Shoelaces Keep Coming Untied? Check the Bow Before Replacing Them

Laces that undo halfway through a walk are frustrating and can get underfoot. First find out whether only the bow loosens or the entire lacing gradually loses tension. Repeated steps and the swing of loose ends can work on a knot.

Look at the finished bow

Tie your sneaker as usual and look down. If the loops point towards the toe and heel, rather than across the shoe, reverse the first crossing of the lace ends and tie the rest of the bow as before. Pull the two loops snugly and take a short walk. If a balanced bow still slips, tie a second simple knot with the loops; you should still be able to undo it by hand.

Check the length and surface

Equalise the lace ends before tying. Very long tails swing more and may catch on something. Smooth or frayed laces may slide within the knot. If replacing them, match the length to the number of eyelets and choose a width that passes through without forcing it. Do not cut the existing laces at random or leave long ends dragging.

Keep the shoe comfortable

Take up slack evenly across the instep without creating pressure or tingling. A double knot cannot fix a shoe that is the wrong shape or size. For a new pair, compare your measured foot with the size table, browse barefoot sneakers and see the lace-up Antal Amada Tea Green. Try the shoe with the socks you normally wear and adjust the laces for your instep.