Boots
Dec 17, 2022

This Affordable Boot Brand Is Timeless and Iconic, so I Ranked Its Top 5 Styles

by Drew Elovitz

Do you remember the first time you slipped your foot into a pair of thick-soled, high-top leather boots? Was it an aha moment? Did you feel totally badass? I certainly did.

I got my first pair of Dr. Martens in the '90s and have been a devout fan ever since, treasuring my well-worn boots season after season while adding to my collection when there is a new style I simply cannot resist. I share this freely, as I know many fashion-industry peers feel the same.

In case this is your first encounter with the iconic British brand, it's important to know that this boot is backed up by over a century of consumer satisfaction and cult-classic status. In fact, the company, which traces its roots back to the early 1900s, was originally favored by postmen and factory workers in the UK and cost just £2 in the 1960s (roughly $30 today).

Although prices have increased appropriately over time, the distinctive air-cushioned sole and yellow stitching remain the same. Moreover, the quality craftsmanship of each shoe holds true—if my feet hadn't grown, I'm certain I'd still be wearing my very first pair—which is why Dr. Martens continue to be found in wardrobes around the world.

When looking for the best boots, are you searching for a versatile, reliable pair? Start here: Dr. Martens is always topping the lists of the best combat boots. Accordingly, we've identified the best Dr. Martens boots plus some outfit inspo to get your search started on the right foot.

Dr. Martens

1460 Pascal Boot

$170

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Wondering what shoe officially put Dr. Martens on the map? The iconic 1460 boot, beloved since the '60s.

Customer Review: "I could never wear Dr. Martens because I couldn’t stand the break-in period. These require ZERO breaking-in!! Comfortable from the start, super flexible, and soft leather. Not too heavy to wear all day. Look amazing with jeans or leggings." — MissAV

Dr. Martens

Jadon Boot

$190

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The elevated sole on the Jadon boot provides extra lift, which is useful in slush and snow, while the calf height and side zipper make the style wearable in all seasons.

Customer Review: "Ok, I am in love with these boots, or maybe it's more like obsessed. I really don't want to wear anything else, even my other Docs. I'm 5 ft tall so the platform sole is a sweet bonus, but they also literally go with everything." — dsmith

Dr. Martens

2976 Chelsea Boot

$170

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The Chelsea style is my go-to boot for NYC winters. They are sleek yet sturdy and easy to wear all day.

Customer Review: "Love Doc Martens. Wear like iron, cute with everything! These will never wear out and they are stylish forever booties. I highly recommend them." — Eliz_hope

Dr. Martens

Sinclair Bootie

$200

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For those who prefer shorter styles, allow me to introduce you to Dr. Martens's take on the bootie. The 5 3/4–inch shaft hits just above the ankle and can be laced up or zipped up for a snug fit.

Customer Review: "I love how the boot shaft to the Sinclairs are shorter than typical Docs. These are much more comfortable than my Jadons as well. Zipper detail is removable, I thought I wouldn’t wear the zipper as much as I do now! Adds a twist and I get so many compliments." — Soymik

Dr. Martens

Rometty Platform Chelsea Boot

$180

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Perhaps the most modern style on this list, the heeled Chelsea boot is tough yet feminine—most Dr. Martens are labeled as unisex—with a 2 1/4–inch heel and one-inch platform.

Customer Review: "These are hands down my fav boots ever. I'm a hair colorist and stand for hours a day, and I'm NEVER un -comfy in these! They have a beautiful punk grunge chic vibe that goes with every outfit I wear. I love the platform shape on these, to me it's more feminine than the straight quad platform. These are comfy enough to even walk my dog. I've never had issues with these, and they're all I ever want to wear." — Always comf