Shoelace Market Size
According to Deep Market Insights, the global shoelace market size was valued at USD 2.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 2.2 billion in 2025 to USD 3.1 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period (2025-2030). Growth is driven by rising adoption of adaptive lacing systems for accessibility, the rise of customization trends in sneaker subcultures, and increasing use of specialty fibers in lifestyle and performance footwear.
Key Market Insights
- Replacement shoelaces account for the largest segment of the global market, but customization and fashion-driven categories are growing rapidly.
- North America leads demand, while Asia-Pacific represents the fastest-growing region.
- Integration of smart fibers in shoelaces is creating a functional subsegment that overlaps with wearable tech.
- Medical and orthopedic shoelaces are emerging as an overlooked but high-value segment.
- Direct-to-consumer and online niche stores are accelerating sales, especially among sneaker enthusiasts and collectors.
Market Size and Forecast
- 2024: USD 2.1 billion
- 2030: USD 3.1 billion
- CAGR: 6.0% (2025-2030)
- North America: Largest Market
- Asia-Pacific: Fastest Growing Market
Latest Market Trends
- Smart & functional shoelaces: Early-stage laces with conductive fibers for activity tracking, haptic feedback, or integration with health monitoring devices are creating a new performance niche.
- Customization via niche communities: Sneaker collectors are driving demand for unique shoelaces such as glow-in-the-dark, reflective designs, and collaboration-inspired colors, transforming laces into fashion accessories rather than just replacement parts.
Shoelace Market Drivers
- Accessibility and orthopedic demand: Growth in no-tie elastic laces for children, elderly, and differently-abled users is expanding adoption, supported by hospitals and rehabilitation centers.
- Micro-influencer culture: Smaller sneaker influencers are shaping shoelace swaps and customization tutorials, fueling organic demand without heavy marketing investment.
Market Restraints
- Substitutability from non-lace closures: Slip-on shoes, Velcro, and BOA systems reduce reliance on traditional laces, especially in kids’ and athletic footwear.
- Raw material dependency: Specialty laces such as reflective or sustainable options rely on limited suppliers of niche yarns, leading to supply disruptions and higher costs.
Shoelace Market Opportunities
- Medical & assistive technology partnerships: Collaborations with orthopedic footwear makers and rehabilitation brands can position adaptive shoelaces as certified assistive devices, opening new healthcare-driven revenue streams.
- Sustainable lace subscription model: Eco-conscious sneaker fans represent a new base for bio-based or recycled lace subscriptions, encouraging regular replacements while reducing waste.
Segmental Insights
- By Type: Standard polyester laces dominate volume, but elastic no-tie and reflective laces are the fastest-growing types.
- By End-User: The athletic footwear segment leads overall demand, but lifestyle and collector-driven usage is growing quickly.
- By Distribution Channel: E-commerce and niche DTC platforms are expanding fastest, while traditional retail and shoe repair shops remain important for replacement laces.
| Product Type | End-User | Distribution Channel |
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Regional Insights
- North America: Largest market, driven by sneaker culture, DIY customization, and online lace swap communities.
- Europe: Strong adoption in Germany, France, and the UK, with reflective and safety-focused laces popular in workwear segments.
- Asia-Pacific: Fastest-growing region, led by China and Japan, where sneaker resale markets and fashion-driven demand are fueling growth.
- Latin America: Brazil and Mexico show steady demand with growing adoption of elastic laces for children and elderly use.
- Middle East & Africa: Expanding adoption in urban centers such as the UAE and South Africa, with demand tied to both fashion and work safety footwear.
| North America | Europe | APAC | Middle East and Africa | LATAM |
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Note: The above countries are part of our standard off-the-shelf report, we can add countries of your interest
Regional Growth Insights Download Free Sample
Leading Companies in the Shoelace Industry
- Shoelaces Express
- Mr. Lacy
- Stolen Riches
- Ironlace
- Hickies Inc.
- Miscly
- OrthoStep
- SupLaces
- Lock Laces
- Flair Strips
Latest Developments
- March 2025: Mr. Lacy introduced a new line of reflective laces designed for urban night runners and cyclists.
- April 2025: Hickies launched an adaptive no-tie shoelace kit targeted toward orthopedic clinics and eldercare centers.
- June 2025: Ironlace unveiled bio-based ultra-durable laces as part of a sustainable sneaker accessory campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the global shoelace market?
According to Deep Market Insights, the global shoelace market size was valued at USD 2.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3.1 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 6.0% during 2025-2030.
What are the key opportunities in the market?
Medical & assistive technology partnerships and sustainable shoelace subscription models are the key opportunities in the market.
Who are the leading players in the market?
Shoelaces Express, Mr. Lacy, Stolen Riches, Ironlace, Hickies Inc., Miscly, OrthoStep, SupLaces, Lock Laces, and Flair Strips are the leading players in the market.
What are the factors driving the growth of the market?
Accessibility-focused elastic laces, sneaker customization trends, and specialty fiber adoption are driving growth in the global shoelace market.
Which are the various segmentations that the market report covers?
The market report is segmented as follows: By Product Type, By End-User, By Distribution Channel.