Heel lock lacing. Proper-fitting shoes can complement these techniques.

Heel lock lacing. May 9, 2024 · What is a heel lock? Also known as a runner’s loop, runner’s tie or lace lock, a heel lock gives you better stability near the back of your foot. Oct 12, 2020 · 1. This technique involves creating a loop with the laces at the ankle, which anchors the heel and prevents movement within the shoe. Jan 2, 2025 · Heel lock lacing enhances ankle support by reducing heel slippage in running shoes. Lace locking increases the tension that the top lace applies against the instep of the foot. Dec 3, 2024 · 2. By keeping your heel securely locked in place, you prevent excess movement inside the boot, which reduces friction—one of the primary causes of blisters. Apr 26, 2025 · To stop heel slipping, use the criss-cross lacing technique. This technique minimizes heel slippage and provides a snug fit, resulting in better ankle lockdown and stability during your runs. If your heel slips when you step, the heel-lock could help High instep lacing. Say goodbye to heel slips, tightness, and discomfort with these expert tips. This technique creates a firm grip around your heel, minimising movement and preventing blisters. more Jun 26, 2025 · Discover how heel lock lacing prevents heel slippage, improves stability, and boosts comfort. Before the final eyelet, apply the Heel Lock technique for a snug fit. The heel lock uses the open hooks on the sides of your boot as a pulley system. It works best with knit or synthetic hiking shoes that have an extra set of eyelets at the top (such as the Trailstorm Ascend or Plateau Venture). In this video, you’ll learn the Heel Lock Lacing method, a boot fastening technique which holds the heel firmly in place to reduce the slipping and rubbing w Mar 31, 2022 · Other Lacing Techniques Low-Cut Shoe Heel Lock Make a loop through the double eyelet at the top of the shoe and lace back through the loop. By following the lacing techniques and tips outlined in this guide, you can effectively prevent heel lift and enjoy a more comfortable and May 21, 2024 · Heel Lock Lacing Struggling with heel slippage? Heel lock lacing could be your solution. By threading your laces through this eyelet and employing a quick adjustment to your normal sneaker structure, you can create a better connection between your frame and footwear. Pull up against the loop to snug your heel into the heel pocket. This will allow you to tie the shoe tightly at the top without narrowing the fit for the rest of the shoe. This lacing method grips the heel, preventing slippage. The goal is to lock your foot into place, not lock off blood flow May 21, 2024 · Heel-lock lacing Struggling with heel slippage? Heel-lock lacing could be your solution. It also provides extra stability for “low-volume” or The good news is that tying shoes to prevent heel slippage does not require new shoes—just a few clever lacing techniques and a little practice. This reduces unnecessary movement of your heel inside the boot, which is often the main cause of rubbing and blisters. Foot comfort is vital when running, and the way you lace your shoes can make a big difference. Another approach is the “runner’s knot. How to l Dec 13, 2020 · Heel lock lacing: how it can help you? Heel lock lacing is a technique that can be used to prevent your heel from slipping inside your shoe. By reducing heel movement, you minimize friction—one of the main causes of blisters. profeet. Jun 29, 2022 · Learn how to lace running shoes the proper way today. With heel lock lacing, you reduce the chances of blisters and discomfort Apr 22, 2025 · To prevent heel slippage, use heel lock lacing. This technique enhances shoe fit and comfort, especially for running shoes. Follow the step-by-step guide and tips from a running shoe reviewer. It offers comfort for running and is travel-friendly, ensuring reliable footwear benefits. This technique secures your heel and limits movement. Another effective technique is the “Runner’s Tie Jun 4, 2024 · Lacing your walking shoes isn’t just about securing your feet; it’s an opportunity to enhance comfort and style. You may also try shoe inserts or orthotics for added stability and comfort while running. Next, adjust the laces down the shoe. Apr 22, 2025 · What Is Heel Lock Lacing and How Does It Work? Heel lock lacing is a method of tying shoelaces that secures the heel in place, preventing slippage and reducing the