We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Lifestyle Fashion A Guide to the Best Dr. Martens Shoes, Including One Pair Selena Gomez Wears on Repeat We interviewed Vice President of Product Kristin Jones to learn more about the brand and its best-selling styles By Olivia Muenter Olivia Muenter Olivia is a full-time freelance beauty and fashion writer. She has been writing and editing stories about fashion, beauty, style, and wellness since 2012. Her work has been published on PEOPLE, InStyle, Byrdie, Brides, and other publications. Olivia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from the University of Florida. People Editorial Guidelines and Alyssa Brascia Alyssa Brascia Alyssa Brascia is a staff shopping writer for PEOPLE with two years of experience in the digital media industry. Her expertise lies in the realm of fashion and beauty, where she covers the best products that your wardrobe and makeup vanity need like the best lip oils, boyfriend jeans, workout sets, ballet flats, and more. People Editorial Guidelines Published on February 29, 2024 07:15AM EST In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Reviews Add to Cart Things to Consider FAQ Take Our Word for It Courtesy of Selena Gomez / Instagram Known for their edgy style and functionality, Dr. Martens shoes are made to go the distance — and look good while doing so. Though the brand has humble beginnings in workwear, the infamous combat boot known as “Docs” have become a staple in modern-day streetwear, with celebrities like Selena Gomez and Kendall Jenner pairing them with everything from blue jeans to (costume) wedding dresses. But how did this utilitarian style make its way up the Hollywood chain? Vice President of Product Kristin Jones tells PEOPLE that the very first pair of Dr. Martens shoes were created in April 1960. “With its trademark yellow stitch, grooved sole and heel-loop, it was a boot for workers, initially worn by postmen and policemen; comfortable, durable and lightweight in comparison to its competitors at the time,” Jones says, explaining that though the boots were initially designed with factory workers in mind, they soon became popular with “punks, musicians, and anyone who stood for self-expression.” “Throughout Dr. Martens history, the brand has been adopted and subverted by diverse individuals, musicians, youth cultures, and tribes,” she says. “These are the people who stand out from the crowd and their journey of self-expression has always been accompanied by a pair of DMs.” Dr. Martens aren’t just for musicians or artists, though. They’re for anyone and everyone in between. Though you may think of boots when you think of Dr. Martens, there’s a trough of other styles trending in 2024 that are suitable for any season — from slingbacks to sandals. So if you’re in the market for a new pair, keep scrolling to learn more about the most popular Dr. Martens shoes. Dr. Martens 1460 Smooth Leather Lace-Up Boots Dr. Martens View On Amazon $128 View On Nordstrom $170 View On Zappos $170 If there is a most iconic pair of Dr. Martens boots, it’s these: The classic 1460, which is the brand’s original style. When the first Dr. Martens were created, they looked nearly identical to this traditional lace-up boot. This smooth leather version of the boot is available in eight different colors this season and can be polished for a shinier coat or worn-in and scuffed up for a more casual look. The brand describes them as “famously stiff to start,” which echoes the one thing everyone should know about Dr. Martens boots: They require a bit of breaking in. However, once they are broken in, they’re incredibly durable, comfortable, and will last you decades. It's recommended to size down since they do run a bit large. Sizes: 5-12 US women's, 6-14 US men's | Materials: Smooth leather upper, Goodyear welt construction, textile lining, cushioned footbed, rubber outsole | Colors: 8 Dr. Martens Jadon III Boot Pisa Leather Platforms Dr. Martens View On Amazon $210 View On Zappos $210 View On Drmartens.com Platform boots are another popular iteration of Dr. Martens, and the style is arguably more popular than ever. Though the Jadon III boot is a newer addition to the combat boot family, but this platform style has become one of Dr. Martens best-selling styles. This particular pair comes in seven color options, from black to violet, and features a 1.5-inch platform, so it makes a statement without any discomfort. These are also made from a softer leather (Pisa, a medium-weight Napa leather), than some more traditional pairs of Docs, which makes them a bit more comfortable right out of the box and eliminates the dreaded breaking-in period. Size Range: 5-12 US women's, 6-14 US