Of late I have been researching how to teach a young person how to tie shoelaces. In so doing, it has dawned on me just how complex the process of tying shoelaces really is. Years of mindlessly (or thoughtlessly anyway) wrapping my laces into tight knots had caused me to overlook the not insignificant difficulty of mastering said task.
The level of manual dexterity, in combination with a solid understanding of the tying process (i.e., how to make the desired knot), is very high. Each finger must work closely in connection with its compatriots on both hands. The task requires the careful manipulation of the laces into a most unnatural configuration.
It’s no wonder someone invented velcro secured shoes.
Muscle memory.