20 Jan What is Koolaburra by Ugg Vs Ugg?

Ugg boots have become an iconic fashion staple over the past couple of decades. Their distinctive sheepskin lining and suede exterior make them perfect for keeping your feet cozy in cold weather. But did you know there are two different brands that make these super popular boots? In this article, I’ll break down the key differences between Koolaburra by Ugg and Ugg so you can decide which brand is best for you.

A Brief History of Ugg

Let’s start with some background. Ugg boots originated in Australia and New Zealand, where they were worn by surfers and sheep shearers to keep their feet warm after getting out of the chilly ocean. The boots were made from sheepskin that naturally regulated temperature and wicked away moisture.

In the late 1970s, an Australian surfer named Brian Smith brought several pairs of Uggs to California and founded the Ugg brand. The boots became popular with American surfers and then more mainstream celebrities and consumers.

By the 1990s, Ugg had become a global phenomenon. The term “Ugg” became a generic descriptor for the style of sheepskin boot, sparking legal battles over trademark infringement. Many other companies started making their own versions of the boot. Now, let’s discover what is Koolaburra by Ugg vs Ugg and how these brands have navigated the evolving landscape of sheepskin boots.

The Origin Story of Koolaburra by Ugg

One of those companies was Koolaburra. Founded in California in 1991, Koolaburra designed and imported sheepskin boots similar to the iconic Ugg style.

In 2005, Deckers Outdoor Corporation (which had acquired Ugg in 1995) purchased Koolaburra. This allowed Deckers to control the use of “Uggs” and “Ugg boots” as brand names.

Koolaburra continues to operate as a sister label under the Deckers umbrella. Their boots are marketed as “Koolaburra by Ugg” to capitalize on Ugg’s recognizable brand name while distinguishing the Koolaburra line as a more affordable alternative.

So in summary: Ugg originated the sheepskin boot style in Australia but Koolaburra emerged as a similar US brand. Now Koolaburra operates under Ugg’s parent company.

How Do Koolaburra and Ugg Boots Compare?

Now that we’ve got the backstory down, let’s directly compare the two brands and their boots!

Materials

The most important part of any sheepskin boot is the quality of the materials. Both Ugg and Koolaburra use real suede uppers and plush sheepskin interiors.

Ugg frequently uses premium twin-faced sheepskin, which has been treated on both sides for extra softness and durability. Koolaburra uses merino wool lining that is also soft, but not quite as luxurious as Ugg’s twin-faced option.

In terms of exteriors, Ugg offers more varieties like leather, wool, and canvas uppers. Koolaburra sticks with suede.

Construction

Sheepskin and suede are naturally delicate materials that need to be assembled with care. Ugg boots tend to have more reinforced stitching and higher quality craftsmanship.

Ugg also offers more construction options like slippers, clogs, and weatherproof boots. Koolaburra focuses on classic boot silhouettes with minimal embellishment.

Style

When it comes to style, Ugg has a wider selection. Their extensive product line includes boots of varying heights like ankle, mid-calf, and knee-high. They come in colors from neutral black, gray, and brown to statement hues like pastels and metallics.

Koolaburra’s style selection is more limited. Their boots tend to have a streamlined silhouette without a lot of variation in heights or embellishments. The color palette sticks to basic natural tones.

Price

Here’s where you notice the difference. Ugg boots typically cost $150-$300 depending on materials and construction. The luxury twin-faced sheepskin styles run closer to $300.

Meanwhile, Koolaburra boots are usually priced between $60-$120. The use of less expensive materials and more basic construction keeps costs down.

So Koolaburra is the clear choice if you want an affordable sheepskin boot without paying the premium Ugg price tag. But Ugg offers luxe upgrades in quality and style.

Men’s Styles

Both brands make styles for men as well as women. Ugg’s rugged men’s boots use thicker, reinforced soles that are built to last through the elements.

Koolaburra has a smaller selection of men’s boots in simpler silhouettes. The quality is not quite as sturdy as Ugg’s offerings. But they provide a cozy sheepskin lining at an accessible price point.

Key Similarities Between the Brands

• Both brands use genuine sheepskin/wool lining and suede uppers
• Boots are all designed in the classic Ugg style with rounded toes and low chunky soles
• The brands prioritize warmth and comfort in their boots
• Most styles are designed to be unisex and worn by all genders

Which Brand Should You Choose?

So when it comes to deciding between brands, here are a few key questions to consider:

• Budget: Koolaburra is much more affordable if you want genuine sheepskin on a budget
• Quality: Ugg uses higher end materials and construction for a warmer, more durable boot
• Style: Ugg offers many more silhouette, height, color, and embellishment options
• Use Case: Ugg is better for very cold climates, while Koolaburra works for milder weather

Personally, I think Koolaburra by Ugg boots is a great choice if you want to keep costs down. The quality is decent though not quite as premium as Ugg. But they’ll still keep your feet cozy!

Ugg is worth investing in if you live in a colder climate and need that extra warmth and durability. The luxe sheepskin feels like a dream. And you get so many more style choices to fit your personal aesthetic.

Either way, you really can’t go wrong with the brand that started the sheepskin boot phenomenon. Just decide what factors are most important to you when picking out a pair to strut around in!

5 Key Differences Quick Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is one brand higher quality than the other?

A: Yes, Ugg boots are generally made with higher end materials and more reinforced construction. Koolaburra offers decent quality at a lower price point.

Q: Where are the boots made?

A: Both Ugg and Koolaburra boots are designed in California but manufactured overseas (primarily in China).

Q: How do I take care of my sheepskin boots?

A: Avoid getting them wet. Use sheepskin cleaner and conditioner to clean and refresh the wool lining. Brush suede exteriors gently to remove stains. Store with cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and retain shape.

Q: Are these boots waterproof?

A: No, the sheepskin lining and suede exterior of Ugg and Koolaburra boots are not waterproof. Ugg does make some weatherproof styles with sealed seams.

Q: Can men wear Ugg boots?

A: Yes! Ugg makes many styles designed specifically for men, with rugged lug soles and neutral colors. Koolaburra also has unisex styles men can wear.

Conclusion

Koolaburra by Ugg and Ugg both make quality sheepskin boots. Ugg is the premium brand that kickstarted the trend, while Koolaburra offers a more affordable take on the classic style. Choosing between them comes down to your budget, quality needs, style preferences, and intended use.