risk of blisters. This method involves creating a loop with the laces at the top eyelets and threading the laces through these loops before tightening the shoe. 2 days ago · Here we'll break down the most popular lacing issues, and help you out so you’t get your stomach in a knot about your shoes coming untied. Check this out: The special heel lock which skips the sixth eyelet (pictured below) was particularly effective at reducing pressure on the top of the foot. Apr 22, 2025 · Use the heel lock lacing technique to secure your shoes and prevent heel slippage. Lace the shoes in a criss-cross pattern. To create the heel lock, weave the end of your right shoelace through the extra top eyelet on the To tighten the heel, use the heel lock lacing technique. Make a loop with the leftover laces on each side. Tighten the laces securely and tie them. It does help lock the shoe around the ankles, for sure. Apr 17, 2024 · As the name suggests, the Heel Lock will help prevent slippage, which can cause blisters along the heel. Jun 3, 2025 · To lock shoelaces, use the Criss Cross method for initial lacing. May 15, 2024 · Heel lock lacing is a technique used to prevent your heel from moving up and down in your boot, which can reduce the risk of blisters. Apr 28, 2025 · To create a heel lock with running shoes, use the criss-cross lacing technique. At the last eyelet, form a loop with the laces. The heel lock lacing technique creates a more secure fit around your ankle and heel by increasing tension at the top of the boot without restricting your foot. Now that you understand how to tie shoes to avoid heel slip, let’s explore further techniques for maintaining comfort during various activities, such as running or walking. Lace the shoe using the standard crisscross pattern until the second-to-last eyelet. Pull tight for a secure fit. If I kept it, the top of my foot got worse. Pull the laces through these loops and tighten them. How to Tie Shoelaces for Runners (Best Apr 4, 2024 · The Racers Loop Heel Lock lacing method is how to stop your heel slipping out of your running shoes. This approach improves fit for both workout shoes and casual sneakers. After reaching the second-to-last set of eyelets, feed each lace end through the top loop on the same side. Lace your shoes in a criss-cross pattern up to the second-last eyelet. Sep 25, 2025 · The heel lock lace-tying method is an industry standard when a shoe fits almost perfectly but the heel area is just a little too loose for the wearer’s liking. Start with criss-cross lacing. Got wider feet? This could give you a little more room Diagonal lacing. Heel Slipping This lacing technique is called the heel lock, and it helps prevent the heel from slipping and causing painful blisters. Curious how to heel lock lace your shoes and boots? Look no further than this visual guide to prevent future blisters & black toenails! Jan 22, 2024 · A heel lock, also known as a runner’s loop or lace lock, is a method of lacing up your shoes that provides extra support and stability to the heel area. Seven-eyelet heel lock lacing and special heel lock lacing which skips the sixth eyelet. Understanding how to tie shoes to lock in heel is particularly beneficial for If you suffer from blisters around the heel, chances are your shoes are too loose in this area. Skip the top eyelet, then thread the laces through the last one to make a loop. This technique helps minimize blisters and enhances performance, especially in athletic footwear. To achieve a proper heel lock, begin by lacing your shoes as usual Jun 2, 2025 · To lace lock shoes, use the Criss-Cross method. You don't want any ankle injuries to happen outside in hard-to-access locations. For runners, it lowers the chance of blisters and ensures a secure fit. Start lacing with a criss-cross method. Wear your boots for a few short walks before embarking on a longer hike to allow them to conform to your feet. A lace lock can be used to prevent that from happening. By incorporating a heel lock into your lacing technique, you can prevent your foot from sliding forward inside the shoe, reduce heel slippage, and minimize the risk of blisters and discomfort. Ensure that the heel lock running shoes adjust comfortably around your ankle without being overly tight. How to Lace a Heel-Lock Learn how to use the Heel Lock lacing technique to prevent heel slippage while running. Suffering from common running shoe issues like heel