Boot Lace Length Guide

Choosing the right boot lace length matters more than many people realise. Boots usually need longer laces than other types of footwear because they cover more of the foot and ankle, often have more eyelets, and may also include hooks or speed hooks. If the laces are too short, the boots can be hard to tighten and frustrating to tie. If they are too long, they can look untidy, catch on the ground or require constant double-knotting.

Most ankle boots use 100cm to 140cm laces. Most hiking boots and work boots use 140cm to 180cm laces. Most tall lace-up boots use 180cm to 220cm laces. Kids’ boots usually sit lower in the range, often from 75cm to 120cm. The most accurate way to choose the right size is to count the number of eyelet pairs or hooks on the boot.

Boots place more demand on laces than most other shoes. In many styles, the lacing system affects comfort, ankle support, stability and how easy the boots are to put on and take off. That is why choosing the right replacement boot laces is so important.

For this page, the strongest supporting sizes are 100cm laces, 120cm laces, 140cm laces, 160cm laces, 180cm laces, 200cm laces and 220cm laces, alongside your Boot Laces, Round Shoelaces and Waxed Laces collections.

The best boot lace length depends on the boot's height, the number of eyelets and hooks, and how tightly the boot needs to be worn.

A low ankle boot needs much less lace than a tall hiking boot or lace-up work boot. More fastening points usually mean more lace is needed. Hooks and speed hooks can further increase the lace path. A fashion boot may require less lace than a work boot because it is often worn more loosely and places less strain on the lacing system.

If you want the most reliable fit, count the eyelet pairs or hooks first, then compare your result with the chart above.

Small kids’ boots often have laces that range from 75cm to 90cm. Standard kids’ lace-up boots often use 90cm to 100cm laces, while older kids’ boots may need 100cm to 120cm.

Youth boots often suit 120cm laces or 140cm laces, depending on whether they are fashion boots or more structured styles.

Adult ankle boots often suit 100cm laces or 120cm laces. Casual boots often suit 120cm laces or 140cm laces. Many hiking boots and work boots suit 140cm laces, 160cm laces or 180cm laces, depending on height, eyelets and hooks. Tall lace-up boots often suit 200cm laces or 220cm laces.

Most boots work best with Boot Laces, Round Shoelaces, or Waxed Shoelaces, depending on the boot style.

Round laces are a practical option for many everyday, hiking, and work boots. Waxed laces are a strong choice for leather boots and styles that call for a cleaner, smarter finish. Purpose-made boot laces are often the best option where durability matters most.

Because boots put more stress on laces than ordinary shoes do, it is important to choose laces that suit both the length and the job the boot needs to do.

100cm laces are best for compact ankle boots and smaller lace-up boots.

120cm laces are a common choice for ankle boots and casual boots.

140cm laces work well for casual boots, some work boots and lighter hiking boots.

160cm laces are ideal for many hiking boots and standard work boots.

180cm laces are best for taller hiking boots and larger work boots.

200cm laces suit tall work boots and larger lace-up boot styles.

220cm laces are best for tall boots with many eyelets or hooks.

Your boot laces are probably too short if you struggle to tighten the boots properly, cannot use the top hooks or eyelets, or barely have enough lace left to tie a secure knot.

Yes. Waxed laces are often a good choice for leather boots because they look clean, feel durable and suit smarter boot styles well.

Usually, yes. Work boots often have more eyelets or hooks and are tied more firmly, so a slightly longer lace is often the safer option.

Boots usually need longer laces because they are taller, have more eyelets and, in many cases, hooks or speed hooks. The right boot lace should let you tighten the boot properly, tie it securely and match the demands of everyday wear, work or outdoor use. To find the best options for ankle boots, hiking boots, work boots and tall lace-up styles, shop our Boot Laces, Round Shoelaces and Waxed Shoelaces. For other footwear categories, visit our Sneaker Lace Length Guide, Casual Shoe Lace Length Guide and Dress Shoe Lace Length Guide.