Buying guide for best men’s Dr. Martens boots
Dr. Martens boots embody a rare synthesis of style and statement. Dr. Klaus Maertens manufactured his first boot in 1945. He was a 25-year-old soldier who was suffering from a broken foot. To aid in his recovery, he designed a boot with an air-cushioned sole.
The durable, utilitarian boots went into production in 1947 and were worn by the working class. By the early 1970s, British subculture had embraced the brand, and Dr. Martens boots became a style icon.
If you'd like to learn more about the different types of men's Dr. Martens boots and how to care for them so they last for years, keep reading. Take a look at some of our favorites, too.
Considerations
When shopping for the best men's Dr. Martens boots, the two points to consider before all others are size and intended use.
Size
Like any wearable item, your men's Dr. Martens boots won't be of much use if they’re so tight that they cause discomfort. On the other hand, if they’re too loose, they may create blisters and become a safety hazard. Purchase boots that fit you properly.
Use
If you want a pair of men's Dr. Martens boots to make a stylistic statement, look for some that best express who you are. However, if you need your boots to have a special feature for safety, such as steel toes, it will limit your options.
DID YOU KNOW?
Soaking your men's Dr. Martens boots in water won’t help break them in. It will only damage the leather and loosen the stitching.
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Features
Once you’ve settled on size and intended use, there are many options available when shopping for men's Dr. Martens boots. These boots start at around $60 for a basic ankle boot but can cost as much as $240 if you’re looking for a more stylized, lace-up, mid-calf pair.
Slip on vs. lace up
If you prefer to quickly step into your Dr. Martens boots rather than lace them up, that option is available in certain styles.
Special features
As noted above, men's Dr. Martens boots have a variety of special features that are designed for particular needs. These features include puncture resistance, heat resistance, slip resistance, spill resistance, steel toes, and more. It’s important to check to make sure that the style of Dr. Martens boots you’re considering has all the safety features that you require.
Don’t fret if your men's Dr. Martens boots aren't comfortable when you first put them on. It can take up to six weeks to break them in.
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Height
Men's Dr. Martens boots range in height from ankle to mid-calf. If you have a preference, look for the boot that best satisfies your tastes.
Materials
Leather: Men's Dr. Martens boots are manufactured using a wide variety of leather, ranging from stiff and glossy to pliable and distressed. If you have a preference, be sure to purchase the model that best matches your aesthetic needs.
Vegan: If you aren’t a fan of leather but still want to make a bold fashion statement, some models of men's Dr. Martens boots are 100% vegan, meaning they’re manufactured using no animal products.
FAQ
Q. What is the sizing like for men's Dr. Martens boots?
A. Although these boots are manufactured to fit true to size, there are noticeable variances from boot to boot, especially when comparing different styles. The best advice is to try a boot in your usual size. If you experience any discomfort that can’t be relieved by removing the insole, try the next larger size. As long as the boots are not damaged in any way, you can exchange them.
Q. I wear a size 10.5 shoe. What size Dr. Martens boot should I get?
A. Men's Dr. Martens boots are only available in whole sizes. If you’re between sizes, it’s best to get the next larger size, and if the boot feels too large, wear thicker socks or an insole to achieve a better fit.
Q. What are some tips for taking care of my men's Dr. Martens boots?
A. Most men's Dr. Martens boots are made of leather. In order to help your boots last a long time, keep them clean and care for the leather using a product like Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam, avoid harsh weather conditions, and don’t leave your boots in direct sunlight or near a heat source.
