Ugg Boot Questions Answered

What are ugg boots?

An ugg boot is a type of unisex boot constructed with twin faced sheepskin. This definition is quite particular in that an ugg boot must be made from twin faced sheepskin. There are hundreds of boots similar in style and construction which cannot be called ugg boots due to being crafted with either a synthetic sheepskin or entirely different types of leather. Over the last several decades a wide variety of spelling variations such as “ugh”, “ug” and “fuggs” have been commonly used. It is also worth keeping in mind many brands refer to their boots as sheepskin boots and shearling boots. Boots referred to with these names are by definition also ugg boots. For further definitions see the following:
Oxford Dictionary Definition
About Article on the word and its origins

When and where were ugg boots invented?

Early Australian settlers quickly discovered the Australian climate and landscape was perfectly suited to sheep farming. The quality of wool produced by Australian sheep was regarded as the best in the world but the sheep were initially farmed for meat production. Soon sheep farms began popping up all over New South Wales. Contrary to popular opinion the Australian climate can become quite cold with temperatures often falling well below zero. Sometime during the early boom in Australian sheep farming, farmers wrapped sheepskin around their feet. While many believe this occurred sometime during the early 1900’s there are no exact records to reference. Sheep were often farmed in colder regions like Tasmania and the Western New South Wales so it is likely the first ugg boots were worn in these regions. Fast forward to the early 1960’s as Australian surfer begin wearing ugg boots after leaving the cold surf. During this time ugg boots became increasingly popular with their use spreading to the wider Australian population.

Where are ugg boots made?

Until recently ugg boots were made in Australia and New Zealand. Since the mid 1980’s the Australian manufacturing industry has experienced a very rapid decline due to the removal of government tariffs. Ugg boots for major brands like UGG Australia and Whooga are now manufactured in China and exported throughout the world. Many Australian icons are now manufactured overseas which is disappointing but a sad fact of the modern global economy. We remain an Australian privately owned company and source hides from Australia. 'Made in China' should no longer have the stigma of low quality attached to it. China has devoted its efforts to becomming the 'worlds factory' and has undergone a revolution in skill development and quality control. We are confident our quality now exceeds the levels we offered when we manufacturing in Australia. Please also keep in mind the vast majority of the world’s leading brands including Apple and Sony are now manufactured in China.

What are ugg boots made from?

The iconic classic style ugg boot is made with twin faced merino sheepskin leather. Twin faced sheepskin is a leather in which the fleece (fluffy inner part of an ugg boot) and the backing (which forms the outer part of an ugg boot) are one piece. Twin faced sheepskin leather is unmatched by any synthetic or natural substance in its ability to insulate which is why ugg boots are much warmer than other types of footwear. The leather is also renowned for its ability to breathe, which means ugg boots rarely overheat causing sweat. The sole of most ugg boots is made from EVA (Ethylene vinyl acetate). EVA makes an ideal sole because of its durability, flexibility and light weight.

How are ugg boots made?

Due to the variations in twin faced leathers the majority of construction is performed by hand.

1. Sheepskin hides are purchased from tanneries in Australia and New Zealand. The leathers are already dyed by the tannery using a process called Chrome Tanning. Chrome tanning is the most colour fast method of dying ugg boots and ensures the leathers remain soft. Chrome tanning is an environmentally friend method of tanning.
2. Leathers are cut out using a press and templates of each ugg boot style in each particular size.
   • If the hide contains leather which does not meet minimum quality guidelines it will not be used and will be returned to the tannery.
3. The leathers are double stitched by hand to form the upper part of your boot.
4. The sole is pressed to the upper and glued in place.

Why do ugg boots cost so much?

There are a number of factors which lead to ugg boots being more expensive than other types of footwear.

1. Ugg boots must be constructed by hand and cannot be mass produced like other types of footwear.
2. Twin faced sheepskin in its raw form is very expensive. Over the last several years it has more than doubled in price and remains very limited in availability.
3. Fuel prices have resulted in freight costs doubling over the last decade for many industries. Ugg boots must travel a long way before making their way to your feet.
4. Ugg boots are subject to duties and import taxes which are reflected in higher prices.
5. Contrary to popular opinion ugg boots do not increase in price due to a response to excessive demand. You will find ugg boot prices are the same in summer when demand is significantly lower.

When is the best time to buy?

