Most of us occasionally have to stop during a Zumba class to tie our shoelaces. It’s annoying, but usually not a problem.
During the World Record attempt, when we all have to keep moving continuously, it is a problem! That’s why we’ve tested a few alternative options for shoelaces – and some of them work really well! Here are our most and least favourite options.
See the video at the bottom of the page for more information.
Whichever option you choose, make sure you’ve tested it during training first! Don’t try a new lacing system for the first time during the World Record attempt.
1. No tie shoelaces – our favourite
Replace your normal shoe laces with elastic laces that come with a lock and a clamp. They are super fast to tighten and loosen and extremely secure in between.
Available in stores for runners!
2. High friction shoelaces – our second favourite
These are shoelaces manufactured for good grip – they are thick, flat cotton shoe laces which maximize friction. Seems simple, but they have not come undone while we tested them!
Available in stores for runners!
3. Velcro shoes. If you are buying new shoes anyway – maybe velcro is an option?
4. Shoelace anchors – they get the job done, but you are better not planning to change your shoes
They are little bits of plastic which, if you thread your shoelaces through them in the right order, will hold them in place – forever. Extremely reliable for securing shoelaces, but extremely annoying when you are trying to change your shoes quickly, so whether they are a good choice for you depends a lot on how long you are planning to keep your shoes on for!
Available in stores for runners!
5. Duct tape. Do not use duct tape to secure your shoelaces.
(it’s just a bad idea)
It stiffens the shoe, it makes it harder to bend your foot, it can lead to chafing and is just generally unpleasant.
*none of these are sponsored – we only tested different options to provide some advice!