Merch - Footwear

A selection of shoes combining style, design and comfort for all occasions.

Goth Shoes and Gothic Boots: Platforms, Creepers and Combat Boots

Goth shoes, gothic boots and rock footwear in one selection

This selection of goth shoes and gothic boots covers the whole alternative wardrobe: lace-up combat boots, ankle boots, platform boots, creepers, skate sneakers and winter boots. The most represented brands are Dockers by Gerli, Dr. Martens, Vans, Brandit, Puma, KOI and Buffalo, along with New Rock, Killstar, T.U.K, Altercore, Adidas, Etnies and EMP's in-house labels.

Every pair is sold by EMP, an online store specializing in band merchandise and alternative fashion. Vinyles.com lists the selection, and the "View on EMP" button on each product page takes you to the EMP store, which handles pricing, available sizes, stock, shipping and returns.

How to choose gothic boots and platform boots

Start with size. Models are listed in European (EU) sizes, so check the size chart on the EMP product page against your foot length rather than guessing a US conversion, and keep in mind that fit varies from one brand to another. For tall boots, check calf width too. A platform sole adds height and weight, so break it in on short outings first.

Leather needs a break-in period, ideally with thick socks for the first few wears. The eyelet count tells you shaft height: a 20-eyelet boot rises far higher than an 8-eyelet one.

EU size and the EMP size chart
Foot width and calf width for tall boots
Sole or platform height
Closure: laces, side zip or buckles
Material: leather, synthetic, canvas or suede

Dr. Martens, New Rock and creepers: the key styles

Dr. Martens remain a punk and rock staple, with models like the 8-eyelet 1460. New Rock is known for chunky soles and metal hardware, Buffalo for platforms, and T.U.K for creepers, the thick crepe-soled shoe tied to rockabilly and punk. Killstar, KIHILIST by KILLSTAR, Gothicana by EMP and Altercore round out the goth side, down to Killstar's black western boots.

For a street or skate look, Vans (Old Skool, Sk8-Hi, Authentic), Etnies, Osiris, Puma and Adidas cover sneakers, including platform versions from Vans. Brandit and Magnum bring military and tactical styles, while Dockers by Gerli, camel active and Replay Footwear add everyday boots and shoes. Band merch shows up in small numbers too, for Metallica, Ghost, Iron Maiden, Slipknot, Motörhead and Electric Callboy.

Caring for boots and rock shoes

Brush leather after a muddy day, feed it with a suitable cream or wax, and let wet footwear dry away from direct heat. For canvas sneakers, follow the maker's instructions before any machine wash. To complete the outfit, browse the jeans and pants, socks and jackets in the rest of the merch store.

Frequently asked questions

How do EU shoe sizes convert to US sizes?

There is no single exact formula, because each brand uses its own conversion. Use the size chart on the EMP product page, which lists the EU sizes for that model, and measure your foot length in inches or centimeters to match it. For tall boots, measure your calf as well.

Do Dr. Martens need breaking in?

Yes, the smooth leather on classic Dr. Martens models starts out stiff. Wear them for short stretches at first, with thick socks, until the leather molds to your foot. A conditioning cream helps soften it. How long it takes depends on the model, the leather and the shape of your foot.

What are creepers?

Creepers are shoes with a thick crepe sole and a suede or leather upper, usually laced or buckled. Worn by Britain's Teddy Boys in the 1950s, then picked up by punk and rockabilly fans, they remain a staple of alternative fashion and pair well with cuffed jeans or black skinny pants.

Who sells these shoes?

Every pair on this page is sold by EMP. Vinyles.com lists the products, and the button on each page sends you to the EMP store, where you choose your size, place the order and pay. Pricing, stock, shipping and returns follow EMP's own terms, so check its site for the conditions that apply.