After more than a year of lockdown, even the simple act of slipping on a pair of sandals and skipping out the door seems rich with a newfound sense of freedom and possibility.
Enter the newest styles of Dr. Martens sandals: fresh updates on beloved classics like the Voss and Gryphon for both men and women, striking just the right chord of fashion-forward function, familiarity, and of course, fun — because, hey, it’s summertime, after all.
The North England footwear brand marked its 60-year anniversary on 1 April 2020, just as the world was spiralling into the Covid-19 crisis. Its iconic, sturdy silhouette, a staple during fashion’s grunge heyday in the 1990s, was perfectly suited to long, sanity-saving walks and offered a reminder of happier days. Sales surged, with celebs like Gigi Hadid and Dakota Johnson spotted stepping out in their masks and Docs.
But with the world opening up a bit this summer, the time is ripe to slip on a pair of airier Dr. Martens styles. The unmistakable Gryphon sandals, in unisex, are back with a bold refresh: a standout rework in metallic leather and fitted with matching silver nickel buckles and rivets, welted on a tough-yet-light Shore DM’s sole.
For women, the Voss II sandals are constructed from smooth Hydro leather and feature a high-impact contrast of gunmetal buckles, available in leather and in faux fur with black or leopard, sure to make a statement at any summer shindig, scaled down or not. The Voss Quad takes the style a step further, with a towering sole and two adjustable straps for a comfortable fit.
Dr. Martens is also introducing what the brand calls its “most contemporary and innovative sandals to ever leave the production line”: the Tract sandal pack. Made from rugged poly, ripstop and webbing on a light-yet-rugged Tract outsole, the collection marks a new era of DM’s footwear. These all-new sandals are built to be breathable enough for the hottest months yet tough enough to outlast the season.
Of course, all new styles come with signature elements like DM’s sturdy sole and unmistakable yellow welt stitching — a subtle reminder about the power of longevity, and how, even in the toughest of times, just putting one foot in front of the other can be enough to push us forward.