Doc Martens are an iconic style of shoe, but they are known for their hefty price tag. Some people love these shoes, but don’t necessarily have the budget for them, or want to spend weeks nursing blisters while breaking them in.
If any of the above applies to you, you’ll be happy to know that there are several Doc Marten alternatives on the market, that won’t break your bank account, and are a lot comfier from the get-go.
You’ll also be able to buy a few different pairs in different styles, for the same price as one pair of real Doc Martens! Therefore, you’ll really be getting your money’s worth with some of these alternatives.
Why Opt For Doc Marten Alternatives?
As touched on above, there are several benefits to Doc Marten alternatives. The first is their attractive price tag – obviously! But, there are other benefits to finding some good alternatives.
Wider Range Of Styles To Choose From
If you solely want Doc Martens, then you are limited to choosing from the styles that the company provides. If you look for alternatives, however, you’ll have a wider range of different options.
While many other brands will offer you the same style as traditional Doc Martens, you are bound to come across different kinds of styles and patterns that you may actually like better than the conventional Doc style.
As we said, you’ll probably be able to purchase a few pairs of these alternatives for the same price as one pair of real Doc Martens.
More Colors Are Available
When searching outside the box of traditional Doc Martens, you’ll encounter boots in all kinds of colors.
While black is the traditional color and everyone should have a pair of these in their closet, experimenting with other colors is a really fun way to trial new styles.
If you’re a lover of wearing black clothes, then purchasing some Doc alternatives in a variety of colors would go really well with your wardrobe.
More Size Availability
You may be desperate for a pair of specific Docs, but they don’t have your size. If this is the case, you’re likely to find your size if you look at alternative brands that offer similar styles to Doc Martens.
You may find other styles as well as your size in several different patterns and textures, and you’ll be spending less money!
If you expand your search and look for different styles, you’re more likely to find your size.
Easier To Break-In
Alternatives are also usually easier to break into than the real ones. Doc Martens are notorious for their tough exterior, due to the leather and other materials they use.
Many alternatives use vegan leather, which is a must softer leather than the genuine kind.
There’s nothing worse than purchasing a brand-new pair of shoes, but having trauma flash backs about the blisters they constantly give you while you break them in.
Purchasing some Doc Marten alternatives means you can wear them the minute you buy them, and they won’t give you horrible, painful blisters!
Price Flexibility
It is important to note that some alternatives are as expensive as real Doc Martens. However, when it comes to these alternatives, you do have a choice when it comes to the price, as there is a lot of flexibility.
If you don’t have the budget for it, you can find some wonderful alternatives for a much cheaper price that are still of great quality and look very stylish.
Doc Marten Alternatives
Without further ado, we will now list some of the best Doc Marten alternatives you can find!
Made from incredibly soft leather (no breaking in needed!), these Steve Madden combat boots are the perfect alternative to Doc Martens.
These boots mimic Doc Martens wonderfully, as they have a lace-up finish, almost identical to real Docs!
They are available in four different colors, black, chestnut, black crocodile, and beautiful sand color, and each boot is made with vegan leather!
Don’t let this alternative brand fool you. The soles on these beauties are made of extremely high quality, that are non-slip and wear-resistant, meaning they’ll last you a long time.
They also have a cushioned footbed, so they’ll be super comfy the minute you slip them on.
However, one downside is they tend to run a little bit large, but this is great news for the colder months, as you can wear them with the thickest, fluffiest socks you own to keep you warm!
These boots resemble Doc Martens to a tee and are of tremendous quality. They’ve got metal eyelets that make them look just like the real thing, as well as classic stitching along the bottoms.
Their soles are non-skid, meaning you’ll have a great grip on all kinds of surfaces, and they’re equipped with a cushioned footbed, so your feet will be comfy for hours on end.
However, they aren’t made with real leather, which is why they’re at such an attractive price (no one will be able to tell, though!).
Measures Shaft: 5.12 inch(approx); Platforms: 0.83 inch (approx); Heels: 1.77 inch (approx)
MATERIAL: The upper is made of light- Faux Leather material — spill-resistant. And with a velvet lining offers soft and breathability to ensure comfortable step, which is suitable for any season.