Understandably most people purchase a pair of ugg boots when the temperature begins to plummet. Ugg boot manufacturer’s pre order ugg boots for the coming winter season. We predict the number required in each style and colour. Often demand will exceed supply in many colours and styles. After this happens orders are placed for more stock but due to the time it takes to secure leathers and ship boots, backorders may exist for as long as 3-4 months. In order to avoid this it is best to order your ugg boots towards the end of summer.

Are ugg boots bad for your feet?

Ugg boots are made from twin faced sheepskin leather, which is also used in Australian hospitals as a bed liner. In 2010 research published in the Medical Journal of Australia investigated if sheepskin bed liners used in Australian hospitals improved the health of patients. The results? The sheepskin bed liner resulted in a dramatic reduction of pressure ulcers. Far from being bad for your feet ugg boots are likely the best footwear you can wear to improve the health of your feet. Twin faced sheepskin contains a natural oil called Lanolin which studies have shown promotes circulation, helps wounds to repair faster and is an extremely effective moisturizer for dry skin. Keep in mind synthetic and low grade ugg boots do not contain lanolin. If you’re suffering from swollen feet, dry skin or have difficulty warming your feet ugg boots are perfect. Diabetes sufferers and pregnant women both report great benefits wearing ugg boots. When are ugg boots bad for the health of your feet? Many people wear ugg boots walking or standing for hours and hours upon end. Ugg boots lack the support for this type of use and will damage your feet. Use your ugg boots as a slipper while sitting or a moderate amount of walking and your feet will be fine for everyday use and many hours of wear. Do not let the comfort of an ugg boot seduce you into inappropriate use, you will damage your feet and quickly wear out your expensive new ugg boots.

Why are ugg boots comfortable?

Amongst thousands of types of footwear, leather and shearling boots included, ugg boots still shock people when they’re first worn. Dozens of specialized footwear experts we send boots to for review often describe wearing ugg boots as ‘walking on clouds’ of warm air. Ugg boots are comfortable for two reasons. Firstly the fine inner fibres circulate warm air which will warm cold feet very quickly, and warm them in temperatures as low as -30C. Secondly the fleecy fibres distribute pressure very evenly and are very soft to touch. Many customers often forget they’re wearing our boots, even after 9+ hours of wear.

Do ugg boots fade?

A few factors will affect the likelihood that your ugg boots will fade over time, firstly the color of the boot. The closer the colour is to the natural state of chrome tanned leather the less likely it is to fade. Colours which require larger amounts of dye are more likely to fade. These colours include black, violet, chocolate and darker hues. Lighter colours like chestnut, sand and pink tend to retain colour longer. The amount of time your ugg boots spend in the sun will also impact fading. Keep them out of the sun to prevent fading. You should also prevent your ugg boots from water and damp conditions in order to avoid fading.

How long should ugg boots last?

Ugg boots are constructed from relatively soft leathers which also vary greatly in strength and durability. Ugg boots are not designed for outdoor or abrasive conditions, both of which will greatly impact the life of your ugg boots. If properly cared for ugg boots can last years. In order to ensure your ugg boots last a very long time you should size correctly and follow our tips

What to look for in a good ugg boot?

The quality of an ugg boot is mostly dependent upon the quality of leathers used in its construction. A good ugg boot will have a thick, spongy and dense inner fleece. The quality of the inner fleece is responsible for both the warmth and comfort of the boot. The boot must be constructed with twin faced sheepskin. The outer leathers should be soft and consistent in finish. Stitching should be consistent, tight and durable. The sole should be light weight, flexible and durable.

Why to avoid cheap and synthetic ugg boots?

Synthetic and cheap ugg boots are not made with twin faced sheepskin. The inner fleece is typically very shiny, thin and does not evenly distribute pressure. The outer leathers do not breathe which results in your feet quickly overheating, sweat and the odour and bacteria which follow. Twin faced sheepskin leathers are comparatively expensive but they also offer significant benefits over other leathers, namely comfort and the ability to breathe. Pay close attention to the product description of the boots you purchase. Many brands are selling ‘sheepskin lined’ boots which are lower grade leathers with sheepskin fleece glued inside the boot. While these boots appear similar externally they feel nothing alike to wear. If you have the chance slip on a pair of cheap synthetic boots and a pair of authentic sheepskin boots do so.