How should I lace my shoes?

The short answer: lace them however feels best for comfort or style. We offer a wide range of DMs laces so you can switch up your look anytime. The DM's Boot Doctor has a few tips in the guide How to lace your Dr. Martens if you need a bit of extra inspiration!

Need help choosing the right lace length? See the chat below for guidance on lace sizing.

Getting Started
We recommend re-lacing your new pair when you first try them on. Start by threading the lace from the underside of each eyelet (instead of over the top). While they may arrive laced the opposite way, this method helps secure your laces more easily and reduces excess heel movement—an important part of a healthy fit. A little heel motion is the sign of a healthy fit, but this style of lacing will help minimize that feel.

For New Boots
When breaking in your boots, it might feel best to leave one or two top eyelets unlaced. This keeps the top from feeling abrasive while also being laced high enough that you feel secure when you walk while they’re shaping to you. Try lacing the top set of eyelets used from the underside to get more security—or re-lace the entire boot this way for a snugger feel.

As They Break In
Once your boots begin to mold to your feet, you can experiment with looser lacing styles or fashion-forward looks that match your vibe.

Lace Wraps
Some wearers like to wrap their laces around the ankle for added style or feel. If that’s your thing, you can pick up longer laces—check the chart below to find the right size for your boots.