How to Install the Flat Lacing System on Casual Sneakers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Flat laces aren't just for dress shoes or formal wear. They've become a popular choice for casual sneakers because they stay tied longer, distribute pressure evenly across the top of your foot, and give your kicks a clean, polished look. Whether you're upgrading your everyday pair or trying a no-tie system for the first time, installing flat laces correctly makes all the difference.

In this guide, we'll walk you through installing the Xpand Flat Lacing System on casual sneakers step by step. We'll cover removal, threading, tension adjustment, and finishing with lace ends. By the end, you'll have a comfortable, secure fit that stays put all day.

What You'll Need Before You Start

Before you begin, gather your supplies. You'll need a pair of flat laces designed for casual shoes—Xpand's No-Tie Flat Laces work great because they have a bit of stretch for comfort and a flat profile that won't twist. You'll also need the Original No-Tie Lacing System Lace Ends if your laces don't come with built-in anchors. A clean, flat surface to work on and about five minutes of patience are all that's required.

If you're replacing old laces, remove them completely. Check that your sneaker's eyelets are clean and free of debris. For best results, choose laces that match the length of your original laces—typically 27 to 36 inches for casual sneakers with 5 to 6 pairs of eyelets.

• Tip: If you're using elastic flat laces, don't cut them until you've tested the fit—you can always trim later.

Step 1: Remove the Old Laces and Prepare the Eyelets

Start by untying your current laces and pulling them out completely. This is a good time to wipe down your sneakers with Xpand Quick Wipes to remove dirt and grime around the eyelets. Clean eyelets help the new laces slide through smoothly and prevent premature wear.

If your sneakers have a tongue that shifts, hold it in place while you work. Lay the shoes flat so both sides are even. This makes it easier to keep the lacing symmetrical as you go.

Step 2: Thread the Flat Laces Through the Bottom Eyelets

Take one end of your flat lace and insert it through the bottom left eyelet from the outside to the inside. Then insert the other end through the bottom right eyelet from the outside to the inside. Pull both ends until the lace is even—there should be equal length on both sides.

Because flat laces have a wider surface area, they can sometimes catch on the eyelet edge. If you feel resistance, gently wiggle the lace as you pull. Avoid forcing it, as this can fray the material.

• Note: For a snug fit on casual sneakers, keep the laces flat—don't let them twist. Twisted flat laces can create pressure points.

Step 3: Criss-Cross or Straight Lace? Choose Your Pattern

Flat laces work well with both criss-cross and straight bar lacing. Criss-cross is the most common for casual sneakers and provides even tension across the top of your foot. Straight bar lacing (where the lace runs horizontally across the tongue before crossing underneath) gives a cleaner look and reduces pressure on the instep.

For a standard criss-cross, take the left lace and insert it into the next right eyelet from inside to outside, then repeat with the right lace into the left eyelet. Continue alternating up the shoe. Keep the laces flat and avoid pulling too tight—flat laces with a bit of stretch will naturally conform to your foot shape.

• Tip: If you have high arches, try skipping one eyelet pair for a looser fit across the midfoot.

Step 4: Adjust Tension and Test the Fit

Once you've laced up to the top eyelets, don't tie them yet. Put the shoe on and lace it snugly—not too tight. Walk around a bit to feel how the laces distribute pressure. Flat laces tend to stay in place better than round ones, but you may need to adjust the tension at each eyelet for a truly custom fit.

If you're using elastic flat laces, the stretch will give you a little forgiveness. For non-elastic flat laces, make sure you can still slip your index finger under the lace at the top of the tongue. If it's too tight, re-lace with slightly looser tension.

Step 5: Finishing with No-Tie Lace Ends or a Simple Knot

For a no-tie setup, attach the Original No-Tie Lacing System Lace Ends to each lace end. These small anchors lock the lace in place, so you can slip your shoes on and off without retying. Simply slide the lace end into the anchor and snap it shut. Tuck the excess lace into the shoe or trim it if the laces are designed for cutting.

If you prefer a traditional knot, tie a standard bow—but with flat laces, the bow tends to sit flatter and is less likely to come undone. Double-knot if you're active. Either way, your sneakers will have a clean, intentional look that complements casual outfits.

• Pro tip: If you trim the laces, use a lighter to briefly melt the cut end to prevent fraying (for synthetic laces only).

Installing flat laces on casual sneakers is a quick upgrade that improves both style and function. With the right technique—even tension, clean eyelets, and a suitable lacing pattern—you'll get a secure fit that stays comfortable all day. Whether you go no-tie or traditional, flat laces add a sleek touch to your everyday footwear.