Abstract: A tightening device for shoelaces and other elongated pliable elements having free ends includes a casing and two slides mounted in said casing. Extending through the casing are two holes which are mutually spaced apart and disposed perpendicularly to the direction of slide movement and through which the free ends can be threaded. The slides are movable in the casing from a first position in which they each block a respective hole in the casing, to a second position in which they each expose their respective hole. The slides are also spring-biased towards said first position for securing an element inserted through the holes, in coaction with the casing. The holes penetrating the casing define a right angle with each other.