Stepping into Comfort: The Ultimate Dr. Martens Size Chart and Sizing Guide

Step one in your quest for that perfect pair of Docs, ones that feel like they were made just for you, starts with the official Dr. Martens size chart.

But we’re not stopping there, oh no. In this article, we’re about to embark on a journey into the fabulous world of Dr. Martens sizing.

Our mission?

To make sure you stomp the streets in style with boots that don’t just mirror your unique personality but also promise unbridled comfort and resilience for those long hauls.

Right below the size charts, I’m going to discuss:

• How my different Docs fit – yes, I’ve got a bit of a thing for them
• How my Doc Marten sandals fit
• How to figure out your Doc Marten size
• How to measure your feet at the store or at home
• How to break in your Docs without breaking a sweat

Sounds interesting?

Let’s dive right into it…

Related:

Unlock the secrets of how to stretch Doc Martens in our related article.

Dr. Martens Women’s Size Chart

Related:

Curious about finding your perfect size in designer fashion? Explore our Gucci Size Chart article and take the first step towards a stylish wardrobe.

Dr. Martens Men’s Size Chart

Related:

Looking for more fashion insights? Delve into our article on Alexander McQueen size chart to master sizing for another high-end brand. Expand your style knowledge!”

Dr. Martens Youth Footwear (Big Kids)

Related:

Want to stay ahead in the fashion game? Be sure to check out our informative article on the Balenciaga size chart. It’s your next step in understanding sizing for top-tier brands.

Dr. Martens Junior Footwear (Little Kids)

Related:

Ready to level up your fashion know-how? Dive into our Golden Goose size chart. Discover the art of sizing for yet another top-tier brand.

Dr. Martens Toddler Footwear

Related:

Explore the world of high-end fashion with our article on the Chanel size chart. Uncover the secrets of sizing for this iconic brand.

Dr. Martens Infant Footwear

Dr. Martens Newborn Footwear

Dr. Martens Sizing Guide

Ah, the beloved Docs, a world of rugged style and unbeatable comfort, but when it comes to sizing, it’s a bit like solving a puzzle. Since Dr. Martens don’t play the half-size game, getting that perfect fit can feel like a daring adventure, especially if you’re a rookie in the land of Docs.

And, to make things even more thrilling, sizing can be a wild ride from one style to another.

Now, here’s what I found through my Doc Martens escapades. Typically, I’m a 9.5 size kind of person. But, since there are no half sizes in the land of Docs, I ventured forth to try the size 10. The 10 felt a smidge too roomy and I went down half a size to a 9, and voilà, it was perfect for me.

But here’s the thing – the best recommendation is to hit up a Doc Martens store, try on a bunch of different styles, and get up close and personal with their soulful leathers. That’s where the magic happens, and you figure out the size that’s your perfect match.

You can also enlist the help of a buddy or a family member who shares your shoe size. Borrow their Doc Martens, put ’em on, and see how they fit. It’s like a mini fitting room party for your feet.

Just remember, though, the more your friend has worn their Docs, the more they’ll have molded to their feet, so take the results with a pinch of leather.

But what if you’re on a solo mission?

Fear not, fellow Doc enthusiast. We’ve got a contingency plan. Begin by measuring the length and width of your foot…

How To Measure Your Feet

Unleash your inner foot measuring pro…

Whether you’re in the heart of a Doc Martens store or a shop that carries these iconic boots, you’re in luck. Many of these places come armed with a trusty Brannock device, a magical tool that’ll unveil your true shoe size with ease.

But what if you’re in the mood for a little DIY action at home? No worries, here’s a simple way…

1. Find a smooth, sturdy wall. Let it be your guiding star.
2. Position the back of your heel against that wall.
3. Extend your foot forward, letting your biggest toe be the pioneer.
4. Make a mark.
5. Grab a ruler or tape measure.
6. Measure from your wall-marked heel to your toe’s final frontier. This is your foot’s length.
7. Don’t forget the width! Measure the widest part of your foot.

Armed with these measurements, return to the size chart above. Now, you’re ready to discover where your feet fall in the grand Doc Martens scheme of things.

And because we’re all about making it easy, here’s an infographic to show you how it’s done at home:

There you go, no more guesswork. You’re now the proud owner of the Doc Martens sizing magic spell!

How My Doc Martens Fit

Alright, let’s get personal about how my Doc Martens fit. My foot, measuring in at about 10.7/10.8 inches, is a bit of an anomaly on the Doc Martens size chart – it’s above an 8 but not quite a 9.

So, I’ve got no choice but to snug into a size 9 since the 10 was a bit on the bigger end of the spectrum. It’s all about finding that Goldilocks fit, right?

