Before the 1970s, laces were the preferred closure system for cycling shoes. That changed with the introduction of hook-and-loop fasteners, commonly known by the popular brand name Velcro. That shift revolutionized cycling shoe design, establishing speed, simplicity, and efficiency as the core principles of securing the upper to the foot. It seemed like everybody wanted a quick–fastened cycling shoe.
Those same principles pushed cycling, for better or worse, away from wooden and leather soles toward the evolving stiff composite platforms, away from leather uppers toward lightweight synthetics, and away from laces toward straps and mechanical closures. It was a fast-paced time for cycling shoe design and technology. That hunger for simplicity and efficiency was activated decades ago, and even today it has never been fully satisfied. Running beneath it is an underlying ache for comfort that no closure system has completely resolved. Each method gives positives, yes. However, attached to each there are often tiny and seemingly insignificant issues that some cyclists will find. Ultimately, you see – comfort is key.
Comfort is always the key
Throughout the relatively short history of cycling shoe closures, many concepts have come,and some have gone; various buckle designs, different iterations of dial systems, hybrid straps. Yet like synthetic leather, most modern closures have been trying to replicate the level of comfort and customization that only laces can truly deliver. When you look at a laced shoe system – really look – each time that the lace crosses over the upper foot, it has the potential for adaptivity and adjustment.
Yes, laces are still cumbersome. They are not easy to adjust on the fly, and they can take more time and effort to put on and take off. But once you get the fit exactly where you want it, what some would call dialed in; nothing else delivers the same level of fit and security. It gives you closure on the search for comfort.
Like most other cycling shoe brands, we manufacture models that use modern mechanical closures designed to replicate that fit. And like many others, we still offer a selection of models built around laces. In fact, here at Lake, we even offer speed laces in our triathlon shoe, but that’s another blog for later. We simply believe that we ought to offer every possible option for every foot.
Laces still serve a purpose today, and not simply because they look like retro. They work for a lot of riders. Even within the pro peloton of the world’s leading cyclists, you will find laces being used on some of the cycling shoes on display. Though they are more finicky to adjust and not as simple to put on and take off, laces are inherently more straightforward in their core application. Replacing a pair is fast, easy, and affordable. The customization options remain unmatched, and because you are not locked into any one ecosystem, you can choose from an enormous range of lace types to find what works for you.
Different Laces for Different Purposes
Let’s delve into the technicality of the lace, then. The shape and style of a lace have a function. There are two distinct styles most commonly available: flat laces and round laces. Both come in various thicknesses and widths, but your fit priorities will largely determine which is better suited to your application.
Flat laces tend to produce a more comfortable, equalized fit with minimal pressure points compared to round laces. Round laces, by nature, create more concentrated pressure when tightened. Their advantages are higher durability, ease of use, and lower friction, which makes it easier for people to tie and loosen. That quality makes them particularly well suited for taller footwear like boots. In low-cut cycling shoes, we believe flat laces perform better. The higher friction means the lace holds its position, so the fine adjustments you make during initial closure stay in place. Lower durability is often a tradeoff.
For most of our models, we offer two lace options. The first is a waxed flat lace that offers enhanced durability, increased friction for even less lace movement, and water resistance for when you get caught in a rain shower. The second option is a polyester flat lace that makes getting the shoe on and off easier and offers higher tensile strength for a tighter pull, without excessive stretch. Both have their purpose, and both are designed to work with whatever fit you prefer.
Adjusting your thoughts on closure systems
Remember, whichever lace you choose, each time that it crosses over your foot, there is the opportunity to add some adjustment in a way that no other closure system can. Yes, you may need to give yourself a minute or two extra time spent putting the shoes on. However, once you begin to ride, you’ll appreciate and understand just why laces are still a key option in our range of cycling shoes – and it all comes down to providing you with what we believe to be the most comfortable cycling shoes in the world.
Yes, what may look like a retro trend to some is actually a technical and highly functional system that has withstood the test of time and will continue to do so.