10 Years Later, These Indie Sleaze Boots Are Still a Celebrity Hit

The 1460 boots were first introduced as work boots, and worn by postmen and factory workers, but have since become an essential for anyone with an edgy eye; They’ve been worn by generations of rockstars like The Clash, The Who, and Elton John. The Jadon boot, meanwhile, has enjoyed a life of its own. They first started to gain traction in Asia, but have since become a bonafide global hit for the label too. “Youth in Japan was leaning into genderless dressing—alternative was becoming more inclusive, and we had a gut feeling that we had a duty to provide footwear for these communities,” says McKoy. “While we expected the Jadon boot to be big, it became massive.”

It helps that A-listers have adopted the boot from the get-go. An early adoptee in the 2010s was the model and It girl Agyness Deyn, who has served as a consistent muse to Dr. Martens over the years. “It genuinely felt like she was part of the design team—a true partnership, and one that saw her build and craft a new collection that included creepers, knee-highs, and the now famous Quad sole,” says McKoy. Miley Cyrus wore them during her Bangerz era with various indie sleaze outfits (like leggings and a military shirt); Today, Olivia Rodrigo has used them to accessorize her grungy, 90s looks, pairing them with a plaid mini skirt. Even Bella Hadid is on-board, and has paired the boots with cool off-duty athleisure. 

Dr. Martens Jadon leather combat boots

Dr. Martens Jadon Max boots

That so many stars have embraced the Jadon boot is a testament to its versatility. Thanks to its sleek shape, it can be dressed up or down, and it gives virtually any ensemble an instant sense of edginess. Throughout the decade, the Jadon boot has evolved and now comes in white and red colorways, as well as vegan or printed leathers, and even extended size ranges for men (Lil Nas X recently wore his black pair with a blue snakeskin jacket and pants). “We designed many more Jadon boot variations from there,” says McKoy of the new style interpretations. “Rub off leathers that reveal unexpected colors and tints that deepened with age, vintage leathers, and, of course, glitter, studs, chains—you name it.” 

It’s clear the boot continues to be a fan-favorite, but the question is: Will the Jadon boots now survive another 10 years? McKoy hints that Dr. Martens has “two huge collaborations dropping in the fall,” so that will help maintain the buzz. Something tells us the Jadon boot is also on the path to becoming a forever footwear classic.