5 Ways to Lace Vans
Choosing the right laces:
When you’re picking out a new pair of laces for your Vans, first you have to figure out what length you need. The easiest way to do this is either remove the existing laces and measure them, or count the number of eyelets down one side of the shoe.
Styles with only 5 eyelets, like Eras, will need a shorter lace than a style with more eyelets, like Old Skools. The laces that come with Vans are long and sometimes form bows that are too big, so we suggest going with a slightly shorter lace than the ones that you get when you buy the shoes. Not sure what length of lace you need? Check out the chart below for an easy guide.
Eyelets |
Style(s) |
Lace Length (suggested) |
5-6 |
Era Doheny |
36” |
7 |
Old Skool Ward |
48” |
8 |
Sk8-Hi Ward-Hi |
54” |
There are two main styles you can choose when picking out a pair of laces.
Flat Laces
Most Vans come with wide, flat laces at first. We make flat waxed cotton laces for boots, but they can also be used for 7 and 8 eyelet pairs of Vans. They keep that classic flat lace look that you’re used to, but add a pop of color as well.
Round Laces
Round laces can be made from a variety of materials like cotton, nylon, leather, polyester and more. At Benjo’s our Vans laces are made from two-toned nylon. This colorful laces that are strong and won’t break. They’re 36 inches long, 4 inches shorter than the long white laces that come in the shoe. They fit most 5 and 6 eyelet Vans, but we also have options for pairs that need longer laces. Our work boot laces are made from the same two-tone nylon material, and available in longer lengths that fit Old Skools and Sk8-His.
Cross Lacing
This is the most way of lacing shoes that you’re probably familiar with. It gives a classic look and is easy to learn. There are a couple different variations on this, but we think the instructions below give the best results.
54" Work Boot Laces - Gunslinger
Bar Lacing
This style of lacing is for the person looking for a neat, clean cut look. It only shows one lace across each pair of eyelets, giving a more minimal aesthetic.
36" Vans Laces - Madame Lamb
Interlocking Laces
Interlocking laces are a play on cross lacing, with a twist. Literally. The two ends of your shoelace cross in the middle before being looped through a new eyelet. This gives a fun look, but it takes a bit more work to make sure you get an even tightness down the length of your foot.
54" Work Boot Laces - Hannah Rose
Two Different Colored Laces
Using two different colored laces in each shoe can be a great way to add some color to your Vans. We suggest using a flat lace for this, like our waxed cotton laces. This allows the laces some wiggle room in each eyelet, making it easy for you to pull them tight.
36" Dress Boot Laces
Triangle Lacing
This is a style most people won’t be familiar with. It takes the clean look of bar lacing, and adds a diagonal pattern running underneath. You’re sure to stand out if you use triangle lace your Vans with a colorful pair of laces.
54" Dress Boot Laces - Hawn's Lawn
Looking for laces for your Vans? Check out the links below to some of the options we have available at Benjo’s.
Vans Laces
Dress Boot Laces
Work Boot Laces
Of course, your newly laced vans need a great pair of socks. Check out our friends at Hippy Feet for the best American made socks you can find.