Proper lacing is one of the most overlooked aspects of football preparation — but it directly affects grip, spiral accuracy, and overall feel during play. Whether you're a quarterback, a coach, or a football enthusiast, knowing how to lace a football correctly is an essential skill. This guide walks you through the process step by step.
What You'll Need
- A football with existing or replacement lace holes
- A quality football lace — we recommend LBC Football Tacky Football Lace for superior grip and durability
- A lacing awl needle tool (included with most replacement lace kits)
Pro Tips for a Game-Ready Lace Job
- Use tacky lace: Standard laces can become slippery in wet conditions. A tacky football lace provides consistent grip no matter the weather.
- Lace tension matters: Too tight and the ball becomes misshapen; too loose and the lace shifts during play. Aim for firm and even tension throughout. Periodic checks during installation are key.
- Replace laces regularly: Competition-level footballs should have their laces replaced every 1–2 seasons or whenever fraying or loosening is noticed.
- Leave the pros to it: Not comfortable doing it yourself? Check out our LBC Football Repair Service — we'll re-lace and fully prep your football for game day.
When to Replace the Bladder Too
If your football is losing air even after re-lacing, the bladder may be the culprit. A faulty bladder won't hold inflation regardless of how well the lace is done. Our Poly Football Bladder Repair Kit is a great DIY option or send it to us for a professional bladder and lacing replacement service.
Shop Football Lacing Supplies
Ready to re-lace? Browse our full selection of Tacky Football Lace kits — available in multiple colors and lengths to fit any football. For game-ready Wilson GST balls that arrive fully prepped and laced, check out our available footballs.
