Dr. Martens sandals have surged in popularity, becoming a summer staple that rivals the iconic 1460 boots. Renowned for their durability and timeless style, investing in a pair of Doc Martens sandals means embracing footwear that will last for summers to come. To ensure you choose the right pair, understanding the fit and size is crucial. This comprehensive Dr. Martens sandal guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find your perfect fit.
Exploring Dr. Martens Sandal Styles
Dr. Martens offers a diverse range of sandal styles, each with unique features and fits. Let’s delve into some of the most popular models:
The Blaire Sandal
The Blaire sandal combines style and comfort with its lightweight ripple sole and durable Goodyear welt. A slight wedge adds height, while a padded collar enhances comfort. The adjustable ankle buckle strap ensures a secure fit. Crafted from 100% coated leather, the Blaire is both stylish and durable.
Dr. Martens Women’s Blaire Quad Sandals – Black
Dr. Martens Women’s Blaire Leather Strappy Sandals
The Voss Sandal
For those seeking lightweight comfort without compromising on Dr. Martens’ signature attitude, the Voss sandal is an excellent choice. Made from supple Pisa leather and featuring a super-light Ziggy sole crafted from lightweight EVA material, the Voss offers all-day wearability. The rugged ripple tread provides stability, and the Goodyear-welted construction ensures durability.
Dr. Martens Women’s Voss Leather Strap Sandals – Black
Dr. Martens Women’s Voss Quad Double Strap Sandals – Black
The Olson Sandal
The Olson sandal presents a modern gladiator-style design, constructed from soft Milled Nappa leather. An easy-access front zip, combined with adjustable buckles, provides both style and practicality. Yellow welt stitching reinforces the iconic Dr. Martens DNA. Adjustable straps and Goodyear-welted construction add to the sandal’s durability and comfort.
Dr. Martens Women’s Olson Leather Gladiator Sandals
Dr. Martens Women’s Olson Leather Gladiator Sandals
The Clarissa Quad Sandal
Make a statement with the Clarissa Quad sandal, featuring a bold design with three front straps and a large ankle strap. A contrast gunmetal buckle adds a touch of edge. The robust 1.5” Quad Shore platform sole and AirWair heel loop complete this hard-hitting sandal, built with Goodyear-welted construction.
Dr. Martens Women’s Clarissa II Quad Leather Sandals – Black
The Fishermen Sandal
For a more enclosed sandal style, consider the Fishermen Sandal. Featuring soft leather uppers and an adjustable double buckle design, this gladiator-style sandal offers cut-out straps, signature pull-tab, and contrast yellow stitching. A lightweight rubber outsole and cushioned sole enhance comfort. Made from 100% leather, it provides both durability and breathability.
Dr. Martens Men’s Leather Fisherman Sandals
Dr. Martens Men’s Garin Leather Fisherman Sandals
The Forster Sandal
The Forster sandal is built for durability and breathability, perfect for warmer climates. Constructed from hardwearing Poly, Ripstop, and Webbing, it sits on a light-yet-rugged Tract outsole. Mock welt stitching and a scripted AirWair heel loop maintain Dr. Martens’ signature details. The Element leather is split with a geometric embossed pattern, and the cemented construction ensures lasting wear.
Dr. Martens Forster Leather Multi Strap Sandals
The Josef Sandal
The Josef sandal offers an easy slip-on style with adjustable straps for a secure fit. Crafted from aniline full grain crust leather with natural character and a suede footbed, the Josef prioritizes comfort. Two buckles allow for personalized adjustment.
Dr. Martens Men’s Josef Double Strap Leather Sandals
Dr. Martens Men’s Josef Double Strap Leather Sandals
Dr. Martens Sandal Size and Fit FAQs
Choosing the correct size for your Dr. Martens sandals is essential for comfort and longevity. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about sizing and fit:
#1 Are Dr. Martens sandals good for foot health?
Yes, Dr. Martens sandals are designed with foot health in mind. Drawing upon 70 years of boot-making expertise, Dr. Martens sandals provide excellent cushioning and support. The robust construction and supportive soles protect your feet, offering more support than many typical sandals. You won’t need to grip with your toes while walking, contributing to overall foot comfort.
#2 How comfortable are Dr. Martens sandals?
While Dr. Martens sandals are designed for comfort, some styles may require a break-in period, similar to their boots. Sandals with ankle straps, like the Clarissa, may cause rubbing initially, especially around the heel area. Softer leather options, such as pebbled leather, can offer more flexibility during the break-in process. Styles like the Myles slide sandal, without a heel strap, minimize the risk of rubbing. For exceptional underfoot comfort, the Voss and Blaire sandals feature cushioned and molded footbeds, respectively.
#3 Are Dr. Martens sandals waterproof?
Dr. Martens sandals are not fully waterproof. While the durable rubber soles offer weather resistance and can withstand various conditions, they are not designed for complete submersion. For waterproof footwear, consider rubber boots. However, Dr. Martens sandals are certainly weather-resistant enough for typical summer conditions.
#4 Is Dr. Martens sandal sizing true to size? And are they wide fit?
Dr. Martens sandals generally fit true to size. While they have a chunky appearance, they are not excessively wide. If you are between sizes, it is recommended to size up. For example, if you are usually a size 5.5, opt for a size 6. Sizing up can be particularly helpful during the initial break-in period.
#5 Will Dr. Martens sandals stretch over time?
Dr. Martens sandals will become more comfortable as they mold to your feet over time, but the leather itself does not significantly stretch. Pebbled leather versions will offer more give compared to patent leather. However, expect them to adapt to your foot shape rather than drastically stretching in size.
#6 How long does it take to break in Dr. Martens sandals?
With consistent wear, you can typically break in Dr. Martens sandals within 2-3 weeks. Wearing them for shorter periods initially, both indoors and outdoors, helps the leather soften and mold to your foot. Dr. Martens also offers specialized socks that can aid in the break-in process.
Dr. Martens Official Size Guides
Refer to the official Dr. Martens size guides below to determine your perfect sandal size:
Women’s Size Guide
| UK | USA | EUROPE | Japan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 36 | 22 |
| 4 | 6 | 37 | 23 |
| 5 | 7 | 38 | 24 |
| 6 | 8 | 39 | 25 |
| 6.5 | 8.5 | 40 | 25.5 |
| 7 | 9 | 41 | 26 |
| 8 | 10 | 42 | 27 |
| 9 | 11 | 43 | 28 |
Men’s Size Guide
| UK | USA | Europe | Japan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 39 | 25 |
| 6.5 | 7.5 | 40 | 25.5 |
| 7 | 8 | 41 | 26 |
| 8 | 9 | 42 | 27 |
| 9 | 10 | 43 | 28 |
| 9.5 | 10.5 | 44 | 29 |
| 10 | 11 | 45 | 30 |
| 11 | 12 | 46 | 31 |
| 12 | 13 | 47 | |
| 13 | 14 | 48 | |
| 14 | 15 | 49.5 | |
| 15 | 16 | 50.5 |
A Buyer’s Guide to Dr. Martens
Everything you need to know about breaking in your Docs, getting the perfect size and styling your new pair.
