Are Doc Martens Boots Waterproof? Most of Them Aren’t
So, you just bought a new pair of Dr. Martens and you’re wondering if it’s alright to wear them in the rain. Actually, that was the first question that crossed my mind when I got my first Docs a few years ago.
Are Doc Martens Boots Waterproof?
Most Doc Martens boots are not waterproof, but they are water-resistant. The only Doc Martens boots that offer full waterproofing protection are the 1460 ankle boots and 2976 classic Chelsea boots.
Doc Martens boots are crafted from genuine leather, which is naturally porous.
While they can withstand light rain for a limited period, apply a waterproofing spray to your Doc Martens boots to ensure your feet stay dry in the long run.
On the other hand, many Docs owners have confirmed that they have never waterproofed their boots, yet their feet have remained dry even when wearing them through snow, shoveling, and slush.
Considering the numerous similar reports, it appears safe to wear regular Docs in snowy conditions.
However, when facing heavy rain, it is advisable to either opt for traditional rubber boots or apply a coating of waterproof spray to your Docs.
If you anticipate spending a significant amount of time in heavy rain, be aware that water may eventually seep through the leather and the seams where the leather is attached to the soles.
Wearing Docs in drizzling rain should be fine. Your boots should stay dry even if you spend several hours out in the drizzle.
Here’s a handy video from Lorna testing the water resistance of her Doc Martens boots.
That covers the information about regular Dr. Martens boots. Now, what about other types of boots? Can they be worn in the rain?
Are Vegan Doc Martens Waterproof?
Vegan Dr. Martens are waterproof boots thanks to the synthetic material they are made of. You can wear them in heavy rain without any problem.
The sole and the upper are heat-sealed and then sewn together. This manufacturing method is much better than gluing the parts together and makes the boots waterproof.
The boots are made of synthetic material with a quality leather look. The company’s vegan line features a nice minimalist unisex design.
While they’re not available in as many styles and colors as other boot collections, they’re perfect if you’re looking for a pair of boots 100% cruelty-free.
The boots are comfortable to wear, they’re soft, but at the same time, they’re really durable and you can wear them for years without any problem.
The textured sole is slip-resistant giving you the confidence to walk on any surface knowing you can fully rely on your boots for stability.
Yes, Vegan Doc Martens boots are indeed a good choice for work boots.
Docs are great as utility boots. They’re very popular among young people who often attend live open-air concerts.
Wearing a pair of Dr. Martens guarantees you’ll be fine even if you get stepped on your toes.
Are Doc Martens Sandals Waterproof?
Doc Martens sandals are made of leather and they can never be truly waterproof. If your Doc Martens sandals got wet, make sure to dry the leather as quickly as possible.
As the leather gets older, treat your sandals with a special leather protection spray so that they last longer.
If you haven’t done that before, check out this guide to learn how you can do that.
Not convinced you should buy a pair of Docs? Here’s what you need to know about these boots.
How Long Do Doc Martens Boots Last?
Doc Martens boots are extremely durable and can last for up to 20 years when properly cared for. This fact makes them a reliable long-term footwear investment.
Up until March 28, 2018, the company also sold lifelong boot variants but then decided to discontinue this range.
Dr. Martens continues to honor For Life guarantees for all the boots that have the words ‘Guaranteed for Life’ on the sole purchased before March 29, 2018.
Can I Wear My Doc Martens in the Rain?
You can wear your Doc Martens boots in the rain for up to 15 minutes if the leather has not been treated with a waterproof protection spray.
Natural leather absorbs water which means that your feet will eventually get wet if you spend too much time in the rain wearing your Docs.
On the other hand, you can wear your Dr. Martens 1460 waterproof ankle boots in the rain for as long as you want.
Will Water Ruin My Doc Martens?
Water and rain can ruin Doc Martens shoes and boots. Most Dr. Martens shoes and boots are not water resistant which means water and rain may rot, crack and stain the leather.
To prevent this from happening, use a shoe protector spray that repels water and other liquids.
Are Doc Martens Good for Hiking?
Doc Martens are not specifically designed for hiking and trekking, but you can wear the slip-resistant model when hiking on dry terrain if you don’t have anything else to wear.
However, it’s always better to buy a pair of special boots designed for hiking and trekking to stay safe and comfortable.
There you have it, I hope this post answered your questions. If there is anything else you’d like to know about Docs, let me know in the comments below.
Updated: July 2023.
