Which riders go first in crossover lace?

Which riders go first in crossover lace?

• A. 1-2 and 2-2, 3-3 and 4-3
• B. 2-1 and 3-1, 4-3 and 1-4
• C. 1-3 and 2-4, 3-1 and 4-2
• D. 1-1 and 2-1, 3-4 and 4-4

Answer: (D)

In crossover lace, the lead is established by anchoring on the near side with riders who share the same initial position, creating a stable starting point for the cross. The two riders in positions 1-1 and 2-1 set that anchor, ensuring the direction and tension are balanced as the lace begins to cross. Once this anchor is in place, the remaining riders move into the crossing positions—3-4 and 4-4—to complete the pattern on the far side. Starting with other positions would disrupt the initial alignment and typically lead to an uneven or tangled cross, because there wouldn’t be a solid near-side base to guide the crossover.

In crossover lace, the lead is established by anchoring on the near side with riders who share the same initial position, creating a stable starting point for the cross. The two riders in positions 1-1 and 2-1 set that anchor, ensuring the direction and tension are balanced as the lace begins to cross. Once this anchor is in place, the remaining riders move into the crossing positions—3-4 and 4-4—to complete the pattern on the far side. Starting with other positions would disrupt the initial alignment and typically lead to an uneven or tangled cross, because there wouldn’t be a solid near-side base to guide the crossover.