The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: To Ugg or Not to Ugg?

BB loves her Uggs


I have a question: To Ugg or not to Ugg? I spend most of my day in Toronto and it's been extremely cold lately. My feet are cold and wet...and I HATE it! I'm deciding whether or not I should purchase Uggs. I think they're pretty ugly, but is the warmth worth it? How are they against snow and slush? Stains? Can you give me the pros and cons about your experience with Uggs? —Rd.

Aside from Inauguration fever, the only things keeping me warm and toasty today are my beloved Uggs. A couple years ago when Oprah did one of her Favorite Things shows, she generously gifted her employees with a few of the top items on her list, including the Ugg Uptown boots you see me wearing in the photos above. I never would have purchased them on my own, but since they were free, I gave them a chance—and I have never looked back.

I generally wear mine any time the temperature drops below 32 degrees. The pros: They keep my feet enveloped in warmth, even when I'm sitting in my chilly office for hours at a time. They're easy to slip on and off. They stay dry during long hikes through deep snow. They provide excellent traction on ice due to the large surface area of the sole.

Now the cons: While I won't go so far as to call them ugly, Uggs ain't pretty. Everyone seems to have them, which makes them less appealing to the fashionista who wants to stand out from the crowd. Uggs don't provide much arch support so they're not great if you're going to be doing a lot of walking on pavement. And they will get dirty and wet in slush and on dirty city streets (although you can buy products to protect them, I just avoid wearing mine in slush and mud).

Only you can decide whether or not Uggs are right for you. I really liked having them when I was living in Chicago, and I love having them now that I'm in Connecticut because it gets really cold, and I've never had such warm boots in my life. I don't even blink an eye when it comes to walking my dog in the snow; I grab my Uggs and I'm out the door. I do not, however, wear my Uggs for the style factor. And I won't wear them when it's raining or the snow is beginning to melt. When my current pair expires (they're holding up really well and I imagine they will last a few more seasons), I will definitely invest in another.

Would you recommend Uggs to a friend?
Comments
If for no other reason.... Uggs are just so so comfy and warm! And are perfect for these winter months (especially in the artic conditions in the Uk at the moment). To be honest, you dont even have to invest in the real deal!
#1 The Style Diaries (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 06:01 (Reply)
personally i look like uggs. everyone has them and wear them in the summer too. i did try them once and although they are pretty warm it feels weird because they are so light it feels like your not wear any shoes.
#2 jojo on 2009-01-20 07:35 (Reply)
I have sooooo many pairs of Uggs, but I only wear the in cold weather. If it's raining or snowing, I wear my huge Northface boots.
#3 Joann on 2009-01-20 08:43 (Reply)
you are disguisting to society while people are starving and dying each day you sit around and think about your oh sooo many uggs? why dont you spend your money on things on value. Materialism is making our economy crash. Congradulations your a spoiled brat just what this country needs
#3.1 sunshine on 2009-03-15 20:21 (Reply)
I have to admit I gave in and purchased a pair this year after my toes felt like they were going to freeze off in -20 degrees. They definitely are great for keeping warm and trudging through snow. Definitely worth the $250...I think my toes are worth at least that much! :-D
#4 Angela on 2009-01-20 08:59 (Reply)
They DO NOT KEEP YOU WARM!!! you are all full of it... it is obviously for style the second that snow and slush falls... and they look awful. Its like wearing slippers in the winter, outside. You are wasting your money. If you have 250 $ to spend, make it worth it... buy some Merrells! I have a pair.. they are really cute and lace up to mid-calf. Also, orthopedic insoles... so great support. And they have a water proof side zipper so they slide on easy. And the best and most important part... THEY ARE TOASTY WARM in any weather... even freezing Canadian winters. Even hiking through 3 feet of snow! Spent 180$... now thats bang for your buck.
#4.1 Shannon on 2010-02-24 21:02 (Reply)
I'm guessing you've probably never owned Uggs because they definitely keep feet warm. I won't defend the style but the warmth factor is indisputable. And as long as temps are below freezing, they don't get wet. I frequently hike in my Uggs in deep snow and they keep feet cushioned, warm and dry. Oh and they're great on ice, too, no slipping! Having said that, I love my Merrells, too, I wear those any time it's above freezing since they are waterproof, more support (like you said) and fair better in mud and slush.
#4.1.1 The Budget Babe on 2010-02-25 10:05 (Reply)
They are just too practical for those of us who have to trudge daily through wetness and snow! I love that they keep my toes comfy and warm. And they are kinda addicting- if I put my toes in boots that dont have shearling down to the toes, I feel kinda naked ;-)
#5 Real Style Real people (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 09:52 (Reply)
I recommend them to everyone...i didnt want to get them since they arent pretty but last season i got them as a gift and i love them...they keep my feet super warm..they are worth every penny
#6 milly on 2009-01-20 10:02 (Reply)
i never wear my Uggs in a fashion-forward sense, but as a way to keep warm. they're the best.
#7 Cupcakes and Cashmere (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 11:37 (Reply)
While I don't have boots made by the Ugg brand, in college I purchased a pair of similar boots made by the brand Simple. They've lasted about five years, and even though I'll probably have to invest in a new pair of boots next winter - The massive amount of salt they use to keep Denver sidewalks clear has not been kind to them - I've really been thankful for them! No matter what you think about the way they look, there's no arguing about the job they do keeping your feet dry and warm. Crocs, on the other hand, are another story ... Just say no!
#8 Katie on 2009-01-20 14:26 (Reply)
I try to refrain from wearing Uggs if I have another choice. But I definitely don't hate them! I love wearing them when I'm feeling lazy and need to go out for something quickly in the winter.
#9 Jenny (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 15:05 (Reply)
DON'T BUY UGGS! I couldn't care less about the style.
Please
please
please
watch this video before you decide to purchase merino wool: http://getactive.peta.org/campaign/pink_wool_video

