Boots were initially designed to protect men’s feet and legs while doing risky work like hunting and so on. Slowly they have evolved into a fashion statement for both men and women. They still provide the initial comfort and protection, but have additionally become style statements. They are made from a wide range of materials, either natural or synthetic, and can come in a variety of styles, shades and costs. They can be feminine or manly, casual or formal, as varied as the personality of the wearer. Dr. Marten’s shoes are among the oldest and most reliable of these. Casual boots for women is a specialty and they come in different styles like Western (Cowboy), Hiking boots or Motorcycling boots. Women’s dress boots or more formal shoes can vary from ankle-high stilettos to knee-high boots to Go-Go styles boots.

Dr. Marten’s shoes, which are also known as ‘Dr Martens’ or just ‘Docs’, were originally designed by a German doctor during the Second World War. This doctor was called Klaus Mäertens, and it is after him that the brand is still named. Dr. Marten’s shoes are recognized by their genuine black leather and typical yellow piping. But this phrase has come to mean any black boot or leather shoes which look somewhat like the original ‘Docs’.

These Docs first became popular in the 1960s as the shoes ideal for the working class. Policemen, postal workers and factory workers were especially benefitted by the comfort and long-lasting durability of these shoes. Doc Martens later gained notoriety because they were favored by the extremist ’skin-heads’; still later, punk rockers took up the Doc Martens trend. It is interesting to note that a trend that began as a sign of authority like the police force became connected to the hate-driven movements. But nowadays, no such value judgment follows these shoes and men and women wear them irrespective of their affiliations.

Dr. Marten’s shoes held on to their popularity till the end of the twentieth century. But soon their losses started gaining on them and the manufacturing moved to Thailand to reduce costs. The old, vintage line is still produced in parts of the UK. They can be found in Bath and New York where the entire range of Docs’ sandals, shoes and boots are available.

Even if you do dangerous work like soldering steel, Dr. Marten’s shoes will allow you protection and comfort without compromising on the style. They have safety features like steel toes which can resist temperatures up to 300 degrees Celsius, for up to 60 seconds. They also have air-cushioned soles to absorb shocks; a midsole plate that resists punctures and a slip-resistant sole. Be it style, safety or comfort, Docs won’t let you down on any count!