how to break in docs
Breaking in a fresh pair of Doc Martens can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by wearing them around your house for short periods, gradually increasing the time as they start to mold to your feet. Use thick socks to help stretch the leather and soften any pressure points. You can also try using a leather conditioner or balm to ease the process. Be patient, as it might take a couple of weeks to fully break them in, but soon your Docs will fit like a glove—well, a shoe.
How to Break in Docs
Ready to make those stiff new Doc Martens feel like they’re custom-made for your feet? Follow these steps to break them in effectively and comfortably.
Step 1: Wear Them Around the House
Start by wearing your new Docs at home for short stints.
This allows your feet and the leather to gradually adjust to each other. Keep your initial sessions to about 30 minutes, and then remove them. Doing this a few times a day helps ease the leather without any major discomfort.
Step 2: Use Thick Socks
Put on a pair of thick socks each time you wear your Docs.
Thick socks provide extra cushioning and help stretch the leather slightly faster. They also protect your feet from initial blisters or rubbing, making the breaking-in process much more bearable.
Step 3: Apply Leather Conditioner
Use a good quality leather conditioner or balm on your Docs.
Applying conditioner helps soften the leather, making it more pliable and less likely to cause discomfort. Be sure to focus on areas that feel particularly stiff, like the toe box or heel.
Step 4: Gradually Increase Wearing Time
Extend the duration you wear your Docs gradually over a week or two.
As the leather starts to mold to the shape of your foot, you’ll be able to wear them for longer. Start with an hour, and slowly build up to wearing them for a full day.
Step 5: Use a Shoe Stretcher if Needed
If certain areas still feel tight, consider using a shoe stretcher.
A shoe stretcher can help give those stubborn areas a little extra room, especially if you combine it with a leather softening spray. This can be a lifesaver for tricky spots like the heel or sides.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Doc Martens should feel much more comfortable. The leather will have softened and adapted to the shape of your feet, making them suitable for longer wear without discomfort.
Tips for Breaking in Docs
- Patience is key: Don’t rush the process. It can take a couple of weeks for Docs to fully break in.
- Protect your feet: Consider using blister pads during the first few wears.
- Use a spoon: To soften the leather, gently rub a rounded spoon on stiff areas.
- Alternate shoes: Give your feet a break by wearing different shoes on alternate days.
- Keep them clean: Regular cleaning and conditioning will help maintain the leather’s flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Doc Martens so stiff at first?
Doc Martens are made from tough leather that needs time to mold to the shape of your feet, which is why they feel stiff initially.
How long does it take to break in Doc Martens?
It typically takes about 2-3 weeks of regular wear to properly break them in.
Can I speed up the breaking-in process?
Yes, using thick socks, leather conditioner, and a shoe stretcher can help speed up the process.
Why do my Doc Martens cause blisters?
New Docs can rub against your skin as they mold to your feet, which can cause blisters. Thick socks and blister pads can help.
Can I use heat to soften my Doc Martens?
While some people use heat, it can damage the leather, so it’s not recommended. Stick to conditioners and wear them in gradually.
Summary
- Wear them around the house.
- Use thick socks.
- Apply leather conditioner.
- Gradually increase wearing time.
- Use a shoe stretcher if needed.
Conclusion
Breaking in Doc Martens doesn’t have to be a painful rite of passage. With a bit of patience and some smart techniques, like wearing thick socks and using a good leather conditioner, you’ll find your new Docs quickly becoming the favorite shoes in your wardrobe. The key is to be gentle both with the shoes and with yourself; no one wants to hobble around with sore feet, right?
Consider the breaking-in period as a chance to get to know your new footwear. It’s like making a new friend—slow and steady wins the race. Every time you wear them, you’ll be a step closer to shoes that fit just right. If you’re committed to a more comfortable experience, following these steps will ensure your Docs are as welcoming as an old pair of slippers in no time.
Feel free to come back to this guide if you need a refresher or share it with friends embarking on their own Doc Martens journey. Happy walking!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.