The sheep used to make Uggs and other boots like them are the victims of unspeakable animal cruelty and mutilation. Get educated on what mulesing is and you'll realize what you're condoning by supporting this industry with your money. Please watch the video.
#10 Haliwood on 2009-01-20 16:38 (Reply)
It's amazing how not one single person took notice to your comment. Well I did. I'm completely against any sort of cruelty to animals. I try my hardest to avoid buying any products that have been tested on animals and to buy any wool, leather, etc. Unfortunately women are far too shallow and self centered to give a crap. To these women ignorance is bliss. We are the few and only that can make a difference, take heart, you are not alone.
#10.1 Claudia on 2009-01-21 13:09 (Reply)
Just buy knock-offs. They aren't real wool/suede/leather. It's all synthetic and just as warm.

Like these from Old Navy: http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=62002&vid=1&pid=797635&scid=797635032
#10.2 Tracy (Homepage) on 2010-11-16 11:07 (Reply)
Such a fair and balanced post! I'm staunchly anti-Ugg, but I DO understand that warm feet are a winter must.
#11 Sal (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 16:55 (Reply)
NO UGGS! There are too many more attractive options out there that will keep you warm, dry AND looking hot. =)
#12 ShoeHunting (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 17:08 (Reply)
I live in "Bricktown" (cuz it's cold as bricks) Canada and despite how warm they may be, I am vehemently against Uggs (or Ugglies, as I like to call them). Can you suggest the more attractive options that keep you warm, dry and looking hot? I bought SoftMocs that look way better than Ugglies but they don't keep my toes that warm...
#12.1 Angelina on 2009-01-21 10:15 (Reply)
Is this style of UGG in stock anywhere? I checked online a bit and couldn't find them :-(
I have classic short uggs and though they're super comfy they are ugly, and not even that practical for the ice and snow...the bottoms are smooth so they're slippery. As far as stains though they're pretty good, this is my 3rd or 4th year w/ them and only now having some trouble w/ salt staining, but it washes off.
#13 Maria (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 17:10 (Reply)
I think Uggs are essential for the winter! What's important is the quality and warmth of the sheep skin and the comfiness of the boots. It's really not about the looks and style of the boots. There are tons of lookalikes like Emu or Minnetonka boots that are supposedly as good as Uggs, but nothing compares to the orignal!

