Dr Martens boots have been entwined with music tribes since they were first co-opted by early skinheads, then punks, two-tone, goth, grunge and Britpop. Want a 90s-inspired look? Step out in Dr Martens signature 8-hole boots with the famous air-cushioned soles and choose from classic black and cherry red or try new-season updates in patent, floral, animal-print and more.
The Dr. Martens Boots Buying Guide
Originally designed as durable workwear, Dr. Martens’ lug-soled boots have reached cult status as a streetwear staple. The British label continues to rework its signature utility combat boots in a range of designs, from vegan to Chelsea silhouettes. Read on for our women’s Dr Martens boots buying guide, which will help you decide on the styles that work best for you and the size you should go for.
The Most Wanted Dr. Martens Boots
Dr. Martens 1460 Boots
One of the brand’s best-selling styles and first released in the 60s, Dr. Martens’ 1460 Boots are instantly recognizable thanks to an 8-eyelet lace-up front and signature yellow stitching. Built to last on a durable Goodyear welt, these ankle boots are grounded on air-cushioned rubber soles.
Dr. Martens Jadon Boots
A fresh interpretation of the iconic 1490 silhouette, Dr Martens’ Jadon Boots sit on chunkier platform Quad soles. Just as durable as the brand’s original, this 10-eye boot has classic yellow stitching and fastens with a zip at the ankle.
Dr. Martens 2976 Chelsea Boots
Dr. Martens reworks the traditional Chelsea shape with the contemporary 2976 Boots. Elasticated side gussets and a heel tab ensure a sure fit and easy on and off, while the air-cushioned AirWair™ sole offers excellent grip and traction. Available in a range of materials and finishes, including soft leather, faux fur-lined, patent leather and more.
The Dr. Martens Boots Sizing Guide
Not sure what size you need in Dr Martens boots? The brand uses UK sizing, and you can use the below chart to find your corresponding UK, EU or Japanese size.
For example, if you usually wear a UK 5, you should take your Dr. Martens boots in a US 7 or EU 38.
Dr Martens boots tend to fit true to size. If you are between sizes, then it is recommended to order the next size down or use an insole. It is worth noting that women’s footwear can be narrower than Dr. Martens men’s and unisex boots, just as unisex footwear can come up slightly larger.
| UK | USA | EUROPE | JAPAN |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 36 | 22 |
| 4 | 6 | 37 | 23 |
| 5 | 7 | 38 | 23.5 |
| 6 | 8 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 6.5 | 8.5 | 40 | 25 |
| 7 | 9 | 41 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 10 | 42 | 26 |
| 9 | 11 | 43 | 27 |
How To Care For Your Dr. Martens Boots
Even the finest-quality leathers can dry and lose their durability without proper conditioning. Dr. Martens recommends taking time to care for your boots to maintain their appearance for years to come. Following these simple steps will help you prolong their life.
- Use a damp cloth to remove dirt
- Once dry, layer Dr Martens Wonder Balsam evenly across the leather with the sponge provided. This protects the leather and keeps it soft, supple and clean
- Work into the seams, and leave the Wonder Balsam to absorb for five minutes
- Remove any excess with a soft cloth
FAQ
- Are Dr. Martens boots waterproof?
Every pair of Dr. Martens is comfortable and durable, with some full-waterproof boots offering additional protection in wet weather. Specific versions of the brand’s 1460 ankle boots are made from a rich, oily waterproof leather and built with a revolutionary new twin heat-sealed welt that prevents water from getting into the air-cushioned sole.
- Where are Dr. Martens boots made?
Dr. Martens boots are made in factories in both Asia and the UK. The ‘Made in England’ range makes it easy to identify the boots that are handcrafted in the original Northampton-based Wollaston factory. The collection features styles such as the 1460 boot and 1461 shoe.