We Try: Enduringly popular Doc Martens boots
The original comfortable work boot has undergone many transformations over the last seven decades - and now it’s emerged as the It boot of the season.
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You know a boot is iconic when all you need say is their name, and its silhouette is immediately brought to mind.
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The seven-decade-old Doc Marten has prided itself on being the standard for individuality and durability since its inception. Fit for daylong work wear and hitting the pavement after hours alike, the heritage brand has expanded its gender-neutral offerings to include vegan iterations, making it accessible for all people and different ethical buying practices.
With utility styles a huge trend this season, the Doc Marten has seen a resurgence in popularity, so three Best Of insiders decided to try them on for size.
NOTE TO READER: THE ICONIC is currently taking 30 per cent off select Dr Martens boots, including the Unisex 1460 and Unisex Vegan Jadon II. Read on for the Best Of team’s reviews, or shop the sale here.
THE BEST COMBAT BOOT
Dr Martens, THE ICONIC, from $89
According to says Nicole Adolphe, Head of Style at THE ICONIC, the Doc Marten can be worked into any closet for an instant dose of street appeal. “One of the must-have style items for the season is the combat boot,” Nicole tells news.com.au. “Staying true to the utility trend, these boots help add an edge to any outfit.”
And how to style them? “When it comes to styling, pair with straight or wide-leg pants, partnered with an oversized blazer to give your look a less grunge, more elevated aesthetic.”
Armed with these tips, there was nothing left for us to do but try them on.
Dani Maher, Best Of Reporter, Doc Martens loyalist
Dr Martens Unisex 1460 Smooth 8-Eye Boots, $259
Dani recommends with:Thrills Belle Stretch Jeans, $129.99; Atmos&Here Sage Balloon Sleeve Top, $49.99
“After years of admiring them from afar, I finally bit the bullet and bought myself a pair of 1460s back in 2019. I usually wear a size 7.5 in regular shoes, and I sized down to a UK 4 for my Docs. Don’t be scared if they feel a little tight, bordering on uncomfortable at first - they’re made from high quality leather that’s quite stiff to start with, but they soften over time and mould to your feet for a perfect fit.
As expected, they did take a good bit of time to wear in: after reading plenty of advice online, I wore them around my house accompanied by two pairs of thick woollen socks for a few hours at a time every day for two weeks before I was bold enough to take them on longer adventures outside. You might have to deal with a few blisters and a little discomfort as your feet become accustomed, but trust me when I say it’s absolutely worth the effort. Two years on, I find myself wearing my Docs as often as possible.
Rain or shine, Docs keep my feet comfortable, dry and protected all day long. They’re easy to dress up or down, and look super chic paired with anything from a mini dress to a pair of jeans. The quality is well worth the investment, because my pair still look near to brand new (aside from a few character-building scuffs) after plenty of long days and big nights, and even a muddy music festival or two.
Lately, I’ve been wearing my Docs almost every day, paired with my new and equally adored Thrills Belle Stretch Jeans. I throw on a high-neck top like the Atmos&Here Sage top pictured above, and complete the look with a structured, oversized jacket.”
Rating out of five: ★★★★★
Mike Cook, SEO Content Manager, Doc Martens convert
Dr Martens Unisex Jadon 8-Eye Boots, $319.95
Mike recommends with: Country Road Waxy Parka, $199; ONEBYONE Signature Tee, $44.95
“Ah, Doc Martens; an instant throwback to the 2009 era of grunge and goth. Yet, in 2021, these boots can be swiftly revived as a men’s streetwear fashion staple. The chunky sole and glossy finish complement black denim jeans and an oversized jacket combo, giving you the illusion of an “IDGAF” outfit. The boots themselves are comfortable for the entire foot and flaunt superior ankle support, giving you durability from day to night.
Doc Martens, however, are heavier than the average pair of boots due to an augmented sole. For the unaware, this means walking can feel clunky at first. But an added silver lining? Those extra two inches of boot helped me crack that six-foot height threshold.”
Rating out of five: ★★★★
Mariela Summerhays, Best Of Editor, Combat boot newcomer
Dr Martens Unisex Vegan Jadon II 8-Eye Boots, $299
Mariela recommends with: AERE Knit Dress in Sunset Orange, $129; Reliquia Jewellery Maxima Necklace, $109
“Doc Martens are properly outside of my usual style language. I’m drawn to delicate fabrics, pointed toe heels - let’s just say ‘utility’ and ‘grunge’ are not words that would be typically associated with my closet.
However, a couple of weeks into winter, even I had to admit mules were not cutting it in the dropping temperature. I’d usually reach for my knee-high heeled boots, but couldn’t be bothered teetering on my toes that day - gorgeous as they are - and I popped these cherry-hued, platform Docs on instead. Guys, I’m officially a convert.
Cosy, supremely comfortable and obviously well-made, my Docs are a perfect contrasting accent to my neutral, almost hyper feminine outfits. I’m wearing a vegan option, and honestly have a hard time distinguishing them from patent leather options. I love the height of my particular model, and so have since acquired them in black, too. Highly recommend.”
Rating out of five: ★★★★★
HOW TO STYLE DOC MARTENS?
“From Harry Styles being the first solo male to grace the cover of Vogue in a dress, to Kim Kardashian and Gigi Hadid rocking menswear for Louis Vuitton, genderless dressing is all about wearing items that reflect who you are without any pressure to look a certain way,” Nicole explains.
“When it comes to working a gender-neutral look, this season’s ‘refined utility’ trend offers plenty of options. Think pocket detailing, neutral tones and oversized shapes, to boxy jackets and blazers with looser fitting pants and chunky boots.”
Want more of Nicole’s style tips? You can discover her take on blue denim’s edgier cousin, the black jean here; and learn all about the smock dress of the year here.
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