Customizing your sneakers doesn’t always require paint, patches, or intricate alterations. Sometimes, a simple lace swap is all it takes to transform the appearance of your favorite pair. When it comes to the Air Jordan 1, swapping in orange laces is a bold and creative way to add energy and contrast. Whether you're aiming to highlight existing color accents or introduce a fresh pop, orange laces for Jordan 1 provide both visual interest and personal flair.
This article explains how to choose, style, and apply orange Jordan 1 laces to achieve the best aesthetic results—without altering the structure of your sneakers.
Why Orange Laces?
The color orange carries energy, enthusiasm, and warmth. It immediately draws attention without overpowering the shoe’s original design. When used in shoelaces, orange becomes a focal point that can complement or contrast the base colorway of your Air Jordan 1.
Here are a few reasons people choose orange laces for Jordan 1:
To match orange details already present on the sneaker (e.g., branding, swoosh, stitching).
To create contrast against neutral tones like white, black, or grey.
To celebrate seasons or themes, like Halloween, fall fashion, or team colors.
To stand out with a customized, non-standard look.
Ideal Jordan 1 Colorways for Orange Laces
Orange doesn’t work with every Jordan 1 colorway, but when it does, the result can be striking. Here are some combinations that pair well:
Jordan 1 Shattered Backboard
Already featuring orange, black, and white—orange laces further highlight the shoe’s theme without clashing.Jordan 1 White/Black
On a mostly monochrome upper, orange laces add an unexpected twist and vibrant contrast.Jordan 1 Shadow or Neutral Grey
Muted tones provide a clean canvas for bright accents. Orange pops strongly against grey.Jordan 1 Chicago
For a high-contrast look, orange laces introduce a new dimension to the classic red-white-black combo.Custom Colorways
If you’ve painted or dyed your Jordans, orange laces can help tie together colors across the design.
Choosing the Right Type of Orange Laces
When picking air jordan 1 orange laces, pay attention to both length and material.
Length: Most high-top Jordan 1s require laces in the 54 to 63-inch range.
54" for a snug, fully-laced look
63" if you prefer looser tying or want to leave the top eyelets empty
Material:
Flat laces are traditional and offer a clean, original look.
Waxed flat laces have a polished finish and resist fraying.
Rope laces are thicker and offer a more streetwear-inspired, experimental style.
Also consider the shade of orange—neon orange creates a loud, eye-catching effect, while burnt orange or rust tones offer a more vintage or subtle vibe.
How to Replace Your Jordan 1 Laces
Swapping out your laces is a simple process, but attention to detail makes a difference in the final look.
Remove the existing laces: Gently pull them out to avoid stretching the eyelets.
Clean the lace holes if needed: Wipe away any dust or debris so the new laces glide smoothly.
Insert the orange laces using your preferred pattern:
Criss-cross lacing (standard) for everyday wear
Bar lacing for a cleaner, more structured appearance
Loose hang for a streetwear look
Adjust for symmetry: Make sure both ends are even, and the lacing is tight enough for comfort but not restricting.
Tie or tuck: Depending on your style, you can tie a bow, do a loose knot, or tuck the laces behind the tongue for a hidden look.
Styling Tips for Orange-Laced Jordans
Once your orange Jordan 1 laces are in place, here are a few ways to style your outfit:
Match with outerwear: An orange hoodie, beanie, or jacket creates visual harmony.
Keep the rest neutral: Let the laces shine by wearing black, white, or grey tones.
Add other orange accents: Accessories like socks, wristbands, or a backpack can subtly echo the laces.
Using orange laces for Jordan 1 sneakers is an easy and affordable way to give your kicks a custom look. Whether you’re matching a themed colorway like Shattered Backboard or giving new life to a neutral pair, orange laces offer personality and contrast with minimal effort.
So next time you're thinking about updating your sneakers, skip the paint—and consider letting your laces do the talking.
