Everything about laces
Short answer:
Inline skate laces ensure a secure fit, enhancing control and comfort.
The importance of laces
Inline skating requires a lot of control, and laces are essential for tightening your skates to give you that control. Whether you’re skating with simple cords, wrapping them around your cuff for a hockey look, or using waxed ones for a firmer grip, selecting the right ones is crucial. Let’s explore the different options, how they affect your performance, and why they matter.
When skating, the tighter your skate fits, the more control you have over your movements. This is where laces come in.
Looking for more ways to secure your skates? Read about everything about buckles.
Waxed or unwaxed?
One of the main choices skaters have to make is whether to go for waxed or unwaxed laces.
Waxed laces:
- Stay tight for longer sessions
- Provide better grip and control
- Harder to tighten but won’t loosen easily
Unwaxed laces:
- Easier to loosen quickly
- May loosen over time
If you're not too concerned about getting a super tight fit or if you want to lace up quickly, unwaxed ones might be your go-to. Check out our selection of laces to find the perfect match for your skates.
Lacing the liner, or not?
Another choice is whether to lace up your liner along with the shell of the skate. Some skaters prefer to lace their liner separately for an even tighter fit, especially around the ankle. Others skip this, opting for a simpler setup. This really comes down to personal preference and the level of control you want over your skates.
Curious about how liners affect your fit? Read our guide on everything about liners.
Choosing the right lace length
They come in various lengths, depending on how high up your boot you want to lace. Standard ones are typically around 140-150 cm, but longer ones can go up to 2-3 meters. If you like to lace all the way to the top of your skate, or if you want to wrap them around the cuff for extra support or style, longer ones are the better option.
For skaters who like the hockey style of wrapping the cord around the cuff, long laces provide both a functional and stylish touch. Pro skaters often use this technique to ensure maximum tightness and control while also giving their setup a sleek look.
Customizing your laces
If you find that yours are too long, you can always cut them to size. However, you’ll need to re-tip the ends to prevent fraying. This is a quick fix, and there are plenty of tutorials online showing how to do it. One of our favorite ways to do this is to tie a little knot at the end. The added benefits to this is that you can then no longer pull the lace out of its nest
How long do laces last?
Even waxed ones which are more durable, will wear out over time. On average, they can last a few months, depending on how often you skate. When they start to fray or break, there’s no need to replace them immediately. You can re-tip the ends and continue using them. Simply center the lace in your skate again, and you’re good to go.
Replacing your laces can be super gratifying though. It is one of the easiest quick fixes if you want to refurbish your skates.
The best laces for your skates
If you want to upgrade your skates, a fresh pair of high-quality can make a noticeable difference. Popular options like waxed CCM laces offer excellent grip and durability. They’re available in different colors and lengths, allowing you to customize both the look and feel of your skates.
Conclusion
Laces are an inexpensive yet effective way to upgrade your skates. Whether you prefer waxed or unwaxed, long or short, they can make your skating experience more comfortable and controlled. The right pair ensures that your skates fit snugly, helping you maximize your performance.
For more ways to improve skate security and fit, check out everything about buckles and everything about ankle buckles.