Zig Zag Lacing

The laces alternate between inner verticals and outer diagonals that wrap around the opposite verticals, forming a twin-rail zig-zag path.
To activate controls, please enable JavaScript
Lacing Technique
• Begin straight across the bottom (grey section). Note the unusual path: Feed the left end in through the bottom-left eyelet. Feed the right end out through the bottom-right eyelet.
• The left (blue) end runs straight up the inside and out through the next higher eyelet.
• The right (yellow) end runs across the shoe, under the left side, wraps around the vertical section, then back across the shoe to feed in through the next higher eyelet on the right side. The end then continues straight up the inside and out through the next higher eyelet.
• The left (blue) end does the same in reverse, running across to the right, wraps around, back across to the left, then straight up the inside.
• Repeat the above steps, alternating with the right and left ends, until both ends reach the top of the shoe, where the last segment feeds under the side and out through the top eyelet.
Features
Decorative look
Laces wear more
Pattern can shift
10% shorter ends (approx.)
Notes
The left and right shoes can be laced in reverse (mirror image) to end up with a symmetrical look.
Zig Zag Lacing Gallery








Hover over any image to view details
For enlargements, please enable JavaScript
Contribute a photo (via e-mail)
Shoelace Lengths for Zig Zag Lacing
Pairs of eyelets: | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
Length needed: | 72 cm 28 inch |
84 cm 33 inch |
95 cm 38 inch |
107 cm 42 inch |
119 cm 47 inch |
130 cm 51 inch |
142 cm 56 inch |
Lengths available: | 27" | 36" | 36" | 40" | 45" | 54" | 54" |
NOTE: These are approximate shoelace lengths for using this lacing on an average sized sneaker. For more accurate lengths, use the Shoelace Length Calculator.
Comparative Length
Longer shoelaces needed than those for basic Criss Cross Lacing.
Shorter ends if existing shoelaces are re-used (−10% on average).
Visitor Feedback
The Zig Zag looks amazingly dope on my new Adidas Shelltops!
Thanks for all the cool techniques on lacing...I’ve been using your site for years.
– Jen S., Yonkers, NY, USA, Feb-2021
If you'd also like to send feedback, please Contact Ian.
Rate This Lacing Method
Please only vote once – multiple votes are removed daily