In this article, we discuss whether or not Doc Marten’s popular combat-style leather boots could be considered comfortable footwear. Although these stiff boots may require regular wear to break them in, Doc Martens can absolutely be comfortable if newcomers to the trend keep these key tips in mind. We think the most important question is not whether Doc Marten’s are comfortable, but rather, whether their comfort level even matters?
Doc Marten’s are lace-up leather boots built to last close to a lifetime. Docs fans attest to the long-lasting nature of these shoes. They are also beloved for their timeless, edgy look. They may not be high-fashion stilettos, but they match almost any outfit.
From jeans and t-shirts to dresses to costumes, Doc Marten’s compliments a wide range of looks. The best part of these boots is that they do become comfy after a period of adjusting to their hardness.
When buying the first pair of Doc Marten’s, it is crucial to buy the right size. When between sizes, it is best to err on the side of caution and go with the higher size. Of course, no one wants to swim in their new pair of shoes the next day at work, either.
Aim to purchase a pair of Docs early in the day, like during the morning hours, to ensure the most accurate fit. As shefinds.com mentions in their article entitled ”Once And For All, This Is The Best Time Of Day To Shop For Shoes,” on the subject, “Between walking and standing all day, your feet swell. If you try on a pair of shoes at the end of the day, you’re likely to go up a size and wind up slipping out of the shoes when you put them on the next morning.”
Oftentimes, uncomfortable shoes are actually shoes that do not fit us correctly. Therefore, it is imperative to give ourselves the best chance at experiencing the comfort that Doc Marten’s offers by choosing the properly sized shoe; not too big or too small.
Doc Marten’s are usually relatively uncomfortable for new wearers. This is because they take time to get “broken in” to accommodate the wearer’s individual foot shape. While regular wear is the most effective means of breaking in shoes–sorry, we cannot go around this part, only through it!–there are several ways to ease the breaking-in process.
As detailed in bellatory.com’s article, “Are Docs Comfortable? 10 Reasons to Wear Dr. Martens Boots, ”After you break them in, your Docs will be the most comfortable boots you’ll ever wear. The hard leather will mould perfectly to the shape of your foot and you’ll be able to hike for miles and miles on those air-cushioned soles.”
Drawing inspiration from this article, there are some steps to take to increase the comfort level of a new pair of Docs.
First, take the fresh pair of Docs out of the box, lace them onto the feet, and take a brief walk through the immediate surroundings. Take note of where the boots rub–this information will help in the next step. Then, take large blister bandages and stick them onto the parts of the feet that feel the most friction in these boots.
Typically, the top of the foot, toes, heels, sides of the feet, and soles are target areas that are most affected by new boots. After this, put on soft, thin socks and follow this by slipping on a pair of very thick socks on top. Finally, apply either baby oil, vaseline, or Doc Marten’s Leather Softener and Protector, which may better protect the boots in the long term than a home solution.
We also find that Professional Boot and Shoe Stretch Spray can be helpful, though users should exercise caution when applying it to a shoe for the first time and research potential ingredient interactions.
Although we still need to wear the boots regularly and tough through the break-in stage before we can enjoy the boots’ sweet, spacy side, these steps can help lessen the worst part of this season. Once we break in our Doc Marten’s, these boots can be the most comfortable pair in our closet. For extra arch support, users can always insert over-the-counter shoe inserts.
However, the inside of the shoes was specially designed to be springy, light, and comfortable.
While Doc Marten’s are incredibly comfortable once they conform to our individual feet, most of us who love Doc Marten’s do not seek the shoes out merely for comfort. Sure, the “feel-good factor” is a valuable side to consider when selecting shoes for work, play, or photoshoots.
However, Doc Marten’s are more than a pleasant pair of boots that leave your feet feeling satisfied at the end of the day–they are a fashion statement with a history of showcasing bold personality types.
These shoes are also reliable. They last a long time and do not break down like other boots on the market. While Doc Marten’s become tolerable after wearing a few weeks, this is not their main attracting feature. Comfort is more of a side perk to the edgy, cool flair they add to even boring outfits.
Their sass and reputable company is what really keeps people of all ages buying a pair of Doc Marten’s. From young teens to folks in their retirement years, these boots bring out the inner rebel in the best way.
In conclusion, Doc Marten’s boots can be comfortable for most wearers after the initial few weeks of wear. However, we believe that although they can be comfortable, those who wear Doc Marten’s should sport them for their fashion and timeless cool vibe, no matter how comfortable or uncomfortable they are.