slippage and looking for better fit with your running shoes? Give these helpful lacing techniques a try. Also known as "Lock Lacing" or "Loop Lacing", it will help secure your heel, which translates to less overall foot slippage. For example: Jun 26, 2025 · Goal: Lock the heel, reduce blisters, avoid toe trauma Try: Runner’s Loop (Heel Lock) This technique utilizes the top eyelets of your shoe to cinch the heel without over-tightening the midfoot. Heel lock lacing locks your heel down into the back of the boot to prevent foot movement inside the boot. In this article, we’ll explore eight different ways to lace your walking shoes, offering step-by-step guidance for Aug 10, 2022 · Lace Shoes to Prevent Slippage To keep your heel in the shoe's heel cup, lace your sneakers to form a lace lock at the top of your shoe, also called a runner's loop. Feb 1, 2018 · Lacing Pattern to Combat Heel Slippage If you feel your foot move forward and backward in your shoe, and never quite find a solid sticking point, then this lacing pattern works wonders (I say this from personal experience). With various lacing techniques available, you can customize your shoes to suit your foot type and prevent common foot problems like heel slippage or toe pain. Use heel lock lacing to keep your shoes snug and focused while you run. Watch these 3 videos. May 31, 2021 · If I removed the lock, my heel slipped and caused toe issues. Cross the laces and thread them through the opposite loop before tightening and tying. The heel lock technique helps maintain stability. Use a double knot for added security. Heel lock lacing can make a ton of difference when it comes to scoring the perfect fit. Here are four common fit problems and how you can lace your running shoes to fix them: Heel-lock or marathon loop lacing. Hiking Boots: Quick lace systems and lock lacing improve grip on uneven terrain. This method reduces heel slippage and ensures a snug fit for better ankle lockdown. Make a loop with one lace and thread the opposite lace through it. Th Notes • Also referred to as “Lace Lock”, “Loop Lacing Lock”, “Heel Lock” or “Runner's Tie”. It's super easy, and it'll make your runs way more comfortable. Pull on the front loop to tighten and secure the ends. These options Apr 22, 2025 · To tighten your heel, use the heel lock technique. The ideal tightness Step by step guide to tying a "marathon lace" aka runners loop, lock lacing, heel lock. Cross the laces, pass them through the loops, and tighten. Proper-fitting shoes can complement these techniques. We've gathered four ways to lace your running shoes that accommodate various needs, including heel slipping, toe pain, wide feet, and flat feet. The heel lock technique is a method of lacing shoes that secures the heel in place, reducing slippage and improving fit. Additionally, consider using elastic or no-tie laces. Lace up your shoes and elevate your running experience today! Here's how to do the heel lock, a must-know technique for tying your hiking boots securely. Increase comfort on the trail by learning simple boot lacing techniques that help you deal with heel slipping, pressure points and toe pain. Learn step-by-step techniques, expert tips, and benefits today! Aug 22, 2024 · What is a heel lock? Also called a lace lock, runner's lock, or runner's loop, this is a simple shoe-tying technique that tightens the ankle of your shoes without tightening the whole shoe. I often feel that it's hard to get the tension across the foot exactly right, though. Heel Lock Lacing I mentioned the heel lock way to lace hiking boots in the toe-relief section above. To do this, lace up through the inside (tongue-side) up to the second eyelet from the top. Ensure the Jul 23, 2024 · Struggling with hiking boot laces? Relax! We've got you covered with expert lacing techniques to enhance comfort & performance on the trail. Apr 26, 2025 · A heel lock is a shoe lacing technique designed to secure the heel in place, preventing movement and improving fit. This useful technique keeps your heel from slipping in and out of the shoe that results in an uncomfortable Narrow/Unstable Heels For patients who generally struggle to get stability at the heel when in certain shoes or who have a history of ankle injuries such as sprains, the Lock Lacing technique works to eliminate excessive movement at the heel level. Pull the laces tight at the top hooks. Lace the shoe using the standard criss-cross method, but leave the top eyelets unlaced. . a touch too tight and I feel like my foot is being pinced off at the ankle, but a touch looser and it's no heel-lock-ier than normal. 