To this day, I can still recall the sheer excitement I felt when my new Off-White AJ 1s arrived. Not only had I managed to secure one of the most highly anticipated sneakers of 2017, but it was also the first time I had really thought about having fun with laces.
They came with four extra pairs—black, white, orange, and lime green—that could be swapped around to create alternative looks for different outfits. I never looked back.
In this guide I’ll be rounding up some of the best shoelaces for men. And not just for sneakers – you’ll also find a plethora of options for boots and slightly fancier footwear. Some will be colorful, and others will provide a subtle difference, or something stronger than what already comes in the box.
Keep reading for those I swear by and others do, too.
Key Takeaways
When it comes to the best men’s shoelaces, several key factors set great ones apart: durability, style, ease of use, and comfort. They should be made from robust materials that withstand daily wear and tear, complement your chosen shoes, and stay securely tied without constant readjustment.
To find the cream of the crop, I’ve spent the past few weeks poring over ratings, reviews, and numerous footwear forums. What started as a list of 20 was narrowed down to just five, including my favorites from Miscly and a budget-friendly pair by Olukssck.
Why it’s great: Available in a range of colors, from gray and black to yellow and orange, Miscly’s popular laces are my go-to whenever I fancy switching things up. They’re well-made, easy to tie, and boast a tight weave that, in my experience, has never shown any signs of fraying.
The red packaging and wiggly logo is a neat touch, while they’ll fit pretty much any sneaker, including high tops and canvas styles.
Who is this for? A versatile option, they’re perfect for sneakers but can also be used for casual shoes and boots. Seeing as they come in multiple colors, you’re sure to find a pair that you like.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: They’re quite stretchy, so depending on what shoes you’re wearing, you may be left with more shoelace than you wanted. I find that the double knot works a treat; also, make sure to select the most suitable size.
Material: 100% Polyester | Type: Flat | Colors Available: 10+ | Length: 27–72”
Why it’s great: Olukssck’s laces offer a secure fit and are easy to adjust. They can be worn with most sneakers and plenty of boots, making them a versatile choice that’s super cheap and reliable. I find that they hold up well in all weather and stay tied throughout the day.
Who is this for? Whether you’re looking for cheap laces to keep as a spare or want some new ones to revive old sneakers, these are a no-brainer.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: They might be a touch wider than what you’ve worn in the past—maybe even too wide for some smarter sneakers.
Material: 100% Polyester | Type: Flat | Colors Available: 10+ | Length: 28–72”
Why it’s great: Made from cotton with a wax coating, these laces are strong, water-repellent, and smarter than most. You can choose from six different colors and multiple lengths to ensure the perfect fit. I love how they arrive packed in a little box—I thought it really added to the overall premium feel.
Who is this for? These should be used for dress shoes, not sneakers or boots. They’ll give your footwear a polished appearance, which will suit office ensembles and wedding fits.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: They can feel a little stiff at first, but the coating will gradually loosen up.
Material: 100% Cotton | Type: Waxed | Colors Available: 5 | Length: 28–54”
Why it’s great: With an average user rating of 4.6/5, these are some of the best men’s shoelaces on Amazon. Wearers have given them top marks for stability, performance, sturdiness, and appearance.
There’s over 30 colors to choose from, including black and red and orange and gray, plus plenty of different sizes. They’ve been designed for boots and feature a wave shape that offers increased grip and ultimate durability.
Who is this for? Suitable for running, walking, and all kinds of strenuous sports, these will appeal to travelers, outdoor adventurers, and guys with active lifestyles. I found that they fitted hiking boots best.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: They’re more expensive than many of the other laces I’ve featured, yet you do get two pairs.
Material: 100% Polyester | Type: Heavy duty | Colors Available: 10+ | Length: 39–118”
Why it’s great: From classic white to neon yellow, these laces are available in lots of colors and almost as many lengths. Made from polyester that doesn’t stretch or fray, they’ll fit sneakers, boots, and plenty of other footwear styles. The flat design not only adds a sleek, modern touch to your shoes but also provides a more secure fit, preventing them from coming undone during your busiest days.
