How to Lace Huaraches like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide.

To lace huaraches, follow these simple steps. First, place the sandal on your foot and bring the laces around the back of your ankle.

From there, crisscross the laces over the top of your foot until they reach the toe area. Finally, tie the laces together in a secure knot. Huaraches are a type of sandal made from woven leather strips and have been worn for centuries by mexican farmers and indigenous groups.

Due to their unique design, it may be confusing to know how to properly lace them. However, by following a few simple steps, you can easily lace up your huaraches and enjoy their comfortable, stylish design. In this article, we will discuss how to lace huaraches step-by-step, along with tips on how to care for your sandals to ensure they last for years to come.

Credit: www.amazon.com

Understanding Huaraches And Their Lacing Styles

What Are Huaraches And Why Are They Popular?

Huaraches are traditional mexican sandals made from woven leather or fabric strips, with roots dating back to pre-colonial times. In recent years, huaraches have surged in popularity worldwide due to their lightweight, breathable design and unique style. Here are some reasons why huaraches are popular:

• They are comfortable and practical for warmer climates, thanks to their airy construction.
• There are endless variations in design and color, making them unique and expressive.
• They are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional footwear since they are handmade with natural materials.

Different Types Of Huaraches Available In The Market

There are various types of huaraches that you can choose from, depending on your personal preferences and needs. Here are a few types that are commonly available:

• Closed toe huaraches: These huaraches provide more coverage at the front, with closed toes that offer better protection for your feet.
• Open toe huaraches: As the name suggests, these huaraches have an open toe design, making them ideal for hot weather or for people who hate having their toes enclosed.
• High top huaraches: These huaraches have a higher collar that goes above your ankle, providing more support and coverage for your foot.
• Low top huaraches: These huaraches have lower collars that sit at or below your ankle, making them more suitable for warmer weather or for people who prefer a more minimalistic style.

An Overview Of Popular Huaraches Lacing Styles

One of the most attractive aspects of huaraches is their intricate lacing styles, which range from simple to complex designs. Here are a few popular lacing styles to try out:

• Criss-cross lacing: This is the most straightforward and classic huarache lacing style and involves criss-crossing the straps over the top of your foot.
• Fish bone lacing: This lacing style creates a woven pattern that resembles the bones of a fish. It involves interlacing the straps in an over-and-under pattern.
• Tarahumara lacing: This style is named after the tarahumara tribe in northern mexico, and it involves a series of loops that zigzag across the top of the foot.
• Gladiator lacing: This dramatic style looks like a gladiator’s sandal and involves lacing the straps all the way up to your knee.

Huaraches are a versatile and unique style of footwear that have grown in popularity worldwide, thanks to their eco-friendly construction, comfortability, and customization options. With various types of huaraches and lacing styles available, they are sure to fit anyone’s preferences and needs.

Step-By-Step Guide To Lacing Huaraches Like A Pro

Lacing huaraches can seem intimidating if you’ve never attempted it before, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll become a pro in no time. From basic lacing techniques to tips and tricks for a perfect fit, let’s dive into the details.

Preparing The Huaraches For Lacing

Before you start lacing your huaraches, there are a few things you need to do to prepare. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Make sure your huaraches are the right size. If they’re too big or too small, it’ll be challenging to lace them correctly.
• Adjust the straps to fit your foot securely. This step will ensure that the lacing will work correctly once you’re ready to start.
• Check the tension of the leather cords. Sometimes, they can become loose over time, causing the lacing to become ineffective. Adjust them accordingly, so they’re tight.

Basic Lacing Techniques For Huaraches

Once you’ve prepared your huaraches, you’re ready to start lacing them up. Here are some basic lacing techniques to get you started:

• Start by threading the leather cord through the two holes on the bottom of the huaraches.
• Cross the lace over your foot and thread it through the two holes at the top of your huaraches.
• Make sure to keep the tension even on both sides, so it’s balanced when laced up.
• Continue lacing until you reach the last hole, creating a criss-cross pattern across your foot as you go.

How To Adjust The Laces For A Perfect Fit

Getting the right fit is essential when it comes to huaraches, and adjusting the laces can be a game-changer. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Make sure the tension is even on both sides, so one side isn’t tighter than the other.
• If your huaraches feel too loose, try crossing the cords under your foot before lacing them up again. This technique can give you a more secure fit.
• If your huaraches feel too tight, try loosening the cords a little to alleviate the pressure.

