How to Choose the Right Leather Shoe Laces
By Handcrafted Leather Shoes & Boots, Made in Tuscany | Buttero | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to pick leather shoe laces that match your shoes, last longer, and tie securely. Compare colors, lengths, and materials with our practical guide.
Quick Answer
To choose the right leather shoe laces, match the color to your shoes, select the correct length for your boot or sneaker style, and trim them to fit for a clean, secure tie.
Why Leather Laces Are Worth the Swap
Leather laces do more than hold your shoes together—they add a refined touch and can outlast cotton or synthetic options. Square-cut leather laces, like those from Buttero, sit flatter against the eyelets and hold their shape over time, reducing the need for frequent retightening.
Because leather laces are meant to be trimmed to length, they offer a custom fit that ready-made laces often lack. This flexibility makes them a smart choice for anyone who wants a tailored look and dependable performance.
Color: Match or Contrast
The color of your laces can either blend seamlessly with your shoes or create a subtle contrast. For a classic, understated look, choose laces in a shade close to the leather of your boots or sneakers. If you want to add a bit of personality, a slightly lighter or darker tone can make the laces stand out without looking mismatched.
Buttero offers leather laces in dark brown, natural, and tan. Dark brown laces work well with brown and black footwear, while natural laces age beautifully, developing a patina that complements lighter leathers. Tan laces offer a versatile middle ground that pairs with a range of colors.
Length: Getting It Right
The right length depends on the number of eyelets and the type of shoe. Buttero's leather laces come in two lengths: 130 cm for sneakers and derby shoes, and 160 cm for lace-up ankle boots and hiking boots. Choosing the correct length ensures you have enough lace to tie securely without excessive leftover ends.
If you're between sizes or have an unusual number of eyelets, you can always trim longer laces to fit. This is a key advantage of leather laces—they can be adjusted to your exact needs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Leather Laces
- Check Your Shoe Style: Identify whether your shoes are sneakers, derby shoes, lace-up ankle boots, or hiking boots. This determines the base length you need: 130 cm for sneakers and derby shoes, 160 cm for ankle and hiking boots. If you're unsure, count the eyelet pairs—more eyelets typically require longer laces.
- Select the Right Color: Choose a lace color that complements your shoes. For a seamless look, pick a shade close to the leather. For a subtle contrast, opt for a lighter or darker tone. Dark brown works with brown and black, natural suits lighter leathers, and tan is a versatile middle ground. Consider how the lace color will age—natural and tan laces may develop a patina over time.
- Trim to Fit: After lacing your shoes, trim any excess length with sharp scissors. Leave enough lace to tie a secure bow without dragging on the ground. Leather laces can be trimmed easily, so don't be afraid to cut them down. Always trim a little at a time—you can cut more, but you can't add length back.
- Tie and Adjust: Tie your laces in your preferred style, ensuring they sit flat and snug. Square leather laces hold their shape, so they'll stay put once tied. If the laces feel too stiff, they'll soften with wear. If the laces feel too long after tying, trim them again for a cleaner look.
Buttero Leather Laces at a Glance
- Leather Laces - Dark Brown: Dark brown square leather laces, cut to be trimmed and re-tied for as long as the shoes last. These laces offer a classic look that pairs well with brown and black footwear, and their durability means you won't need to replace them often.
Leather Laces - Dark Brown - Leather Laces - Natural: Natural square leather laces built to age right alongside the boots or sneakers they close. Natural laces develop a unique patina over time, making them a great match for lighter leathers that also age gracefully.
Leather Laces - Natural - Leather Laces - Tan: Tan square leather laces meant to be trimmed to length and worn in alongside the shoes they're tied to. Tan offers a versatile shade that complements a wide range of leather colors, making it a safe yet stylish choice.
