Whether you need new laces or just want to improve your current setup, this hockey lace size chart will help you choose the right size laces for your skates.
Believe it or not, the size of your laces can make a big difference in your game.
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The length of the hockey lace corresponds loosely with the skate size that a player wears.
However, there is some length variation depending on the brand of laces.
When it comes to lace length on your skates, size matters.
If you’re a beginner the following chart from Howies is an excellent guide and includes both youth skate sizes, as well as adult skate sizes.
Although an experienced hockey player may opt for longer or shorter length laces then in this chart.
With this information in hand, you can be sure that your skate setup will get off to the right start.
If you’re unsure of which size to choose, measure your current laces for reference. Start by unthreading the lace from one eyelet and stretching it out fully. Measure from end to end (not including any aglets) in inches or centimeters and use the chart above as a guide.
By carefully considering the right size laces for your skates, you can feel the difference in comfort and performance during your next hockey game.
Unwaxed hockey laces tend to be softer, more flexible, and they stretch more than waxed laces. They are inexpensive and easier to grasp and tie especially for younger players.
Waxed laces have a wax coating that keeps your laces tight. They are more rigid and durable, making them better suited for players who need extra control over their skating style.
It will come down to your personal preference as to which kind of laces you choose.
Whether you choose a pair of waxed or unwaxed laces, make sure you get the right lace lengths for your skates.
No, never tie your laces around your skates. This can cause excess pressure and lace breakage, reducing the life of both your laces and skates.
Hockey skate laces usually last a few months, depending on your usage. It is time to replace them if they start to show signs of fraying, stretching, or are becoming brittle.
They are inexpensive so you should always keep an extra pair in your hockey bag.
Also you’ll want to replace them if you are using the wrong size laces for your skates as this can affect your performance.
The most common way to lace up your ice hockey skates is by using the over or under criss-cross method. This involves lacing your skates in an X pattern, starting with one end of the laces at the bottom eyelet and crossing over each successive eyelet until you reach the top of the skate boot.
Please see our article How To Lace Hockey Skates: For Maximum Comfort And Better Performance to see the different lacing methods.
Once you’ve finished lacing up your skates, you can use a number of different techniques to secure the laces in place. The most popular methods are tying a bow or lock lacing to reduce slippage.
Lace bite is caused by the pressure of your laces pressing against the top of your foot, which can lead to swelling and discomfort.
There are a few reasons that lace bite occurs:
The best way to prevent lace bite is to make sure you have the right skate size and have your laces snugly tightened, but not too tight.
If you’re looking for additional protection from lace bite, try using a gel pad on your foot to relieve some pressure. You can also use a hockey skate tongue protector for extra cushioning.
Please see our article Lace Bite: How To Prevent And Treat for more information on this topic.
Choosing the right size laces for your ice hockey skates is an important part of getting the best fit and performance out of your skates.
Knowing the proper length for your laces and understanding the difference between waxed and non-waxed laces can help you make an informed decision when it comes to buying new laces.
With the right laces, you’ll be ready to hit the ice!
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