I bought these for a pair of high heel ankle booties and I love the way they look and feel. There's enough elastic to them to make it easy to get your foot in, although I do usually undo the top two holes as these are boots. I don't think that would be necessary with athletic shoes at all. They're supportive, and thanks to the wider portions throughout the length of the lace, they don't shift or pull out of the eyelets while you are wearing the shoe. They are stylish (I chose the black and white mixed pair to go with a red shoe) and comfortable. I'd like to try them in a pair of my athletic shoes, so I may pick up another pair at a later date.