Tips And Tricks For Lacing Huaraches

Lacing your huaraches can be an art form, and with a little practice, you can perfect it. Here are some tips and tricks to help you on your journey:

• Use a leather conditioner to keep your huaraches in top shape and prevent the leather cords from becoming too dry or stiff.
• Experiment with different lacing patterns until you find the one that works best for you. Everyone’s feet are different, so what works for one person may not work for another.
• Don’t be afraid to try new things with your lacing. Huaraches are versatile shoes, and part of the fun is experimenting with different styles.
• Practice makes perfect. Keep trying until you find the lacing technique that works best for you and your feet.

Lacing huaraches is both an art and a science. With the proper preparation, basic techniques, and some tips and tricks, you can lace your huaraches like a pro in no time. Happy lacing!

Choosing The Right Lacing Style For Your Huaraches

Factors To Consider While Selecting The Lacing Style

Choosing the right lacing style for your huaraches can be daunting, but with some careful consideration, you can elevate your huaraches game. Here are some factors to consider before selecting your lacing style:

• The type of huaraches you own
• The occasion and purpose of wearing your huaraches
• The level of comfort you desire
• Your personal style and preference

Matching The Lacing Style To The Type Of Huaraches

Different types of huaraches require different lacing styles to achieve the best fit and comfort. Here are some lacing styles that best match certain types of huaraches:

• Basic criss-cross lacing style: This style is perfect for traditional huaraches with two parallel straps on each side of the sandal. It is simple and can be easily adjusted for a comfortable fit.
• Mexican huarache lacing: This style is ideal for authentic mexican huaraches that have a loop at the heel. This lacing style creates a snug fit around the heel for better support and comfort.
• Gladiator lacing style: This style is fashionable and perfect for modern huaraches that have a higher ankle strap. The gladiator lacing style adds more dimension and detail to your huaraches.

Examples Of Popular Lacing Styles With Pictures

To give you an idea of how different lacing styles can transform the look of your huaraches, here are some popular lacing styles with pictures:

• Basic criss-cross lacing style: This style involves lacing through the two parallel straps on each side of the sandal, crossing over at the top of the foot. It is simple and easy to adjust for a comfortable fit.


• Mexican huarache lacing: This style weaves the laces through the loops on the heel strap to create a snug fit around the heel for better support and comfort. It is commonly used on authentic mexican huaraches.


• Gladiator lacing style: This style involves lacing through the ankle strap in a criss-cross pattern, creating a unique and fashionable look. It is perfect for modern huaraches that have a higher ankle strap.


Choosing the right lacing style can make all the difference in how your huaraches look and feel on your feet. Consider the type of huaraches you own, the occasion and purpose of wearing your huaraches, your desired comfort level, and your personal style and preference before selecting a lacing style.

Try out different lacing styles to see which one works best for you and your huaraches.

Common Mistakes To Avoid While Lacing Huaraches

Lacing huaraches like a pro requires patience, focus, and the right technique. However, as a beginner, you might end up making some common mistakes that can prevent you from achieving a perfect fit. In this section, we’ll explore some of these mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make While Lacing Huaraches

1. Uneven Tension Along The Laces

One of the most common mistakes beginners make when lacing their huaraches is having uneven tension along the laces. This mistake can result in some sections of the huaraches being too tight or too loose, leading to discomfort while walking or running.

2. Improper Knotting Technique

Improper knotting technique is another common mistake that beginners make when lacing their huaraches. This mistake can result in the knots loosening, causing the laces to come undone, or being too tight, which can restrict blood flow to the feet.

3. Not Following The Correct Lacing Pattern

Another common mistake that beginners make when lacing their huaraches is not following the correct lacing pattern. This can result in the laces being too tight or too loose, leading to discomfort while wearing the huaraches.

How To Avoid These Mistakes To Ensure A Perfect Fit

1. Start With Evenly Spaced Laces

To avoid having uneven tension along the laces, start by lacing the huaraches with even spacing, ensuring that each cross is the same distance from the next one. This technique will help to distribute the tension evenly along the laces, ensuring a comfortable fit.

2. Use The Correct Knotting Technique

To ensure your knots stay in place, use the correct knotting technique when lacing your huaraches. The most common knotting technique for huaraches is the tarahumara knot, which involves tying a basic knot and then creating a loop with one of the laces and knotting it around the other lace.

