How to Use and Adjust Shoelaces?
22 Jun 2026
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Not all barefoot shoes are designed with the same type of shoelaces or closure system. Some SAGUARO barefoot shoes use traditional shoelaces. While others are built with elastic shoelaces with lace locks or a FreeLock dial closure system. Both are types of no tie shoelaces designed to make barefoot shoes easier to wear and adjust.
This guide explains how to use, loosen, tighten, and adjust the footwear's integrated closure system.
Understanding Different Shoelace and Closure Systems
No Tie Shoelaces
Elastic Shoelaces with Lace Locks
Elastic shoelaces use a flexible cord and an adjustable lace lock instead of traditional knots. Once you've found a comfortable fit, the lock keeps the laces securely in place while still allowing quick adjustments when needed.
This system is commonly found on lightweight barefoot shoes because it makes putting shoes on and taking them off fast and convenient. To tighten the fit, simply pull the elastic laces and slide the lock upward. To loosen them, press the lock and adjust the tension until the shoes feel comfortable.
Free Lock Dial Closure System
The free lock dial closure system offers a modern alternative to traditional shoelaces. Instead of tying knots, a durable cable is connected to a dial that allows precise adjustments with a simple turn.
This type of closure is often used on barefoot running shoes, where a secure fit is important during movement. Small adjustments can be made throughout the day, helping you find the right balance between comfort and stability. Removing the shoes is just as simple. Releasing the dial quickly reduces tension across the upper, making it easy to step in or out of the shoe.
Traditional Lace-Up Closure
Traditional shoelaces remain one of the most versatile closure systems. They allow you to adjust different areas of the shoe individually, creating a personalized fit across the forefoot, midfoot, and ankle.
This closure is especially popular on barefoot dress shoes and barefoot casual shoes, where many people appreciate both the classic appearance and the ability to fine-tune the fit. Traditional laces also make it easy to replace or adjust shoelaces whenever needed.
Velcro
Velcro closures use hook-and-loop straps instead of traditional shoelaces. They are designed for quick fastening and easy adjustments, making them especially convenient for kids' barefoot shoes and anyone who prefers a simple on-and-off experience.
To tighten the fit, pull the strap until the shoe feels secure and press it firmly into place. To loosen the fit, simply lift the strap and readjust as needed.
Velcro closures offer a practical combination of convenience, adjustability, and comfort for everyday wear.
How to Use Elastic Lock Laces?
Elastic lock laces are designed to make everyday wear more convenient by eliminating the need to tie and untie traditional shoelaces. Once adjusted correctly, they provide a secure fit while allowing quick changes whenever needed.
Type 1: Slide-Lock System
Step 1: Unlock the Lace Lock
The lock is made up of a fixed lower section and a movable upper section. To make adjustments, gently push the upper section to release the locking mechanism.
Once released, the lock can move freely along the elastic laces.
Step 2: Adjust the Tension
Slide the lock upward to create a snugger fit or downward to give your feet more room.
Make small adjustments until the shoes feel secure without feeling restrictive.
Step 3: Secure the Lock
When you've found the desired fit, press the lock back into position. This holds the laces in place and helps maintain consistent tension throughout the day.
Step 4: Daily Use
After the initial setup, you typically won't need to readjust the laces every time you wear the shoes. Simply loosen the lock slightly when putting the shoes on or taking them off, then return it to your preferred position.
Type 2: Push-Button Lock System
Step 1: Release the Lock
Locate the lock at the top of the laces and press the release mechanism. This removes tension from the system and allows the lock to slide along the laces.
Step 2: Fine-Tune the Fit
Move the lock upward for a more secure fit or downward for additional comfort and flexibility.
Adjust gradually until the shoes feel comfortably secure around your foot.
Step 3: Hold the Adjustment
Once the fit feels right, let go of the release mechanism to lock the laces in place. This helps prevent unwanted loosening during walking, training, or daily activities.
Step 4: Check the Fit
A properly adjusted shoe should feel secure without creating pressure on the top of the foot. Your toes should still have enough room to move naturally.
If the fit feels too tight, release the lock and loosen the laces slightly. If your foot moves excessively inside the shoe, tighten the laces a little more.
Helpful Tip
Many first-time users assume the fit is fixed once the barefoot shoes arrive. In reality, a small adjustment to the lace lock can make a significant difference in comfort. Before deciding the shoes feel too tight or too loose, take a moment to fine-tune the lacing system and find the tension that works best for you.
How to Use Free Lock Closures?
The Free Lock closure system provides a secure, adjustable fit without the need for traditional shoelaces. Once you learn the basic tightening and release process, adjustments can be made quickly and easily throughout the day.
How to Tighten?
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Place your foot fully inside the barefoot shoes.
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Firmly press the Free Lock dial downward until it clicks into the locked position.
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Turn the dial clockwise, following the directional arrows.
