experiment with Loop and Cross Lacing
The loop and cross lacing technique creates a more intricate and customizable look compared to the traditional lacing method. It involves looping the laces through the holes on one side, crossing them over to the other side, and then repeating the process. This technique allows you to create unique patterns and designs by experimenting with different angles and the number of loops. The variations are endless, so feel free to let your creativity shine through. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps:
– Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on one side.
– Cross the left lace over the right lace and insert it into the third hole on the opposite side.
– Pull the right lace up and insert it into the fourth hole on the same side.
– Continue alternating sides, crossing the laces over each other and inserting them into the next available hole.
– Loop the laces through the final eyelets on both sides and tie a knot.
– You can customize the look by experimenting with the number of loops before crossing the laces. For example, you could try looping the laces twice or even three times before creating the cross.
– Use different colored laces to create even more striking patterns.
How To Lace The Jt Jordan Shoes
There are many different ways to lace JT Jordan shoes, but the most common and popular method is the “straight laced” method. This method is simple and easy to do, and it creates a classic look that will never go out of style. To lace your JT Jordan shoes using the straight laced method, follow these steps:
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on the outside of the shoe.
- Next, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets up on the inside of the shoe.
- Continue crossing the laces over each other and threading them through the remaining eyelets on the shoe.
- When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces together in a bow.
You can also lace your JT Jordan shoes using other methods, such as the “criss-cross” method or the “over-under” method. However, the straight laced method is the most popular and versatile method, and it is the method that is most commonly used by professional basketball players.
People Also Ask About How To Lace The Jt Jordan Shoes
How do I lace my JT Jordan shoes tight?
To lace your JT Jordan shoes tight, follow these steps:
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on the outside of the shoe.
- Next, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets up on the inside of the shoe.
- Continue crossing the laces over each other and threading them through the remaining eyelets on the shoe, but this time, pull the laces tight as you go.
- When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces together in a double knot.
This method will create a snug and secure fit that will keep your feet in place while you play basketball.
How do I lace my JT Jordan shoes for style?
There are many different ways to lace your JT Jordan shoes for style. One popular method is the “criss-cross” method. To lace your shoes using this method, follow these steps:
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two eyelets on the outside of the shoe.
- Next, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two eyelets up on the inside of the shoe.
- Continue crossing the laces over each other and threading them through the remaining eyelets on the shoe, but this time, instead of threading the laces straight through the eyelets, cross them over each other again before threading them through.
- When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces together in a bow.
This method will create a stylish and unique look that will make your JT Jordan shoes stand out from the crowd.
