With UGG’s recent rise in popularity, many young people who aren’t familiar with this classic brand are curious about their shoes. A common question is: Why are UGG shoes so expensive?
It’s a valid point—when you’re spending $150 to $200 on a pair of shoes, you expect something more glamorous and modern, which UGG shoes are not. So, what’s behind the high price of UGG shoes? What are you getting if not a good-looking shoe?
Today, we’ll shed light on this matter and discuss the facts behind UGG’s high pricing. Here we go!
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Details on Why Are UGG Shoes So Expensive?
No brand sets a pricing strategy that would harm them. Each one sets prices based on their major goals and customer purchasing habits.
So, if you think UGGs are expensive, there might be some major factors that are forcing them to do so. Here are some of them that I’ve found.
Extremely Comfortable For Chilled Weather
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The UGG brand specializes in creating comfortable footwear for extremely cold weather, a niche where they truly excel. This provides the first justification for their pricing.
UGG’s extensive range of boots and slippers is synonymous with comfort and warmth, a fact almost all their customers agree on.
The main secret behind this comfort lies in the premium sheepskin they use. Sheepskin is naturally cozy and warm, making it perfect for chilly weather. It creates a soft, warm, and breathable environment for the wearer. Its insulation keeps the cold out and the warmth in, ensuring ease even in harsh winter conditions.
Moreover, sheepskin is also waterproof. The thick wool lining prevents water from entering the boots. Because of these qualities, UGG uses premium sheepskin in their footwear, which contributes to their higher prices compared to regular shoes.
Quality Material selection
UGG’s next major expense is sourcing the finest raw materials. They commonly use double-faced sheepskin, woven sheepskin, synthetic soles, or rubber soles. Sometimes, they even use plant-based or renewable materials, which might not seem expensive, but finding top-quality options among mid-tier choices requires extra effort and investment.
To show their dedication, UGG sources materials from renowned and ethical suppliers worldwide. For leather byproducts, they use gold-certified LWG tanneries. For wool, they work with the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), and for cotton, they partner with the Better Cotton Initiative.
Collaborating with these leading organizations ensures their shoes are unmatched in comfort, durability, and reliability.
So, such a commitment to quality is a big reason why their products are priced higher.
Expensive Manufacturing
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Sourcing the best materials raises the price, and using specialized manufacturing processes adds even more to it. UGG’s shoe manufacturing involves several costly steps.
I will not go into detail about their shoe manufacturing steps, but I will tell you the names of the steps that UGG shoes go through before they hit the market:
- Soaking Of Wool
- Fleshing
- Scouring
- Pickling
- Tanning
- Wool Dyeing/Fatliquoring
- Drying Up
- Drycleaning
- Pelt Dyeing/Syntanning
- Conditioning
- Staking
- Combing
- Ironing
- Clipping
- Clicking Press
- Sewing
- Sole Attachment
- Final Touches
It’s a long list, isn’t it?
Just listing these processes demonstrates how complex and labor-intensive the work is.
Imagine the work that went into the designers and laborers. Don’t they deserve extra appreciation—and a bit more money—for their hard work?
Related Article: Why are Blundstone Shoes So Expensive?
Brand Reputation
Their high prices are also related to brand reputation.
UGG has been in business for about 46 years, and throughout this time, they have continuously worked on their brand image. Their marketing campaigns, customer experiences, and public relations have consistently been positive. Online reviews for their boots are about 95% positive, with buyers appreciating their fast, supportive customer service and easy return policies.
In the past 50 years, they have opened over 130 stores worldwide, maintaining a significant global footprint. Also, as each year goes by, the brand’s sales experience an unheard-of worldwide spike.
This is, of course, due to the fact that buyers trust their footwear’s dependability and quality. And for such trustworthy brands, it’s common to see them charge higher prices.
Work On Sustainability
Another factor driving up the price of UGGs is their commitment to sustainability. Sustainable fashion is crucial for addressing environmental issues like greenhouse gases and plastic waste. It benefits both the planet and people.
UGG supports sustainability by working with non-profit organizations like LWG, RWF, and many more to ensure they use only sustainable materials.
In 2016, UGG even joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. This move was taken to highlight their commitment to universal principles on human rights, labor standards, environmental practices, and anti-corruption.
To achieve these ambitious goals, UGG needs financial support, which is reflected in the slightly higher prices of their products.
Related Article: Why are Red Wings Shoes So Expensive?
Celebrity Appeal
Along with everything else, celebrity appeal also plays a role in pricing.
When stars like Hilary Duff, Jennifer Aniston, Hailey Bieber, Selena Gomez, Jennifer Lopez, Addison Rae, Jennifer Garner, and others are spotted wearing UGGs, it naturally drives up interest and demand.
And, to keep up with this surge in popularity, the brand has adjusted its prices accordingly.
Final Words: Are UGG Shoes Worth Buying?
If you live in a very cold place or enjoy hiking in the mountains, UGG shoes are a great choice. They’re made to keep your feet warm and comfortable in cold temperatures. While they might be a bit pricey, their durability and comfort make them worth the investment.
However, if you live in a place with moderate to hot weather, UGG shoes will not be the best option. They are made for colder conditions, so wearing them in warmer climates can be an unpleasant experience.
So, I’ll say it is best to look for a different brand that offers shoes that are better suited to your needs.
FAQs
Is It Ok to Walk in UGG Shoes?
Yep! UGG shoes are pretty comfy to walk in. They are soft, comfortable, and sturdy enough to wear for a normal walk.
However, they might not offer the same level of support or durability as more specialized footwear, so for long walks or more strenuous activities, I won’t be recommending any UGG shoes. For that, try finding shoes with better arch support and durability.
Is UGG High Quality?
Yes! UGG shoes are made out of some of the finest materials available, including the most appreciated one, sheepskin.
Their footwear is generally well-regarded for comfort, warmth, and durability. The brand uses genuine sheepskin and high-quality materials in its products, which contributes to its reputation for comfort and luxury.
What to Wear Instead of UGGs?
If you’re looking for footwear to wear instead of UGGs, you can go with other brands like Sorel, Columbia, Bearpaw, EMU Australia, Timberland, and Merrell.
Each of these brands offers different styles and features, so you can find one that suits your needs.
