IT STARTS WITH SOCKS

You could layer up multiple pairs of socks, or you could wear our purpose-made Double Doc Socks. Designed to give you extra protection on the foot's key friction points, you'll find that these socks make a world of difference on the break-in.

SHOP SOCKS

GIVE YOUR LEATHER SOME TLC

Massaging your footwear with your hands will simulate the effect your feet have on the leather when you first start stomping around. The more you work it, the more the leather will soften, so give it some elbow grease.

TRY A TIN OF WONDER BALSAM

Our balsam is formulated to nourish, condition and soften DM’s leathers, so it’s no surprise that it can come in handy when you’re looking to tame a new pair. Rub some into the inside of your boot to get the ball rolling.

SHOP WONDER BALSAM

KEEP STRETCHING OUT THE UPPERS

As you enjoy some well-needed respite, keep working the uppers by filling them with something in place of your feet while you sleep. Grab a can or scrunch up some newspaper to stuff in your boot or shoe. Leave it overnight for the best results.

HEEL GRIPS WORK WONDERS

The top of the heel is often the spot that gives people the most trouble. Our easy-to-insert heel pads tackle the issue head-on – giving the back of your feet a bit of support while the rest of the boot softens up.

TAKE IT SLOW

Some wearers jump straight into their new DM’s and don’t unlace until the leather is moulded to their feet. We don’t recommend that. Ease yourself in by wearing them every other day. You’ve got a lifetime to wear your new Dr. Martens - don’t rush it.

ALL THE ESSENTIALS

Our community does it best. This is what our wearers swear by as Dr. Martens break-in tips.

Shoe shoe care

MYTH BUSTER: BREAK-IN EDITION

We’ve heard all kinds of break-in tips over the last 6 decades. We asked an expert at our Cobbs Lane Factory to bust 3 myths we’ve seen all over our socials. 

  • MYTH #1

    HAIR DRYER HEAT WILL SPEED UP THE BREAK-IN

    “

    It'll work for a little while, it opens up the pores of the leather and softens it a little bit, but when it goes back to room temperature it'll go back to how it was.

    ”

    It's not a quick fix. ”

  • MYTH #2

    WEARING LOOSE LACES WILL BREAK IN THE BOOTS

    “

    No, you'll fall over. You want the shoe to mould to your foot. So you've got to get over that little initial period of pain, for the beauty.

    ”
  • MYTH #3

    PEEING ON THEM WILL HELP THE BREAK-IN

    “

    Personally… no. There is ammonia in the leather. It used to be used to tan leather, so you might end up tanning them and making them more tough.

    ”

    Do not pee on your shoes. ”

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GOT A BETTER IDEA? GET IN TOUCH AND TELL US HOW IT'S DONE...

  • IT’S ALL ABOUT THE CARE

    The Boot Doctor’s tips for making your pair last.

    Care for them

  • TIE IT UP

    One way to customise your pair: learn how to lace.

    LACE THEM

  • STYLED BY OUR WEARERS

    Break-in done? Now for the fun bit.

    Style them