Shortening shoelaces: How to do it with regular and elastic shoelaces

Shoelaces too long? That's not only visually unattractive, but can also become a tripping hazard. Especially after buying new shoes or switching to elastic shoelaces, the length often doesn't fit your foot. The good news: You can shorten your shoelaces yourself in just a few minutes – without any sewing. In this guide, we show you how to neatly trim both elastic and classic shoelaces to the right length.

Shortening elastic shoelaces (for Feelgrounds & similar shoes)

Elastic shoelaces, such as those used in many Feelgrounds barefoot shoes, are particularly easy to shorten. You only need scissors and need to reset the stoppers (Tankas) correctly. Sewing is not necessary.

1. Put on the shoe and test the fit. Pull the elastic shoelaces as tight as you want to wear them and mark the desired length with your finger.
2. Open the stopper. Squeeze the stopper (Cord Lock) together and pull the shoelaces out completely.
3. Untie the knot. At the end of the elastic shoelaces is usually a knot that secures the stopper. Loosen it.
4. Cut off the excess. Trim both ends evenly to the desired length. Plan 3–4 cm of reserve for the new knot.
5. Retie and thread. Thread the ends back through the stopper, tie them securely and pull the knot into the stopper so it is invisible.

Tip: Seal the cut ends briefly with a lighter so they don't fray – one or two seconds is enough.

Shortening regular shoelaces (3 methods)

Classic shoelaces have a plastic or metal cap (aglet) at the end that makes threading easier. When shortening, you need to replace or recreate this cap.

Method 1: With a lighter (for synthetic shoelaces)

1. Cut the shoelace to the desired length.
2. Hold the end briefly over a lighter flame until the material melts slightly.
3. Immediately shape into a point with your fingers (carefully!) or a damp cloth.

Only works with synthetic shoelaces, not cotton.

Method 2: Tape + scissors

1. Wrap a piece of clear tape (approx. 2 cm) tightly around the desired cutting point.
2. Cut through the middle of the tape – half remains as the new tip on the shoelace.
3. Optionally secure with super glue.

This method works with any material and is the easiest solution at home.

Method 3: Shoelace glue or heat shrink tubing

1. Shorten the shoelace and soak the ends with textile glue.
2. Alternatively, slide heat shrink tubing over it (available at hardware stores) and heat with a hair dryer.

Gives the cleanest result and lasts permanently.

Shortening shoelaces without tools (emergency solution)

No scissors or tape on hand? Then this trick helps: Tie the shoelaces as usual, fold the protruding ends into a double loop and tuck them under the laced crossings on the side. This way, long ends disappear invisibly into the shoe. Alternatively, you can thread the laces through two or three fewer holes – this effectively reduces the length used.

FAQ

Can you shorten shoelaces without sewing?

Yes, sewing is unnecessary in all the methods mentioned. With elastic shoelaces, a new knot in the stopper is sufficient. With regular shoelaces, a lighter, tape, or heat shrink tubing is enough to secure the ends.

How do I shorten shoelaces for children?

For children's shoes, we recommend the tape or heat shrink tubing method as it doesn't involve fire and is safe. Cut the lace slightly longer than you think – children's feet grow quickly, and shoelaces that are too short can't be adjusted anymore. Even more practical: Switch directly to elastic shoelaces with a stopper, so your child won't have to tie their shoes anymore.