Dr. Marten 1460s, 1461, Chelsea Boots, 3989s, Jadons

Now, for the star of the show, my 1460s – the ones crafted in the heart of England. I went with the size 9, and let me tell you, it was a match made in boot heaven. They’re not too narrow, and after a little dance of breaking them in, they became my footwear soulmates.

And let’s not forget my 1460s Wintergrip – also a size 9, just as spot-on as the rest of the 1460 clan.

So, the verdict for the 1460s? They stick true to the size chart, and a size 9 worked like a charm for me.

But, hang tight, because the other boots in my collection, like the 1461s, Chelsea Boots, 3989s, and Jadons, they’re cut from the same cloth – or leather in this case. They all seem to play by the same size rulebook, making life easy for boot aficionados like us.

Now, a little tip from me to you: the leather choice can throw a curveball into the mix. Most leathers are a tad more forgiving, but if you venture into the world of vegan leather, it tends to hug your feet a bit tighter.

Combs Tech

A size 9 in the Combs Tech is a perfect match. They hold onto that “true to size” badge with pride. These boots are a comfy, stylish affair that’s as dependable as your morning coffee.

However, let’s not overlook the twist in the tale – the Terracolors. These boots had a different plan in mind. For these, I had to size down, throwing a curveball into the size consistency game.

But before you take the plunge, do yourself a favor and try them on in stores if you get the chance. Sometimes, a little fitting room rendezvous is all you need to find the perfect boot companion.

Dr. Martens Mules

Ah, the enigmatic realm of sandals, where the fitting adventure can sometimes feel like a riddle wrapped in leather. It’s a bit of a hit-or-miss game, isn’t it?

Take, for instance, my Dr. Marten Mules – those stylish creatures reminiscent of Birkenstocks. I mistakenly ordered a size 10, and, with time, they got a little loose. The result? A loose fit that leaves me pondering whether I should’ve stayed true to size.

So, the verdict on Dr. Marten Mules? It’s a bit of a tricky terrain. Staying true to size might be your best bet, but keep in mind, the sandals’ whims can vary.

Related:

Talking about Birkenstocks, here’s everything you need to know about regular Birkenstocks vs. narrow styles.

Pearson Strap Webbing Sandals

I think I ordered them online, and boy, did I take a gamble by sizing down. Turns out, they’re not your usual true-to-size deal. I opted for an 8, and I’ve got to say, it was a genius move because these sandals run large. They’ve got a little extra room to dance in!

These sandals are hands down my top pick among Doc Marten sandals. They’re a perfect fit every time, and they bring that extra touch of awesome to whatever I’m wearing.

Plus, they’re basically my secret weapon for compliments. People can’t help but notice them. Seriously, you’ve got to give these a whirl – they’re a stylish win!

Dr. Marten Adrians

The Adrians are a bit of an enigma in the Doc Martens lineup. You see, the Adrians are slip-ons, and slip-ons are meant to have that snug hug. It’s like they’re the rockstars of the Doc Martens world, incredibly popular, but sometimes, they come with a side of “tricky.”

We’re not done yet! It’s time for the grand finale, the pièce de résistance – the art of breaking in your Doc Martens…

How To Break In Doc Martens

Cracking the Code: How to Tame Those Tough Doc Martens

Alright, so you might be scratching your head, wondering why on earth you need a full-blown tutorial on breaking in a pair of Doc Martens.

Well, let me tell you, these boots have a bit of a reputation for being, well, stubborn. But fret not, because I’m about to take you on a boot-breaking journey with options for every budget, from free to just a tad more spendy.

We’re going to make sure your Docs don’t give you those dreaded boot smooches, aka blisters!

Now, let’s tackle the big question: why are these Docs such a pain to break in? The secret sauce is in their leather, and it’s not your average leather. Nope, it’s got this fancy plastic coating on top, adding an extra layer of challenge. You’ve got to break through that, too.

The problem with this plastic coating is that the conditioner you’re using never really makes it past this plastic shield.

All that conditioner you thought was doing wonders for your leather? Well, it’s just doing a disappearing act, leaving you with a filmy layer, because, essentially, you’re just conditioning plastic. Not exactly what you signed up for, right?

In essence, breaking in a boot is all about just loosening up those fibers and getting them back to where they’re moving without turning into a blister-inducing nightmare.

So, here we are, and I’ve got three ways to break in a pair of Docs…

The Old-fashioned Way

Alright, folks, if you love a good challenge, you can always go for the old-fashioned way of breaking in your Docs. It’s a bit like a rite of passage; you embrace the blisters, endure the pain, and hope for the best.

Slow and steady is the name of the game here. You’re coaxing those stubborn fibers to loosen up, and while it might be a bit of a painful journey, it does work – eventually.

But, and here’s the kicker, when you’re breaking in your boots this way, you’re also running the risk of breaking some of those already fragile and dry fibers.