1) Put your boot making sure that your heel is as fa Aug 12, 2024 · Lace up the boot as usual, but when you reach the top two eyelets, cross the laces over and thread them through the same eyelet you started from. You can fix this with the Heel Lock Lacing method (it also helps to opt for high-quality men's running socks or women’s running socks). Apr 26, 2025 · To tighten the heel, use the heel lock technique. Create a loop with the laces and pull the ends to tighten. • Lock Lacing is also used by rock climbers to prevent any movement or twisting of the shoe under the stresses of climbing, as well as by speed skaters to give maximum ankle support. uk) explains how to tie a heel lock for your running shoes. Pull the laces tight to keep tension. Skip the last eyelet and thread each lace through the opposite loop to create a runner’s knot. With this lock and all others, be sure to leave enough space between the laces so you aren’t cutting off circulation. This method is particularly beneficial for runners and hikers who need extra stability and support. Lace tightly over the instep for a secure fit. Follow the five easy steps or try Lock Laces® for a simpler solution. What we will cover in this how-to lace hiking boots guide: Find out the benefits of correctly lacing your hiking boots. To perform the heel lock, begin by lacing your boots as usual. First, lace your shoes using the criss-cross method. Oct 16, 2024 · To heel lock your running shoes, use the criss-cross lacing method and skip the last eyelet. Tie normally. Lace through all but the last eyelet. Need more help with lacing techniques? Simply visit any Frontrunners Footwear location and they would be happy to help. co. Finishing your Butterfly Lace off with this heel lock variation can help prevent heels from slipping out of a shoe and cut down on blisters. Knowing how to lace shoes is crucial for running technique. Customise your lacing to suit individual foot shape, terrain, and boot type for optimal performance. Skip one eyelet, then thread the lace back and pull tight. Peter from the Oboz Education and Outreach Team demonstrates the Heel Lock lacing technique, and highlights who would benefit from this lacing style. Dec 13, 2020 · Heel lock lacing: how it can help you? Heel lock lacing is a technique that can be used to prevent your heel from slipping inside your shoe. A heel-lock lacing technique, such as the Runner’s Loop, secures the heel, reducing movement and preventing slippage. Apr 26, 2025 · To limit heel slipping, use the heel lock lacing technique. Best to help alleviate pressure if you have a high instep Wide feet lacing. Pull them tight to eliminate any slack. To heel lock lace your shoes, follow these steps: Start with Even Ends: Begin by ensuring that both ends of A heel lock is a shoe lacing technique that secures the heel in place, preventing slippage during activities. For trail or long-distance runners, this style is an extremely helpful way for your shoes to stay tight even while running on uneven surfaces. The best part? Mastering the heel-lock lacing technique is easier than you might think—and once you get the hang of it, it can transform the way your shoes fit and feel. Start with the Criss Cross method. Lace normally, then feed the shoelace through the side holes before the top eyelet. Thread each lace end through the top eyelet on the same side, creating a small loop. First, lace your shoes with the crisscross method. Start with the traditional criss-cross lacing method of how to lace running shoes The Lace Lock (Heel Lock) Lacing Technique For Blister Prevention Blister Prevention 5. This technique is especially beneficial for runners who experience heel lift while running, which can lead to discomfort and injury. As you might have guessed, this holds your heel in place when you’re running or walking, which provides more heel and ankle support and diminishes the chance of developing rubbing or annoying Nov 26, 2024 · Then, cross the laces and thread each one through the opposite loop, pulling tight to create tension. If you’re ready to step up your footwear game, here’s how to use the extra shoelace hole on your sneakers & make a lace lock properly. • Although Criss Cross Lacing is shown in these examples, and is