Lexi Webster
Ugg boots, made from sheepskin with fleece attached, have been a staple in Australian culture for decades. The term ugg is a generic term in Australia and New Zealand, used to describe sheepskin boots lined with fleece. The origin of the term ugg is unclear, but it is believed to have been used as early as the 1950s and gained popularity in the 1970s among surfers. While many associate the term Ugg with the brand Ugg Australia, it is important to note that Ugg is not a brand in Australia, but rather a product, and there are many manufacturers of Ugg boots in the country. In this article, we will explore the history of Ugg boots, the trademark disputes, and provide tips on how to identify genuine Australian-made Ugg boots.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legitimate Australian UGG boot brands | UGG Since 1974, Mortels, Australian Leather, EMU, Wombat Lodge, UGG Australia Classic, UGG Roozee, UGG Tyla, UGG Roman Slides, UGG Premium Mini Potea Boots, UGG Neptune Slippers, UGG Carolina Ladies Scuff, UGG Sis Scuff |
| Legitimate non-Australian UGG boot brands | UGG Australia |
| Illegitimate Australian UGG boot brands | UGG Boots Made in Australia, Bared |
| Materials | Sheepskin, twinface sheepskin, wool, EVA rubber, leather |
| Reviews | "Perfect fit and very comfortable to wear", "Excellent purchase – Exactly as shown on the web page", "Be Warned - they are scammers and liars – Their products are not made in Australia. Shoddy workmanship and what you receive will not be what you ordered", "POOR QUALITY, SOLE FALLS APART – AVOID", "Poor quality and after service – Very poor quality", "LOVE my Uggies!", "Comfy and warm", "Satisfied customer", "I don't think anyone in Australia would buy them from overseas given how readily available they are locally and the fact that the name has been hijacked by international companies." |
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What You'll Learn
UGG trademark disputes
The UGG trademark has been the subject of dispute in several countries. The trademark is owned by Deckers Outdoor Corporation, a US-based shoe company, outside of Australia and New Zealand. In these two countries, UGG is considered a generic term for sheepskin boots, and any company can sell UGG boots.
The dispute began in 1971 when an Australian surfer, Shane Steadman, registered the name "UGH-BOOTS" as a trademark in Australia and began selling sheepskin boots. In 1978, another Australian surfer, Brian Smith, brought the boots to California and founded the UGG Australia brand. Smith trademarked UGG in the US in 1985 and sold the company and trademark to Deckers in 1995.
Deckers has since pursued legal action against several Australian companies using the term "UGG" internationally, including UGG Since 1974, Australian Leather, and Emu Australia. These companies argue that UGG is a generic term in their home country and should not be trademarked. However, Deckers has successfully protected the term globally, arguing that it is not considered generic outside of Australia and New Zealand.
The dispute highlights the importance of pursuing foreign trademark protection early and often, as well as the financial consequences of intellectual property disputes, especially for smaller companies facing larger competitors. It also underscores the need for brand owners to establish an international trademark strategy and consider the complexities of local trademark laws in different jurisdictions.
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UGG Australia's manufacturing
UGG Australia is a legitimate company that manufactures and sells UGG boots, among other products. The company is based in Australia and uses Australian wool to craft its products. UGG Australia offers physical stores as well as an online shopping platform.
The company's website provides a currency converter for international customers, allowing them to view prices in their local currency. However, during checkout, the total value of the order is displayed in Australian dollars. UGG Australia's products are anchored to the Australian dollar, resulting in price fluctuations based on currency exchange rates.
UGG Australia emphasizes its distinction from other UGG companies, stating that it has no connection with any other UGG brand. This clarification likely stems from the trademark disputes surrounding the term "UGG" in different countries.
UGG Australia's products are available for purchase within Australia or through their online store. The company showcases its Australian roots by offering factory tours and highlighting the use of real twin-face sheepskin, tanned in Australia.
In summary, UGG Australia is a legitimate Australian company specializing in UGG boots and related products. They cater to both local and international customers, offering a range of payment options and a currency converter for convenience.
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Sheepskin boots' origin
The origin of sheepskin boots dates back to ancient times, with the first confirmed use identified on a 500-year-old mummy in Subashi, China, dating back to around 500 B.C. Additionally, Plato's writings provide evidence that people in Ancient Greece wrapped their feet in lamb hides and sheepskin during cold winters.
In the 19th century, William Knight observed that the people of Tibet wore sheepskin boots for warmth. These boots were often oiled to make them waterproof. Over time, sheepskin boots became popular in various regions, including Russia, where peasants wore high boots lined with sheepskin to endure harsh winters.
Sheepskin boots also played a role in aviation history. During World War I, Major Lanoe Hawker designed thigh-length sheepskin flying boots, known as "fug boots." These boots were later used by Arctic pilots, who required extremely warm clothing.
