EN ISO 22774:2004

Overview

EN ISO 22774:2004 - "Footwear - Test methods for accessories: shoe laces - Abrasion resistance (ISO 22774:2004)" is a CEN-adopted ISO standard that defines laboratory test methods to measure the abrasion resistance of shoelaces under repeated rubbing. The standard specifies three distinct test configurations: lace-to-lace, lace-to-standard eyelet, and lace-to-eyelet (from footwear). Results are reported as the arithmetic mean of cycles to failure for six test specimens.

Key Topics and requirements

• Three test methods
  • Method 1: lace-to-lace abrasion
  • Method 2: lace-to-standard eyelet abrasion (uses a specified brass eyelet)
  • Method 3: lace-to-eyelet abrasion using eyelets cut from actual footwear
• Test geometry and motion
  • Reciprocating motion: 35 mm ± 2 mm travel, simple harmonic motion
  • Frequency: 60 cycles/min ± 6 cycles/min
  • Fixed bending angle at contact via spacer/template: 52.5° ± 5.0°
• Tension and loading
  • Applied tension of 2.45 N ± 0.03 N (commonly achieved with a 250 g ± 3 g mass over a pulley)
• Test specimens and sample size
  • Six test specimens per method (cut lengths specified: typically 300–500 mm depending on method)
  • If fewer test stations are available, tests are repeated until six specimens are completed
• Apparatus and fixtures
  • Moveable and stationary clamps, spacer, metal strip for mounting carriers, standard eyelets (brass, internal diameter 4.5 mm, length 5.5 mm)
• Conditioning
  • Store and test in standard atmosphere per EN 12222 for at least 48 h
• Results and reporting
  • Record number of cycles to failure, type of failure, any damage to carriers
  • Test report must reference EN ISO 22774, identify method used, describe materials, give arithmetic mean and range, and note deviations or incidents

Applications

• Quality control and acceptance testing for shoelaces and lace assemblies
• Product development and material comparison (coverings, cores, eyelet compatibility)
• Supplier evaluation and procurement specifications for footwear accessories
• Laboratory test protocols for third‑party testing and certification
• Failure analysis where lace wear and durability affect product performance or safety

Who uses this standard

• Footwear manufacturers and accessory suppliers
• Component and materials R&D teams
• Accredited test laboratories and QA departments
• Procurement and compliance officers specifying accessory durability

Related standards

• EN 12222 (ISO 18454) - standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing of footwear components (referenced for conditioning requirements)

Keywords: EN ISO 22774:2004, shoe laces abrasion resistance, footwear test methods, lace-to-lace, lace-to-eyelet, cycles to failure, CEN, standard eyelet.