February 08, 2022

The Best Shoelaces for Scotch Grain: Genuine vs. Custom-Made

スコッチグレインの靴紐を交換するならこの2つ【純正かオーダーシューレース】

Here are our recommended shoelaces for replacing the ones on your Scotch Grain shoes.

  • For those who want the same shoelaces that came with their shoes
  • For those who want to change the look by altering the "width," "color," or "length"

This guide should be helpful for everyone.

We also introduce recommended lengths, tying methods, and lacing styles, so please refer to those as well.

Two Great Options for Replacing Your Scotch Grain Shoelaces

Official Shoelaces [Available at Stores]

Official Shoelaces [Available at Stores]

First, let's introduce the official Scotch Grain shoelaces.

How to Purchase

They are sold at stores nationwide.
It is also possible to have shoelaces sent to you by sending a memo and payment via registered mail for cash.

They are not sold on the e-commerce site.

For details on how to purchase via registered mail, please check the Scotch Grain Official Blog.

Click here for a list of Scotch Grain stores

Benefits of Buying Official Shoelaces

The main benefit is that you can replace your laces with the exact same ones that originally came with your shoes, ensuring the look remains unchanged.

Also, the price is very reasonable as it is considered part of their "after-sales service."

Introducing All 3 Types

[Round Laces (Polyester)]

Round Laces (Polyester)

Color Options Black, Dark Brown
Length Varies by model and size
Width Approx. 2.5mm
Type Round Laces
Material Polyester
Aglet Plastic
Country of Origin Unknown
Price (excl. tax) 100 yen

These shoelaces are made of a synthetic fiber called polyester. They have a relatively narrow width.

They are the most commonly used laces on Scotch Grain shoes.

Compared to typical "Waxed Cotton Shoelaces" for dress shoes, they have the following characteristics:

  • Less sheen
  • Resistant to coming untied from the start
  • Firm texture
  • Slightly fuzzy and lack a premium look

While they have less sheen and don't look particularly luxurious, they are practical, affordable, and stay tied right from the start.


Odessa, Odessa III, Broden II, Bel Homme, Bel Homme Marble, Assurance, Avance, Shine or Rain *Based on e-commerce site information

[Firm Waxed Round Laces]

Firm Waxed Round Laces

Color Options Black, Dark Brown
Length Varies by model and size
Width Approx. 2.2mm
Type Round Laces
Material Waxed Cotton
Aglet Plastic
Country of Origin Unknown
Price (excl. tax) 200 yen

These are waxed shoelaces where the wax is deeply infused into the cord.

Compared to typical "waxed shoelaces with only a surface coating," they have the following features:

  • Tacky and resistant to coming untied
  • Less sheen
  • Resistant to fraying and highly durable

Shoelaces typically fray from rubbing against the eyelets when putting on and taking off shoes, but this type is resistant to fraying and is very durable.

However, the downside is that they require more force to tighten and loosen, which can wear out the eyelets more easily.


Imperial Prestige, Imperial II, Odessa II, Boots, Suede models *Based on e-commerce site information

[Flat Shoelaces]

Flat Shoelaces

Color Options Black, Dark Brown, Others
Length Varies by model and size
Width Approx. 4mm
Type Flat Shoelaces
Material Waxed Cotton?
Aglet Plastic
Country of Origin Unknown
Price (excl. tax) 200 yen

This is likely a standard type of waxed shoelace.

They have very little coating, a soft texture, and are slightly wide for flat laces used on dress shoes.

Unlike the other two types, they are said to be available in three or more colors.
Since ZONTA calf shoes in bordeaux and navy came with matching flat laces, it is likely that those colors are also available.

While only a limited number of models come with flat laces, they provide a dressier look, so swapping them onto a model that comes with round laces is a great way to change up the style.


Imperial Black *Based on e-commerce site information

MONDSHOELACE [Available Online]

MONDSHOELACE [Available Online]

Introducing the custom-order shoelaces from our shop, MONDSHOELACE.

How to Purchase

Available for purchase only on our e-commerce site. Shipping is also a reasonable 200 yen.

Benefits of Buying from MONDSHOELACE

With 7 types of shoelaces to choose from, you can customize the color, length, and metal aglet color to find the perfect laces to match your shoes and personal style.

Plus, they are easy to purchase on our e-commerce site.

If you have any of the following needs, please consider MONDSHOELACE.

  • Want to change the color or style of your laces
  • Prefer durable metal aglets
  • The original length doesn't fit right

Two Alternatives for the Official "Round Laces (Polyester)"

Alternatives for the Official 'Round Laces (Polyester)'

[Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 2/25ʺ(2.2mm)]

Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 2/25ʺ(2.2mm)

Color Options 15 colors
Length Selectable in 1cm increments
Width Approx. 2.2mm
Type Round Laces
Material Waxed Cotton
Aglet 4 Metal Aglet Colors
Country of Origin Japan
Price (excl. tax) From 1,100 yen

The most common type of waxed shoelaces for dress shoes.

Compared to the official polyester laces, these have a beautiful sheen and a more premium feel.

