Lacing up hockey skates can be a daunting task for the uninitiated, but with the right techniques and knowledge, it’s actually quite simple. Knowing how to properly lace your skates will ensure that you have a comfortable fit, as well as proper support and stability while playing on the ice.
In this article, we’ll discuss some basic tips to help make lacing your hockey skates easier and more efficient.
We’ll cover topics such as choosing an appropriate lacing pattern, selecting the correct length of laces, and properly tying off your skate once you’re finished. With these steps in mind, let’s get started!
A Simple Guide to Lacing Your Hockey Skates

Choosing A Lacing Pattern
When it comes to lacing up your skates, there are many different patterns you can choose from. The most common patterns include the crisscross lacing pattern and the straight lace pattern. Depending on the type of skate you have and the type of fit you desire, you may want to opt for a specific pattern.
For recreational skates, the straight lace pattern is usually the preferred option, as it offers a snug fit and plenty of support. On the other hand, if you have hockey skates specifically designed for more serious competition, then something like the crisscross lacing pattern may be more suitable.
Selecting Lace Length
Another important factor to consider when lacing up your hockey skates is the length of lace you should use. The best way to determine this is by measuring from the topmost eyelet on one side of your skate all the way down to where your foot will rest in the toe cap of your skate. Make sure that you leave enough slack so that you can easily tie a knot once you’re finished.
If you’re confused about finding the right lace length, you can take help from the rough lace sizing guide mentioned below.
Youth 8 to Junior 3: 72 inches.
Junior 3.5 to 5.5: 84 inches.
Adult 6 to 8: 96 inches.
Adult 8 to 10: 108 inches.
Adult 10 to 13: 120 inches.
Adult 12 to 15: 130 inches.
Tying Off Your Skate
When it comes time to tie off your skate after lacing it up, you will want to make sure that you do so in a way that ensures the laces stay tight and secure.

To accomplish this, start by looping one end of the lace through the top eyelet on your skate. Then take the lace across the bottom of your foot and loop it back through the other side of the eyelet before pulling both ends tight. Finally, tie them together using a double-knot for added security.
FAQs About Lacing Hockey Skates
What are the most common lacing patterns for hockey skates?
The most common lacing patterns for hockey skates are the crisscross pattern and the straight lace pattern.
What is the best way to determine which type of lacing pattern I should use?
The best way to determine which lacing pattern you should use is to consider the type of skate you have and the type of fit you desire. For recreational skates, a straight lace pattern is usually preferred, while more serious competition may require something like a crisscross lacing pattern.
What is the best way to tie off my skate?
The best way to tie off your skate is to start by looping one end of the lace through the top eyelet on your skate. Then take the lace across the bottom of your foot and loop it back through the other side of the eyelet before pulling both ends tight. Finally, tie them together using a double-knot for added security.
How high do you lace hockey skates?
You should lace your skates up high enough so that they are secure and comfortable, but not too tight. The best way to determine the appropriate height for lacing your skates is to measure from the topmost eyelet on one side of your skate all the way down to where your foot will rest in the toe cap of your skate.
How long should my laces be?
The best way to determine the correct length of lace is to measure from the topmost eyelet on one side of your skate all the way down to where your foot will rest in the toe cap of your skate. Make sure that you leave enough slack so that you can easily tie a knot once you’re finished.
Conclusion
Lacing up your hockey skates is a vital part of preparing to play on the ice, and with the right techniques and knowledge, it doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming.
By following the tips outlined in this article, you should be able to quickly and easily lace up your skates for maximum comfort and support during every game.