Who is this for? They’re best for sneaker enthusiasts, athletes, and anyone looking to add a touch of flair to their footwear without sacrificing practicality. With rave reviews from satisfied customers, these laces are a must-have accessory for any guy.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: The laces on these are longer than anticipated. You may need to buy shorter ones if that’s more your vibe.
Material: 100% Polyester | Type: Flat | Colors Available: 10+ | Length: 24–79”
Buying Considerations for The Best Shoelaces For Men
Material/Durability
The best shoelaces for men are made from high-quality materials like waxed cotton, polyester, or nylon. These materials are known for their strength and longevity, ensuring that your shoelaces won’t fray or break easily, even with regular use.
Length/Style
The length of your shoelaces should match your shoe type. Different shoes require different lengths, such as shorter laces for dress shoes and longer ones for boots. Additionally, consider the style and color of the laces to complement your footwear and personal aesthetic.
Performance
You’ll want shoelaces that stay securely tied throughout the day, which makes flat laces a sensible choice—they’re less likely to come undone compared to round ones. You should also look for features like reinforced aglets (tips) that can make threading the laces easier and prevent fraying.
How We Chose
Disclaimer: Many shoes were tied while making this article. I also had a little help from friends, family members, and footwear fanatics to find the best shoelaces for men. To narrow down my options and settle on five finalists, each pair was judged on the below criteria:
Color options: The best shoelaces for men should be available in a range of colors to match various shoe styles and personal preferences. I evaluated each pair based on the variety and vibrancy of available colors, ensuring that there was something for every type of footwear, from formal dress shoes to leather sneakers.
Price: Affordability was key, which was why I compared prices across different brands and styles. All of the shortlisted shoelaces were assessed for cost-effectiveness, balancing quality and durability against the price tag to ensure that they offered excellent value for money.
Versatility: Shoelaces were tested on various footwear, including boots, dress shoes, and sneakers, to determine their adaptability and overall performance in different settings.
Customer feedback: As well as trying the shoelaces for myself, I delved into customer reviews and ratings across multiple platforms. I considered both the quantity and quality of feedback, looking for consistent positive comments and high ratings.
Why Trust Us?
Billy Webb is a menswear writer with more than 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. His keen eye for detail and deep understanding of current trends have made him a trusted voice, whether he’s reporting on comfortable loafers or must-have dress sneakers.
Billy’s extensive background includes working with top fashion magazines, and he’s already written hundreds of articles for FashionBeans. His dedication to helping men look their best extends to even the smallest details, like finding the best shoelaces for men.
Through meticulous research and a genuine passion, he makes sure that his recommendations are both practical and stylish. Trust Billy’s recommendations for your shoelace needs, knowing that they come from a reliable and well-informed source in the fashion industry.
Final Verdict
After trying out many pairs and taking reviews and ratings into consideration, I believe that Miscly has the best shoelaces for men. Not only do they offer a wide range of colors, but their designs are also affordable, durable, versatile, and easy to tie. I also love the simple but effective packaging.
FAQ
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Flat laces are generally better for everyday wear because they provide a more secure fit and are less likely to come undone compared to oval laces. Their wider surface area ensures a snug hold, making them ideal for casual shoes and sneakers. Oval laces, while stylish and often used for running shoes, can be more prone to slipping and may require more frequent adjustments.
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Elastic laces can be better for convenience and comfort, as they allow for easy slip-on and a snug, flexible fit without needing to tie or untie your shoes. They’re particularly useful for athletes, children, and anyone seeking a hassle-free option, but they may not offer the same level of traditional style or tightness control as standard cotton or polyester laces.
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Leather laces are some of the best shoelaces; they’re great for durability and a sophisticated appearance. They can add a touch of elegance to your look and are more resistant to fraying compared to fabric laces. However, they can be less flexible and harder to tie securely, making them better suited for formal or semi-formal occasions.
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