Let’s talk ugly Australian style

First cobbled together and used by surfers in the 1970s, ‘ugly boots’ - now our beloved UGG boots - have evolved to become a winter wardrobe staple.

Unfortunately just because it’s called an UGG, it’s not necessarily Australian, and most of the UGGs you’ll find to buy are copy cats made cheaply overseas.

But there are ways to make sure you’re getting the real deal.

1. Look for a Made in Australia label and a swing tag showing your UGG is verified by the Australian Made Campaign. If you look carefully, most UGGs will have sewn in labels revealing they are made offshore. And if there’s no label, assume they are imposters.

2. You’ll be able to tell by the price. Real Uggs are made with A-grade sheepskin, in Australian workshops paying Australian wages, and by local companies paying Australian tax. So they won’t be cheap, or heavily discounted. But they will last.

3. Check the soles and tug at the sheepskin. If the soles aren’t very soft and flexible and fluff comes off the interior, they aren’t what you want or need.

ASH recommends: UGG Since 1974. Handmade on the Gold Coast and styles to suit everyone.