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

Shoelaces too long? Not only does it look unattractive, but it can also become a tripping hazard. Especially after buying new shoes or switching to elastic shoelaces, the length often doesn't match your foot. The good news: You can shorten your shoelaces yourself in just a few minutes – without any sewing. In this guide, we'll 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. No sewing required.

1. Put on the shoe and test the fit. Tighten the elastic laces 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 laces out completely.
3. Untie the knot. At the end of the elastic laces there is usually a knot that secures the stopper. Undo it.
4. Cut off excess. Trim both ends evenly to the desired length. Allow 3–4 cm reserve for the new knot.
5. Retie and thread. Thread the ends back through the stopper, tie them firmly, and pull the knot into the stopper so it's invisible.

Tip: Briefly seal the cut ends 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, which makes threading easier. When shortening, you need to replace or recreate this cap.

Method 1: With a lighter (for synthetic laces)

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 it into a point with your fingers (carefully!) or a damp cloth.

Only works with synthetic laces, not cotton.

Method 2: Tape + scissors

1. Wrap a piece of clear tape (approx. 2 cm) tightly around the desired cut point.
2. Cut through the middle of the tape – half remains as the new point on the lace.
3. Optionally secure with instant adhesive.

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

Method 3: Shoelace glue or heat-shrink tubing

1. Shorten the laces and soak the ends with textile adhesive.
2. Alternatively, slip heat-shrink tubing (available at hardware stores) over the lace and heat it with a hairdryer.

Gives the cleanest result and lasts permanently.

Shortening laces without tools (emergency solution)

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

FAQ

Can you shorten shoelaces without sewing?

Yes, in all the methods mentioned, sewing is unnecessary. 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 kids?

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 a bit longer than you think – children's feet grow quickly, and laces that are too short can't be adjusted anymore. Even more practical: switch directly to elastic laces with a stopper, then your child won't have to tie their shoes anymore.