FASHION DESIGN: Classic ankle booties lace-up front with metal eyelet, the must-have in your wardrobes.
ANTI-SLIP & WEAR-RESISTANT BOTTOM: These combat boots were made of TPR rubber sole, cushioned footbed for comfort, is non-skid outsole with good grip.
SIDE ZIPPER: Easy to wear on and off without untying the shoelace, and convenient to adjust the shoelace to suit different foot shapes.
The Doc Marten 1460 versions feature a buckle at the top of the boot, giving it a little more character and edge. These alternatives by White Mountain also feature a little buckle detail, it is just located more towards the bottom of the boot.
These boots are also super comfortable as they have a cushioned insole, and great grip with their treaded outsole.
They do run slightly big, so they are to either be worn with thick socks, or those who want to purchase them should size down slightly.
These bad boys have a Chelsea-style look, while still following the general vibe of Doc Martens. This combination results in an edgy but cute look!
Their soles are chunky, providing you with a great grip while still staying stylish, and their slip-on nature makes them very easy to wear.
While they’re a little harder to break in than the previous options on this list so far, once they’ve been broken in, they are super comfortable, and they look so good it’s worth it!
The burgundy style Docs are iconic and just scream punk rock. These dupes by Hawkwell are an amazing alternative, really capturing the iconic color of the original Docs.
They’re made with faux leather, making them perfect for vegan customers, and they have cushioned insoles, assuring you that you’ll be comfortable.
As well as being lace-ups, they also have a side zipper, so they’re very easy to slip on. While this isn’t a regular feature on real Docs, the zipper isn’t too noticeable as it is on the inner side of the ankle.
MEASURES (approx): Heel measures approximately 1.5", shaft: 5.5", platform: 0.75"
ANTI-SLIP: These ankle boots constructed with non-slip rubber sole to deliver traction, safety and durability.
EASY ON AND OFF & PERFECT FIT: Side-zip and lace-up design offer a secure fit and easy entry.
ALL DAY COMFORT: Low heel with non-skid rubber sole, cushioned and soft insole, faux leather upper, making you always feel comfortable with every step.
CLASSIC COMBAT BOOTS: You can't go wrong with effortless zip up combat boots! Simple combat lace up boots are an everyday essential to complete your look. This revolutionary trend has become a modern wardrobe staple from the shopping to the streets.
These pull-on, Chelsea-style boots are a great alternative to traditional Doc Martens. Their chunky style captures the Docs style well, and they are at a great price.
They are super easy to wear as they have a pull-on shape, and like the other options on this list, they feature a cushioned insole for top-notch comfort.
However, they are not vegan, as they are made with real leather, which is bad news for our vegan readers.
If you’d like a smaller style of shoe, these little ones by DADAWEN are a wonderful option. While they don’t capture the exact style of Docs, they still give your outfit the same edge as Doc Martens would, which is why they’ve been included in this list.
These cuties are water-resistant and have a breathable lining, so you won’t need to worry about your feet sweating!
They feature a super retro British design, so if you’re a fan of that style, then these are for you!
FRIENDLY REMINDER: Size chart has been renewed(update:2019.7.22), Please order normal size, Thank you in advance
DESIGN DETAILS: Design features include an adjustable lace-up closure, water resistant and leather upper offers durability, retro british brogue design
COMFORTABLE LINING: Choose breathable and soft leather linings that add a touch of fashion to these adorable oxfords, and a lightweight, flexible outsole
ALL DAY COMFORT: Comfortable platform with non-skid, much lighter than you imagine, show the beauty of female,manmade sole, antiskid and abrasion resistant
SUITABLE FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS: They can be used for everyday wear, dating, working, walking, casual, dress, shopping, travel, long standing, afternoon tea... These are sure to make anyone go 'awww' whenever your are present
This option offers a very 90s-inspired look, and although they appear to be leather, they are also completely vegan!
As they end relatively high on the leg, they are also a good alternative to Jadon Doc Martens, but they have a glossier finish.
Their lace-up feature is specifically in-line with the traditional Doc style, and they feature a padded footbed, so you’ll be extra comfortable as you strut around in these boots.
100% VEGAN: Eco-friendly and in control. Buy these guilt-free, knowing your purchase is making no dent in the environment!
