Dr. Martens boots – the name says it all. With over 60 years of fabulous footwear, clothing and accessories, this legendary British brand conjures up a very distinct image. Commonly known as Doc Martens, Docs, or DMs, the boots have become elevated to iconic status in the cultural landscape and remain design strongholds in the contemporary fashion world. Who could have predicted that the chunky, black leather boots would play such a significant role in redefining cool the way they have done? And they continue to inspire, with nothing less than tons of attitude. Immediately recognisable, Dr. Martens boots have everlasting appeal with a one-size-fits-most charm. Just like denim jeans have become an unquestionable part of fashion history, these classic short leather boots have earned their ranking from many decades of highly wearable style. Trendy, yet oh-so-very practical, the heavy-duty, durable footwear has won the hearts of millions, transcending age, gender and culture.
Individuality, self-expression, attitude, strength – these are just a few of the qualities that Dr. Martens boots enthusiasts seek to project with their fave footwear. How would you describe your style? It can be really helpful to know what look you are going for in order to make your statement piece say exactly what you feel within. If you are on the prowl for something that gives more confidence, swagger, boldness, and a super hip vibe to your look, then a pair of these iconic boots might be just the thing you need to perfect your wardrobe. We know that hearing the brand’s name elicits visions of the classic, black leather shoe with chunky rubber soles and the fascinating little loop at the top back. But the innovative label has expanded with a parade of other scintillating styles, colours, and designs for men, women, and children of all ages. With such an extensive variety to choose from, chances are good you’ll find something you love.
Dr. Martens Boots – AirWair with Flair
Looking for boots? No matter whether you are on the hunt for a pair of ankle boots, tall boots, or platform boots, Dr. Martens boots definitely have the whole gamut covered. Or maybe you are more in the mood for Chelsea boots, heeled boots, or lace up boots, or just some go-to black winter boots? This renowned brand offers all kinds of boots, shoes, loafers and sandals in traditional leather, soft leather, patent leather, suede as well as vegan alternatives.
The AirWair soles have a history of their own, starting from their pioneering creation as air-padded soles made from tires. The air-cushioned base, or “bouncing soles,” are a distinct feature of the legendary footwear, which makes them super comfortable as well as extraordinarily durable. The winning combination of being easy-to-wear, practical, and timelessly stylish is what has helped catapult the brand to its celebrity status. Market timing and the fascinating story behind the incredible brand also play a part in the label’s raging success.
How Dr. Martens Boots were Born
The story of the world-renowned brand has its origins in the heavy history of World War II Germany. The brand’s name comes from its founder, Klaus Märtens, who served as a military physician for the Nazi Party. Upon injuring his foot in 1945, he looked for boots that were more comfortable than his standard-issue army footwear. During the time he was in rehabilitation, he worked on his own solution by fine-tuning improvements to boots that would make them easier to wear, such as air-cushioning in the soles and soft leather uppers. When the war finally was over, many survivors went in search of valuables. Märtens recovered leather from a cobbler’s shop and subsequently used it to create the pair of comfortable boots he’d imagined while he was in recovery from his foot injury. And so the earliest boot was born, and Klaus Märtens wore the very first, original pair of Dr. Martens boots.
This design icon has come to be known in the world of fashion as the 1460 smooth leather lace-up boot. It has grooved sides, yellow stitching, the famous bouncing soles, and a heel loop. The heel loop, also known as a boot strap, pulls, or ear pulls, according to boot anatomy, serve a functional purpose in helping you to pull the boot on. The classic Dr. Martens boots are incredibly resilient and extremely heavy duty, with Goodyear-welted lines on the sides of the soles that have been heat sealed at a fiery 700ºC and reinforced with the signature welt stitch. The boot uppers are crafted of 100% leather, with the inner consisting of 25% leather and 75% textile, and the sole is made of 100% PVC.
The Classic Boot and Beyond
The first commercial pair of Dr. Martens boots in the UK was an eight-eyelet, cherry-red leather pair. It was presented on April 1, 1960, and given style number 1460, according to the date. Precisely one year later, a three-eyelet version came on the market, with the model number 1461. The original 1460 model remains a very popular style today, which you can still purchase in the same cherry-red tone.
The majority of Dr. Martens boots come in black, but modern fashion has ensured that every colour of the rainbow is somewhere out there to match the style and expression of each unique DM customer. Aside from classic black, the colour-pop collection features red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, grey and white, with seemingly countless designs and styles. There are boots with embroidered roses or floral print patterns, cosmic glitter, splatter paint, tutti frutti, iridescent, summer and grunge tie-dye. Some boots are vibrantly multicoloured, like the boots with rainbow stripes, or other versions supporting Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you’re wondering how best to style your Dr. Martens boots, the answer is simple – they go with just about everything! For an easy, classic look, pair them with your favourite jeans and a white T-shirt. If you want a more urban vibe, then pair them with an all-black, fitted outfit, and if you’re in the mood for some grungy glam, simply wear them with your evening wear and you’re all set!
