How to Tie Laces on Deck Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Sailors

Updated November 2026

Learning how to tie laces on deck shoes takes about two minutes and makes a real difference on a wet, heeling deck. A properly tied pair stays snug through spray and tacking, won’t untie itself when you step on a line, and gives you a secure heel for grip. Below you’ll find a simple lacing method, a reliable knot, and a few fixes for the problems sailors run into most.

Before You Lace: Check the Laces and Eyelets

Start with the hardware, because a good tie can’t fix worn parts. Look for laces that are frayed at the tips, eyelets that are cracked, and aglets (the plastic or metal tips) that have come off. Replace any of these first. If you’re unsure which lace material suits your shoes, see Laces for Deck Shoes: How to Choose, Fit, and Replace Them for guidance on diameter and material.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Lace Up Deck Shoes for Boating and Everyday Wear (2026).

Also check the shoe’s fit. Lacing can only tighten what’s already there, so the shoe should feel snug across the instep with your toes not jammed at the front.

How to Tie Deck Shoes Laces Step by Step

Most deck shoes use a standard criss-cross pattern through four to six pairs of eyelets. Use the steps below, which also answer the common question of how to tie deck shoes laces without slipping.

1. Pull the laces evenly so both ends are the same length, roughly 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) of tail each.
2. Start at the bottom pair of eyelets. Thread each lace from the inside out, so the laces cross under the shoe tongue.
3. Cross the laces over each other at every level and feed them through the opposite eyelet, going up the shoe.
4. At the top pair, pull both ends snug, but not so tight that the collar pinches your ankle.
5. Tie a double overhand knot (or a surgeon’s knot, described below) and finish with a bow or a second knot.

Choosing a Knot That Holds on the Water

A basic bow works on dry land but can loosen after repeated wetting and drying. For sailing, a surgeon’s knot is worth the extra step. Cross the ends and wrap them once, then tie a second loop, which gives you a double-locked base before the bow. Add a bit of extra slack in the loops so you can untie it with wet fingers.

Setting the Right Tension

Tighten the shoe from the toe up. The forefoot should be firm but not cramped, and the heel should stay put when you walk. A useful check: after lacing, stand up and rise onto your toes. If your heel lifts noticeably, go back and tighten the top two pairs of eyelets.

Tools and Supplies You May Need

• Replacement laces matched to your eyelet size
• A small pick or awl to clear clogged eyelets
• Dry rinse water and a soft brush for cleaning salt residue

Common Mistakes and Quick Tips

• Lacing the top eyelets too tight, which pinches the ankle and can cause blisters on long days.
• Using single-overhand knots that slip after one wet session.
• Leaving laces too long, so the tails catch on cleats, lines, or fittings.
• Forgetting to check laces after a day in saltwater, since salt weakens fibers over time.
• Skipping a spare pair of laces in your sea bag.

Recommended Gear

• Replacement deck shoe laces: Flat or round waxed laces in the correct length resist stretch and hold a knot better than generic cotton. View on Amazon
• Eyelet cleaning pick: A thin, pointed tool clears salt and grit from eyelets so laces thread smoothly. View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the best knot for deck shoe laces?

A surgeon’s knot or a double-locked bow is the most reliable choice for wet conditions. It resists loosening and still unties easily when you need it to.

How tight should deck shoe laces be?

Snug across the forefoot and midfoot with the heel fixed in place, but loose enough at the top that the collar doesn’t pinch. You should be able to slide a finger under the top lace without force.

Why do my deck shoe laces keep coming undone?

Usually the knot is too simple or the laces are too slick. Switch to a double-locked knot and consider a lace material with more grip, then recheck the tension after the first hour on the water.

Conclusion

Lacing deck shoes properly comes down to matching the criss-cross pattern, choosing a knot that survives spray, and setting even tension from toe to ankle. Check your laces and eyelets regularly, especially after saltwater use. A few minutes of attention before you step aboard keeps your footing secure and your shoes where they belong.

Related reading

• How to Tie Deck Shoes: Lace Up Your Boat Shoes Fast
• Women's Deck Shoes Sale: How to Find Real Deals on Sailing Footwear

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