Do Doc Martens Run Big? Finding the Right Fit for Your Feet

Are you thinking of buying a pair of Doc Martens but wondering if they run big or small? Doc Martens, also known as Dr. Martens or simply Docs, are a popular brand of shoes that have been around since the 1960s. They are known for their durability, comfort, and unique style.

However, finding the right size can be tricky, especially if you are buying them online. In this article, we will answer the question, “Do Doc Martens run big?” and provide tips for finding the right fit for your feet.

The Short Answer: Yes, Doc Martens Run Big

If you’re looking for a quick answer, the answer is yes, Doc Martens do run big. In fact, most people find that they need to size down when buying a pair of Docs. This is especially true for those with narrow feet or those who plan to wear thin socks with their shoes.

However, this doesn’t mean that you should automatically size down when buying a pair of Docs. It’s important to consider the style of shoe you are buying and your own personal fit preferences.

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Factors That Affect the Fit of Doc Martens

While it’s true that Doc Martens generally run big, there are several factors that can affect the fit of the shoes. Some of these factors include:

The Style of Shoe

Not all Doc Martens are created equal. Different styles of shoes can fit differently, even within the same brand. For example, the 1460 style of Doc Martens (the classic 8-eye boot) tends to run bigger than the 1461 style (the 3-eye shoe). It’s important to consider the style of shoe you are buying and how it may fit your feet.

The Material

Doc Martens are made from a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic materials, and canvas. The material can affect the fit of the shoe, with leather being the most rigid and synthetic materials being more flexible. If you are buying a pair of leather Doc Martens, you may need to size down more than if you were buying a pair made from synthetic materials.

Your Foot Shape

Everyone’s feet are different, and this can affect the fit of shoes. If you have narrow feet, you may find that Doc Martens run even bigger on you. On the other hand, if you have wide feet, you may need to size up to accommodate your foot shape. It’s important to know your own foot shape and how it may affect the fit of the shoes you are buying.

Tips for Finding the Right Fit

Now that you know that Doc Martens run big and the factors that can affect the fit of the shoes, here are some tips for finding the right fit:

Try Them On In Person

If possible, it’s always best to try on shoes in person before buying them. This way, you can get a sense of how they fit your feet and whether you need to size up or down. If you can’t try them on in person, consider ordering multiple sizes and returning the ones that don’t fit.

Consider Your Sock Choice

The thickness of your socks can affect the fit of your shoes. If you plan to wear thick socks with your Doc Martens, you may need to size up to accommodate the extra bulk. On the other hand, if you plan to wear thin socks or no socks at all, you may need to size down.

Read Reviews

Reading reviews from other customers can be a helpful way to determine how a particular style of Doc Martens fits. Look for reviews from people with similar foot shapes to yours and pay attention to whether they recommend the shoes run big or small.

Consider Breaking Them In

Doc Martens are known for their durability, but they can also be stiff and uncomfortable when you first start wearing them. It’s important to break them in gradually to avoid blisters and discomfort. Consider wearing them around the house for short periods of time before wearing them out and about.

Get Help from a Professional

If you’re still unsure about the right size to buy, consider getting help from a professional. A shoe store employee or podiatrist can measure your feet and recommend the best size and style of Doc Martens for your feet.

Conclusion

Doc Martens do tend to run big, but several factors can affect the fit of the shoes. It’s important to consider the style of shoe, the material, and your own foot shape when buying Doc Martens. Trying them on in person, reading reviews, and getting help from a professional can also be helpful when finding the right fit. With the right fit, Doc Martens can be a comfortable and stylish addition to your shoe collection.