men’s | Materials: Pisa leather upper, Goodyear welt construction, quad sole, 1.5-inch platform, 2-inch heel | Colors: 7 Dr. Martens Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots Amazon View On Amazon $170 View On Nordstrom $170 View On Zappos $170 If you’re more interested in a pair of boots that you can slip on, but you still want a classic pair of Docs, these are going to be for you. Like the 1460s, there are a few different versions of these (including the faux fur-lined pair that we’ll talk about next), but these smooth leather boots are incredibly versatile. Available in black leather, these are a classic Chelsea boot silhouette and have been around since the ‘70s. Like the 1460s, these take a bit to wear in as well, but the elasticized sides may make the process a bit more comfortable. In fact, many positive reviews note these as even more comfortable than the classic, lace-up styles. Sizes: 5-12 US women's, 6-14 US men’s | Materials: Smooth leather upper, Bex sole, elastic gussets, Goodyear welt construction, 1-inch platform | Colors: 1 Dr. Martens Chelsea Boots With Faux Fur Dr. Martens View On Nordstrom $144 View On Zappos $180 View On Dsw.com Chelsea boots are one of these undeniably stylish kinds of shoes that will never go out of fashion — but unless you’re wearing a super thick sock, they’re not the best for cold winter days. Enter, the fur-lined 2976’s. Not only are they cute, but also incredibly practical for colder temperatures, thanks to the extra cozy faux fur lining. Its air-cushioned sole keeps you light on your feet while you trek through snowy streets, though the interior feels like a more polished version of your favorite fuzzy slippers. Sizes: 5-11 US women's | Materials: Smooth leather upper, air-cushioned sole, elastic gussets, Goodyear welt construction, faux fur lining | Colors: 1 These Are the Best Jeans for Tall Women, According to Tall Women Dr. Martens Rometty Leather Chelsea Boots Dr. Martens View On Nordstrom $133 View On Zappos $95 View On Drmartens.com For those searching for a pair of Dr. Martens with a slightly more feminine feel, consider these Rometty Chelsea Boots which feature a stacked chunky heel. These are another style that are highly rated with many reviews specifically mentioning their comfort and all-day wearability — perfect if you love the Chelsea boot style but want a bit more lift. The 2.25-inch heel does just that, offering height for when you want to dress up your jeans and T-shirt or pair with floral dresses year-round. Sizes: 5-11 US Women's (runs large) | Materials: Rugged leather upper, air-cushioned sole, elastic gussets, 2.25-inch heel height | Colors: 2 Dr. Martens 1461 Oxfords Dr. Martens View On Drmartens.com $150 Although not boots, Jones named these 1461 Oxfords as quintessential Dr. Martens and one of the most popular styles of the brand — particularly in this cherry red hue, which has been a bestseller this year. Like the 1460s, these oxfords have a lace-up design and the stiff, takes-time-to-wear-in leather that Dr. Martens is known for. This style is unisex, so is offered in both men's and women's shoe sizes — although these do run large, so we suggest sizing down. Sizes: 5-11 US women's, 6-16 men's | Materials: Smooth leather upper, air-cushioned sole, elastic gussets, 1-inch platform height, Goodyear-welted stitching | Colors: 7 Dr. Martens Adrian Yellow Stitch Leather Tassel Loafers Dr. Martens View On Zappos $130 View On Drmartens.com Contrary to popular belief, Docs don’t just come in the form of lace-up boots — in fact, one of the most popular styles this year (and one that’s been in the brand’s sketchbooks for decades) is the Adrian Tassel Loafer, outfitted in smooth leather and decorated with fringe. This hard-wearing style was born in the ‘70s at Dr. Martens, marrying the durability of blue collar work boots with the style of white collar work shoes. Since this style features the same Goodyear-welting and rubber soles as all of the classic Dr. Martens styles, these loafers are ones that you can keep in your closet for years to come. One of the best parts? Its durable leather upper can be polished into an elegant shine or roughed up to look a little more relaxed, giving them an entirely different look for the boardroom or for casual wear. Plus, you can grab them in a platform version if you like to lean into trends. Size Range: 5-12 US Women's, 6-14 US Men's | Materials: Smooth leather upper, rubber outsole, Goodyear-welted construction, double tassels, kiltie fringe | Colors: 2 Dr. Martens 8053 Arc Crazy Horse Leather Platform Shoes Dr. Martens View On Zappos $160 View On Drmartens.com Inspired by vintage style and built with the sturdiness of a combat boot, the 8053 Arc