What To Know
- The unique design of Sperry boat shoes, with their two eyelets and the absence of a traditional tongue, can make tying them seem a bit different.
- Pull the ends of the laces through the loops to tighten the knot.
Sperry boat shoes are a classic and comfortable footwear choice for many, but their iconic two-eyelet design can sometimes be a bit tricky to keep tied. Ever found yourself constantly re-tying your Sperry’s? We’ve all been there. This blog post is your ultimate guide on how to keep Sperry boat shoes tied, giving you the confidence to conquer any adventure without worrying about loose laces.
The Anatomy of a Sperry: Understanding the Knot
The unique design of Sperry boat shoes, with their two eyelets and the absence of a traditional tongue, can make tying them seem a bit different. Let’s break down the key elements that contribute to a secure knot:
- The Laces: Sperry boat shoes typically use flat, cotton laces. These laces are designed to be strong and durable, but their flatness can sometimes make them prone to loosening.
- The Eyelets: Sperry shoes use metal eyelets for a secure and stylish look. These eyelets can sometimes snag the laces, contributing to the loosening problem.
- The Knot: The traditional bow knot, while effective for most shoes, can sometimes come undone with the movement of your feet in Sperry’s.
The Classic Knot: A Foundation for Success
Before we delve into advanced techniques, let’s master the basics. The classic bow knot is the foundation for keeping your Sperry’s tied. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Lace Up: Thread the laces through the eyelets, starting with the bottom pair.
2. Cross the Laces: Cross the laces over each other, forming an “X” at the top of the shoe.
3. Tie the Knot: Make a loop with each lace, then cross the loops over each other.
4. Secure the Knot: Pull the ends of the laces through the loops to tighten the knot.
5. Tuck the Knot: Tuck the knot under the laces to keep it discreet and prevent it from catching on anything.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Tying Techniques
While the classic knot gets the job done, there are a few advanced techniques that can help prevent your Sperry’s from becoming untied.
The Surgeon’s Knot:
The Surgeon’s Knot is a variation of the classic bow knot, known for its extra security. It involves an additional loop in each lace, creating a stronger hold.
1. Tie the Classic Knot: Follow the steps for the classic bow knot.
2. Add an Extra Loop: After forming the loops in step 3, wrap each lace around the loop of the opposite lace, creating an extra layer of security.
3. Tighten the Knot: Pull the ends of the laces through the loops to tighten the knot.
The Ian Knot:
The Ian Knot is a unique and secure knot designed specifically for boat shoes. It’s a bit more complex but offers the ultimate solution for preventing untied laces.
1. Lace Up: Thread the laces through the eyelets, starting with the bottom pair.
2. Cross the Laces: Cross the laces over each other, forming an “X” at the top of the shoe.
3. Form a Loop: With one lace, form a loop by wrapping it around the other lace twice.
4. Secure the Loop: With the other lace, pass it through the loop you just created.
5. Tighten the Knot: Pull both ends of the laces to tighten the knot.
The Importance of Lace Quality
The quality of your laces can significantly impact how well your Sperry’s stay tied. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Material: Opt for cotton laces that are strong and durable. Avoid synthetic laces, which can stretch and lose their shape over time.
- Thickness: Thicker laces tend to be more secure, as they have more friction against the eyelets.
- Length: The laces should be long enough to allow for a secure knot, but not so long that they become a tripping hazard.
Beyond the Knot: Additional Tips
Even with the best knotting techniques, there are a few additional tips that can help keep your Sperry’s tied:
- Break in Your Shoes: New Sperry’s tend to be a bit stiff. Wear them around the house for a few days to allow them to become more flexible.
- Keep Your Laces Clean: Dirty laces can catch on the eyelets, contributing to loosening. Wash your laces regularly to keep them clean.
- Consider Lace Locks: Lace locks are small devices that clip onto your laces to prevent them from coming undone. They are available at most shoe stores.
The Final Knot: A Farewell to Untied Laces
By mastering the art of tying your Sperry boat shoes, you’ll be able to enjoy their comfort and style without the frustration of constantly re-tying them. Remember, the key is finding a knot that works for you, and always pay attention to the quality of your laces. With these tips, you’ll be able to conquer any adventure in your Sperry’s with confidence!
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Why do my Sperry boat shoes keep coming untied?
Sperry boat shoes are designed with two eyelets, which can sometimes make it more challenging to keep the laces tied. The flat cotton laces can also be prone to loosening, especially with movement.
2. Are there any alternative knots for Sperry boat shoes?
Yes, there are a few alternative knots designed specifically for boat shoes, such as the Ian Knot and the Surgeon’s Knot. These knots offer extra security and are less likely to come undone.
3. Can I use any type of laces with Sperry boat shoes?
While you can use different types of laces, it’s best to stick with cotton laces that are strong and durable. Avoid synthetic laces, which can stretch and lose their shape over time.
4. What are some other tips for keeping my Sperry boat shoes tied?
Consider using lace locks, which are small devices that clip onto your laces to prevent them from coming undone. You can also try breaking in your shoes and keeping your laces clean to prevent them from catching on the eyelets.