3. Follow The Correct Lacing Pattern

To ensure your huaraches are laced correctly, follow the lacing pattern specific to your foot shape. Some people have wider or narrower feet, and the lacing pattern should reflect this to ensure a proper fit and even distribution of tension along the laces.

Troubleshooting Tips For Any Lacing Mistakes

1. Re-Lace Your Huaraches

If you’ve made a mistake while lacing your huaraches, take your time to carefully re-lace them, paying attention to the correct lacing pattern, even tension along the laces, and knotting technique.

2. Experiment With Different Lacing Patterns

Everyone’s foot shape is different, so it’s important to experiment with different lacing patterns to find the one that works best for you. If you’re experiencing discomfort with one lacing pattern, try using a different pattern until you find the one that provides the most comfortable fit.

3. Seek Expert Guidance

If you’re still experiencing difficulty lacing your huaraches, seek advice from an expert who can provide guidance on the correct lacing pattern and technique for your foot shape.

By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes while lacing your huaraches and ensure a perfect fit that will provide comfort and support throughout the day.

Maintaining Huaraches And Their Laces

Huaraches are an excellent addition to your footwear collection, but with the delicate lacing system that they possess, it’s necessary to take care of them properly. Here’s all that you need to know to keep your huaraches looking great for years to come.

Cleaning And Maintaining Your Huaraches

Cleaning and maintaining huaraches is an essential task that can help you keep them looking new and fresh. Here are some steps to follow to maintain your huaraches:

• Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris or dust from the laces and the sole.
• Gently hand-wash your huaraches with cold water and mild soap.
• Dry them naturally in the air to prevent any damage or shrinkage.
• Avoid using a washing machine or dryer to clean your huaraches.

How To Replace Laces When They Wear Out

Suppose the laces of your huaraches wear out, or you need to replace them due to any reason. In that case, you don’t necessarily need to go to a cobbler for repair or buy a new pair of huaraches. You can replace the laces of your huaraches by following these simple steps:

• Purchase a new pair of huarache laces according to the size of your footwear.
• Remove the existing laces from your huaraches by gently pulling them out.
• Insert the new laces following the original lacing pattern.
• Adjust the lace tightness by pulling the laces until they are correctly fit.

Tips For Prolonging The Life Of Your Huaraches Laces

Here are some tips that can help you prolong the lifespan of your huaraches laces:

• After purchasing your huaraches, spray a waterproof spray to protect the laces from any water damage.
• Remove your huaraches laces before washing them to prevent any damage or shrinkage.
• Put your huaraches in the sun for a few hours to remove any bad odors.
• Always store your huaraches in a dry place to prevent any mold or musty smell.

Proper maintenance and care can help you ensure that your huaraches stay in good condition for years. These simple tips can help you keep your huaraches looking great, and the laces will stay strong and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions For How To Lace Huaraches

What Are Huaraches?

Huaraches are a type of mexican sandal that features woven leather strips. They have been popularized around the world because of their unique design and comfortable fit.

How Do I Choose The Right Size Of Huaraches?

It’s important to select the correct size of huaraches to ensure a comfortable fit. Measure your feet and choose the size based on the manufacturer’s size chart. If you’re between sizes, it’s usually best to go up a size.

What Are The Different Ways To Lace Huaraches?

There are several ways to lace huaraches, but the most common lacing method involves weaving the straps in and out of the sandal. You can also try the x-lacing technique for a different look.

How Can I Make My Huaraches Last Longer?

To make your huaraches last longer, avoid exposing them to water, direct sunlight, or extreme heat. Clean them regularly with a soft cloth and leather cleaner, and store them in a dry, cool place.

Can I Wear Huaraches With Socks?

Yes, you can wear huaraches with socks, but it’s not the most traditional way to wear them. If you choose to wear socks, opt for a pair of thin, breathable socks to keep your feet cool and dry.

Conclusion

Throughout this guide, we have covered how to lace your huaraches in various styles. It is crucial to find the lacing pattern that suits your tastes and comfort needs. The way you lace your huaraches affects how they look and feel on your feet.

Remember to experiment with different lacing patterns until you find the one that suits you best. When lacing your huaraches, also consider the width of the laces and how tight or loose you want them. This small adjustment can make a big difference in the overall fit and feel of the shoe.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to lace your huaraches like a pro in no time. Whether you’re running errands or hitting the trails, you’ll be doing it in style and comfort.