A lot of things go into playing hockey, like skating, shooting, passing and puck handling. 

However, one of the most foundational skills you need to know is how to lace up your skates.

It may seem like a simple task, but there are a few tricks that can make all the difference in your performance on the ice. Read on for everything you need to know about lacing up your hockey skates.

Why Should You Properly Lace Your Hockey Skates?

There are a few reasons why knowing how to properly lace your hockey skates is essential. For one, if your skates are too loose, you run the risk of getting blisters or losing your footing while skating. 

On the other hand, if your skates are too tight, you could end up with cramps or numbness in your feet.

Different Ways To Tie Hockey Skates

There are several ways to lace hockey skates. We'll discuss them below so you can take a pick yourself.

Under Crisscross Lacing

This is the most popular and basic technique for lacing up hockey skates. 

The laces should be threaded under the two eyelets on each side, then crossed over the shoe and tied in a knot.

From beneath, tie the lace diagonally across each eyelet, then down the tongue and around the next eyelet on the other side. Continue doing this until all eyelets have been lace tied.

Over Crisscross Lacing

This lacing method is similar to under crisscross, but the laces are threaded over the eyelets instead of under them. This creates a tighter fit and more secure hold, which is ideal for experienced players.

Start by threading the laces over the top of the two eyelets on each side, then tie them in a knot. 

Next, lace the laces diagonally across each eyelet from beneath, down the tongue, and around the next eyelet. Continue doing this until all eyelets have been laced. 

Double-Cross Lacing

The double cross lacing method is similar to the over crisscross, but the laces are crossed twice instead of once. This creates an even more secure hold and a tighter fit, which is ideal for experienced players who need extra support.

Lock Lacing

If your hockey skates are too big or wide, you can try lock lacing them. Lock lacing is an excellent way to lace your skates if you have high arches or wide feet. Lace the skates, as usual, leaving the last two pairs of eyelets open.

Then, put the lace through the second pair of eyelets from the inside and out using the top interior eyelet and the adjacent outside top eyelet.

Cross over the laces and run them down both sides via the loops you've made on both sides before tying them as you usually would tie your shoes.

Partial Lacing

Partial lacing is a good option for those who need more mobility in their ankles. To do this, simply leave the top eyelets unlaced and only thread the laces through the bottom eyelets.

This method is best suited for advanced players who don't need as much support from their hockey skates.