probably the most common method Apr 23, 2023 · Here are 8 variations on how to lace your running shoes to ease common problems and to customize the lacing style according to your foot type for a better fit. This technique creates a firm grip around your heel, minimizing movement and preventing blisters. Lace to the last eyelet. This lacing technique ensures foot security and prevents heel slippage. Chris from Oboz Footwear demonstrates the Heel Lock lacing technique, and highlights who would benefit from this lacing style. Tactical Lacing Strategies for Different Environments Work Boots: The heel lock technique ensures a stable, all-day fit. It provides a more secure fit, allowing runners to focus on The heel lock is unnecessary and totally overrated. This is a good technique if you have narrow feet. It works well for running shoes and other types, offering better support and comfort. Mar 12, 2024 · Heel lock lacing, also known as runner’s loop or lace lock, is a lacing technique that helps secure your heel in place, preventing slippage and reducing pressure on the top of your foot. You can May 12, 2022 · The extra lace holes on running shoes are for securing what is known as a heel lock, also known as a lace lock, and sometimes a runner’s loop. Also called “heel lock lacing,” the runner's loop is another lockdown method meant to secure the shoe in place, particularly if your heel is slipping. Sep 29, 2024 · Well, lace up and get ready to learn the heel lock (or lace lock)! It's a simple trick that makes your shoes fit snug around your ankle, so your heel stays put. Oct 30, 2024 · Understanding the Heel Lock Method The heel lock method is a shoe-tying technique that incorporates a unique knotting process to keep your heel firmly in place. Also known as “lock lacing”, this method will help secure your heel to prevent it from slipping inside your boots. These additional insights will Sep 12, 2023 · The heel-lock is usually used to lace hiking boots and hunting boots, as they need extra security and their foothold to be as secure as possible. Some foot discomfort can be eliminated with a simple change in how you lace your boots. Like you say, it is equally as effective to simply lace up to the last eyelet. Here's the different lacing techniques I tried to help with this: Relaxed Heel Lock Ian's Shoelace Site - Lock Lacing Same as the heel lock approach from before, however going from the first to third eyelet, skipping the second eyelet Apr 22, 2025 · To lock your heel in running shoes, use the Heel Lock lacing technique. New Balance unlocks the secrets of the best way to lace shoes for better power and performance. You’ll want to thread your laces through those top eyelets to create little loops—think of them as cozy hammocks for your laces. This technique enhances heel lock, reduces slippage, and improves fit. Also known as the lace lock or runner’s loop, this method helps prevent heel slippage, reduces the risk of blisters, and provides added stability. This technique involves creating a locking mechanism with the last pair of eyelets on a shoe. Learn essential lacing techniques and knots for a comfortable and secure fit while hiking. Start by lacing through the bottom eyelets. Discover powerful heel lock lacing benefits that stop heel slipping, prevent blisters, and give your shoes a secure, comfortable fit every time. Heel Lock Lacing Designed to prevent heel slippage and blisters. Apr 20, 2025 · To lace hiking boots with a heel lock, skip the first eyelet and lace through the next. Apr 8, 2020 · They’re designed for a heel lock (or runner’s loop) knot. In addition to the heel lock lacing, consider the shoe choice. When you reach the second-to-last How To Lace A heel Lock: Runner's Loop Runner’s Loop or heel-lock lacing is an incredibly common technique for runners because it creates a super-tight finish that prevents your heel from slipping. Let us dive into keeping your heels secure, avoid discomfort, and make your footwear work for you. This technique is particularly useful for hiking where you’re moving uphill or downhill, as it keeps your foot securely in place inside the boot. Heel Slippage: Loose heels are a common issue among both hikers and runners. Insert the laces through the top eyelets to create loops. The “heel lock,” also known as the “lace lock,” keeps your heel from sliding up and down and the rest of your foot from sliding back and forth in your boot, both