As someone who loves wearing heels, and whose morning commute involves taking the New York City subway, I’ve become intimately acquainted with the commuter shoe. Think flats and sneakers, as well as rain boots in wet weather, to keep my feet comfortable and blister-free while trekking to the office.
Although these styles have been a saving grace for my feet, with my pumps tucked away in my bag and adding extra weight to my shoulder, I’ve often asked myself the age-old question: Do shoes exist that are comfortable enough for my commute and still stylish enough for the workplace?
Dr. Martens proves that, yes, they do.
In addition to its edgy 1460 Smooth Leather Lace Up Boots, the iconic English footwear brand offers a range of elevated styles for men and women that can adhere to most office dress codes. Silhouettes include everything from dainty Mary Janes to polished oxfords done in both high-shine and rich suede finishes. The label even offers heeled and platform options for shoppers, like me, who crave extra height.
And the pairs are super practical, too. Many feature the brand’s beloved air-cushioned sole, which offers solid traction and abrasion-resistance. Some styles are even equipped with proprietary GripTrax tread for next-level grip on particularly slick and icy surfaces (you can walk through snow in these looks without worrying about slipping and falling). To top it all off, the label’s office-ready pairs are often made with memory foam cushioning and a Goodyear welt construction for a sturdy, breathable and custom-like fit once you break them in.
Ready to add a pair to your cart? Ahead, shop some of our favorite Dr. Marten’s shoes that are perfect for your morning commute and beyond.
1461 Ghillie Leather Oxford Shoes
For a sleek oxford with flair (and a unique backstory to boot), this model is a great choice. Inspired by an original Dr. Marten’s pair that the brand’s design team discovered in a second-hand Japanese store, the style retains the label’s signature details while offering sophisticated updates via striking Ghillie lacing and serrated gimping along the leather. It’s also set atop a proprietary air-cushioned sole, which is durable, comfortable and slip-resistant to keep you stable on your way to the office.
2976 Slip Resistant Leather Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots are essential in any closet, especially when they’re as stylish and functional as this pair. A slip-resistant version of the brand’s 2976 model, this quintessential silhouette keeps you stable in all conditions, and also features a water-resistant upper that’s easy to clean. To top it all off, the lightweight design includes moisture-wicking sock liners and strategically placed memory foam pods for breathable support.
1460 Vonda Floral Leather Lace Up Boots
Add an arty touch to any outfit with the 1460 Vonda Floral Leather Boots. Rose embroidery gives the iconic 1460 boot an elegant update, while Dr.Martens’ comfort features like a soft leather upper and air-cushioned sole keep you supported for wherever the day takes you.
1461 Women’s Hardware Leather Oxford Shoes
If you work in the type of office where standout style is always appreciated, these embellished white oxfords are a must. The smooth leather style features silver rounded hooks and contrast white stitching throughout for polished, slightly sassy look. In terms of functionality, the supple upper should mold to your foot over time, while a Smoke AirWair sole means these are exceptionally durable.
Dr. Martens Magdelena Women’s Leather Heeled Chelsea Boots
A chelsea boot with some serious edge, this chunky block heeled style offers a four-inch boost and smooth leather upper that only looks better the more you wear it. For durability, these boots feature an air-cushioned sole and medial side zipper so you can neatly tuck your jeans into them.
1461 Slip Resistant Leather Oxford Shoes
This versatile black oxford is polished enough for the boardroom, yet offers subtle laidback vibes — thanks to the brand’s recognizable lugged outsole and yellow stitching — that can transition to after-work drink settings. It’s also slip-resistant thanks to GripTrax technology and ultra-comfortable featuring breathable socks liners, a memory foam footbed and padded tongue and collar.
Amory Women’s Wanama Leather Heeled Shoes
You can also switch up the traditional office shoe look with a heeled oxford style. This option features a soft satin leather finish, bouncy AirWair sole and stacked blocked heel offer the perfect mix of high style, comfort and leg-lengthening effects.
Vegan 1461 Oxford Shoes
Not only will this cherry red oxford help switch up an all-black wardrobe, but it’s a feel-good purchase, too. The style is 100% vegan, made with a high-shine, synthetic upper that looks just as luxurious as real leather. Plus, its air-cushioned sole means these will mold to the shape of your foot over time for unbeatable comfort.
3989 Vintage Made in England Brogue Shoes
Handcrafted in England using traditional cobbler’s techniques and machinery, this enhanced 3989 brogue adds expert design to the brand’s signature DNA. In addition to featuring classic details like yellow stitching and a sturdy AirWair sole, the pair features a fine haircell print leather and decorative perforations across the upper. Try styling them with a blazer and culottes for an elegant combination that doesn’t look like you tried too hard.
Adrian Yellow Stitch Leather Tassel Loafers
Double tassel embellishments and kiltie fringe make this slip-on loafer an instant classic. Of course, the air-cushioned sole doesn’t hurt either when it comes to keeping you stable.
1461 Made in England Suede Oxford Shoes
This jazzy oxford is also made with top-notch materials, including a supple, textured suede sourced from C. F. Stead — a tannery in Leeds, England known for supplying some of the finest hides since 1904. The shoes are available in five rich hues, including a statement-making orange, and finished with a gold-scripted sock liner. Their Goodyear-welted sole will wear well year after year.