The bad: I had a pair of classic short Uggs and the inside of the heel wore out so they hurt. The bottom of the heel also kind of wore out so it wasn't totally flat when I walked. But I got a second pair (classic tall) and they're still perfect!
#14 Pretty Lil' Things (Homepage) on 2009-01-20 22:38 (Reply)
Super duper ugly, at least the common ones that everyone wears. The ones BB are wearing are passable in that pretty-ugly look. They are way to ubiquitous and what good is snow boots if they can't handle wet slush? Since you live in Toronto, you're going to have to deal with melting snow sooner or later so why not invest in boots you can wear all season?
#15 MizzJ (Homepage) on 2009-01-21 13:09 (Reply)
I love my Uggs but they are the Sundance model--all the rage five years ago when Pamela Anderson was wearing them with shorts and Kate Hudson wore them in the ad for Raising Helen. Do I care if they're passe and rather Anook the Snow Princess looking? NO NO NO. Not when it's 20 below here in Chicago.

Ugg just started to make wellies--keep your feet warm AND dry.
http://www.uggaustralia.com/ProductDetails.aspx?gID=w&categoryID=283&productID=5699&model=Millcreek
#16 BarkingDogShoes (Homepage) on 2009-01-21 16:04 (Reply)
Off the subject: I love the long striped turtleneck you are wearing! Where is it from?
#17 eek (Homepage) on 2009-01-21 19:48 (Reply)
thanks, i love it too! it's from forever 21
#17.1 The Budget Babe on 2009-01-21 22:28 (Reply)
The best Ugg alternative? Please check out my blog:

www.ontheblogbandwagon.blogspot.com

I just bought a pair of KORS BY MICHAEL KORS Blizzard boots - like a sleek version of UGGS. Supple Vicuna leather, gold snaps and the plushest sheepskin/shearling lining you will ever wear.

They provide ALL the comforts of UGGs without the, uh, ugh. :-P
#18 Wanderlusting (Homepage) on 2009-01-21 21:39 (Reply)
I'm SO jealous! :-)
#18.1 Angelina on 2009-01-22 09:00 (Reply)
It's so interesting how only one person replied to the animal cruelty. This should be enough to get you against Uggs especially if you think they are ugly.

I go to a college where literally every girl wears uggs, and it disturbs me... people need to try to be aware of how their purchasing power impacts the world. This trend is just ick
#19 antonina on 2009-01-23 08:26 (Reply)
I agree with you. It's the same thing at my college. :-( I just can't understand WHY people would buy them. There are always other options.
#19.1 JustLikeMe on 2009-01-23 22:57 (Reply)
To be honest, I think people buy them for 2 reasons:
1. there are the people that buy them because they live in COLD places and it's really practical to have a really warm pair of shoes, even though they don't work in rain/slush/SALT at all. My roommate had a pair of UGGs and they're so ruined by the salt in Chicago, all crusty and even if you protect it, it's still suede, which will end up ruined, no matter what.
2. people who buy them for the style factor. they're stupid. the end.

I dunno, I'd never BUY Uggs but if I had a pair for free it'd be nice in Chicago's harsh winters...though they'd probably not last more than a season due to the salt damage and water damage.
#20 Christina on 2009-01-24 23:11 (Reply)
I say ugg, they look good to me!
#21 budget chic on 2009-01-26 10:05 (Reply)
Thanks BB! I've decided to Ugg! And so far I'm loving em:)
#22 RD on 2009-01-29 16:46 (Reply)
My wife has been wanting some warm ugg boots. I have been hesitant because of the price, but it seems like it might be worth it. I will have to look into it some more. Thanks for the info!
#23 Nathan Johnson (Homepage) on 2016-02-17 10:54 (Reply)
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