I think it's so annoying because of the timing. I've never had one break when untying the knot or when just walking around. It's always while tying it which means I was just about to leave and now life has thrown a monkey wrench into my plans. Depending on how close I am cutting things, this may be an event that makes me late. Grrrrrr. Stupid shoelace!

If the plastic bit at the end falls off, just cut off the frayed part and dip the end into molten wax from a candle. I can't say I've tried it yet though, even that's so much trouble that I just live with the frayed end.