Replacing the athletic laces that came with your shoes with a pair of leather laces is a small and cheap renovation, but it completely redefines the look of the shoes.
While not a new idea, I first ran across it here where a new pair of laces pulled some old Vans Authentics out from retirement. Immediately they transform from a plain pair of canvas athletic shoes to a pair on par with casual loafers or boat shoes.
I opted for a pair of Keds that I picked up at Gap and swapped out the boring white laces with a pair of leather laces I found at Target for $3. One 72” lace was enough to fit both shoes. The Vans are also a classic choice, and Payless currently has a white canvas shoe that could be a great, cheap alternative.
I decided to go for the “chino” color because they’re perfect for Fall, but can also easily be a replacement for white kicks come next Spring or Summer. Getting a pair in blue or white could look great too.
Wear them sockless like a boat shoe and you’ve got a comfortable, classy and unique style suitable pretty much all year. (Keep them stink-free with these tips from Art of Manliness.)
