Shoelace Length Calculator
Calculate the perfect shoelace length for any lacing pattern
Calculate Shoelace Length
Count pairs of eyelets on your shoe (typically 4-8 pairs)
Standard diagonal crossing pattern
Distance between left and right eyelets
Distance between eyelet rows (top to bottom)
Length needed for tying and bow (measured per end)
Shoelace Length Results
Length Options
Calculation Breakdown
How to Measure Your Shoe
Example Calculation
Standard Sneaker Example
Shoe specs: 5 eyelet pairs, 6cm horizontal, 2cm vertical spacing
Pattern: Criss-cross (basic)
Free ends: 15cm each (for normal bow tying)
Calculation:
- • Diagonal length: √(6² + 2²) = 6.32cm
- • Total diagonals: 8 segments × 6.32cm = 50.6cm
- • Initial horizontal: 6cm
- • Free ends: 2 × 15cm = 30cm
- • Total: 86.6cm ≈ 90cm shoelaces
Popular Lacing Patterns
Criss-Cross (Basic)
Standard diagonal crossing pattern
Straight Bar (European)
Horizontal bars with straight vertical runs
Ladder Lacing
Horizontal rungs like a ladder
Over Under
Alternating over and under pattern
Typical Eyelet Counts
Shoelace Tips
Always round up to the nearest 5cm or 2 inches when buying
Consider the lace material - some stretch more than others
Complex patterns need 10-20% extra length
Flat laces work better for dress shoes, round for athletic shoes
Replace both laces even if only one breaks
Understanding Shoelace Length Calculations
How Lace Length is Calculated
Shoelace length depends on three main factors: the shoe's eyelet configuration, the lacing pattern you choose, and how much extra length you need for tying. Our calculator uses mathematical formulas specific to each lacing pattern to ensure accuracy.
The Math Behind It
- •Criss-cross: Uses Pythagorean theorem (√(h² + v²)) for diagonal segments
- •Straight bar: Calculates horizontal bars plus vertical runs
- •Complex patterns: Break down into individual segments and sum them
Free End Guidelines
Tucked Ends (10cm/4")
For shoes where laces are tucked inside or minimal tying
Normal Bow (15cm/6")
Standard length for typical bow knots
Long Ends (20cm/8")
For double knots or decorative bows
Pro tip: It's better to have slightly longer laces than too short ones. You can always trim excess length if needed.
Common Lacing Pattern Applications
Athletic Shoes
Criss-cross or ladder lacing for secure fit during sports
Dress Shoes
Straight bar lacing for clean, professional appearance
Boots
Over-under or ladder lacing for durability and adjustability