UGG boots have undoubtedly been a cold-weather fashion staple for years. First worn by Australian surfers in the 1950s, these brown fur-lined sheepskin boots became very popular in the early 2000s.
Everyone from celebrities to housewives own a pair, and UGGs have long been a staple in our closets. It was briefly declared “dead” in 2012, but quickly returned as brands introduced new styles. In 2023, everyone was obsessed with UGG’s below-the-ankle mini platform boots and embroidered Tasman slippers, and they won’t be out of style in the winter of 2024-2025 either.
But while there’s no denying that UGG boots are extremely cozy and comfortable, they’re not the most sustainable or ethical shoes on the market.
If you want cozy comfort and trendy style again this year, be sure to get one of these seven sustainable alternatives to Uggs. Thanks to these, you can say goodbye to cold toes while making better choices for the planet.
Are UGGS sustainable and ethical?
UGG has taken various steps over the years to reduce its environmental footprint. For example, we introduce sustainable materials into our collections, such as upcycled wool, Tencel lyocell, and recycled polyester.
However, there is a lot of room for improvement. Its shoes are still made from sheepskin and leather, which are among the least sustainable materials. Because leather is artificially dyed and treated, it can contain many harmful chemicals that you shouldn’t come into contact with.
Most of UGG’s boots are manufactured in Asia, primarily China and Vietnam, where there are little to no environmental regulations.
Additionally, the company’s supply chain is not certified by any labor standards. Therefore, there is no evidence that workers are paid a fair living wage, treated well, or work in safe and healthy conditions.
UGG may not be the greenest or most ethical shoe brand, but it still has a long way to go before it can be considered sustainable.
Thankfully, you can shop from a variety of brands that are doing much better in terms of ethics and sustainability.
What makes shoes sustainable and ethical?
Sustainable pairs are made from eco-friendly materials and built to last for years. It should be designed to withstand continuous wear without wearing out over a few seasons. If possible, try to buy shoes whose soles can be re-soled and repaired. However, it can be difficult to find.
Brands that produce these must also utilize sustainable manufacturing practices and implement various zero-waste initiatives such as energy and water-saving techniques. Additionally, the use of toxic chemicals and material waste must be minimized.
Sustainable shoe brands also make shoes with the well-being of their workers in mind. All workers in supply chains should be paid a fair wage so that they can earn a decent living and work in safe and humane conditions.
Companies also need to be transparent about where and how their products are manufactured. Ideally, they have various third-party certifications such as B Corporation or OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
Finally, avoid cheap styles found on fast fashion brands or websites like Amazon. These brands provide little information about how their products are made, and their shoes are often poorly made and not built to last.
What kind of materials should I look for?
Most sustainable alternatives to UGG are made from high-quality synthetic materials or sustainably sourced sheepskin. Although these materials are not ideal in terms of sustainability, they are usually long-lasting, allowing you to wear your shoes for years.
However, various brands are making boots using more environmentally friendly materials such as corn “leather” or recycled materials such as recycled PU, recycled wool, and recycled polyester. Some companies make mattresses using recycled mattresses. Finally, many shoes have soles made of natural rubber.
