How to Choose the Right Shoelace Length for Your Sneakers
By Doucal's: Calzature artigianali di lusso uomo e donna Made in ... | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to measure your sneakers and pick the correct lace length. This guide covers standard sizing, the 120 cm option from Doucal's, and a step-by-step process to avoid common mistakes.
Quick answer
Measure the length of your current lace or count the eyelet pairs on your sneaker. Most sneakers with 5 to 7 pairs of eyelets take a 120 cm lace, like the Doucal's sport laces in nut or black.
Why length matters more than you think
A lace that is too short won't tie securely, leaving your heel loose. A lace that is too long creates bulky knots that can come undone and look messy. Getting the length right improves both fit and appearance.
Sneaker laces are not one-size-fits-all. The same shoe model can need different lengths depending on the number of eyelet pairs and how you lace them (straight bar, criss-cross, or skip-lace).
Step-by-step: How to pick the right lace length
- Count the eyelet pairs: Remove one lace and count the number of eyelet pairs on one side of your sneaker. Most sneakers have 5 to 8 pairs. Write this number down. Common mistake: counting total eyelets instead of pairs. A pair is two holes on opposite sides of the shoe.
- Measure your current lace: Lay the old lace flat on a table and measure from tip to tip using a ruler or tape measure. Round up to the nearest 10 cm. If the lace is broken, measure the other one or estimate based on the eyelet count. If you have no old lace, use a string to simulate the path through the eyelets, then measure that string.
- Match length to eyelet count: Use this general guide: 5 pairs = 100 cm, 6-7 pairs = 120 cm, 8 pairs = 140 cm. For sneakers with 6 or 7 pairs, a 120 cm lace (like the Doucal's sport laces) is the safe choice. Checkpoint: if you use a skip-lace style, you may need a shorter lace. Stay with standard criss-cross for the most reliable fit.
- Choose your lace style and color: Pick a lace that matches the aesthetic of your sneaker. Doucal's offers sport laces in nut (brown) and black, both 120 cm polyester. Consider the material: polyester resists fraying and holds its shape longer than cotton.
- Test the fit before cutting: Lace up your sneaker with the new lace and tie a bow. The ends should be long enough to tie comfortably but not so long that they drag on the ground or create a bulky knot. Adjust if needed by re-lacing with a different pattern. If the lace is too long, try a different lacing method (e.g., straight bar) before cutting, as cutting can cause fraying.
Product facts
- Laccio sportivo nut per Sneaker - 120 cm: Doucal's sport lace in nut, 120 cm, polyester, made in Italy. This length fits most standard sneakers with 5-7 eyelet pairs, so you can replace old laces without guessing.
Laccio sportivo nut per Sneaker - 120 cm - Laccio sportivo nero per Sneaker - 120 cm: Doucal's black sport lace, 120 cm, polyester, made in Italy. A classic black option that matches many sneaker styles and offers the same reliable 120 cm fit.
Laccio sportivo nero per Sneaker - 120 cm