MUST HAVE STYLE: Take it back to the 90s with this platform combat boot, which is available in versatile neutrals, trendy pastels, and head-turning prints to pair perfectly with your outfits!
COMFORT IN EVERY STEP: Comfort comes first and you won’t get tired of walking around. The padded footbed and comfortable upper will comfort you all day long.
EASY TO WEAR: These boots are bound to stay on all day and night once laced up. There are no buckles or zippers to worry about!
MEASUREMENTS: Platform heel measures 1.25" and Shaft measures 7" from arch.
These combat boots go up extra high on the calf, giving them a punky look. They have an extra chunky platform sole that’ll make you stand out in any room.
A big plus side is that they’re made with vegan leather, so no animals were harmed during the manufacturing process.
They also feature side zip closures, which are a bonus as the length of these boots can make them hard to get out of without a zipper.
Unfortunately, these boots will take a bit of time to break-in, but their gorgeous style makes them worth it.
Another option from the wonderful READYSALTED brand is these over-the-knee sock boots!
These boots will hug the length of your legs, stopping just above the knee, and they’ll really catch the attention of everyone in the room.
While they don’t feature lace-ups that are an iconic feature of many Doc Martens, their sock-boot nature makes up for it, as these will really be flattering on anyone.
They do have the chunky platform that pays tribute to the real Docs, but their price tag is a lot more appealing.
If you want a more feminine look but don’t want to ditch the combat style, try some heeled combat lace-ups like these from SODA.
Doc Marten does have heeled versions, but they come with their usual hefty price tag, and some needed breaking in time.
There are a variety of alternatives available, and these are wonderful. They are available in a variety of colors such as white, black, brown, tan, and different materials, such as suede and leather.
As well as having laces, they also feature a side zipper, making them easy to slip on and off.
Stunning Womens Chunky Lace Up Ankle Boots With Chain Detail
These Chain Detail Booties Are Perfect For Day To Night Wear!
Heel Height 2 Inches / 5 CM
Available In Black Patent & Black Synthetic Leather
This style is labelled with UK/EU size but this will be equivalent to the US size ordered. E.G US5/UK3, US6/UK4, US7/UK5, US8/UK6, US9/UK7, US10/UK8, US11/UK9
Provided to you by Amazon themselves, these lace-up combat boots are very simple, but are the perfect alternative to traditional Doc Martens.
You can pair these with flowy dresses, jeans, shorts, you name it! They’re bound to pair well with anything you wear, and they’re a fraction of the price of real Doc Martens!
They’re also vegan friendly, breathable, and have a handy zipper, making them easy to slip on and off.
COMFORT AND FIT: These lug-sole combat boots have a padded insole with high-quality memory foam for added comfort, lace-up closure for adjustability, and an inside zipper for easy entry.
MATERIAL: Amazon Essentials shoes are made from high-quality alternative leather materials. This style has a faux buffalo grain leather upper and is lined in faux leather.
STYLE: These ankle boots have a back pull tab, metal eyelets, heavy weight stitching throughout, and a lug-sole.
DETAILS: 1.25 inch heel with a flexible non-slip sole. Shaft height measures 6 inches from where your heel sits to the top of the shaft.
DESIGN: These versatile boots take you anywhere and can be paired with your favorite Amazon Essentials outfit.
What To Look For When Buying Doc Alternatives
Many believe that Doc alternatives are of poor quality and a waste of money. However, all the options listed in this article are of a wonderful quality, prioritizing comfort which is the main factor you should consider when purchasing shoes.
In order to get the best alternatives you possibly can, there are a few things you need to consider, which we will outline below.
Quality
Just because you have chosen to opt for Doc alternatives, does not mean you need to forget about the quality.
Many alternatives are still made with real leather, or vegan leather, you just need to make sure the material is of good quality, which you will have no trouble in finding.
You must also ensure that the material is breathable, as this will prevent your feet from getting too warm and becoming sweaty.
If this does happen, you may be dealing with smelly shoes (and you’ll be forced to leave them out on the porch!).
You’ll also need to be aware that some may run large, especially if they are wider, and some will run small, aimed more towards those with narrower feet.
