VOICED: Doc Martens stomp into middle age

Dr. Martens boots, originally designed as orthopedic shoes by two German friends, became iconic in the 1960s. Initially marketed to manual laborers, they were quickly adopted by various youth subcultures, including punks and skinheads. The boots gained further cultural significance through musicians like Pete Townsend of The Who. Today, Dr. Martens are a global phenomenon, with over 100 million pairs sold worldwide. The brand continues to innovate with 250 new designs each season, maintaining its appeal across generations.

Who were the original inventors of the sole used in Dr. Martens boots?

• The Griggs family

• The British Boot Company

• Doctor Funk and Doctor Mertins

• Pete Townsend

What was the original target market for Dr. Martens boots when they were first introduced in Britain?

• Manual laborers

• Athletes

• Fashion enthusiasts

• Youth subcultures

Which famous musician is known for wearing Dr. Martens as a statement of working-class pride?

• Pete Townsend

• David Bowie

• John Lennon

• Mick Jagger

What is the significance of the British Boot Company in Camden Town?

• It was the first factory to produce Dr. Martens boots.

• It is the largest Dr. Martens store in the world.

• It is a popular tourist destination for Dr. Martens fans.

• It is where the boots were first invented.

Approximately how many pairs of Dr. Martens boots have been sold worldwide?

• 50 million

• 150 million

• 75 million

• 100 million