of which could cause friction blisters. Heel slippage happens when there is space between your heel and the back of your shoe. This method reduces heel slippage and improves comfort and foot security while running. Technique #5: Foot Specific Lacing Hiking boot lacing techniques that cater to your unique foot anatomy are always a good strategy for comfort. By utilizing this method, runners can ensure that their feet remain snug within the shoes, enhancing Apr 7, 2016 · The Heel Lock: A Critical Lacing Technique This is one of the simplest ways to lace your boots and one of the most crucial. This is designed to lock in your heel much Oct 27, 2023 · This is the heel lock lacing technique you need when your heels are playing the slip-and-slide game. Then, use the rear-top eyelet to form loops. 93K subscribers Subscribe Aug 25, 2022 · What are lace locks used for? If your heel slips while wearing the shoe, there’s an increased risk of developing a blister around your heel area. Sep 24, 2024 · Tight lacing that causes hot spots can be remedied with techniques like parallel lacing or window lacing. Richard from Profeet (www. Mar 28, 2025 · Weak Ankles: The heel lock technique provides additional ankle stability, reducing the risk of rolling or twisting. It’s also the best configuration for inflexible soles or a long break-in period since this pattern maximizes contact between the sole of your foot and the sole of the shoe. This lacing technique tightens the upper part of your shoe to secure your heel without over-tightening the rest of the shoe. Skip the last eyelet on each side and loop the laces back through. Adjust the tension of the laces by pulling them firmly but comfortably. May 22, 2025 · Heel Lock Lacing (or Runner’s Loop): This technique prevents heel slippage. However, it can also put pressure on the tendons on the top of your foot and inhibit ankle mobility, so don’t overdo it when you’re running long distances. Aug 3, 2022 · Learn how to use the extra eyelets on running shoes to create a more secure hold around the collar and prevent heel movement. This is especially important when you are in motion, as heel slipping can lead to instability and distraction, which may eventually lead to accidents. Finally, tie the laces normally. Before reaching the Jun 14, 2016 · Learn how to tie a heel lace lock to prevent your heel from slipping in your shoe! Looking for a new pair of shoes? Nov 30, 2020 · The heel-lock lacing technique is my favourite all-in-one blister prevention strategy for heel blisters and most toe blisters. Nov 19, 2024 · The heel lock lacing boots technique is a game changer for preventing heel blisters. I think my feet are a bit sensitive over the top or something though as I generally have to have the top parts of the Aug 7, 2024 · 5. Types of shoes with firmer heel counters often provide better stability. Proper lacing improves comfort and stability during hikes. This method ensures a snug fit and prevents heel slipping, enhancing comfort and performance while you run. This type of lacing is also known as the 'Racer's Loop'. Here's a quick and easy way to get your shoes locked down at the heel and prevent slippage, blisters and black toenails as a runner, hiker or outdoor enthusi Jan 30, 2025 · Mastering the Heel Lock Tie: A Secure Way to Lace Your Shoes For athletes, hikers, and anyone who wants a snug, secure fit in their footwear, the heel lock tie is an essential lacing technique. Sep 13, 2025 · Heel Lock Lacing keeps your shoe tight to your foot, adding both ankle and heel stability. This way of lacing hiking boots helps prevent your heel from lifting and rubbing against the inside of your boots, causing heel blisters when you walk. Take a look! Apr 22, 2025 · Use the heel lock lacing technique to prevent heel slipping in your shoes. Step into adventure with confidence. Tie as you wish You can pair an overhand knot with the lacing windows or heel lock techniques. This technique limits foot movement and boosts comfort. I actually find lacing all the way up to be a lot easier to adjust and to cinch down tighter if needed. ” This technique involves creating a double Sep 15, 2024 · 3. According to experts from the American Journal of Sports Medicine, heel lock lacing provides additional stability Sep 4, 2023 · Discover the best running shoe lacing techniques to achieve a perfect fit and comfort. 6geithrbr jrmeo toa tt1l lvy6h qj6yia 5au fksdlz i55s ewymh