When should I buy new Ugg Boots?
Ugg boots keep feet warm and cosy during the colder months all over the world. Owners and their Ugg boots become inseparable. Warmth, comfort and convenience all wrapped up in a fashion icon eventually demand replacement. A worn sole or sheepskin should be the trigger to feel the joy of a new pair of Ugg Boots.
What are Ugg Boots?
Ugg Boot image used with permission
Ugg boots are a unisex style of sheepskin boot originating in Australia. The boots are typically made of twin-faced sheepskin with fleece on the inside, a tanned outer surface and a synthetic sole.( Reference.) The Ugg Boot industry has expanded, internationally, into a huge range of footwear and sheepskin products. The classic Ugg Boot style stops short of the calf muscle in the leg.
How long will a classic Ugg Boots last – a Podiatry view
In a Podiatrist’s ideal world, Ugg Boots should be worn from your bed to your toilet in the middle of the night. Keeping your feet warm until you return to the snuggly warmth of your bed. They can also be reasonably worn, just to keep your feet toastie, while you are sitting back in a chair at the end of the day or waiting for the kettle to boil for your first cup of tea of the day. The Ugg Boot, in these cases, is acting just as a cosy slipper for a few minutes. After all, short term use is what an Ugg is designed for. There is no support, little toe protection and no fastenings to adjust. Oh, but they feel so good and so warm, for the short term. When worn this way, your Ugg Boots will last a decade or longer.
How long will a classic Ugg Boots last – a real-life view
Ugg Boots can be seen almost anywhere in the world, at any time of day, in a broad range of settings. Mum picking up the kids from school, Dad putting the trash cans out, the cool surfer in the car park down the coast, the hunky ski instructor in the chalet at the end of a day of skiing and even the late-night shopper at the local supermarket. My other favourite misuse of Ugg Boots is the tradesman. He takes off his sweaty socks and heavy work boots, (washes his smelly feet maybe) and slips into his Uggs before a beer and a couple of extra hours working in his workshop. I have never seen a farmer in a milking shed in Uggs, but I am pretty sure it has happened somewhere in the world.
What happens next to old, punished Ugg Boots?
All of these people love their Ugg Boots. They are rarely concerned that the Ugg Boots over time become shabby. Imagine the surprise when there is a hole in the sheepskin, a worn-out sole or heaven forbid a disgusting smell coming from their Ugg Boot. Ugg-care along the way may help but if you are treating your Uggs badly, your Ugg Boots may last a year or two or less.
Can old Ugg boots cause structural foot problems?
Sheepskin is a natural product and will stretch. The stretching results in the boot changing shape to accommodate your foot and ankle structure and movement. If you have any underlying foot and ankle structural abnormality, the Ugg boot may exaggerate the abnormality. It is less likely that the Ugg Boot will be the cause of an underlying abnormality. People with structural problems, who must wear orthotics or very supportive footwear all day, report that it is a huge relief to get into their Uggs at the end of the day. They report that the softness, warmth of the fleece and the accommodating nature of the boot design is actually soothing and relaxing. This seems to only hold true when the Ugg Boots are in good condition. It may be worthwhile to chat with your Podiatrist about this.
Can old Ugg boots cause fungal infections?
Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist, dark environments. If you are wearing wet or becoming very sweaty in your Uggs then it may be time to make different choices. Changing the sheepskin insole may help. You can try spraying your feet with an antiperspirant, wearing the boots for less time and only indoors when the temperature is cool. You could have 3 pairs of boots and rotate their use. This may allow each pair of boots to air, cool and dry before reuse.
Are there other Ugg choices to buy?
The classic Ugg Boot are generally only suitable for short term, at home use. There are manufacturers, like Nikky River Uggs who are incorporating more robust, and more stylish products into their sheepskin footwear catalogues. You may find something there for your particular use.
Ugg Boots are incredibly popular and have a high feel-good rating. When worn gently and occasionally they will last for many years. If punished your Ugg Boots may need to be replaced annually. Either way – enjoy them – we love them too