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What’s up, Doc?

Dr. Marten’s boots have become a fashion essential, popping up on streets and runways alike. It’s no wonder since they’re ideal for any season to pair with jeans for a casual look or a skirt to add some punk rock vibes.

Plus, with fall upon us, it’s imperative to have boots lined up in your wardrobe for jumping in leave piles and strolls through the apple orchard, right?

The classic Docs are the ankle-length lace-up black boots, complete with their iconic yellow stitching in the sole and the little flap on the back, a helpful addition when pulling the boots on over socks or pants.

The only thing that isn’t so cute about the brand is the price tag, which, to be fair, is actually reasonable for genuine and premium vegan leathers made to last. So, for those who can’t shell out over $100 for a pair of the real thing, there are similar styles that look and feel like the real deal. You can always pair these boots with a jacket or blazer or any other designer dupe.

See below for lookalikes of the classic black boot, as well as the Mary Jane Loafers, Chelsea boots, Motorcycle Boots, and more, most for under $100.

To shop this article by gender, simply click on either link below:

Best Shoes Like Dr. Martens for Women

Most Similar to Dr. Martens: Steve Madden Rascal Boot

Steve MaddenSteve Madden

The Rascal boot from Steve Madden is available in both black and brown, and comes with a side zipper closure and a pull tab on the back, just like Docs. The heel measured is just over 2 inches, which provides the perfect little boost and leg-lengthening effect.


  Miska Salemann in her Steve Madden boots. Miska Salemann Miska Salemann in her Steve Madden boots. Miska Salemann

New York Post Review: “These popular boots are right at the $100 mark, but I think that’s more than reasonable considering how much wear you will be getting out of them,” shared Commerce Reporter, Miska Salemann. “I’ve been clomping around the city with these non-stop, and seem to get more comfortable every time I wear them. They have a slightly polished (not shiny) look that makes them easy to dress up or down. I’d recommend sizing up, as I always do with boots.”

Size: 5-12 | Color options: 2 | Material: Vegan leather

Best Lined Boots: ICHIGO Causal 8-Eye Side Zipper Lace-up Combat Boots

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These boots feature the signature platform and a light, faux leather material that’s spill-resistant. Plus, they have a slick velvet lining for ultimate comfort, every step of the way. Best of all, these boots come with high-contrast and piping and are offered in four colors so you can’t flaunt your favorite shade for the season!

Sizes: 5.5-10 | Color options: 4 | Material: Synthetic leather

Best Motorcycle Boots: DREAM PAIRS Women’s Knee High Motorcycle Boots

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Move over Cowboy Boots, these Motorcycle Boots are stealing the show. They’re the boots you need, if you want to be taken seriously. Our Social Media Marketing Manager, Brooke Matalon, says these boots were her go-to over the summer, and they’re coming with her into the Fall season seamlessly.


  Matalon wearing her Doc Marten-like boots. Brooke Matalon Matalon wearing her Doc Marten-like boots. Brooke Matalon

New York Post Review: “I had been wanting a pair of motorcycle boots, but was always a little wary of spending a lot of money on something super trendy that might go out of style soon. But, these shoes are literally under $70, don’t look cheap, and are actually comfortable — they’ve gotten me through outdoor concerts, nights out, and more. I cannot recommend [them] enough; they elevate every outfit.”

Sizes: 6-11 | Color options: 4 | Material: Faux leather

Best Mary Jane Loafers: Steve Madden Women’s Lyndon Loafer

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In case you haven’t heard yet, Mary Jane loafers are the latest obsession of Gen Z. These trendy slip-on shoes offer a playful, yet feminine style that is a bunch of fun to match with fall and winter outfits. The gold buckle adds a pop of color, and we’re particularly intrigued by the burgundy-red colorway.

Sizes: 5.5-11 | Color options: 2 | Material: Leather

More Affordable Than Dr. Martens: Athlefit Women’s Chelsea Ankle Booties

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Our Updates Editor, Holly J Coley, swears by her new boots from Amazon that look similar to Dr. Martens but are much more affordable. She’s explained that they have a similar toe and platform, but they’re slightly more feminine. The lug soles and chunky heels provide a few inches of extra height without putting strain on the ankles or calves.


  Our Commerce Updates Editor shows off her Chelsea boots. Holly J Coley Our Commerce Updates Editor shows off her Chelsea boots. Holly J Coley

New York Post Review: “I got into Chelsea boots when I decided I wasn’t interested in spending $100 plus on Dr. Martins (#sorrynotsorry)… They look stiff (again, like Dr. Martins) but the sides have some elastic, so they’re quite flexible when you’re pulling them on and off. They literally go with everything — they’re sort of the LBD of my boot collection.”

Sizes: 5.5-11 | Color options: 6 | Material: Leather

Best Low-Platform Boots: Dunes Women’s Desi Lace-up Boot

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You may have to break these in, but once you do you’re going to be wondering ‘Why would I ever spend money on the real things?’ These boots are available for a fraction of the price of Dr. Martens, and the smooth black construction and bright silver hardware make them just as stylish. They have a smaller platform, which is ideal for taller people or those who struggle balancing on platforms.

Sizes: 6-11 | Color options: 1 | Material: Faux leather

Best Heeled Boots: Dream Pairs Chunky Heel Ankle Booties

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Waiting for that immediate wow factor? For those looking for a heeled pair of chunky boots, look no further than this budget-friendly option from Amazon. These unique boots come in four lovely neutral shades and boast an impressive 3.5-inch heel height.

