How to lace up combat boots?

How to Lace Up Combat Boots: A Step-by-Step Guide

Combat boots are a staple of military and tactical gear, known for their durability and versatility. However, ensuring that they fit properly requires a bit of know-how. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed guide on how to lace up combat boots, answering the question: What is the best way to lace up combat boots for maximum comfort and support?

Understanding the Equipment

Before we dive into the lacing process, let’s take a closer look at the equipment involved.

• Combat boots: The boots themselves, often made of leather, fabric, or a combination of materials.
• Lace: The cord or straps used to secure the boots to the foot.
• Eyelets: Metal or plastic rings that thread the lace through to fasten the boot.
• Buckles or closures: Additional fastening methods, such as zippers, buckles, or straps, used to reinforce the lacing system.

The Lacing Process

Now that we understand the equipment, let’s move on to the steps involved in lacing up combat boots.

1. Begin with the Foot

Start by standing barefoot and placing your weight evenly on both feet.

2. Thread the Lace

Take the laces and thread them through the eyelets, as shown in the table below:

3. Create a Loop

Create a loop with the lace by gently pulling it through the second eyelet. This creates a foundation for the remainder of the lacing process.

4. Form the First Crimp

Take the lace and make a crimp, or a small fold, in the direction of travel. This helps to reduce bulk and prevent the laces from coming undone during wear.

5. Repeat the Process

Repeat steps 2-4 for each eyelet, working your way down the boot. Make sure to maintain even tension and take care not to pull too tightly, as this can cause discomfort or even skin irritation.

6. Secure the Boot

For the final step, simply pull the laces tightly to secure the boot, making sure to Double-Tuck the last loop to prevent it from coming undone.

6.1. Double-Tuck

To double-tuck, take the top lace and pass it Under the bottom lace, then Over the top lace, to create a secure and invisible knot.

Tips for Proper Lacing

Keep the following tips in mind to ensure proper lacing:

• Maintain even tension: Avoid putting too much pressure on specific areas of the foot by keeping the laces at an even tension.
• Don’t overpull: Avoid pulling the laces too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and even skin irritation.
• Adjust as needed: Make adjustments as needed throughout the day to ensure comfort and support.
• Use the correct laces: Use the correct length and type of laces for your specific combat boot model.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Experience some issues with your lacing? Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

• Laces feel too tight: Check to ensure you’re not overtightening the laces. Try loosening slightly and re-adjusting to achieve a comfortable fit.
• Laces come undone: Check for properly secured eyelets and verify that the laces aren’t too loose. Double-Tuck or re-tighten if necessary.
• Pinching or pressure points: Adjust the lacing as needed to alleviate pressure and discomfort.

Conclusion

Lacing up combat boots requires attention to detail, patience, and practice. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to properly lace up your combat boots for a comfortable and secure fit.

Remember to maintain even tension, avoid overpull, and adjust as needed for optimal performance. With regular practice, you’ll find that lacing up becomes second nature, allowing you to focus on more critical tasks.

Additional Reading

For more information on combat boots, including advice on choosing the right boots for your needs, and tips for maintaining and prolonging their lifespan, feel free to explore our companion articles:

• Understanding Combat Boots: A Buyers Guide
• Boot Maintenance 101: Keeping Your Combat Boots in Tip-Top Shape