It’s a free method, and it’s pretty straightforward, but let’s be real – it’s not for the faint of heart. In fact, out of the three methods, this is pretty much the one you should reserve as a last resort.

Now, let’s talk about the second method for Doc-breaking magic: giving those leather fibers a hydrating boost with the power of water…

Water

Now, some folks swear by the aquatic approach to break in their beloved Docs. You might have heard of people tossing their boots into the bathtub or the sink, leaving them to soak for a while.

And, to be honest, it’s a trick that works like a charm, especially with higher-end boots. You see, if your boots are decked out with all-leather insides, they’re pretty water-resistant, which means they can handle a good soaking.

But, my friends, here’s the twist with Doc Martens – they play by different rules. These boots have synthetic internal components, which means they’re not best pals with water.

Once the H2O seeps through the fiberboard, which is just paper compressed really tight, it is on a one-way ticket to your midsole, making it soggy and, well, downright heavy.

Here’s the right way to do it…

Gently ease your Docs into the water – no need to baptize them fully. But here’s the secret sauce: keep that insole dry. Let them soak until you sense the leather has had its fair share of hydration. Then, let them drip dry – none of that tilting and having the water flood back to your insole, please.

Now, once they’re dry enough, it’s showtime. Slip those bad boys on, maybe double up your socks, and strut your stuff for the day – or at least until your feet start singing with that telltale “hot spot” feeling.

As time goes by, the magic happens. All that leather will cozy up to your foot’s unique shape, especially if you’re working with veg-tan leather. It’s like a personalized boot-hug in the making.

Now, if you want to take it to the next level, the secret sauce here is conditioning the inside of your Docs…

Conditioners

Just put some conditioner on your hand and rub it on the inside of the boot. Let that goodness soak in, which is going to lubricate those fibers and make the leather a lot more malleable. You’ll be on your way to breaking in your Doc Martens like a pro! 

But before you dive into any conditioning extravaganza, do yourself a favor and test it on a less conspicuous spot. That way, you can gauge how much color change you’re signing up for. It’s like a sneak peek of the main event.

You probably want to condition your boots once a year after that.

Now, there are three trusty types of leather conditioners in town:

• Wax: The Plaster of the Leather World

Wax or a balm is like the sturdy plaster in the leather world. The catch? It’s got a paste-like consistency, so it won’t seep into the leather as eagerly.

But here’s the nifty trick – if you’re opting for a balm, a gentle warm-up for the inside of your boots could do the trick. Just don’t go overboard; we’re talking about giving your boots a little cozy moment, not a full-on meltdown. We don’t want threads or glue throwing a fit.

• Leather Milks: For the Connoisseur of Leather Elegance

Now, if you’re feeling a bit fancy and have some change to spare, Venetian shoe cream is your go-to. It’s got a lighter touch, and that’s the ace up its sleeve.

Light-weight conditioners won’t change the color of your boots as much as the heavy hitters like oil or robust balms. Given that many Doc Martens are rocking a hefty plastic coating, you won’t see a drastic darkening.

• Oils: Sweet, Sweet Nectar for Your Boots

For the budget-conscious folks, there’s Leather Honey, a delightful option that’s honey-like in consistency but packs a punch.

Or you can saddle up with Obenaufts Leather Oil. Just dab a little, work it around until it’s one with the leather, and then let it chill for a day to dry out.

And here’s the magic – when those fibers are well-lubricated, they’re going to tango with your feet without a fuss. They won’t snap as you break them in, and that means they’ll keep kicking for longer. You won’t be back for a reconditioning session anytime soon, and the break-in becomes a walk in the park.

But hold your horses, we’re not done yet! I’ve got some Doc Marten faux pas to share…

How Not To Break In Doc Martens

We’re about to explore some wild ideas that might’ve crossed your mind but should stay firmly in the “don’t even think about it” category.

1. No Microwaving, Please!

Don’t even think about zapping your Docs in the microwave. It’s a terrible idea, trust me. The microwave is no place for your beloved footwear, as it’ll crank up the heat and send the glue into a meltdown.

Plus, there’s this metal shank inside that could easily turn this experiment into a metallic mishap, and your boots might just bid you a tearful farewell.

2. Say No to Hammer Time

I’ve witnessed some people throwing towels on their Docs and going full Thor on them with a hammer. Now, here’s the lowdown – that plastic coating on top is kind of like your boots’ superhero cape, but it’s sensitive.

If you unleash the hammer too hard, you could actually fracture it, leading to some unpleasant premature cracking.

And, if that’s not enough to make you rethink your strategy, keep in mind that your Docs have these things called stiffeners in the toebox and heel, and they’re delicate. So, no hammer time, folks, or your boots might be dancing to the wrong beat forever.

