When tying laces on children soccer shoes, the traditional criss-cross lacing pattern is best. The laces should be tight enough to keep the show in place, but not too tight to make the fit uncomfortable.

A traditional bow-knot should finish off the lacing at the top and the ends of the bows tied again to create some sort of granny knot.

It is important to choose laces that are long enough to allow double knotting, but not too long that a lot of bulk is left to flap around or even get caught under the shoe sole once tied. It is best for parents to tie their children’s shoe laces until they are in a position to tie them properly.

They should be able to tie the laces by themselves with the criss-cross still being the best pattern. The lace should be threaded underneath both eyelets nearest to shoe toe ensuring that both ends have equal lengths. The underneath threading should be done all the way to the ankle before a bow-tie is tied, followed by a double knot when the show is on.

The laces should remain tightly drawn from bottom to top and a bow knot tied at farthest point outside the feet as the shoes can allow. It helps keep the knot away from the instep to reduce impact on the knot from an instep-drive kick.

Influence on laces is what needs to be focused by the advanced soccer players. The double knot should be away from midline of instep than last eyelet can allow.

The laces should also be tied in such a way that there is no risk of being raked by opponents. The issue can be addressed by using long laces that can go round the foot arch and using a surgeon’s knot to tie them.

Important to note is that some shoes may come with features that can have an effect on lacing. Tongue loops are some of the features and they help in preventing slipping of the tongue to the sides. Some may also come with a tongue flap which is an extended tongue that folds over knots after tying to create smoother instep surface. It is also not uncommon to find shoes with lace sleeves to cover the laces and knots. Choose a design you feel works for you in terms of lacing convenience and ensuring laces do not interfere with your performance.