Schnürring

Schnürring is a German term that can refer to a small ring used to guide or reinforce a lace or cord in clothing, footwear, or leather goods, as well as to lacing rings found in historical armor. The word is formed from Schnur (cord, lace) and Ring (ring). In some contexts it denotes a hardware component designed to receive a lace loop or cord passage.

In fashion and leathercraft, schnürringe are typically metal loops or reinforced openings through which a cord or lace is threaded. They provide durability at lace openings, help prevent tearing of fabric or leather, and create a neat finish. They are common on lace-up boots, corsets, belts, saddlery, and other items that require adjustable fastening.

Historically, the term appears in German armour literature to describe rings integrated into plate armor as anchor points for lacings that held the pieces together and allowed some adjustment for fit and mobility. Such rings could be embedded in cuirasses, gauntlets, or pauldrons and served both functional and structural roles in lacings.

In modern English-language documentation, the functional equivalent is usually described as eyelets, grommets, or lace rings. The term Schnürring remains primarily a German-language term, and its precise meaning can vary by source. When encountered, it is best understood in the context of lace hardware or historical lacings.