What To Know
- Bring the lace across the tongue and thread it through the second eyelet from the bottom on the opposite side of the shoe.
- Thread the lace through the third eyelet on the same side as the first eyelet, then cross over to the fourth eyelet on the opposite side.
Sperry boat shoes are a timeless classic, known for their comfort, durability, and iconic look. But what happens when the laces start to fray or you want to switch up the style? Knowing how to relace Sperry boat shoes is a valuable skill that can extend the life of your beloved footwear and add a touch of personality to your outfit. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step by step, so you can confidently relace your Sperry boat shoes like a pro.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before you embark on your re-lacing journey, ensure you have the necessary tools at hand:
- New laces: Choose laces that match your desired style and length. Sperry offers a variety of colors and materials, including leather, cotton, and waxed cotton.
- A pair of tweezers: These come in handy for threading the laces through the tiny eyelets.
- A little patience: Relacing can be a bit meticulous, but with patience, you’ll achieve a flawless result.
Understanding the Anatomy of Sperry Boat Shoes
To properly relace your Sperry boat shoes, it’s helpful to understand the different parts involved:
- Eyelets: These are the small metal loops that hold the laces. Sperry boat shoes typically have eight eyelets on each shoe.
- Laces: These are the strings that thread through the eyelets to secure the shoe to your foot.
- Tongue: This is the flap of fabric that covers the top of the foot.
The Classic Straight Lace: A Timeless Look
The straight lace is the most common and straightforward way to lace Sperry boat shoes. It provides a secure fit and a clean, classic look.
1. Start at the bottom: Insert one end of the lace through the bottom eyelet on one side of the shoe.
2. Cross over: Bring the lace across the tongue and thread it through the bottom eyelet on the opposite side of the shoe.
3. Continue upwards: Continue threading the lace through each eyelet, alternating sides.
4. Finish at the top: Once you reach the top eyelet, thread the lace through the next eyelet, then back through the previous eyelet to create a secure knot.
5. Repeat on the other side: Follow the same steps to lace the other side of the shoe.
The Bar Lace: A Sleek and Secure Option
The bar lace is a stylish alternative to the straight lace, offering a more secure fit and a modern aesthetic.
1. Start at the bottom: Insert one end of the lace through the bottom eyelet on one side of the shoe.
2. Cross over: Bring the lace across the tongue and thread it through the second eyelet from the bottom on the opposite side of the shoe.
3. Continue upwards: Continue threading the lace through the eyelets, alternating sides, creating a diagonal pattern.
4. Finish at the top: Once you reach the top eyelet, thread the lace through the next eyelet, then back through the previous eyelet to create a secure knot.
5. Repeat on the other side: Follow the same steps to lace the other side of the shoe.
The Criss-Cross Lace: A Unique and Eye-Catching Style
The criss-cross lace adds a touch of individuality to your Sperry boat shoes. It’s a bit more intricate but worth the effort for its unique look.
1. Start at the bottom: Insert one end of the lace through the bottom eyelet on one side of the shoe.
2. Cross over: Bring the lace across the tongue and thread it through the second eyelet from the bottom on the opposite side of the shoe.
3. Continue criss-crossing: Thread the lace through the third eyelet on the same side as the first eyelet, then cross over to the fourth eyelet on the opposite side. Continue criss-crossing the lace until you reach the top.
4. Finish at the top: Once you reach the top eyelet, thread the lace through the next eyelet, then back through the previous eyelet to create a secure knot.
5. Repeat on the other side: Follow the same steps to lace the other side of the shoe.
Tips for Perfect Relacing
- Use tweezers: Tweezers are invaluable for threading the laces through the small eyelets, especially on the top.
- Start with a loose fit: Begin by threading the laces through the eyelets loosely. You can always tighten them later.
- Avoid over-tightening: Tightening the laces too much can cause discomfort and damage the shoes.
- Tie a secure knot: Use a double knot to prevent the laces from coming undone.
- Experiment with different laces: Don’t be afraid to try different colors and materials to find the perfect look for you.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Creative Lacing Options
While the classic, bar, and criss-cross laces are popular choices, there are many other creative ways to relace your Sperry boat shoes.
- The Ladder Lace: This technique creates a ladder-like pattern that adds a touch of visual interest.
- The Diagonal Lace: This lace goes diagonally across the shoe, creating a sleek and modern look.
- The Hidden Lace: This technique conceals the laces for a minimalist aesthetic.
The Final Touches: Ensuring a Polished Look
Once you’ve chosen your lacing style and secured the laces, take a moment to ensure a polished look:
- Tuck the ends: Tuck the loose ends of the laces under the tongue to prevent them from flapping around.
- Clean your shoes: Give your Sperry boat shoes a quick clean with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime.
The Art of Preservation: Maintaining Your Sperry Boat Shoes
Relacing your Sperry boat shoes is just one step in maintaining their longevity. Here are some additional tips:
- Clean regularly: Clean your shoes with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution.
- Use a shoe protector: Apply a shoe protector to help repel water and stains.
- Store them properly: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.
The End of the Journey: A Renewed and Stylish Look
Relacing your Sperry boat shoes is a simple yet rewarding task. By following these steps, you can breathe new life into your beloved footwear and express your individual style. Whether you choose a classic look or a more adventurous approach, re-lacing your Sperry boat shoes is a great way to personalize your footwear and keep them looking their best.
Questions You May Have
Q: How do I know what size laces to buy for my Sperry boat shoes?
A: The best way to determine the correct lace length is to measure the laces that are currently in your shoes. You can also find lace size charts online that provide general guidelines based on shoe size.
Q: What are the best types of laces for Sperry boat shoes?
A: Sperry offers a variety of laces in different materials, including leather, cotton, and waxed cotton. Leather laces are durable and offer a classic look, while cotton laces are more affordable and come in a wide range of colors. Waxed cotton laces are water-resistant and add a touch of ruggedness.
Q: Can I relace my Sperry boat shoes with laces from another brand?
A: While Sperry laces are designed specifically for their shoes, you can use laces from other brands as long as they are the correct size and have the same number of eyelets. However, it’s best to stick with Sperry laces for the best fit and durability.
Q: How often should I relace my Sperry boat shoes?
A: You should relace your Sperry boat shoes when the laces become frayed, discolored, or simply worn out. It’s a good idea to replace the laces every few months to keep your shoes looking their best.
Q: What if I can’t get the laces through the eyelets?
A: If you’re having trouble threading the laces through the eyelets, use a pair of tweezers or a small needle to help guide the laces. You can also try using a lubricant like soap or beeswax to make the laces slide more easily.
