Doc Martens hurt back of calves is a common problem for many first-time wearers, caused by the boots’ stiff leather and durable construction. The pain usually occurs because the upper part of the boots presses against your calf and ankle before the leather softens and molds to your feet. Fortunately, this discomfort can be prevented or minimized with the right techniques, such as choosing the correct size, wearing thick socks, adding padding, or using supportive insoles.
In this guide, we’ll show you practical, expert-backed ways to stop Doc Martens from hurting the back of your calves, so you can enjoy your boots in comfort without sacrificing style.
Doc Martens Hurt Back Of Calves
Many new Doc Martens owners face the frustrating reality that their boots hurt the back of their ankles during the first few wears. This discomfort usually occurs because the stiff leather and high-quality construction of Doc Martens dig into the upper back of the feet, creating pressure on the calves and ankles. Understanding why this happens is crucial to finding relief.
There are generally two reasons behind this issue:
- Stiff Construction and Minimal Cushioning: Doc Martens are made for durability, not immediate comfort. The thick leather and firm soles require a break-in period, and until your boots mold to your feet, rubbing and pinching at the back of the ankles are common.
- Underlying Foot or Medical Conditions: Sometimes, pain in the calves or ankles may be linked to conditions like nerve problems, Plantar Fasciitis, Hammertoes, Athlete’s Foot, corns, bunions, or ingrown toenails. If you suspect a medical issue, it’s best to consult a podiatrist for guidance before attempting home remedies.
If your pain is due to the first reason—the natural stiffness of the shoes—there are proven ways to ease discomfort and prevent Doc Martens from hurting the back of your ankles. Let’s dive into practical solutions to make your boots more comfortable.
Significant Ways To Prevent Your Calves & Ankles
To make your Doc Martens more comfortable during the break-in period, there are several home remedies you can try.
1. The Right Size of Docs
It’s crucial to get the right size. Wearing poorly fitted or tight Doc Martens, especially with tall platforms, will dig into your calves or ankles and cause significant pain.
Here are three tips to avoid this discomfort:
- Always try on the shoes, walk around the store, and then make your purchase.
- If shopping online, measure the width and length of your feet, compare it with the brand’s size chart, and read the product description carefully before adding the item to your cart.
- If you’ve already bought tight Docs, wear them for 5 to 10 minutes at a time around the house to stretch the leather, making them more comfortable for future wear.
Note: Avoid wearing new Docs for extended hours, or you risk ending up with bloodied socks and sore feet.
2. A Combination of Thick & Tall Socks With Docs:
Wearing one or two pairs of thick, tall socks inside your Doc Martens will add extra cushioning and reduce friction between your calves and the tough leather of the shoes. These socks will protect your skin from blisters and alleviate discomfort caused by the rigid leather.
Looking for the best socks to pair with Doc Martens? Consider brands like True Athlete Work Boot Socks, Fox River Military Fatigue Fighter Calf Compression Socks, Fox River Heavyweight Steel-Toe Crew Socks, or Doc Martens Double Cotton-Blend Socks.
3. Use Moleskin Or Extra Padding:
Before wearing your thick, tall, woolen socks inside your Doc Martens, try sticking moleskin to your calves. This adds extra cushioning and helps prevent your feet from rubbing against the tough leather. Over time, your calves and ankles will adapt to the shoes, and you’ll enjoy a comfortable, protective fit.
To apply moleskin, cut a small piece and stick it on the areas of your calves where the leather causes the most discomfort. Dr. Scholl’s Moleskin Plus Padding Roll is a great option for added protection.
Note: You can also apply blister prevention balm, Vaseline, or petroleum jelly before putting on your socks. This will help guard against skin rashes.
4. Insertion Of Extra Insoles:
If none of the previous tips work, consider using inserts or insoles that cushion the back of your shoes where they’re pinching. Wondering how this helps? The added insoles lift your heels slightly, which reduces the pressure on your calves and prevents rubbing against the shoes.
People Also Ask
How to stop shoes from rubbing the back of the ankle?
Wear thick or cushioned socks, use moleskin or padding on the ankle, and gradually break in your shoes by wearing them for short periods to prevent rubbing and blisters.
How to stop Doc Martens from hurting his heel?
Try adding gel heel pads or cushioned insoles, loosen the laces slightly at the top, and wear the boots for short sessions to allow the leather to soften and conform to your heel.
How To Break In Doc Martens With Minimal Pain?
Wear them around the house for 10–15 minutes at a time, use thick socks, and apply leather conditioner or shoe stretchers to gradually soften the stiff leather for a pain-free break-in.
How to stop Doc Martens from hurting?
Ensure you have the correct size, use padded insoles or moleskin on pressure points, and wear thick socks while gradually breaking in the boots to reduce friction and discomfort.
Why are Doc Martens so uncomfortable?
Doc Martens are made with stiff, durable leather and minimal cushioning to last long, so they require a break-in period; initial discomfort is normal until the shoes mold to your feet.
Why are my shoes making my calves hurt?
Your calves hurt from shoes because stiff or tight footwear presses against the back of your legs, especially during the break-in period. Choosing the right fit, wearing thick socks, and gradually breaking in the shoes can help relieve the pain.
Final Words
In conclusion, if Doc Martens hurt back of calves, it’s usually due to the boots’ stiff leather and break-in period. By choosing the right size, wearing thick socks, adding padding, or using supportive insoles, you can significantly reduce discomfort. With these practical tips, your calves and ankles will adjust faster, letting you enjoy the iconic comfort and style of Doc Martens without pain. Start using these methods today, and say goodbye to calf pain during your break-in period.