Introduction
The best hiking boot shoelaces can make or break comfort and performance in the backcountry. Nobody wants laces that snap mid-hike, come untied, or soak up water in wet conditions.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing the best laces for hiking boots, from durable materials to picking the right colour.
What to Look for in Hiking Boot Shoe Strings
The best laces are durable, fit well, and handle the conditions you’ll face.
Durability's first for the best boot shoelaces
Durability in hiking laces comes down to two key factors: tensile strength and abrasion resistance. Both are critical for keeping your laces intact
- Tensile Strength: Laces need to withstand the pulling force when tying them tightly, especially with the added strain of a loaded pack. Weak materials can snap under this pressure.
- Abrasion Resistance: Eyelets can act like sandpaper, rubbing against your laces with every step. Look for fibers designed to handle repeated friction without fraying or breaking.
Choosing laces with both tensile strength and abrasion resistance ensures they’ll last in tough conditions. Some manufacturers run tests on their materials to make sure they're tough enough.
Water Resistance matters in boot strings
Depending on their material, laces can get heavy, stretch out, and can weaken over time. Waterproof options stay light and durable, even in rain, snow, or muddy conditions. Here's a breakdown of water resistance by material.
- Jute: 2/10 Natural and biodegradable, but jute absorbs water easily and becomes heavy and weak when wet.
- Leather: 4/10 Leather is somewhat resistant to water but stretches and degrades over time with repeated exposure.
- Kevlar: 6/10 Kevlar resists water better than natural fibers but can still absorb moisture, weakening its durability over time.
- Polyester: 8/10 A synthetic material that repels water well, maintaining its strength and shape even in wet conditions.
- Nylon: 7/10 Nylon resists water and dries quickly but can stretch slightly when exposed to prolonged moisture.
- UHMWPE: 10/10 Completely waterproof, ultra-light, and resistant to any water-related damage, making it ideal for extreme wet conditions.
Knot Security for Hiker Shoelaces
Few things are as annoying as constantly retying your laces. Knot security depends on both the material and the texture of the lace. Some materials naturally grip better than others, while the right balance of elasticity can make knots more secure.
- Material Grip: Natural fibers like cotton and waxed cotton offer excellent knot security because their texture creates friction, holding knots firmly in place. Smoother synthetic materials like nylon can allow knots to slip more easily without additional treatments or coatings.
- Elasticity: A little give in the material can help knots hold tighter under tension, which is why a combination like UHMWPE wrapped in a polyester jacket is ideal. It balances strength with just enough flexibility to stay secure.
- Texture: Flat laces or braided weaves provide more surface area and grip, which helps knots stay tight. Rounded, smooth laces may look sleek but can be prone to slipping under strain.
When choosing laces, consider both the material and texture to ensure they stay securely tied, no matter how much you move.
Getting the right fit for Hiking Boot Laces
Getting the right length means your laces work perfectly with your boots, whether you’re using shorter laces for low-cut hiking shoes or longer ones for taller hiking boots with more eyelets. Need help finding the right size? Check out our Boot Lace Length Guide for a quick and easy reference.
It’s also important to check the diameter of your boot’s eyelets. The aglet—the small plastic or metal tip at the end of the lace—is usually the thickest part. Making sure your eyelets can fit the aglet’s diameter is the best way to confirm your laces will work with your boots.
Materials for the Best Hiking Boot Laces
Synthetic Options for Hiking Boot Laces
Nylon
Nylon hiking boot laces are lightweight, flexible, and resistant to fraying. They’re a good all-around choice for most hikers but can stretch slightly and absorb a small amount of moisture in extremely wet conditions. While durable, nylon laces aren’t the best option for extreme environments.
Polyester
Polyester hiking boot laces are highly abrasion-resistant, maintain their shape better than nylon, and repel water effectively. They're a good option for hikers needing durability and reliability in rough, wet environments. They don’t have the strength of other options like Kevlar and UHMWPE, but they’re more budget-friendly.
Kevlar
Kevlar hiking boot laces are incredibly strong and heat-resistant, the strength makes them good for high-intensity hikes. However, they lack waterproofing and can stiffen over time with repeated exposure to moisture. They're a better fit in work boots where extreme heat, sparks, or flames, are common. Here's a blog post on Kevlar boot laces vs. other materials.
UHMWPE
UHMWPE hiking boot laces are ultra-light, completely waterproof, and highly abrasion-resistant. They’re the best choice for hikers who need laces that can handle heavy wear and wet conditions without adding extra weight.
Natural Options for Hiking Boot Laces
Leather
Leather hiking boot laces offer a classic, rugged look and are highly durable in dry conditions. However, they stretch and weaken when exposed to moisture, making them less ideal for wet or snowy environments.
Weave Matters in Hiking Boot Laces
The weave of your hiking boot laces affects their strength, durability, and ability to stay tied. There are generally two common weaves:
16-Strand Weave
Offers more flexibility, making it easier to tie and untie. This weave is great for hikers who prioritize comfort and need laces that are simple to adjust on the go. It’s ideal for casual hikes or situations where heavy wear isn’t a primary concern.
24-Strand Weave
Denser and more durable, this weave resists fraying, absorbs less water, and is designed for challenging trails where strength and longevity are critical. Often referred to as "high density" weaves, they’re perfect for hikers tackling rugged conditions or long-distance treks.
A tight weave not only enhances durability but also reduces water absorption and prevents dirt buildup, extending the life of your laces. Whether you need flexibility for short hikes or heavy-duty strength for demanding adventures, the right weave ensures your laces can handle the trail.
More on Hiking Boot Laces
Looking for more info on hiking boot laces?
- 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.
