Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Metal shoelace aglets are the small sleeves of brass, aluminium or zinc alloy that finish the end of a shoelace. They protect the lace from fraying, make it easier to thread through the eyelets and give a finished, more premium look. They are chosen according to the diameter or width of the lace, the shape of the tip and the finish, which should match the eyelets and the other metal accessories of the shoe.
Why manufacturers choose metal shoelace aglets
The standard shoelace aglet is made of plastic or acetate film – cheap, transparent and almost invisible. A metal aglet is a design decision. It is heavier, so the lace hangs more nicely, it is more resistant to crushing and it allows a logo, engraving and a finish. That is why it is used on premium sneakers, leather shoes, hiking boots and collaborations, where every detail has to carry the brand.
Types of metal shoelace aglets
Crimped aglets
A thin metal tube or an open strip that is pressed around the end of the lace with a press. This is the most widespread industrial option – fast attachment, secure grip, low weight.
Hollow cylinder aglets
A solid sleeve with a bore into which the end of the lace is inserted and fixed with glue or a cross pin. They allow thicker metal, a raised logo and a more complex shape.
Screw-on aglets
Two parts that screw into each other and clamp the lace. They are found on luxury and interchangeable laces, where the aglet can be moved to a new lace.
Shapes
- Cylinder – the classic look, suitable for round laces
- Cone or bullet – tapers towards the end and passes easily through small eyelets
- Flat – for flat sneaker laces
- Decorative – ball, drop, hexagon, following the outline of the logo
Size according to the lace
The inner opening of the aglet must match the thickness of the lace. If it is too wide, the lace slips out; if it is too narrow, the lace does not go in or gets cut when crimped.
| Type of lace | Usual thickness or width | Suitable aglet |
|---|---|---|
| Thin round lace for dress shoes | about 2–3 mm | Thin cylindrical, crimped |
| Round lace for sports shoes and boots | about 3–5 mm | Cylinder or cone |
| Flat lace for sneakers | about 7–10 mm wide | Flat or crimped, gathering the lace |
| Thick hiking lace | about 4–6 mm | Solid cylinder with glue, or crimped |
The length of the aglet is usually about 15–25 mm. Shorter aglets are hard to pass through eyelets, and longer ones are awkward when tying.
Materials and finishes
Brass is the most widespread because it is easy to work and takes all kinds of finishes. Aluminium is very light and suitable for sports shoes. Zinc alloy is used for cast decorative aglets. Popular finishes are nickel colour (nickel free), gold, antique brass, gunmetal, matte black and coloured lacquers.
The best result is achieved when the aglets, the eyelets and the hooks of the shoe are in one finish. If the shoe has visible metal eyelets, order samples of all the elements at the same time.
Attachment in serial production
- Cut the lace to the exact length.
- Seal the end – synthetic laces are heat-sealed, cotton laces are dipped in glue.
- Fit the aglet and crimp or glue it.
- Do a pull test – the aglet must not slip off.
- Visually check the orientation if there is a logo.
If the aglet carries a logo, its orientation relative to the lace must be the same on all pairs – this is achieved with a positioning jig in the press. For laces and cords by the metre, see the cords category.
Metal aglets with a logo
Metal aglets are a small but very visible surface for branding. The logo can be laser engraved, embossed or cast in a decorative shape. Often only the symbol or initials are used, because the surface is small and rounded. Branded aglets are popular in sneaker collections and on shoes sold as a premium product.
Where they are used
- Sneakers and trainers – flat and round laces
- Dress shoes – thin aglets in gold or nickel colour (nickel free)
- Hiking shoes and boots – solid aglets that resist wear
- Leather and fashion shoes – in combination with metal accessories from the footwear and leather category
Care
Metal aglets do not need special care. When washing sneakers in a washing machine, it is best to remove the laces and wash them in a mesh bag – this way the aglets do not knock against the drum. Avoid bleach, which can change the finish.
How to choose – a short checklist
- Measure the thickness or width of the lace with a calliper, not by eye.
- Define the style – classic, sporty, outdoor or fashion.
- Choose the metal according to weight and wear: aluminium for light sports shoes, brass for universal use, cast metal for decorative shapes.
- Coordinate the finish with the eyelets, hooks and buckles of the shoe.
- Decide whether the aglet will carry a logo and what – a symbol, initials or a short text.
- Request a sample with your lace and do a pull and wear test.
What affects the price
The price of metal aglets depends on the material, size, shape, finish, whether there is a logo, the attachment method and the quantity. Standard crimped styles are the most economical, while decorative cast aglets with a raised logo require tooling and cost more per piece. For an exact figure, send a request for a quote with the lace specifications and the desired style.
Shoelace aglets from Polkom
Polkom offers wholesale cord ends and shoelace aglets – metal and plastic, in various sizes and finishes, as well as custom logo aglets. Send us a sample of the lace or its dimensions via the contact page and we will suggest a suitable style and a sample.
