Paracord shoelaces, also known as parachute cord laces, are a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. Made from 550 paracord originally designed for parachutes, these laces are strong, versatile, and affordable. While they’re not the optimal choice for work boots, their versatility make them a common choice for hiking and outdoor adventures.
What are Parachute Cord Laces?
Paracord shoelaces are made from Type III paracord, commonly known as 550 paracord. Originally designed for parachute suspension lines, this cord gets its name from its ability to support up to 550 pounds of weight.
Each paracord shoelace is constructed with a nylon sheath and seven inner strands. Each strand is made of two twisted yarns, giving paracord its characteristic flexibility. The outer sheath provides some durability and abrasion resistance
While not as strong as polyester, Kevlar or UHMWPE, paracord shoelaces are valued for their versatility. The inner strands can be removed and used for tasks like fishing, trapping, or mending gear, making these laces a handy tool for outdoor enthusiasts.
Do Paracord Laces Stay Tied?
Paracord laces, made of nylon, can be slippery. However, their braided design adds texture that helps knots hold securely. While not as reliable as cotton, paracord boot laces stay tied as well as Kevlar laces and are slightly better than polyester in this regard.
How Strong Are Paracord Boot Laces?
Paracord boot laces can support up to 550 lbs, thanks to their nylon construction with intertwined strands. While they’re stronger than cotton or polyester laces, they’re less durable than UHMWPE or Kevlar. The nylon jacket offers some abrasion resistance but will fail much sooner than the tougher alternatives.
Are Parachute Cord Shoelaces Waterproof?
Paracord is water-resistant due to its nylon material. It absorbs some moisture but dries quickly and doesn’t soak water like cotton. This makes paracord boot laces suitable for wet conditions or outdoor activities.
How Do Parachute Cord shoelaces Stand Up to the Environment?
Paracord 550 is resistant to UV radiation, alkalis, and most solvents, making it a solid choice for outdoor use. However, it’s less resistant to acids, which can degrade the material over time.
Caution: Heat Sensitivity
Paracord is sensitive to high heat, melting at around 250°C. While this feature is useful for sealing frayed ends, it also means paracord laces aren’t ideal for environments with extreme heat, such as welding or near campfires.
Aesthetics
Paracord is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it a stylish option for those who want to personalize their boots. The nylon jacket takes dye well and can include unique designs with color tracers.
Conclusion: Superior Alternatives to Paracord
While paracord laces offer versatility and style, they fall short in durability and heat resistance. For a superior alternative:
- Polyester Laces: Affordable, abrasion-resistant, and maintain their shape in tough conditions.
- Kevlar Laces: Strong and heat-resistant, ideal for industrial or high temperature applications.
- UHMWPE Laces: Ultra-light, waterproof, and nearly unbreakable, perfect for extreme conditions.
For the toughest jobs or the most rugged trails, these materials offer better performance and reliability than paracord.
More on Boot Laces
Looking for more info on boot laces?
- Here's our blog post on the best laces for work boots.
- Find our Complete Boot Lace Buyer's Guide here. It's an in-depth review of everything you need to know about boot shoe laces
- Find the Boot Lace Length Chart Here to make sure you get the right length for your boot laces.
- Learn about the three ways to tie your boot laces for a blister-free day.
