Mastering The Perfect Lace Up A Step By Step Guide To Properly Lacing Jifffly Thick Bottom Skate Shoes

Jifffly Thick Bottom skate shoes have earned a loyal following for their bold aesthetic, elevated soles, and street-ready durability. But no matter how well-designed the shoe, improper lacing can undermine fit, comfort, and performance—especially during high-movement activities like skating or urban exploration. Achieving a secure, supportive, and visually balanced fit starts with mastering the right lacing technique. This guide walks you through every detail of lacing your Jifffly Thick Bottoms correctly, from selecting the right laces to executing advanced tying methods that prevent slippage and pressure points.

Understanding the Design of Jifffly Thick Bottom Shoes

The Jifffly Thick Bottom model features a platform sole ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches, combining fashion-forward height with functional cushioning. The upper is typically constructed from synthetic leather or breathable mesh, reinforced at stress points like the toe cap and heel counter. With eight eyelets on each side, these shoes allow for multiple lacing patterns, but their depth and width demand intentional threading to avoid excess tension or looseness.

Because of the raised insole and snug collar, improper lacing can lead to heel slippage, restricted circulation, or hot spots on the top of the foot. The goal is to distribute pressure evenly while locking the foot securely in place—especially important when performing tricks, jumping curbs, or walking long distances.

Tip: Always unlace completely before removing your Jifffly Thick Bottoms to preserve the integrity of the tongue and eyelet reinforcements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Lacing Technique

1. Remove Old Laces (if necessary): Start with clean, fully untied shoes. If replacing laces, choose flat, waxed cotton or durable polyester laces between 72”–80” long for optimal reach across all eight eyelets.
2. Begin with the Heel Lock Foundation: Insert both ends of the lace into the bottom eyelets from the outside, pulling them through so equal lengths hang on each side. This creates a symmetrical base.
3. Use Straight Bar Lacing for Even Tension: Instead of crisscrossing, thread each lace straight across to the opposite eyelet, going under each time. This reduces friction and allows for smoother tightening.
4. Incorporate a Heel-Lock Loop (Runner’s Loop): At the second-to-last set of eyelets, before reaching the top, create small loops by doubling back each lace end through the same side’s eyelet. Cross the laces over and thread them down through these loops before proceeding to the final eyelets. This cinches the ankle collar snugly without compressing the instep.
5. Tie with a Surgeon’s Knot: Begin with a standard cross, then wrap twice instead of once before pulling through the loops. Finish with a regular bow. This prevents loosening during activity.

This method ensures maximum heel lockdown, eliminates tongue drift, and adapts to the unique arch and volume of your foot. It's particularly effective for those with higher arches or narrow heels who often experience slippage in thick-soled footwear.

Choosing the Right Laces and Accessories

Not all laces are created equal. Standard round laces tend to slip more and wear out faster under friction. For Jifffly Thick Bottoms, consider upgrading to:

• Flat, waxed laces – Offer better grip and last longer.
• Reflective or colored laces – Add personal flair while maintaining function.
• Locking lace clips – Useful for extreme skating sessions where even a surgeon’s knot might loosen.

Lace Type	Best For	Durability	Style Flexibility
Round Synthetic	Casual wear	Medium	Low
Flat Waxed Cotton	Performance & daily use	High	High
Paracord	Heavy-duty use	Very High	Medium
Elastic No-Tie Laces	Quick wearers	Low-Medium	Low

Tip: Replace laces every 3–6 months if used frequently; frayed ends compromise tension and safety.

Real Example: From Slipping to Secure – A Skater’s Experience

Derek, a street skater from Portland, struggled with his Jifffly Thick Bottoms during ollies and kickflips. “Every time I popped the board, my heel would lift slightly, throwing off my balance,” he said. After switching to straight bar lacing combined with the runner’s loop and a surgeon’s knot, he noticed an immediate improvement. “Now my foot feels glued to the shoe. I land cleaner, and there’s no more rubbing behind the ankle.”

He also replaced the original round laces with 76” flat waxed ones, which stayed tighter throughout multi-hour sessions at the park. His adjustment took less than ten minutes but transformed his entire skating experience.

“Proper lacing isn’t just about looks—it’s biomechanical tuning. A well-laced shoe improves control, reduces fatigue, and prevents injury.” — Lena Torres, Footwear Ergonomics Consultant

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Skipping the heel lock: Leads to heel lift and blisters.
• Over-tightening the top eyelets: Compresses nerves and causes numbness.
• Using mismatched laces: One side shorter than the other creates uneven pull.
• Ignoring tongue alignment: Causes pressure on the metatarsals and discomfort during flexion.

To prevent these issues, always check symmetry before tying. Sit down, flex your foot, and walk around briefly after lacing to test for pinching or slipping. Adjust as needed before heading out.

Checklist: Perfect Lacing Routine for Jifffly Thick Bottoms

• ☐ Remove old or damaged laces
• ☐ Choose flat, durable laces (72”–80”)
• ☐ Thread from the bottom using straight bar or traditional crisscross
• ☐ Apply heel-lock (runner’s loop) at the top two eyelets
• ☐ Tie with a surgeon’s knot for lasting hold
• ☐ Test fit by walking and flexing foot
• ☐ Trim or tuck excess lace length neatly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same lacing method for wide feet?

Absolutely. For wider feet, skip the second eyelet on each side when starting to reduce top-of-foot pressure. Then resume lacing normally. This creates a “pressure relief zone” while still securing the midfoot and heel.

Why do my laces always come undone?

Standard bows are prone to shaking loose. Switch to a surgeon’s knot: after crossing the laces, make two wraps instead of one before forming the loops. This extra twist adds friction and stability.

Are there lacing styles that enhance the look of the thick sole?

Yes. Try “ladder lacing” or color-blocked dual laces to draw attention upward from the sole, emphasizing the shoe’s height and structure. Avoid overly tight crisscrosses that bunch the tongue and hide design lines.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Fit, Elevate Your Game

Lacing might seem like a minor detail, but with a structured shoe like the Jifffly Thick Bottom, it’s a critical factor in comfort, performance, and longevity. Taking a few extra minutes to lace with intention pays off in blister-free days, confident landings, and a look that’s as sharp as your moves. Whether you're skating, commuting, or making a fashion statement, a perfectly laced shoe reflects attention to detail—and that shows.

💬 Mastered your lacing technique? Share your favorite method or custom style in the comments—help others get the most from their Jifffly Thick Bottoms!