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As the dial rotates, the cables tighten evenly across the upper for a secure fit.
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Stop when the shoe feels comfortably snug while still allowing your toes to move naturally.
How to Loosen or Remove Your Shoes?
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Grip the Free Lock dial firmly.
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Pull the dial straight upward until it releases.
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The cables will immediately relax, creating more room for easy entry and removal.
Common Adjustment Mistakes
Not Fully Engaging the Dial
If the dial is not pressed down completely, the locking mechanism may not engage properly, causing the cables to gradually loosen during use.
Pulling the Dial Sideways
Always pull the dial straight upward when releasing the system. Pulling at an angle can make the mechanism harder to release and may reduce its long-term performance.
Over-Tightening the Cables
Tightening the cables more than necessary can create pressure across the top of the foot and reduce the natural comfort of your barefoot shoes.
Uneven Cable Tension
If one side of the shoe feels tighter than the other, check that the cables are running smoothly through the guides. Even tension helps create a balanced fit and improves overall comfort while walking, training, or wearing the shoes throughout the day.
Helpful Tip
The ideal fit should feel secure without restricting natural foot movement. If the shoes feel uncomfortable, try making small adjustments rather than tightening the dial further. In many cases, a slight change in tension can significantly improve comfort.
How to Use Velcro Closures?
Velcro closures are one of the simplest shoe fastening systems to use. They allow quick adjustments without tying shoelaces or operating a dial system.
Step 1: Open the Strap
Lift the Velcro strap completely to release the closure.
Step 2: Position Your Foot
Place your foot comfortably inside the shoe and make sure your heel is fully seated.
Step 3: Adjust the Fit
Pull the strap across the foot until the shoe feels secure.
Avoid pulling too tightly, as your toes should still be able to move naturally inside the shoe.
Step 4: Secure the Closure
Press the strap firmly against the Velcro surface to hold it in place.
Helpful Tip
If the Velcro closure begins to lose grip over time, remove any lint, dust, or debris from the hook-and-loop material. Keeping the surface clean helps maintain a secure hold.
How to Adjust Shoelaces for Maximum Comfort?
No matter which closure system your shoes use, the right fit can make a significant difference in comfort. Shoelaces that are too tight may create pressure and restrict natural movement, while shoelaces that are too loose can reduce stability and cause unnecessary foot movement inside the shoe.
The goal is to find a balance between security and comfort.
Signs Your Shoelaces Are Too Tight
If your shoelaces are over-tightened, you may notice:
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Pressure across the top of the foot
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Discomfort while walking
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Red marks after removing your shoes
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Reduced toe movement inside the shoe
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A feeling of tightness around the midfoot
If you experience any of these signs, loosen the closure system slightly and test the fit again.
Signs Your Shoelaces Are Too Loose
Shoelaces that are too loose can also affect comfort and performance. Common signs include:
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Heel slipping while walking
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Excessive foot movement inside the shoe
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A feeling of instability on uneven surfaces
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The need to constantly readjust your shoes
In these cases, gradually tighten the laces until your foot feels more secure.
Finding the Right Fit
A properly adjusted shoe should feel secure without feeling restrictive.
When wearing barefoot shoes, your heel should stay comfortably in place while your toes remain free to spread and move naturally. You should be able to walk, bend, and move without pressure across the top of your foot.
As a general rule, start with a slightly looser fit and make small adjustments as needed. Minor changes in lace tension can often make a noticeable difference in overall comfort.
Adjust Throughout the Day
Your feet naturally change throughout the day due to activity levels, temperature, and time spent standing or walking.
If your shoes use elastic lock laces or a Free Lock closure system, don't hesitate to make small adjustments when needed. A quick adjustment can help maintain comfort and improve your overall wearing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoelaces
How do I loosen shoelaces?
The process depends on the closure system. For traditional shoelaces, loosen the laces manually. For elastic lock laces, release the lace lock and slide it downward. For Free Lock closures, pull the dial upward to release tension before readjusting the fit.
Why do my shoes feel so tight?
In many cases, the closure system may simply be adjusted too tightly. Before assuming the shoes are the wrong size, try loosening the shoelaces or closure system slightly. A small adjustment can often improve comfort significantly.
What are elastic lock laces?
Elastic lock laces use stretchable shoelaces and an adjustable locking mechanism instead of traditional knots. They are designed to make shoes easier to put on, remove, and adjust throughout the day.
How do Free Lock closures work?
A Free Lock closure system uses a dial and cable-based lacing system instead of traditional shoelaces. Turning the dial tightens the cables for a secure fit, while pulling the dial upward releases tension for quick removal and adjustment.
How tight should shoelaces be?
Your shoes should feel secure without creating pressure across the top of your foot. In barefoot shoes, your toes should still have enough room to spread and move naturally while your heel remains comfortably in place.
