Lacing Army Boots: Diagonal or Ladder Lacing?

When discussing the proper way to lace Army boots, it's important to understand the regulations and common practices. This article explores whether lacing should be diagonal or ladder, backed by official guidelines and personal experiences.

Official Regulations and Practices

The DA Pam 670-1 specifies that boots should be laced diagonally, which is the standard procedure followed by most soldiers. However, there are exceptions to this rule.

Standard Diagonal Lacing

According to the regulation, the recommended method for lacing your boots is the diagonal technique. This ensures proper fit and comfort while maintaining the integrity of the footwear. The tutorial on the instruction tag that comes with new boots should be followed meticulously. Here's a brief step-by-step guide:

Ensure the boot is properly positioned on your foot. Begin lacing the top two eyelets from the outside of one side to the inside of the opposite side. Continue lacing in a diagonal pattern, alternating sides. Finish the lacing process by tucking the excess lace into the top of the boot or wrapping it around the top.

Ladder Lacing: An Exception to the Rule

While diagonal lacing is the norm, some soldiers may opt for ladder lacing, especially for special units that require precision. This method is commonly used for drills and demonstrations. However, it is important to remember that it is only allowed as an exception to policy, not the general standard.

Some special detail units, such as those in precision drill teams, may be authorized to ladder lace their boots with white laces. This set of boots is typically kept in a highly polished and glossy state for display purposes. While this method can enhance the visual appeal and uniformity of the unit, it remains an exception rather than the norm.

DA Pam 670-1: Official Guidelines

The DA Pam 670-1 provides several key points that must be followed when lacing Army boots:

Bow ties should be attached and properly tied. Laces must be of a suitable color and type (typically tan). Excess lace should be tucked into the top of the boot or wrapped around the top. Metal or plastic cleats and side tabs are not authorized. Sewn-in or laced-in zipper or Velcro inserts are not allowed.

These guidelines ensure that all boots are consistent in appearance and functionality, which is crucial for a professional military force.

Conclusion

While some soldiers might aspire to ladder lace their boots, the official requirement remains diagonal lacing. This standard method ensures uniformity, function, and durability of the footwear, aligning with the broader goals of the Army. Any decisions to deviate from the standard should be based on specific unit requirements and must be approved by the appropriate authority.