What To Know
- Bring the other end of the elastic band down and loop it around the second and third eyelets from the bottom on the same side.
- Follow the instructions in the conversion kit to remove the laces and install the elastic bands and buckles.
- Use a shoehorn to help you put on your shoes without straining your feet or the shoes themselves.
Lace-up tennis shoes are a classic footwear choice for athletes and casual wearers alike. But who says you have to deal with the hassle of tying and untying laces every time you want to wear them? With a few simple tricks, you can transform your laced tennis shoes into slip-ons, making them easier to put on and take off, without compromising their comfort or style.
1. The No-Tie Shoelace Method
This method involves replacing your traditional shoelaces with elastic no-tie shoelaces. These laces are designed to stretch and conform to the shape of your foot, eliminating the need for tying knots.
Steps:
1. Remove the old shoelaces from your tennis shoes.
2. Lace up the no-tie shoelaces through the eyelets, starting from the bottom pair.
3. Pull the laces tight enough to secure the shoes to your feet, but not too tight that they become uncomfortable.
4. Trim any excess lace if necessary.
2. The Elastic Band Technique
If you don’t want to replace your shoelaces, you can use elastic bands to create a slip-on effect.
Steps:
1. Cut two pieces of elastic band, each about 6 inches long.
2. Loop one elastic band around the top two eyelets on one side of the shoe.
3. Bring the other end of the elastic band down and loop it around the second and third eyelets from the bottom on the same side.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other side of the shoe.
5. Pull the elastic bands tight to secure the shoes to your feet.
3. The Knotless Lacing Method
This method involves lacing your shoes in a way that creates a slip-on effect without the need for knots.
Steps:
1. Start by lacing the shoes up as usual, but stop before you reach the top two eyelets.
2. Instead of tying a knot, loop the laces around each other and tuck the ends inside the shoe.
3. Pull the laces tight to secure the shoes to your feet.
4. The Lace Lock Technique
The lace lock technique is a simple and effective way to keep your shoes securely fastened without tying knots.
Steps:
1. Lace up the shoes as usual, but leave the top two eyelets unlaced.
2. Take the lace from one side and pass it through the top eyelet on the opposite side.
3. Bring the lace back to the original side and pass it through the second eyelet from the top.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other side of the shoe.
5. Pull the laces tight to secure the shoes to your feet.
5. The DIY Slip-On Conversion Kit
If you want a more permanent slip-on solution, you can purchase a DIY slip-on conversion kit. These kits typically include elastic bands, buckles, and instructions on how to convert your laced tennis shoes into slip-ons.
Steps:
1. Follow the instructions in the conversion kit to remove the laces and install the elastic bands and buckles.
2. Once the conversion is complete, your tennis shoes will be transformed into slip-ons.
6. Additional Tips for Easier Slip-On Tennis Shoes
- Choose tennis shoes with a wide opening to make it easier to slide your feet in and out.
- Use a shoehorn to help you put on your shoes without straining your feet or the shoes themselves.
- Keep your tennis shoes clean and well-maintained to prevent dirt and debris from building up and making them difficult to slip on.
The Finishing Touch: Styling Your Slip-On Tennis Shoes
With your tennis shoes now transformed into slip-ons, you can enjoy the convenience of effortless footwear without sacrificing style. Dress them up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual look, pair them with jeans, shorts, or a skirt. For a more polished look, wear them with chinos, a button-down shirt, or a dress.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Can I make any tennis shoe a slip-on?
Yes, most tennis shoes can be converted into slip-ons using one of the methods described in this post. However, some shoes may be more difficult to convert than others.
2. Will converting my tennis shoes to slip-ons affect their performance?
In general, converting your tennis shoes to slip-ons should not significantly affect their performance. However, some methods, such as the lace lock technique, may provide less support than traditional lacing.
3. How do I maintain my slip-on tennis shoes?
To keep your slip-on tennis shoes in good condition, clean them regularly with a mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can damage the shoes. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again.
