How to Break In Your Dr. Martens: Top Tips

The DM’s break-in is the stuff of legend. Everyone’s got their go-to approach. But which ones really work? Can you actually wear in your boots by sticking them in the bath? Or burying them in the garden? It's time to settle the debate.

A FEW TRICKS FOR THOSE FIRST STEPS

It’s no secret that our boots can take a day or two to wear in. But what’s less well known is that there are actually plenty of little things you can try to ease in those first few wears. We put out a call to our community – asking for the most out-there break-in tips our wearers have discovered over the years. And after whittling out the radiators, microwaves and power tools, we collated and tested our favourites and came up with a definitive list of Boot Doctor-certified tips. Think you know how it’s done?

#1 CHOOSE THE RIGHT ACCOMPANIMENT

Double Docs Socks are designed to give you a little extra protection in key friction points, like the heel, ankle and arch. You might find they make a world of difference during those first few days.

#2 WORK THAT LEATHER

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.

#3 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

#4 KEEP STRETCHING OUT THE UPPERS

When you’re not wearing your boots, you can keep working the uppers by filling them with something in place of your feet. We recommend a can or some newspaper. Try it overnight for best results.

#5 HEEL GRIPS CAN 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 breathing room while the rest of the boot softens up.

SHOP HEEL GRIPS

#6 GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK FROM TIME TO TIME

Some brave souls jump straight into their new DM’s, and don’t unlace until the new leather is moulded to their feet. But we don’t recommend that for everyone. Ease yourself in by wearing them around the house at first, then on odd days etc