Reliable replacement hiking laces for boots, trail shoes, and outdoor footwear across Australia.
Hiking laces available in Australia are designed for use with hiking boots, trail shoes, and other outdoor footwear. Pear Shoelace offers replacement laces in a variety of functional styles, colours, and lengths to ensure secure, comfortable, and activity-appropriate footwear.
Replacing boot laces that have snapped, frayed, stretched, or lost grip extends footwear life. Options include round, flat, patterned, two-tone, and outdoor-inspired laces, all suitable for hiking and outdoor use.
To make the most of your replacement hiking laces, proper selection is key. Optimal fit is achieved by selecting laces that correspond to boot height, number of eyelet pairs, hook configuration, and preferred tying method.
Hiking boots are subjected to greater demands than regular footwear. They are typically tied more tightly, worn for extended periods, and exposed to dirt, moisture, rough terrain, and repeated tension. Consequently, hiking laces must provide secure fastening, support a comfortable fit, and maintain an appropriate appearance.
Replacement hiking laces are ideal when your current laces are:
High-quality hiking laces improve boot security across the foot and ankle. Choosing the correct lace length enables effective use of top hooks, balanced knot tying, and consistent tension while walking.
Custom hiking laces are advantageous when standard lace sizes do not adequately fit specific boots. Hiking boots vary significantly in height, eyelet spacing, and hook design; therefore, two pairs with the same number of eyelets may still require different lace lengths.
Pear Shoelace provides custom lengths to ensure a precise fit for different boot types. If previous laces were too short, choose a longer size to use all hooks and secure knots. If they are too long, select a shorter length to reduce excess.
Aglets are the small tips at the end of each lace. They keep laces from fraying and help you easily thread the laces through eyelets and hooks. For hiking footwear, choose aglets slim enough to pass through boot hardware without obstruction for smooth lacing.
When selecting hiking laces, prioritise function before colour. The right laces fit, are secure, and match the footwear's use.
Look at these factors before choosing:
1. Boot height
Low-trail shoes need shorter laces; mid and high-cut boots require longer ones.
2. Number of eyelet pairs and hooks
More eyelets, speed hooks, or taller uppers require longer laces.
3. Lace shape
Round laces suit hiking boots and thread easily through hooks. Flat laces spread pressure and are good for trail shoes or casual use.
4. Lace grip
If laces come undone, choose ones with more texture or a firmer weave. Double or surgeon’s knots can also help.
5. Colour and finish
Neutral colours are typical for hiking boots. Patterned and two-tone laces add personal style.
The best way to determine lace length is to measure existing laces. If satisfied, get the same size; otherwise, adjust accordingly.
As a general guide:
| Boot / Shoe Type | Suggested Lace Length |
|---|---|
| Low trail shoes | 90cm–120cm |
| Ankle hiking shoes | 100cm–140cm |
| Light hiking boots, 7–8 eyelet pairs | 140cm–160cm |
| Standard hiking boots, 8–9 eyelet pairs | 160cm–180cm |
| Taller hiking or outdoor boots | 180cm–200cm+ |
Longer laces suit boots with hooks, wide spacing, or thick tongues. Shorter laces fit narrow boots or if less excess is desired.
Various types of hiking laces are suited to specific footwear and intended uses. The optimal choice depends on boot style, preferred lacing tightness, and desired appearance.
Round hiking laces
Round hiking laces are practical for many hiking boots, walking boots, and outdoor shoes. They thread efficiently through hooks and eyelets and are suitable for rugged footwear.
Flat hiking laces
Flat hiking laces are appropriate for trail shoes, casual outdoor sneakers, and footwear that benefits from broader pressure distribution across the top of the foot.
Oval laces
Oval laces are frequently used in sports and active footwear. They offer a balance between the low profile of flat laces and the threading ease of round laces.
Waxed-style laces
Waxed-style laces are beneficial when a firmer feel, cleaner appearance, and increased knot grip are required. They are particularly suitable for boots with a refined outdoor or leather finish.
Patterned and outdoor-style laces
Spotted, striped, two-tone, army green, and camouflage laces enhance the appearance of hiking boots while maintaining practicality.
Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of hiking laces and preserves the appearance of boots. After exposure to mud, laces should dry completely before boots are stored. If laces are heavily soiled, they should be removed and cleaned separately with mild soap and cool water.
Harsh chemicals, bleach, or high heat should be avoided because these can weaken fibres, damage colour, and reduce lace longevity. Laces should be completely air-dried before reinsertion into boots.
Laces should be inspected regularly for thinning, fraying, or damage near eyelets and hooks, since these areas experience the most friction. Weakened laces should be replaced before the next hike to prevent breakage during outdoor activities.
For enhanced comfort, boots should be laced evenly and tension adjusted progressively from the toe to the ankle. Window lacing alleviates pressure on the top of the foot, while a surgeon’s knot or heel-lock technique improves heel security.
Hiking laces are designed for demanding conditions. They must withstand repeated tightening, uneven terrain, mud, moisture, and prolonged use. Consequently, replacement laces should be durable, secure, and compatible with the specific eyelets and hooks of the boot.
Both round and flat laces are functional. Match the original shape for optimal fit and performance. Flat laces may improve knot security, while round or oval laces are common in boots and trail footwear.
Measure existing laces from tip to tip. If not possible, use the eyelet pair count as a reference. Hiking boots need slightly longer laces for different lacing techniques.
Replace hiking laces when frayed, deformed, hard to tension, or no longer hold a secure knot. Inspect gear regularly, as worn laces are inconvenient outdoors.
Proper laces enable precise boot adjustment and comfort over the foot, ankle, and heel. Various techniques relieve pressure, improve retention, and enhance comfort during long walks.
Hiking laces help prevent heel slip when used with appropriate lacing techniques. Specific methods secure the heel and minimise movement within the boot, resulting in a more stable fit, especially during ascents and descents.
Yes. During descents, a secure fit is essential because feet tend to move forward within the boot. Properly laced hiking laces stabilise the foot and improve control on uneven terrain. This recommendation is based on guidance regarding lacing adjustments for fit, pressure relief, and heel security.
Although standard sneaker laces can be used in hiking boots, this option is not always optimal. Hiking boots typically require laces that match the original shape and length and can withstand greater wear and friction from hooks and eyelets. Laces specifically designed for hiking boots are typically more reliable.
For extended hikes, overnight trips, or excursions in remote locations, carrying a spare pair of laces is recommended. Although a broken lace may seem minor, it can cause significant difficulties far from the trailhead. Spare laces require minimal space and serve as a practical backup.
Yes. If boots are in good condition, replacing worn laces is a straightforward, cost-effective way to restore fit and maintain trail-readiness. New hiking laces improve both the appearance and comfort of boots without requiring full replacement.
Explore more lace styles across our range. Browse Boot Laces for rugged everyday footwear, compare Round Shoelaces and Waxed Shoelaces for durable replacement options, or shop Replacement Shoelaces for more lace styles. You can also explore Sports Oval Shoelaces for active footwear and Shoelace Types to compare different lace options.