How to Lace SALATHE GTX Hiking Shoes for a Secure Fit
By Zamberlan Italian Hiking Boots, Hunting Boots, and ... | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to lace your Zamberlan Salathe GTX hiking shoes for a secure, blister-free fit, including the heel lock technique and step-by-step guidance.
Quick Answer
To lace your Salathe GTX hiking shoes for a secure fit, use the heel lock (runner's loop) technique, which prevents heel slippage and reduces blister risk without overtightening.
Why Heel Lock Lacing Works for the Salathe GTX
The Salathe GTX features a to-the-toe lacing system and stretch over-foot wraps, which help lock your foot in place. However, the heel area can still allow movement on descents. The heel lock technique creates extra friction at the ankle, holding your heel firmly without needing to over-tighten the lower laces.
This is especially useful for car-to-summit hikes where terrain changes frequently, and you need consistent support without constant readjustment.
When to Use a Different Lacing Style
If you have high insteps or wide feet, the to-the-toe lacing might feel restrictive. In that case, skip the bottom eyelets or use a wide-foot lacing pattern to relieve pressure. Conversely, if you have narrow heels, the heel lock is almost essential to prevent rubbing.
Remember that the Salathe GTX is designed as a do-it-all shoe, so adjust your lacing based on the day's activity: looser for approach sections, tighter for technical climbs.
Step-by-Step Lacing Guide
- Start with the to-the-toe lacing: Begin at the bottom eyelets, ensuring the laces lie flat and snug over the instep. Pull evenly to avoid bunching, but don't overtighten yet—leave some slack for the final adjustments. Check that the tongue and over-foot wraps sit smoothly before moving on.
- Lace up to the top eyelets: Continue lacing in a crisscross pattern up to the top eyelets. Keep tension consistent so the shoe hugs your foot without pinching. Stop before the top eyelet—you'll use the last one for the heel lock. If you feel pressure points, loosen and re-lace from the bottom to redistribute tension.
- Create the heel lock loop: Instead of crossing the laces at the top, thread each lace straight up through the top eyelet on the same side, forming two small loops on each side of the ankle opening. Make sure the loops are even in size to ensure balanced tension.
- Cross the laces through the loops: Cross the left lace through the right loop and the right lace through the left loop, then pull them outward and downward to tighten. This cinches the heel area securely. You should feel the heel lock snugly without discomfort—adjust if the pressure is too high.
- Tie your final knot: Tie a standard bow or a double knot to secure the laces. Ensure the knot sits flat against the shoe to avoid pressure on your ankle. Tuck any excess lace into the shoe's lace pocket if available. Take a few steps to test the fit—your heel should stay in place with no slipping.
Product Spotlight: Salathe GTX
- SALATHE GTX - Dark Grey: The Salathe GTX combines the grip and maneuverability of an approach shoe, the protection and support of a hiking boot, and the comfort of a trail runner. This hybrid design means proper lacing is key to getting the right balance of flexibility and support for varied terrain.
SALATHE GTX - Dark Grey - SALATHE GTX - Dark Grey: It features a to-the-toe lacing system and stretch over-foot wraps that help secure the foot. These features work with the heel lock technique to minimize foot movement and enhance overall stability.
