Shoe Laces

Static ("normal" laces) vs. elastic ("quick" laces - shown in picture... the top one... the bottom picture made me laugh... although they are "quick tie laces"), does it make a difference? Elastic laces have been popularized by the need for speedier transitions in multi-sport events. The concept is the same as normal laces, but instead of knotting them off, they lock off with a special clip so they don't come untied (for more information than you ever wanted to know about static laces, including the best/worst for staying tied, check on this article). So, do they work the same? Unfortunately, elastic laces stretch a little bit more than static laces, compromising shoe-to-foot contact (aka the foot can move more in the shoe). This increases the risk for blisters, especially on the sole of the foot. When I first tried elastic laces, I initially got shin splints because I tightened them too much (because I felt like my foot was slipping). I loosened them up for the next race, and was fine. So, bottom line, make sure you run a few miles with your new laces before using them in a race.