The term 'DOC Martens' (boots) is a combination of the abbreviation 'DOC' and the name 'Martens'. DOC is an abbreviation for Doctor, which is a reference to the German doctor Klaus Maertens who invented the air-cushioned sole in 1945. The boots were originally designed as a practical and comfortable alternative to traditional leather military boots. Today, DOC Martens are popular among many different groups, from punk rockers to fashionistas.