After six years of wearing the Docs, their traction is starting to fade. The upper is made of oil-slicked cowhide leather that cradles the foot without taking up too much surface area, requiring you to size up (I’m looking at you, shearling Uggs). The narrow upper supported my instep without crushing it, almost feeling like a chronic hug. With these preconceived notions in mind, I audibly gasped when I put the Docs on for the first time. Which boot is more comfortable?įor many folks, fall boots are less about comfort and utility, and more about conveying a sophisticated aesthetic that’ll look great over fallen colored leaves in Instagram photos. Here’s which style will stay in my closet, and which one will get the boot. Now that I’m downsizing, I won’t have the luxury of holding onto both styles. The WinterGrip Docs were my go-to boots for several years, so I was surprised to find them taking a backseat to my Blundstones once I added them to my roster three years ago. Their allure lies in their improved traction, fleece-lined interior, and full-grain oil-finished leather. While the 1640 Leather Lace Up Boots are one of Docs’ most iconic silhouettes, I decided to trust the 2976 WinterGrip Chelsea Boots, which retail at $160, based on how well the pair fit when I tried them on at the store. To the brand’s surprise, ska-, grunge- and punk-loving fans started rocking them everywhere, from work to concerts to skate parks. The two initially used discarded military materials to mass-produce their boots, eventually reaching an adoring overseas market. Using salvaged cobbler materials, he whipped up a therapeutic cushioned sole that fast-tracked the soldier's healing and then partnered up with a mechanical engineer to take his design to market. Klaus Maertens, a 25-year-old soldier, needed to fix a broken foot-stat. Martens, commonly dubbed "Doc Martens" or "Docs," may initially evoke images of 6-inch goth-looking combat boots, but its beginnings are a little more humble. Martens?ĭocs will forever remain the coolest thing in your closet-even after you've worn them down to their soles.ĭr. They feel incredibly lightweight and are made with water-resistant leather uppers and cushioned midsoles and toe springs for extra bounce and reduced fatigue. (If you haven’t read my previous review of my Blundstone boots, you’ll learn that fighting off the harsh Canadian elements is my part-time job). I opted for the Classic #558 boots because, after conducting some research, it made sense to spend an extra 10 bucks for the sturdier materials and better shock absorption found in the 550 line. From then on, “word of foot” spread, and Blundstone became a go-to boot for festival-goers, factory workers, and athletes around the world.Ĭurrently, its most popular pair is the Original #500 in stout brown, which goes for $199.95. It wasn’t until the early '90s that tourists seeking solid work boots discovered the brand's two-story, family-owned shop in Tasmania. While on the pricey side, Blundstone Chelsea boots provide unmatched value.īlundstones may have catapulted to popularity recently (we’re talking the last decade or so), but their history spans over 150 years. Martens, I’ve gained some wisdom to help you decide which pair is right for your feet this season. After spending hundreds of hours walking, living, and running around in boots by Blundstones and Dr. Not sure which Chelsea boot to add into your fall footwear rotation? I asked myself that same question six years ago when I began my quest for the perfect pair. They boast an equestrian-inspired unisex silhouette and have features that help make long days at the pumpkin patch or apple orchard a joy, from non-slip midsoles to helpful pull tabs. Not only are they super practical with their (often) weather-resistant materials and cushioned footbeds, but they pair well with nearly everything, from camel-hued trench coats to wide-leg corduroys and fall-friendly dresses. The boot, which originated in Chelsea, England’s chic mid-century fashion scene, shows no signs of leaving our wardrobes. There’s one boot style we can collectively agree reigns supreme once the temperatures dip: Chelsea boots.
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