The best way to make sure of the above points, is to try them on in a physical store. While online purchases are convenient, when it comes to boots like these, it is always best to physically handle them and try them on, so you can be sure of the quality and comfort they provide.
Price
Deciding on a price is crucial when it comes to finding boots like these. It is important to note that you do get what you pay for, so spending a little more in order to get some high-quality boots that will last you for quite some time would be best.
However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a pair of good boots for a decent price, they just may not be made with as high-quality material as some that are more expensive would be.
The key to buying some Doc Marten alternatives, is to ensure you’re purchasing some that are lower in price.
You could always look at the certain style of Docs you like, take note of their price, and find a pair that resemble them as close as possible with a lower price tag.
Style
As you’ve seen in this list, there are some that resemble traditional Doc Martens very closely, so you can find a pretty good alternative.
However, many alternatives follow the same structure and silhouette of conventional Docs, but include extra little features that add a lot of character and make them more unique.
Whether you’d like a direct mimic of Docs, or something with a little more flair, that is something you must decide on when finding the right pair of alternative Docs for you.
How To Care For Your Doc Alternatives
The best way to care for your boots is to clean them regularly. This will not only leave them looking brand new, it’ll make them last longer.
You can do this by investing in a doormat designed to clean the underside of boots and shoes. You can find some that have bristles, or rubber spikes, and they are available in all kinds of department stores and online stores.
This should be done each time you enter the house, so you are able to remove all dirt and debris you may have picked up throughout the day.
Once you’ve taken them off, you should remove any dirt from the surface of the boots with a microfiber cloth. If there are any areas of dirt that won’t come off, then you can try scrubbing at them with a tooth brush.
If there are any remaining stains, you can wipe at them with a damp sponge, and you should avoid using any cleaning products on the boots.
You may receive a cleaning packet along with your boots, with instructions and certain products on how you should clean them. If this is the case, then you shouldn’t use any other products that haven’t come with your boots.
Final Thoughts
As you’ve seen from this list, you can find a variety of Doc Marten alternatives that are perfectly good for a fraction of the price of real ones.
By expanding your search to different brands and stores, many more options become available to you, such as different styles, as well as prices.
The main factor to consider when purchasing any kind of shoes is comfort, and just because you’ve decided against traditional Docs, does not mean you will be missing out on this, as many alternatives have the customer’s comfort at their forefront.
By searching through a variety of brands, it gives you the opportunity to set out a budget that is right for you.
Whether you want to try out some Docs but want to see if they would suit you before splurging, or you’re a fan of their style but don’t want to spend too much money, we hope these alternatives have been useful for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Size Up Or Down When It Comes To Doc Martens?
Doc Marten boots, in general, are true to size. However, if you are after the 1460s, Jadons, or Chelseas, then you should size down, around a whole size from your regular shoes, as these versions of Doc Martens can run tight.
How Long Does It Take To Break In Doc Martens?
The full break in period when it comes to Doc Martens is around three weeks. This can be sped up by using certain heat techniques, or ensuring to wear them with socks.
While they’re likely to be wearable before then, the full break in period is around 3 weeks.
Can You Wear Doc Martens In The Rain?
If your Doc Marten boots have not been waterproofed, they can be worn in the rain for around 20 minutes. If they have been waterproofed with wax, or waterproof spray, then they can be worn in the rain for around an hour or more.
The more you wear them, the quicker the leather will soften. It is advised that you wear your Docs on alternate days when you first get them. This will help you break them in, while avoiding too many blisters.
Can You Wear Doc Martens In The Snow?
While you can wear your Doc Martens in the snow, the traction on their soles isn’t great for ice, and the leather can allow waterlogging, so if waterproofing them with a waterproof spray is advised before wearing them in the snow.
However, you are probably best wearing appropriate snow boots if you know you are going to be walking around in snowy conditions.
Hi, my name is Jenna Reign and I have teamed up with my best friend, Sam, to deliver you all of the style secrets to help you stay ahead of the trends. We both met in fashion school and have been inseparable ever since!
Despite our deep love for fashion, even we found it difficult navigating our closets when trying to leave the house for the first time since the pandemic was announced. Were the trends still evolving, or did they get put on hold like the rest of the world?
