The scientists tested two basic versions of the standard knot and bow: the square knot and the weaker granny knot. In a granny knot the same overhand motion is repeated for both knot and bow. According to the data, the lace slippage rate was cut by at least a factor of five using a square knot compared with a granny knot. O’Reilly said: “With the strong [square] knot you might be able to get through the day without it failing.” Although he admitted to still using the granny knot himself through habit. The study suggests the square knot works better because the impact of the foot loosens the knot more slowly, but the scientists were not able to establish why this is the case.

Source: The Guardian April 11, 2017 23:15 UTC