The Mystery Solved: Why Do Running Shoes Have That Extra, Unused Shoelace Hole at the Top?

Take a look down at your running shoes. Whether they're fresh out of the box or have hundreds of miles on them, you've probably noticed it: that one extra shoelace hole, or eyelet, sitting all by itself at the very top of the shoe, right near the ankle. For years, many of us have simply ignored it, assuming it was a stylistic choice or a redundant feature. But what if that small, overlooked hole holds the key to a more comfortable, stable, and blister-free run? That eyelet isn't just for decoration; it’s a crucial piece of footwear engineering designed for a specific lacing technique. This post will demystify that extra hole, explain its purpose, and show you exactly how to use it to your advantage.

The Secret of the "Heel Lock"

That extra eyelet is there to create what is known as a "heel lock," "lace lock," or "runner's loop." It's a special lacing technique that creates additional tension around the ankle, effectively "locking" your heel into the back of the shoe. While it might seem like a minor adjustment, its impact on shoe fit and performance is significant.

The primary goal of the heel lock is to solve a common problem for runners and walkers alike: heel slippage. When your heel slides up and down inside your shoe with each step, it creates friction. This constant rubbing is a leading cause of painful blisters on the back of the heel. Furthermore, an unstable foot can lead to a less efficient stride and even increase the risk of injury.

Key Benefits of Using a Heel Lock

By securing your foot firmly in place, the heel lock provides several distinct advantages:

• Prevents Blisters: This is the most celebrated benefit. By eliminating heel slippage, you drastically reduce the friction that causes blisters. Your sock and shoe move with your foot, not against it.
• Enhances Stability: A secure heel provides a more stable platform for push-off and landing. This is especially important when running on uneven terrain, where a poorly fitted shoe can contribute to ankle rolls or other injuries.
• Reduces Toe Injuries: When your foot slides forward in your shoe, your toes can repeatedly slam into the front of the toe box. This can lead to bruised or "black" toenails (subungual hematomas). The heel lock prevents this forward movement, giving your toes the space they need.
• Creates a Custom Fit: It allows you to secure the ankle area of your shoe without having to overtighten the laces across the top of your foot, which can sometimes cause pressure and numbness.

How to Tie a Heel Lock: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to try it for yourself? This simple technique only takes a few extra seconds when you’re lacing up.

1. Lace Normally: Begin by lacing your shoes in your usual crisscross pattern, stopping before you get to the very last, extra eyelet.
2. Create the Loops: Now, instead of crossing the laces over, take the end of each lace and thread it through the extra eyelet on the same side. Push it through from the outside in, creating a small loop on each side of the shoe's ankle collar. Do not pull it tight yet.
3. Cross and Thread: Take the end of the left shoelace and cross it over, threading it through the loop you just created on the right side. Repeat with the right shoelace, threading it through the loop on the left side.
4. Pull and Cinch: Gently pull the ends of the laces downwards and outwards, away from the shoe. You will see the loops tighten, cinching the shoe's collar snugly around your ankle. Adjust the tension until it feels secure but not uncomfortably tight.
5. Tie Your Bow: With the heel lock cinched in place, simply tie your shoes as you normally would with a standard bow.

A Small Change for a Big Difference

That once-ignored extra eyelet is a testament to thoughtful footwear design, offering a simple solution to common running-related discomforts. By taking a moment to use the heel lock technique, you can transform the fit of your shoes, providing the stability and security needed to prevent blisters and reduce the risk of other foot injuries. It’s a small adjustment that can make your runs significantly more comfortable and enjoyable. The next time you lace up, don't just skip that final hole—use it to unlock a better, more secure run.