The slightly narrower width also creates a dressier look.

Additionally, a wide variety of colors is available.

Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 2/25ʺ(2.2mm)
MONDSHOELACE

See Product Details
[Silicone Coated Round Shoelaces 2mm] *Discontinued*

Silicone Coated Round Shoelaces 2mm

Color Options 3 colors
Length Selectable in 1cm increments
Width Approx. 2mm
Type Round Laces
Material Silicone Coated Acrylic Cord
Aglet 4 Metal Aglet Colors
Country of Origin Japan
Price (excl. tax) From 1,400 yen

These shoelaces are made of an acrylic cord coated with silicone, which makes the coating durable and the sheen long-lasting.

They are also recommended for dress shoes worn in the rain.

Compared to the official polyester laces, they have more sheen and a narrower width.

Silicone Coated Round Shoelaces 2mm *Discontinued*
MONDSHOELACE

See Product Details

Two Alternatives for the Official "Firm Waxed Round Laces"

Alternatives for the Official 'Firm Waxed Round Laces'

[Thin Stay-Tied Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 2/25ʺ(2.2mm)]

Thin Stay-Tied Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 2/25ʺ(2.2mm)

Color Options 2 colors
Length Selectable in 1cm increments
Width Approx. 2.2mm
Type Round Laces
Material Waxed Cotton
Aglet 4 Metal Aglet Colors
Country of Origin Japan
Price (excl. tax) From 1,300 yen

Like the official firm laces, these are the type where wax is deeply infused into the cord.

They are stay-tied and highly durable.

With MONDSHOELACE, the metal aglets add a more premium feel and enhanced durability.

Thin Stay-Tied Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 2/25ʺ(2.2mm)
MONDSHOELACE

See Product Details
[Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 1/10ʺ(2.5mm)]

Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 1/10ʺ(2.5mm)

Color Options 15 colors
Length Selectable in 1cm increments
Width Approx. 2.2mm
Type Round Laces
Material Waxed Cotton
Aglet 4 Metal Aglet Colors
Country of Origin Japan
Price (excl. tax) From 1,100 yen

This is a standard type of waxed shoelace.

Compared to the official firm laces, they have more sheen and are not tacky.

Recommended for those who dislike the tackiness of the firm laces but find the polyester ones lacking in premium quality.

Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Round Shoelaces 1/10ʺ(2.5mm)
MONDSHOELACE

See Product Details

An Alternative for the Official "Flat Laces"

Alternative for the Official 'Flat Laces'

[Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Flat Shoelaces 1/8ʺ (3.mm)]

Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Flat Shoelaces 1/8ʺ (3.mm)

Color Options 15 colors
Length Selectable in 1cm increments
Width Approx. 3mm
Type Flat Shoelaces
Material Waxed Cotton
Aglet 4 Metal Aglet Colors
Country of Origin Japan
Price (excl. tax) From 1,100 yen

These are standard waxed shoelaces.

Compared to the official flat laces, they have a waxed sheen and appear slightly narrower and dressier.

Recommended for those who feel the official laces are not premium enough.

Thin Glossy Waxed Cotton Flat Shoelaces 1/8ʺ (3.mm)
MONDSHOELACE

See Product Details

Recommended Shoelace Length for Scotch Grain Shoes

The length of official shoelaces varies depending on the "model" and "size."

For example, for a size 25.5cm, 5-eyelet oxford, the lace length was 70cm.

However, the appropriate length also depends on the "gap between the eyelet facings" and personal "preference," not just the "model" and "size."

Therefore, when purchasing shoelaces, it's best to measure your current laces and use that as a guide.

If you prefer not to measure, please refer to the length guide in the article below.

Length Guide for Dress Shoelaces [From Oxfords to Boots by Number of Eyelets]

Lacing & Tying for Scotch Grain Shoes

The Standard Lacing Method is Parallel

Source: Scotch Grain Official Website

The standard lacing method is Parallel lacing.

A similar-looking method is Single lacing, but Parallel provides a better hold and is easier for putting on and taking off your shoes.

For instructions on how to do Parallel lacing, please see this article.

How to Do Parallel Lacing for Dress Shoes [Includes Video & Loosening Instructions!]

A Knot That Stays Tied

While the official shoelaces are made from materials that resist coming untied, a specific knotting technique is needed to ensure they stay securely tied.

For this, we recommend the "Berluti knot."

It's a bow knot with one extra step that makes it significantly more secure.

To learn more about how to tie it, please see this article.

How to Tie the 'Berluti Knot' for Dress Shoes [Easy-to-Follow Video Tutorial]

Summary

The three types of official Scotch Grain shoelaces are:

  • Round Laces (Polyester)
  • Firm Waxed Round Laces
  • Flat Shoelaces

They can be purchased at stores or via registered mail for cash.

For those who want an easier way to purchase from a wider selection, why not order custom shoelaces from our shop, MONDSHOELACE, on our e-commerce site?

For details on alternatives to the official shoelaces, please see the information within this article.

See MONDSHOELACE Product List