A lot of things go into playing hockey, like skating, shooting, passing and puck handling.
However, one of the most foundational skills you need to know is how to lace up your skates.
It may seem like a simple task, but there are a few tricks that can make all the difference in your performance on the ice. Read on for everything you need to know about lacing up your hockey skates.
Why Should You Properly Lace Your Hockey Skates?
There are a few reasons why knowing how to properly lace your hockey skates is essential. For one, if your skates are too loose, you run the risk of getting blisters or losing your footing while skating.
On the other hand, if your skates are too tight, you could end up with cramps or numbness in your feet.
Different Ways To Tie Hockey Skates
There are several ways to lace hockey skates. We'll discuss them below so you can take a pick yourself.
Under Crisscross Lacing
This is the most popular and basic technique for lacing up hockey skates.
The laces should be threaded under the two eyelets on each side, then crossed over the shoe and tied in a knot.
From beneath, tie the lace diagonally across each eyelet, then down the tongue and around the next eyelet on the other side. Continue doing this until all eyelets have been lace tied.
Over CrisscrossLacing
This lacing method is similar to under crisscross, but the laces are threaded over the eyelets instead of under them. This creates a tighter fit and more secure hold, which is ideal for experienced players.
Start by threading the laces over the top of the two eyelets on each side, then tie them in a knot.
Next, lace the laces diagonally across each eyelet from beneath, down the tongue, and around the next eyelet. Continue doing this until all eyelets have been laced.
Double-Cross Lacing
The double cross lacing method is similar to the over crisscross, but the laces are crossed twice instead of once. This creates an even more secure hold and a tighter fit, which is ideal for experienced players who need extra support.
Lock Lacing
If your hockey skates are too big or wide, you can try lock lacing them. Lock lacing is an excellent way to lace your skates if you have high arches or wide feet. Lace the skates, as usual, leaving the last two pairs of eyelets open.
Then, put the lace through the second pair of eyelets from the inside and out using the top interior eyelet and the adjacent outside top eyelet.
Cross over the laces and run them down both sides via the loops you've made on both sides before tying them as you usually would tie your shoes.
Partial Lacing
Partial lacing is a good option for those who need more mobility in their ankles. To do this, simply leave the top eyelets unlaced and only thread the laces through the bottom eyelets.
This method is best suited for advanced players who don't need as much support from their hockey skates.
As a seasoned hockey enthusiast with a wealth of hands-on experience in the sport, let me delve into the critical aspect of lacing up hockey skates. Properly securing your skates may seem like a mundane task, but it plays a pivotal role in enhancing your on-ice performance. Allow me to share my expertise by shedding light on various lacing techniques and their implications.
The significance of properly lacing your hockey skates cannot be overstated. Ill-fitting skates can lead to discomfort, blisters, and compromised stability on the ice. Whether your skates are too loose or too tight, the consequences can range from discomfort to potential injury.
Let's explore the different ways to tie hockey skates, each tailored to meet specific needs and preferences:
-
Under Crisscross Lacing:
- This is the fundamental and widely adopted technique.
- Thread the laces under the two eyelets on each side, cross them over the shoe, and tie them in a knot.
- Diagonally cross the lace across each eyelet, down the tongue, and around the next eyelet on the opposite side, repeating until all eyelets are secured.
-
Over Crisscross Lacing:
- Similar to under crisscross, but the laces are threaded over the eyelets.
- Provides a tighter fit and increased security, making it suitable for experienced players.
- Start by threading the laces over the top of the two eyelets on each side and proceed with diagonal crossing and lacing.
-
Double-Cross Lacing:
- A more advanced version of over crisscross, involving two crossings of the laces.
- Offers an even more secure hold and a tighter fit, catering to the needs of experienced players requiring additional support.
-
Lock Lacing:
- Ideal for skates that are too big or wide.
- Particularly beneficial for individuals with high arches or wide feet.
- Lace the skates as usual, leaving the last two pairs of eyelets open.
- Thread the lace through the second pair of eyelets from the inside and out, creating a secure cross, and tie as usual.
-
Partial Lacing:
- Suited for those seeking more ankle mobility.
- Leave the top eyelets unlaced and only thread the laces through the bottom eyelets.
- Best suited for advanced players who require less support from their hockey skates.
In conclusion, mastering the art of lacing up your hockey skates is a crucial skill that can significantly impact your performance and overall comfort on the ice. Tailoring your lacing technique to your specific needs and skill level ensures a customized and optimal fit, contributing to an enhanced playing experience.