The development of soft, slip-on sheepskin boots, known as "ugg boots," originated in Australia. There are various claims regarding the origin of the term "ugg." Some suggest it grew out of the term “fug boots” from World War I, while others believe it comes from the word “ugly." The Macquarie Dictionary of the Australian language first included a definition for "ugg boot" in its 1981 edition.
The popularity of ugg boots spread internationally, particularly among surfers and celebrities, leading to the emergence of brands such as UGG Australia, which was imported to the USA and sold in specialty retailers. The success of these boots sparked competition, with rival brands such as EMU Australia entering the market.
The trademark for "UGH-BOOTS" was registered in Australia by Shane Stedman in 1971, and he later registered the “UGH” trademark in 1982. The trademark dispute between Australian and American companies over the rights to the "ugg" name has been ongoing, with complex outcomes in different countries.
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Authenticity checks
UGGs are a fashion staple for many, but their popularity has led to many cheap knockoffs being sold by less-than-honest sellers. Here are some ways to check the authenticity of UGG boots:
Packaging
Real UGG boots are delivered in a cardboard box with a separate lid that displays the sun logo on the front and the company name, "UGG", printed on its side. Inside the box, authentic UGG boots are wrapped in thick, crinkly paper with the "UGG" print. Counterfeit UGGs, on the other hand, are wrapped in thin plastic with no branding. The box of a fake UGG will also be bulkier, with hinges and handles. The artwork on the box may also be different or very plain.
Brand Logos
The heel label, also called "The License Plate," features accurate fonts and neat stitching. If the font is large and stylized incorrectly, the boots are counterfeit. The badge at the back of the boot should also be checked for any scratched letters, which indicate a fake pair.
Boot Characteristics
UGG Classics will never have a hang tag and are almost always sold in a box with a lid, not a bag or a hinged briefcase-style box. Fake UGGs are stiff, up to 2 inches taller, and have faux fur instead of real sheepskin. Authentic boots have logos with defined edges, while fakes may have misprints or faded edges. The opening of the boot should be wide enough to fold down. If the opening is narrow, the boots are likely imitations.
Price
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeiters often sell fake UGGs at about 30% below the regular price to entice customers.
Place of Manufacture
Real UGG brand boots are made in China, not Australia or New Zealand, as many fake boots claim. Some authentic UGG brand boots are also made in Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, and the Dominican Republic.
Spelling
When shopping online, beware of websites that misspell the brand name (e.g., "ugs" or "uggz"). These are likely counterfeiters trying to avoid detection by authorities.
Seller
It is best to buy from a verified UGG dealer or a reputable Australian business that clearly states "Made in Australia with Australian wool." Some recommended sellers include Mortels, UGG Since 1974, and Australian Leather.
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UGG Australia's tannery
UGG Australia uses Australia's last sheepskin tannery to tan their real twinface sheepskin. The company offers a range of products, including slides, slippers, boots, rugs, and cushions, all made with real twinface sheepskin, tanned in Australia.
The UGG brand has been involved in several trademark disputes, particularly with American companies. The name "UGG" has been trademarked by an American company, preventing Australian companies from selling UGG boots outside of Australia. This has resulted in Australian businesses being sued for fulfilling online orders to the US.
Despite these legal challenges, there are still several reputable Australian companies producing and selling UGG boots domestically. These include UGG Since 1974, Mortels, Australian Leather, and EMU, among others. These companies offer quality products made with Australian wool and sheepskin.
When purchasing UGG boots, it is recommended to buy from a reputable Australian business that clearly states "Made in Australia." This ensures that you are getting a legitimate product. Additionally, some companies like UGG Since 1974 offer a currency converter on their website for overseas customers, making it convenient for those outside of Australia to purchase their products.
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Frequently asked questions
Authentic Australian UGG boots are crafted by Australian manufacturers and made from 100% Australian Merino sheepskin. You can also check the address of the manufacturer and tannery, and look out for the Golden Tag label, which is always located in the left boot.
Yes, UGG boots made in Australia are legit. However, due to trademark disputes with the USA, "UGG" is now a generic name sold under hundreds of Australian companies. As long as you purchase from a reputable Australian business that clearly states "made in Australia with Australian wool", you are likely getting a quality product.
Some legitimate UGG boot brands made in Australia include Mortels, UGG Since 1974, Australian Leather, and Emu.
Authentic Australian UGG boots are made from 100% Australian Merino sheepskin, which is widely recognized as the world's finest. They also feature rubber soles, which are considered better than the foam used in some non-Australian "UGG" brand boots.
Yes, some Australian UGG boot manufacturers offer international shipping. However, due to trademark disputes, some companies are restricted from selling UGG boots outside of Australia. You may need to check with the manufacturer to see if they ship to your country.