Sizes: 5.5-12 | Color options: 4 | Material: Faux leather

Best Combat Boots: Sam Edelman Womens Lovrin Platform Combat Boot

While this is one of the pricier options on this list, Sam Edelman’s Lovrin combat boots are a favorite on the Post Wanted team, and easily add edgy style with a chunky platform sole. They’re also a wonderful alternative to Doc Martens, for those aspiring a more elevated look. The lace-up design and side zipper offer a customizable fit, while the leather upper provides durability. A cushioned footbed ensures comfort for all-day wear — even in the outdoors.


  Sophie Cannon in her favorite Sam Edelman boots. Sophie Cannon Sophie Cannon in her favorite Sam Edelman boots. Sophie Cannon

New York Post Review: “I am truly ‘Lovrin’ these boots for fall and into winter, too,” says Sophie Cannon, The Post’s Manager of Commerce Strategy and Development. “As a short girl, I need a bit of a boost with a platform sole. As a girl with bad arch support and wider feet, I need a supportive shoe. These boots have both and are fashionable to boot (ha!) with the gold accent chain details and perfectly smooth, luxe leather. Best yet, I’ve worn these hiking in Colorado as well as to events in NYC and have not had any foot pain yet.”

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: Black, light brown, dark brown | Material: Leather and rubber

Best Versatile Boots: Dirty Laundry Women’s Margo Ankle Boot

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If Dr. Martens and Chelsea Boots had a baby, this would be it! Thanks to the boot’s pull-up sleeve, they are very easy to put on and have a nice ankle-high length that would look great with skirts, dresses, denim, leggings, and more. Customers mention they still fit great with thick winter socks on underneath.

Sizes: 5-11 | Color options: 4 | Material: Leather

Best Shoes Like Dr. Martens for Men

More Affordable than Dr. Martens: Vostey Men’s Motorcycle Boots

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Don’t leave your partner hanging on Dr. Martens. This pair of motorcycle boots has high-quality leather, a padded collar, and a rubber sole to give his feet ultimate comfort. Not to mention, they’re comfy enough to wear to work but just as sleek and suitable for a night out on the town.

Sizes: 8-14 | Color options: 5 | Material: Synthetic leather

Best Work Boots: Timberland PRO Pit Boss 6 Inch Steel Safety Toe Industrial Work Boot

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These may not be the boots to skip into the office in, but they are a wonderful option for a hardcore outdoorsman. Straight from Timberland, these industrial boots have a steel toe, handsome yet rugged look, and clock in at just over $100. While they are still a bit expensive, they are also safe, resilient, and comfortable.

Sizes: 7-15 | Color options: 3 | Material: Leather

Best Splurge Boots: Blundstone Chelsea Boots

BlundstoneBlundstone

Though these are not a more affordable option, they are often compared to Dr. Martens. Many people go as far as to say they’re a better investment — noting the supple leather, increased shock absorption, and what our Deals Writer says is a timeless, yet youth-approved look.


  McCormick shows off his Blundstone boots in his Brooklyn apartment. Blundstone McCormick shows off his Blundstone boots in his Brooklyn apartment. Blundstone

New York Post Review: “The year was 2016 when I first trotted into liberal arts college, bereft of a real boot option and totally unprepared for the upcoming Midwestern chill,” shared Post Wanted Deals Reporter, P.J. McCormick. “Luckily, I had my fellow lib arts students to point me towards a pair of Blundstones, which kept me warm, dry, and in step with the major fashion trends of the campus.”

Sizes: 4-14 | Color options: 8 | Material: Leather

Best Chelsea Boots: SUREWAY Slip-On Work Boots

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These best-selling boots will have heads turning when you wear them to work. They feature not one, but two pull tags for easy slip-on and take-off. If you’re looking for more of a safety shoe, there’s a composite toe with a safety toe cap to keep the foot protected from falling objects. It may take a few days to break these in, but we say they’re well worth the wait.

Sizes: 7-15 | Color options: 4 | Material: Leather/Rubber

Best Dress Boots: Bruno Marc Men’s Motorcycle Boots Oxford Dress Boot

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If your partner is looking for the “it shoe,” these leather boots fit the part. They’re a popular choice on Amazon, loved for their trendy motorcycle buckles on the back, as well as the internal faux fur that gives it a more luxurious look and extra warmth.

Sizes: 6.5-13 | Color options: 6 | Material: Faux Leather

Dr. Martens FAQ’s

What is the dupe for wide feet Dr. Martens?

Dr. Martens makes some great boots, but we’ve heard some customers complaining about the lack of options for people with wide feet. If you fall under that category, we suggest growing some options at Steve Madden. Steve Madden offers a variety of styles that have medium and wide foot options, so you can find your perfect fit.

Is there a difference between Dr. Martens and Dr. Martens?

The shoe brand in question is officially titled Dr. Martens, however, we’ve heard a few similar versions, including Doc Martens. Perhaps, since the brand often refers to its own boots as ‘Docs.’

Who is Dr. Marten’s biggest competitor?

Dr. Martens is known for shoes and boots with heavily cushioned soles, chunky platforms, yellow stitching, and rounded toes. Considering similar styles, shapes, and durable materials, Timberland is a major competitor for Dr. Martens, as is Steve Madden, Blundstone, and even Sam Edelman.

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