How to Install No-Tie Round Laces on Athletic Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Switching to no-tie round laces can save you time and hassle before every run or workout. Unlike flat laces, round laces glide more smoothly through eyelets and offer a clean, snug fit that stays put without constant retying. Whether you're training for a race or just want a more convenient lacing system, installing them correctly makes all the difference.

This guide walks you through the entire process of installing no-tie round laces on athletic shoes, from removing your old laces to adjusting tension for the perfect hold. We'll cover the round lacing system installation step by step, so you can get the most out of your new elastic round laces.

What You'll Need Before You Start

Before you begin the installation, gather your materials. You'll need a pair of no-tie round laces designed for athletic shoes—our No-Tie Flat Laces are a popular choice, but round laces work similarly. Also have your sneakers or running shoes ready, along with a flat surface to work on. A small pair of scissors can be helpful if your laces come with a removable end cap that needs trimming.

Check that your laces are long enough for your shoe's eyelet count. Most athletic shoes with six to eight pairs of eyelets need laces around 45 to 55 inches. If your laces are too long, you can usually cut them to size after locking them in place. Some elastic round laces come with adjustable locking mechanisms, so read the package instructions for any brand-specific tips.

• Tip: If you plan to use the laces for running shoes, choose a length that allows at least two inches of lace to hang after tightening—this prevents the lock from slipping.

Step 1: Remove Your Old Laces and Prep the Eyelets

Start by unlacing your current shoelaces completely. Pull them out from the top eyelets down to the bottom, and set them aside. If your shoes have any debris or dirt around the eyelets, give them a quick wipe with a damp cloth or use Xpand Quick Wipes to clean the area. This prevents grime from clogging the new laces as you thread them through.

Hold your shoe with the toe facing away from you. Identify the bottom pair of eyelets—the ones closest to the toe. This is where you'll begin threading your no-tie round laces. Make sure both ends of the lace are even before you start, so the tension stays balanced on both sides of the shoe.

Step 2: Thread the Laces Through the Bottom Eyelets

Take one end of your round lace and insert it through the bottom right eyelet from the outside in, so the lace goes into the shoe. Repeat with the other end through the bottom left eyelet. Pull both ends until the lace is centered—the small loop or anchor at the midpoint should sit snugly against the bottom of the shoe's tongue.

For a standard crisscross lacing pattern, cross the lace ends and thread each one through the next higher eyelet on the opposite side. Continue this pattern all the way up to the top eyelets. Keep the lace flat and avoid twisting, as round laces can roll if you're not careful. Gently tug each section as you go to maintain even tension.

• Tip: If you prefer a parallel lacing style (often used on running shoes), thread each lace straight up the same side instead of crossing. Both methods work with round laces, but crisscross gives a tighter lock.

Step 3: Secure the Locking Mechanism

Once both ends reach the top eyelets, pull the lace through from the outside in, leaving a small loop on each side. Most no-tie round laces include a spring-loaded or clip-style lock. Slide the lock onto each lace end, then push it down toward the eyelet until it's snug against the shoe. The lock should hold the lace firmly without pinching the fabric.

Test the fit by wiggling your foot in the shoe. The lace should feel secure but not overly tight—you should be able to slide a finger under the lace at the top of the tongue. If the tension is too loose, pull the lace ends a bit more before locking. If it's too tight, loosen the lock and release some lace. Elastic round laces have a bit of give, so aim for a comfortable, locked-in feel.

• Tip: For a round lacing system installation on shoes with a high instep, leave slightly more slack in the middle eyelets to reduce pressure on the top of your foot.

Step 4: Trim Excess Lace (If Needed)

After locking, you may have a few inches of lace dangling from each side. If the ends are long enough to trip over or catch on things, trim them down. Use sharp scissors to cut the lace about half an inch from the lock. Some elastic round laces come with removable end caps—slide the cap off, cut the lace, then reattach the cap to seal the end. This prevents fraying and keeps the lace looking clean.

If your laces don't have end caps, you can leave them as is or melt the cut end slightly with a lighter (for synthetic materials only) to seal it. Be careful not to burn the lace or the shoe. A clean finish not only looks better but also extends the life of your no-tie laces for running shoes or everyday trainers.

Step 5: Final Adjustments and Testing

Put on both shoes and lace them up using the no-tie mechanism. Walk around for a few minutes to see how they feel. The laces should stay in place without loosening or shifting. If one shoe feels different from the other, adjust the tension on that side by unlocking and repositioning the lace. Elastic round laces naturally adapt to your foot's shape, so a short break-in period is normal.

For athletic activities like running or gym workouts, double-check that the locks are fully engaged before you start. A properly installed round lacing system reduces the chance of laces coming undone mid-stride. Once you're happy with the fit, you're all set—no more stopping to retie during your workout.

• Tip: If you use your shoes for both casual wear and sports, consider keeping a small adjustment tool (like a paperclip) handy to tweak the lock tension on the go.

Installing no-tie round laces on your athletic shoes is a quick upgrade that saves time and keeps your laces secure. By following these steps—from prepping the eyelets to locking and trimming—you'll get a custom fit that stays put through any activity. Whether you're a runner, gym-goer, or just tired of tying laces, elastic round laces make every step simpler.