text: Worn docs for about 20 years. They were never the most comfortable shoe, but were extremely rugged. I had a pair I could wear all day working in a warehouse and they stood up to abuse and were not too bad on the feet. But now some docs are made in China and the quality is not the same. They use a cheaper plastic like leather that is very stiff. It doesn't break in well, resulting in constant blisters on the backs of your heels. I purchased a pair of oxfords like these about 5 years ago and ended up throwing them because they constantly caused blisters.<br /><br />I purchased these hoping the quality had gotten better as I still like the look of docs. The cherry color is brighter than the old oxblood color. Still wearable, but wish they were a little darker. The leather though is still a very stiff pleather like material. I am afraid these will also end up unwearable if they won't break in. I will update post in a month or so on outcome. Dr. Martens still makes docs in uk, but they are more expensive, I guess I should try buying a pair of them.