This picture of Army Lacing on some well-worn combat boots was sent to me by Tarvos T. |
Lacing Technique:
1. The lace is run straight across the bottom (grey section) and the ends emerge through both bottom eyelets.
2. Both ends are run straight up on the outside and are fed in through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.
3. The ends are crossed over on the inside and emerge through the next set of eyelets up the shoe.
4. Repeat steps (2) and (3), alternating between running straight up on the outside or crossing over on the inside,
until both ends reach the top eyelets.
Features:
Allows more flex
Loose fit
Harder to tighten
Comparative Length = 70%
Laced area uses less (about −30%)
Shorter laces needed (about −14%)
Lengthens lace ends (about +27%)
More details
Army Lacing Theory:
Combat boots are notorious for being made of thick, sturdy leather that does not flex very easily, making them firm
and uncomfortable for any manoeuvering.
This lacing eliminates any crossovers that would hold down the sides of the boot, allowing the leather to crease
more freely. These corrugations can be clearly seen in the photo at bottom-left, particularly near the ankle area.
On the other hand, if you would prefer to have a more rigid lacing, such as for parachuting, marching, or for
preventing ankle injuries in rough or slippery terrain,
Ladder Lacing would be a better choice.
I've been told that this lacing is used by the British, Dutch, French and Brazilian armies. |
