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What Are Ugg Boots?
Ugg boots are boots made of sheepskin leather, with an internal layer of fleece that encapsulates the feet. This fleece layer absorbs moisture and is highly breathable, while the sheepskin material provides excellent insulation that makes ugg boots ideal for both cold and hot weather.
History: What Makes Ugg Boots So Popular?
The history of ugg boots goes back to traditional boots from the 1800s when shepherds used makeshift sheepskin footwear that they lassoed around their feet to keep them warm.
In the 1900s, shoemakers began selling proper sheepskin boots that were prized for their insulating properties. They were worn by everyone from sheep shearers to pilots in World War I.
In the 1970s, as Australian surf culture was in full swing, surfers began co-opting these sheepskin boots to wear after exiting the cold waters. Australian surfer Shane Stedman trademarked the term ‘ugh-boots’ in 1971.
In 1978, two Aussie surfers, Brian Smith and Doug Jensen, took the boots and marketed them in the burgeoning California surf scene, using the trademark ‘UGG.’ The brand wouldn’t get much traction until the 1994 Winter Olympics, where the U.S. team wore UGG Boots and brought international recognition to the brand.
Today, Deckers Outdoor Corporation is the owner of the UGG trademark, producing the vast majority of UGG boots outside Australia.
The Top Australian Made Ugg Boots
While Deckers UGG boots dominate the international market, you might be looking for some original Australian uggs to wear. It’s worth noting that almost all international brands have cheap production outsourced primarily to China, Vietnam, or the Philippines. Buying genuine ugg boots that are labelled ‘Made in Australia’ will ensure that you’re supporting Australian industry and only getting top-quality, locally-made products.
Here are a few of the best Aussie ugg boots:
6. Waratah Ugg - Abby Waterproof Boot With Removable Sheepskin Insole
Price: $AUD 129.00
WARATAH is well-known for its waterproof ugg rain boots, which look stylish while ensuring that your feet stay dry. Their Abby boots come with a gorgeous polished finish and a removable sheepskin insole.
Pros: Low-cost, waterproof, excellent polished look
Cons: Don’t really look or feel like uggs
5. Everything Australian - Mozzie Sheepskin Hi Black
Price: $AUD 110.00
Mozzie is Everything Australian’s in-house brand of uggs. They’re members of the Genuine Sheepskin Association which ensures that member brands only produce with real sheepskin, and source and manufacture locally in Australia.
These cheaper high boots are made with genuine Australian Merino wool and don’t compromise on quality despite their lower price.
Pros: Very cheap, machine washable
Cons: Starts off feeling tight, may take some breaking in before it feels comfortable
4. Ugg Australia - Tidal Long Boots
Price: $AUD 312.00
Also known as Roman and Ludmila overseas, Ugg Australia has been in the sheepskin business for over 35 years. Their claim to fame is being the only sheepskin boot maker with their own tannery, which is in Melbourne, and every part of every single ugg boot they make is locally sourced and manufactured.
Their Tidal Long Boots are an excellent choice for people who love the feel of ugg boots and want even more of that cozy, insulating goodness.
Pros: Excellent build quality, very tall and comfortable
Cons: Expensive
3. Australian Leather - Buckle
Price: $AUD 289
Australian Leather has been making sheepskin products since 1982, and aim to respect Australian cultural traditions while moving to more sustainable manufacturing methods.
Looking for a more fashion-forward pair of uggs? This pair comes with an accessory buckle for a busier, more interesting look.
Pros: Water resistant, unique look
Cons: Expensive
2. Original Ugg Boots Australia - Mini Ugg Boots
Price: $AUD 110.00
Original Ugg Boots Australia footwear, as their brand name suggests, have been made in Australia for over three decades. They only use genuine sheepskin sourced right here in Australia, and they’re produced in a 7-stage manufacturing process that ensures that every boot is held to the same high standard of quality.
These Mini Ugg Boots are only 16cm in height and are a perfect fit for people who want a cheaper alternative to the larger uggs while maintaining the fleecy feel and durability of sheepskin.
Pros: Small, lightweight, low-cost
Cons: Don’t provide as much insulation as bigger boots
1. UGG Since 1974 - Men’s Classic Mid
Price: $AUD 179.00
UGG Since 1974 might be a mouthful of a brand name, but it points back to its heritage as a tiny artisanal ugg boots workshop that was founded in that year. UGG Since 1974 only makes wholly handcrafted boots, without using any mass production or assembly line methods.
These Men’s Classic Mid boots are a throwback to the classic ugg design, doing away with modern trapping and sticking to the basics. A truly timeless classic.
Pros: Excellent durability and comfort, classic design, affordable
Cons: Made-to-order means longer waiting time than other brands
Conclusion
Before you buy any sort of ugg boot, online or retail, it’s important to ask yourself “where are these ugg-boots made?” Sticking to genuine Australian made ugg boots will ensure that you get footwear that goes the distance and doesn’t fail when you need it the most. Choose these brands and you’ll get ugg boots that last a lifetime.
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