The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word BOOTLACE
B
O
O
T
L
A
C
E
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does BOOTLACE mean?
BOOTLACE noun- A long lace for fastening boots.
- A long, thin, chewy confectionery, typically with liquorice or fruit flavour.