The popular American-owned footwear brand UGG has recently come under fire for an ongoing trademark dispute. Beginning in 2016, its parent company Deckers Outdoor Corporation sued a small Australian business for selling their version of UGG boots to a dozen American consumers online. Now, another Australian company called Ugg Since 1974 has been forced to rebrand.
So, why is the UGG name so highly coveted? While in most parts of the world, the term “ugg” has become inextricably linked to the iconic U.S. brand, in Australia and New Zealand it’s actually just a generic term for a type of shoe made from sheepskin. While the exact origin of the term is unknown, they were invented in Australia and were made popular by surfers in the 1950s and ’60s. With the shoes being an undeniably Australian creation, the ugg battle conjures greater questions about trademarking and intellectual property– should an American company be able to steal a part of Australian popular culture?
While the scandal rages on, one thing remains clear: winter footwear is always in high demand. If you want to keep your shoe collection out of the controversy, here are some alternative options to keep your feet warm this winter season:
- Loafers
Seen on the likes of Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner, loafers are making yet another comeback. Loved for their comfort and versatility, these shoes are an iconic wardrobe staple. Whether you’re going to uni or dressing up for the weekend, loafers can be worn on any occasion.
- Animal print boots
Boots are a winter must-have, but who says they have to be plain and boring? This animal-print craze first made its appearance on the runway and is now taking over the streets of London, New York, and Paris. Hop on the trend to spice up your style and add an extra flair to your winter wardrobe.
- Mary Janes
Mary Janes are another classic style making waves in the fashion world this winter. If you’re looking to add a pair of flats to your footwear selection, Mary Janes are definitely the pick of the season. These shoes combine a timeless look with modern flair, making them the perfect addition to any wintery outfit.
- Boxing trainers
Boxing trainers are another standout footwear look that took center stage of the Spring/Summer 2025 collections. The latest trainer trend to embrace this winter, boxing shoes are both practical and stylish. Fashion forecasters are predicting that the shoes won’t be the only trend stolen from the sport, with boxing jackets and shorts also spotted on the runway.
Photo by Thibault Penin on Unsplash