Tying Shoes

Contains 25 × shoelace knots (including my world's fastest “Ian Knot”), plus info on tying correctly so that they sit straight and stay securely tied – yet can be untied without jamming.

Shoelace Knots

Want to learn how to tie your shoes? Whether you're after shoelace tying speed, simplicity, security or style, here's twenty-five different shoelace knots to choose from – including several that I've created.

The “Granny Knot”

Do your shoelaces sit crooked? Do you retie your shoes several times a day? These are both signs of a “Granny Knot”. Learn the “one simple trick” for keeping your shoes neatly and securely tied.

Untying Shoes

Untying is usually easy – but not always! This page explains why shoelace knots sometimes jam when untying, plus gives some tips for preventing such jams.

Knot Variations

All of the knots on my site were illustrated only one way – the same way that I tie them. While you are welcome to use your own variations, this page shows how to ensure that the finished knot still ends up secure.

Knot Comparison

With so many knots to choose from, how do you decide which to use? This page compares both their functional and visual considerations feature by feature to help you choose.

Knot Ratings

All of the Shoelace Knots on this site allow visitors to rate them from 1 to 5 stars (1=Awful to 5=Excellent). This page shows the results of those ratings.

Something for Everyone

Most people learn how to tie their shoelaces around the age of five. Why then would anyone older than that visit a website about tying shoes?

Parents & teachers look for early learning materials.
Teens and adults look for self-help, either through having never learned correctly as a child or due to increasing infirmity.
People whose shoelaces come undone look for a secure answer.
Occupational therapists look for alternatives to suit clients with different limitations or learning styles.
Academics & lateral thinkers look for more efficient methods.
Knot enthusiasts look for shoelace knot reference materials.
Sportspeople look for a competitive edge.

Whatever the reason, I'm sure that almost everyone will find something useful here about shoe tying!

Recent Visitor Feedback

I just wanted to let you know that I have been using the Ian knot for about 7 years. Since using the Ian Knot, my sneaker laces always look neat and sleek. I love how simple the knot is. I’ve even taken to tying package bows with the Ian Knot. I always get lots of compliments and point the giver to your site. Thanks a million!

– Christel S., Arizona, USA, Oct-2023

I saw a post about your site on HackerNews, and it reminded me of when I used it to get better at tying mine and my kids’ laces! Still use your methods to this day :D

– Shaun G., Sep-2023

As a fellow Ian I've always had a fond spot for your website and take every chance to teach people how to tie shoelaces faster and better. Thank you for keeping it going for what must be 25+ years. ❤️

– Ian F., Sep-2023

... I learnt your speed knot over a decade ago and have used it every day since so thought even this small token of appreciation would not go astray.

Over the years I’ve referenced the site for all my knot needs!

– Nevhan R., Sep-2023

I use the Ian knot all the time.

– Chris, Sep-2023