So I bought my first pair of Dr. Marten's in 1994; and just recently replaced them with this pair.

Like any Dr. Marten they are very stiff at first which to me shows solid construction.  The one thing I didn't like about these or any of the other pairs I was looking at is; where your heal is on the top of the shoe (you can see in the picture) is like a soft leather that I guess is supposed to give you more flex well the stitching has come apart very slightly; I got to it and restitched it but can see how this would be a downer.  On the same point if that is my only complaint thatn find;

They are slip proof which is great as I live in ice conditions in the winter.  I get lots of compliments on them and the thick soul will last forever.

I am a Dr. Marten customer for life!