The standard laces on sneakers are fine—for the first few months, then they're prone to weathered looks and tricky knots. Upgrade your kicks with nautical rope, which can look pretty neat and is meant to weather really rough conditions.
This tip comes from Alex Grant, who wanted a DIY version of the New Balance "Kennedy,", itself inspired by John F. Kennedy Jr. and his love of sailing. Using $6 of nautical line (about 3 feet, though Grant regrets not going for 4 feet), the upgraded sneakers look snazzy and, combined with a good knot like the Reef, you're less likely to drag your laces along the pavement.
DIY: Nautical New Balances [Alex Grant via Put This On]