Shoelace Width Guide: Find the Right Shoelace Width

Not sure what width shoelaces you need? Choosing the right shoelace width matters for both fit and appearance. From very thin dress laces to standard athletic shoelaces and extra-wide skate or novelty laces, this guide will help you compare common shoelace widths and choose the best option for your shoes.

If you're replacing an existing pair, the best place to start is by measuring the width of your current shoelaces. If you don't have the original laces, use the visual chart and general recommendations below to compare common shoelace widths for dress shoes, sneakers, athletic shoes, boots and more.

Shoelace Width Comparison Guide

This visual shoelace width chart compares many of the widths we carry, from 1/16" through 3/4". The ruler is enlarged so the relative difference between one shoelace width and another is easier to see.

Shoelace width comparison chart showing widths from 1/16 inch through 3/4 inch

Please note: This chart is not actual size on your screen. Screen size, browser settings, device scaling and display settings can change how large the diagram appears. Use the chart to compare the relative difference between shoelace widths rather than as an exact on-screen ruler.

Understanding Common Shoelace Widths

1/16"–1/8"
Thin Shoelaces
Best for dress shoes, formal footwear, oxfords, loafers and smaller eyelets.
5/32"–7/32"
Medium Shoelaces
Common for casual shoes, athletic shoes, everyday sneakers and many replacement laces.
1/4" AND WIDER
Wide Shoelaces
Popular for sneakers, boots, work shoes, skate shoes and statement styles.

How to Choose the Right Shoelace Width

Shoelace width and shoelace thickness are often used interchangeably, but the way you measure depends partly on the shape of the lace.

For example, a 7/32" shoelace is wider than a 3/16" shoelace, but narrower than a 1/4" shoelace. Even small differences can change how the lace looks and how easily it passes through the shoe's eyelets.

When you're replacing shoelaces, matching the approximate width of the original lace is usually the easiest starting point. You can then go slightly thinner or wider if you want to change the look.

How to Measure Shoelace Width

Flat Shoelaces
Lay the shoelace flat without stretching it and measure straight across the widest point of the lace.
Round Shoelaces
Measure or compare the diameter of the lace. Round-lace size may also be described as thickness.
Oval Shoelaces
Measure across the widest part of the oval profile while the lace is resting naturally.

Measurements such as 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" and 3/4" refer to the approximate width or diameter of the shoelace.

What Is a Standard Shoelace Width?

There isn't one universal standard shoelace width because different shoes are designed for different lace shapes and eyelet sizes.

Dress shoes generally use thinner shoelaces, while everyday sneakers and athletic shoes often use medium-width laces. Skate shoes, some boots and fashion footwear may use considerably wider flat shoelaces.

That's why matching your existing lace or measuring your shoe's eyelets is usually more reliable than choosing a single “standard” width.

What If My Shoelace Is Between Two Widths?

If your original shoelace falls between two available widths, consider both the size of the shoe's eyelets and the appearance you want.

  • Choose the thinner width for a cleaner, more refined appearance or smaller eyelets.
  • Choose the wider width for a fuller, more noticeable look if the eyelets can comfortably accommodate it.

A lace that is too wide may be difficult to pull through the eyelets, while a lace that is much thinner than the original can change the look and feel of the shoe.

Ready to Shop by Width?

Once you know the width you need, browse all available replacement shoelaces from 1/16" through 3/4" on our dedicated shopping page.

Find Shoelaces in Your Width
Compare thin, standard, wide and extra-wide shoelaces by exact width.
Shop Shoelaces by Width →

Customize Your Shoelaces

Need a special length or more customization options? Explore our custom shoelaces for additional lengths and available finishing options.

About Custom Shoelaces →

Add Metal Tips to Your Shoelaces

Many shoelaces can be upgraded with premium metal aglets in silver, black and brass for a more finished, customized look.

Shoelaces with metal tips in silver black and brass

Shop Shoelaces with Metal Tips →

Need Help Choosing the Right Shoelaces?

Width is only one part of finding the right replacement shoelaces. Length, shape, material, style and color can all affect how the finished lace looks and performs.

Start with our Shoelace Length Guide if you still need to determine your size, or use our How to Buy Shoelaces: The Complete Guide for help choosing length, width, shape, material, style and color.

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Still Not Sure What Shoelace Width You Need?

Measure your existing shoelace at its widest point. If you're still unsure, send us a photo of your shoes or existing laces and we'll help you find the right replacement shoelaces.

Call 706-543-3018 or email info@shoelacesexpress.com.