Crazy Horse Platforms looks like the lovechild of an Oxford shoe and a hiking boot. Outfitted with antique-looking brown leather, brass eyelets, hiker laces, and a 1.5-inch platform, these shoes were one of the bestsellers this year due to their unique style and outfit versatility. From jeans to midi skirts, these low-top platforms are an easy way to elevate any outfit (though we do warn you — its substantial sole makes these a little heavy). Size Range: 5-12 US Women's, 6-14 US Men's | Materials: Heavyweight leather, quad sole, Goodyear-welted construction, hiker laces, 1.5-inch platform, 2-inch heel | Colors: 1 Dr. Martens Leather Heeled Boots Dr. Martens View On Amazon $160 View On Nordstrom $200 View On Zappos $160 Another vintage-inspired style that has a bit more of a modern feel than the Oxfords are the Dr. Martens Leona boots. They also have a heel, if you’re looking for something with a little more height. But there are more details, too, like a platform sole and antiqued brass tunnel eyelets for the laces — adding a subtle steampunk flair. Think of it as a cross between the 1460s and Rometty Chelsea boots, just with a bit more edge. Sizes: 5-11 US Women's (runs large) | Materials: Smooth leather upper, antiqued brass tunnel eyelets, Airwair™ air-cushioned sole, slip-resistant sole, 2.25-inch heel height | Colors: 1 Dr. Martens Carlson Suede Casual Slingback Mules Dr. Martens View On Nordstrom $110 View On Zappos $90 View On Drmartens.com Taking the more casual route is the Carlson mule, a closed-toe slingback style with the signature rubber sole that we know and love. However, this everyday shoe forgoes the usual leather upper for suede, which you can clean with a suede or stiff bristle brush should they get dirty in your day-to-day. The laid-back style features an adjustable backstrap that keeps these firmly on your feet while you stroll, but you can also swing the strap to the front in case you want to wear it like a true mule. Plus, it comes in two more neutral shades that feel all too perfect for spring and summer. Size Range: 5-12 US Women's, 6-14 US Men's (runs small, size up) | Materials: E.H. suede, flat sole, adjustable slingback strap | Colors: 3 The Best Clogs of 2024 That Boast Function and Style Dr. Martens Jorge III Brando Leather Slingback Mules Dr. Martens View On Zappos $125 View On Drmartens.com View On Journeys.com Mules have always been around, but the style has made a significant comeback in the past few years. Taking a Dr. Martens spin on the silhouette is the Jorge III Slingback, a smooth leather slip-on specifically designed for summer. Though sturdy with a hard-wearing sole, the leather upper is comfortable enough to keep things breezy during the warmer months thanks to its open back. Whether you need something closed-toed for city strolls or want to edge up your summer wardrobe, these buckle-adorned mules are the perfect addition to your shoe collection. Size Range: 5-12 US Women's, 6-14 US Men's | Materials: Brando smooth leather, Goodyear-welted construction, 1-inch platform, 1.5-inch heel | Colors: 1 Dr. Martens Gryphon Pisa Leather Platform Sandals Dr. Martens View On Zappos $125 View On Drmartens.com Another member of the Dr. Martens summer family is the Gryphon Platform Sandal, which comes in black and light beige shades. This open-toed sandal is reminiscent of a gladiator style, sitting atop a nearly 2-inch platform with a slightly wedged heel. It’s made from the same Pisa leather as the Jadon III’s, meaning this material has a bit more flexibility than some of the stiffer leathers from Dr. Martens (which you’ll often find in the brand’s winter shoes). There’s two adjustable straps around the ankle and top of your foot that ensure a personalized fit every time, and the sole is made with Goodyear-welting — a sure sign that these sandals are going to last you a long time (a.k.a. several festival seasons). Size Range: 5-11 US Women's | Construction: Pisa leather, Goodyear-welted construction, 1.63-inch platform, 2-inch heel | Colors: 2 Dr. Martens Sinclair Platform Leather Boots Dr. Martens View On Amazon $210 View On Nordstrom $210 View On Drmartens.com $210 If there’s one thing that most people can agree on with leather boots, it’s probably that they can sometimes be hard to put on. Lacing up boots can be an annoying task that requires extra time when you’re already running out the door, and we have all probably struggled with a pair of pull-on boots before, too. That’s what makes the Sinclair boots such a popular Dr. Martens style: They have a removable zipper closure, so you can choose between lacing up or zipping up — making these perhaps the most versatile option of them all. They also come in three different color options (including white, if you want to twin with Selena) and are available in both men's and women's sizing. Sizes: 5-11 US Women's, 6-10 US Men's | Materials: Pebbled Nappa leather upper, Goodyear-welted lines, 1.5-inch platform height | Colors: TK Add to Cart If you need to treat the leather upper after a particularly dreary day, you can clean, protect, and polish your shoes with the brand's balsam and shoe brush to keep your kicks in tip-top shape. Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam Scheels View On Drmartens.com View On Scheels.com Dr. Martens Bristle Shoe Brush Dr. Martens View On Drmartens.com Things to Consider When Shopping for Dr. Martens Heel Height Dr. Martens come in a variety of styles with different heel heights, like combat boots and oxfords, so it's important to think about which height is best for your purposes and lifestyle before purchasing a pair of your own. If you're looking for a stylish pair of shoes that give you a little extra height, then choosing one of the heeled versions of the Doc Martens boots, such as the Rometty boot, is a great option. Closure Preference The traditional Doc boots have laces that cinch up the front of the boot, but there are also a few other options for shoe closure available. Dr. Martens also makes boots with a zipper that may be quicker and more accessible for some to put on. You can also find a slip-on Chelsea version of the traditional Doc boots. Break-in Time Classic Dr. Martens are notorious for starting out stiff and loosening up with wear, but while the traditional boot might require break-in time to reach that comfortable, molded-to-your-foot feel, some of the shoes offered by the brand require less break-in time, according to customer reviews, (like the Jadon III Pisa boots). Frequently Asked Questions Why are Dr. Martens so popular? Dr. Martens are popular because they’re entirely unique. Though other brands may mimic the silhouettes of some of Dr. Martens most popular pairs of shoes, the craftsmanship is one of a kind. “There are a lot of brands out there creating similar models to the Jadon, 1460 and 1461, but the highly skilled manufacturing and product detail can not be replicated,” Jones explains. “The expertise that goes into making our boots, the attention to detail and the long-lasting durability sets Docs apart from the rest.”The other thing that makes Dr. Martens such a fan favorite is their versatility and practicality in day-to-day life. “The simple silhouette allows people to customize each pair; whilst on a utilitarian level their famous durability and comfort make them ideal footwear for the world of gigs and street fashion,” Jones says. “On an emotional level, they are a flag of attitude and empowerment." How long do Dr. Martens shoes last? If you take good care of your Dr. Martens, then it’s safe to say that they will last a very long time, with some customers stating theirs have lasted over 20 years. This comes down to particular craftsmanship and construction, of course. In fact, some Dr. Martens shoes are still created in the exact way they were more than 60 years ago, so you know they have the process down to a science. “The Northamptonshire factory where it all began still exists to this day, in the village of Wollaston,” Jones says. "A specific range of ‘Made In England’ products are manufactured here by a small, close-knit team of people schooled in traditional shoe-making and a process that hasn’t changed since our first pair six decades ago." Are Dr. Martens waterproof? While not every pair of Dr. Martens is waterproof, the brand does offer a wide variety of waterproofed footwear (like these 1460 Trinity Wintergrip Waterproof Boots) that are great for snow, rain, and other elements. Take Our Word for It Olivia Muenter is a freelance writer who has written for numerous outlets such as Refinery29, Glamour, and Byrdie. She is also a co-host of the lifestyle podcast Bad on Paper. For this article, she compared the features, benefits, and uses of some of the most popular Dr. Martens shoes. She compared shoes based on factors including price, style, comfort, and durability. She also interviewed an executive at the brand for their expert intel while reviewing the most popular Dr. Martens shoes of the year. Alyssa Brascia, staff shopping writer at PEOPLE, later updated this story with the most popular shoes that were sold in 2023 and 2024. Meet Our Expert Kristin Jones is the vice president of product for Dr. Martens US, with nearly 18 years of experience in the fashion industry. Her previous role at Adidas spanned nearly 15 years of her career, bringing her to the executive level in creative direction strategy before pivoting to the Dr. Martens brand.