3. Don’t Drown ‘Em

Submerging your Docs completely in water – that’s a no-go. Why? It’s a recipe for disaster, especially for the fiberboard inside. Let’s just say your Docs won’t appreciate a good swim.

4. Cooking Oil is for Pancakes, Not Boots

Now, let’s talk about conditioning. I get it, you might be tempted to reach for the cooking oil, but I’m here to steer you clear of that slippery slope.

These boots deserve the VIP treatment, so opt for conditioners that are specifically designed to preserve their leathery glory.

Think:

• Leather Honey
• Mink Oil
• Obenaufs
• Leather Chamberlains
• Leather Milk
• Venetian Cream.

Trust me, your Docs will thank you, and your boots will be ready to take on the world.

5. Don’t Turn Up the Heat Too Much

Last but not least, don’t overheat your boots. Just like with oils, go gentle when applying heat, especially if you’re dealing with textured leather. A little warmth can do wonders, but too much might turn your Docs into a leather nightmare.

There you have it, the adventures you should steer clear of to keep your Docs in top shape. Now, saddle up and ride out there in style!

Dr. Martens FAQs

Should you size up or down in Doc Martens?

Dr. Martens generally run true to size. But here’s the kicker – they don’t do half sizes. So, if you’re caught between sizes, grab the next whole size up and you’re good to go. Why? Well, this extra wiggle room lets you slide into those boots with thicker socks, especially during the break-in phase. It’s like giving your feet a VIP ticket to comfort, ensuring your new boots become as snug as a bug in a rug as you strut your stuff.

Related:

We’ll provide you with the best guidance on whether to go sockless or opt for a stylish sock pairing. So, do you:

• Wear socks with Hey Dudes?
• Wear socks with loafers?
• Wear socks with Birkenstocks?

What is a size 10 in Doc Martens?

A size 10 in these Doc Martens translates to a women’s EUR 42 and EU 8, while the gents out there get a EUR 43 and a UK 9.

Are Dr Martens supposed to be tight?

Dr. Martens are supposed to feel a bit snug, but it’s essential that this tightness is not equated with discomfort. When you first slip your feet into those boots, they should wrap around your feet like a friendly, firm handshake. No pinching, no pain, just cozy companionship. If it’s more like a wrestling match for your feet, especially in the width department, then you’ve gone too small. Remember, Dr. Martens are famous for softening and stretching as you parade around in them, adapting to your unique foot shape over time for a bespoke fit that’s oh-so-comfy.

Related:

Looking to make your cowboy boots more comfortable? Check out our article on ‘How to Stretch Cowboy Boots at Home.’ We’ll show you practical tips and tricks to ensure a perfect fit for your Western-inspired footwear.

Do Doc Martens stretch out?

Yes, Dr. Martens do stretch out with wear. When you first snag a pair, they might feel like they’ve been carved from solid rock, but as you break them in, the leather and materials cozy up to your feet, creating a tailored fit that’ll make you want to dance in the streets.

How do you make Doc Martens fit tighter?

Now, let’s say your Docs need a little extra TLC to make them fit tighter. Don’t fret; we’ve got your back. Start by slipping into some thicker socks; they’ll fill that extra space and give you that snug feel you’re craving. Insoles or orthotics can work their magic too, helping you secure a tighter fit. And don’t forget about lacing – cinch those laces up tight and watch that slack disappear. If all else fails, you can always call on a cobbler to work their magic and pad or tweak your boots to perfection.

Should your toes touch the end of Doc Martens?

Your toes should not touch the end of Doc Martens. While these boots are designed to have a firm and snug fit, it’s crucial to ensure that there is some space between your toes and the front of the boot. Ideally, you should have about a thumbnail’s width (approximately 1/2 inch or 1.3 cm) of room at the front of the boot to allow for proper comfort and to accommodate the natural movement of your feet. This space will prevent your toes from constantly pressing against the boot’s front.

How long do Dr. Martens take to break in?

Breaking in Dr. Martens can vary from person to person, depending on factors like the specific model of boots, your foot shape, and how often you wear them. But on average, it takes about 3-6 weeks of consistent wear to fully break them in. During this period, the boots gradually soften and mold to the shape of your feet, making them more comfortable and flexible. Some individuals may find their boots break in faster, while others might take a bit longer, depending on factors we discussed earlier. To expedite the process, you can wear thicker socks and use a leather conditioner to help soften the leather.

Can I use leather conditioner on Doc Martens?

Yes, you can and should use a leather conditioner on Doc Martens. Leather conditioner helps maintain the quality and longevity of your boots by keeping the leather soft and supple, preventing it from drying out, cracking, or becoming stiff.

There you have it, in this article, we had the Dr. Martens size chart, for men, women, and kids and we shared our sizing guide. I hope we’ve been helpful and see you in the next one 🙂