Depending on the region and country, shoelaces are referred to differently. For example, they can be called "SchnĂĽrriemen," "Schuhnestel," "Schuhbanderl," or "SchnĂĽrverschluss." But no matter how many names we find for shoelaces, they all have one thing in common: the function to close the shoe and thus ensure a secure fit on the foot.
When were the first shoelaces invented?
It is no longer possible to say with certainty exactly when the first laces for tying shoes were invented. However, it is a fact that even "Ă–tzi," found in the Alps, wore footwear that was fastened with a leather strap. Furthermore, turning techniques and footwear with lacing were already used in the Middle Ages. These shoes were mostly made of leather material and held together with a "Nestelband" (lace). Alternatively, there were also button straps or buckles that served a similar function. Other laces, which were even called "Senkel" back then, were primarily used for closing, but also for decoration.
What types of shoelaces are there?
As a rule, a distinction is made between flat and round laces. These are woven, braided, or even knitted differently during production. The material can also vary. Depending on taste and use, the choice lies with cotton, synthetic fiber, or blended fabric. Nowadays, leather laces are quite rare.
Most shoelaces are actually welded together at the ends into a "tip" (aglet). However, this is only possible with synthetic fiber laces. Metal caps, which are also used for some types of laces, are known as "Pinke." This procedure is intended to prevent the ends of the material from fraying and, above all, to ensure that the laces can be threaded through the shoe without any problems.
What is the best lacing method?
Once the shoelaces are attached to the shoes, the wearer must, of course, tie them together if they want to wear the footwear. Even though it was fashionable at times to simply wear shoelaces open while walking, this style did not last long. Moreover, the shoe does not sit properly on the foot in this way, and the risk of tripping is high. Rather, by tying the shoelaces correctly, a comfortable fit and, above all, safety while walking should be ensured.
As a rule, however, both lace ends are connected to each other and tied with a double-loop knot so that the shoe sits firmly on the foot.
How can I tie my shoes in a flash?
It's all in the technique! Anyone who doesn't have the desire or time to spend forever tying their shoes will be able to close their lace-up shoes within 3 seconds in the future with a little practice.
- Cross the shoelaces once as you would with conventional tying, tighten them, and hold both lace ends in your hands.
- Twist your right hand with the shoelace so that the lace lies over your index finger and thumb.
- Twist the left lace with your left hand the other way around – here the lace lies on the thumb first and under the index finger.
- Now bring your hands together so that both laces lie on top of each other like a plus sign and then pull them downwards together. The quick lacing is finished.
How do I stop my shoelaces from fraying?
To prevent the shoelaces from fraying at the ends, dip the ends in clear nail polish or or glue.
Read also: Enjoy shoes for longer – shoe care tips
Image by Janine, meinhaushalt.at
