Jaunted

I'll always own a pair of Docs because they're so versatile. (Pictured: author's current pair of DM Saxon boots.) Once properly broken in, there's really nothing you can't do in a pair of DM boots. Long walks and hikes through rugged terrain are a breeze, and there's enough ankle support that you can even play a pick-up game of basketball or football without worrying about getting a sprain. In the unfortunate event of violent attack, they can stomp fingers with the best of them, but a better use would be to run away from such a bad scene. With a pair of DMs on your feet, you'll flee to safety without slipping, thanks to the air cushion soles that are oil, fat, acid, petrol, blood, and alkali resistant.

But the best part? They're just plain black leather shoes, meaning they look presentable - and even a little funky - with almost any outfit. When it comes to travel, they're the only shoes you'll need to bring. And they last, well, not quite forever, but you could probably wear them every day for five years and get away with it. Not bad for a hundred bucks.

As far as maintenance is concerned, it's minimal. All you need is a tin of black Kiwi shoe polish, an old cotton sock or other cloth to apply the polish with, and a good horsehair buffing brush (sorry, horses). They only need a good coat of polish once every three weeks or so. In the interim, just give them a good buffing with the brush right before you go out. It'll get rid of any dirt and scuffs, and you'll release the latent shine from the last time you applied polish.

Turns out I'm not the only one singing the praises of Dr. Martens boots. Footwear Plus magazine recently added the Dr. Martens 1460 boot to its style hall of fame. Think you've got better travel shoes? Talk some smack about your shoes in the comments.

[Photo: Victor Ozols]

Related Stories:
· Dr. Martens [Official Site]
· Footwear Plus Names Latest Style Hall of Fame Inductees [PR Web]
· Shoe Coverage [Jaunted]