a (self-proclaimed) dr. martens expert's guide to breaking in your docs:
there are MANY methods to break in your docs. i've tried a ton of different ways, and this is what i have found works best!
1: LAYER UP SOCKS
first, you'll want to layer up multiple pairs of socks. my reasoning for this is that the outside pair will be stuck to the back of the shoe due to friction, and the inside pair will slide easier and prevent blisters from forming when you walk. the thicker the socks the better! if you've already attempted to wear your docs and hurt your ankles, then put bandaids on before the socks.
2: HEEL PROTECTION
i highly recommend getting silicone heel protectors or heel pads (just look them up on amazon, they're cheap). they stick to the back of your shoes and add extra cushioning to prevent the leather from digging into you. they can go anywhere on the shoe that needs them! these will also help prevent your foot from sliding out if your docs are a little big.
3: WEAR AROUND THE HOUSE
to get your dr martens to start to form to your foot, wear them around the house for a couple days. when you walk around and do chores, or even if you're just sitting down in them, they will start to shape to your feet. this will prevent a lot of pain when you actually wear them out!
4: START OFF SLOW
with an extra pair of bandaids in-hand, you're ready to go out! but i wouldn't start off walking miles in them. it's better to walk shorter distances at first (like driving in them or going to the grocery store), and if or when you aren't experiencing any pain, you can wear them longer! all leather boots have to be broken in, and although this process can be uncomfortable, once they are broken in they will last you years!
docs can be tricky to break in your first couple times if you aren't exactly sure how to. this is what i do to make sure they don't hurt me, but other people may prefer different techniques.
5: SOME OTHER METHODS
if you've tried the above tips and still have had no luck, there are other methods you could try! i actually made an entire video trying the 'wrong' ways to break in docs (running them over with my car, showering with them, etc.) so you can check that out for more details/how they worked for me!
💬 I WANT TO KNOW:
how do you break in your docs? do you use the tips i suggested, or do you have another method? let me know in the comments!
👞 MORE LIKE THIS:
i post lots of dr martens tips and tricks/styling videos! follow + check out my reels page for more info like this! also let me know what other content you'd like to see from me!
