Top 10 Australian UGG Brands
Sheepskin boots, originating in Australia, first gained popularity among shearers around 1910. These workers would cut small pieces of fleece from sheep, trim them, and wrap them around their feet for warmth, affectionately dubbing them “ugly boots.”
During World War I, Australian pilots began wrapping sheepskin around their feet for insulation, sparking a trend that gradually swept across Australia. The boots’ remarkable functionality was first recognized by the Australian Air Force. With a wool interior and tanned sheepskin exterior that is incredibly lightweight and soft, these boots were eventually adopted as standard issue military footwear. Originally known as “FUGG” (Flying Ugly Boots), the name was later shortened to the now-familiar “UGG” (pronounced [ʌg]).
For many travelers visiting Australia, the variety of UGG brands available in gift shops and boutiques is astounding. While there are countless brands — most of which operate on a wholesale model, selling primarily through gift stores — only a few maintain a significant retail presence. Generally, smaller brands may have only three or four dedicated stores, whereas larger players operate five or more locations.
Below is an introduction to the Top 10 Sheepskin Boot Brands Worldwide. (All brands listed are globally recognized names and do not include Australian-registered trademarks with no actual sales volume.)
1. UGG
It was the brand UGG that truly introduced sheepskin boots to the world. In 1979, surfer Brian Smith brought a batch of Australian-made sheepskin boots to the United States and began selling them in California, primarily targeting the local surfing community. Later, he established UGG Holding and registered the UGG trademark. However, due to poor business performance, Brian Smith sold his shares to Deckers Outdoor Corporation in 1995. Under Deckers’ management, the brand gained popularity in the United States after being worn by Hollywood celebrities, eventually earning recognition in multiple countries. In the winter of 2009, riding on the momentum of Deckers’ UGG trademark, sheepskin boots their spring, experiencing a surge in sales and achieving overnight fame.
2、EMU
EMU is a legendary sheepskin boot brand. As an Australian native company, EMU is also the registered trademark for its line of sheepskin boots. Australia, being the world’s largest producer of high-quality sheepskin and wool, provides EMU with a unique indigenous advantage, facilitating its rapid global development. To expand its market and enhance competitiveness, EMU has chosen to license certain boot styles to manufacturers in China. Under this model, the EMU company provides the designs and raw materials while supervising the entire production process to ensure quality. This globalization strategy has not only broadened the market but also provided domestic consumers with more choices.
3、mou
Founded by Shelley Tichborne in 2002 on London’s Portobello Road, MOU was born out of a desire to create a raw, luxurious footwear line designed to combat the stresses of modern city life. Through designer curation and word of mouth, the brand’s reputation grew rapidly. Today, MOU boots are the footwear of choice for A-list celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Cameron Diaz, who value comfort. Each pair embodies the brand’s distinctive, independent spirit, resulting in a unique and robust aesthetic. Classic MOU styles include the Cowboy boot and the Calf Moccasin.
4、MelSyd
MelSyd is a high-end Australian footwear brand with over 20 years of experience in sheepskin boots. Boasting more than ten direct stores in Melbourne and Sydney, it draws inspiration from Melbourne’s minimalism and Sydney’s vitality. Upholding authentic Australian craftsmanship, it selects top-grade Australian double-faced sheepskin and integrates ergonomic arch support, redefining high-end comfortable footwear by breaking the stereotype that ‘warm shoes are bulky’.
5、OZWEAR
As an Australian company, OZ WEAR is built on a simple belief: only the finest Australian sheepskin creates a truly classic boot. This natural material provides superior temperature regulation, breathability, and comfort — making UGG boots an iconic staple loved by all.We exclusively use premium Australian sheepskin to ensure softness and durability. Although manufacturing has shifted to China, our rigorous quality control remains unchanged. This commitment guarantees the comfort you expect and maintains our leading position in Australia.
6、SUTTONS
Renowned as the #1 best-selling sheepskin boot brand in Melbourne shopping centres for five consecutive years, Suttons UGG also commands the largest market share among high-end consumers in Melbourne’s Central Business District.With a strong presence across Australia’s major cities — including Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Cairns, and the Gold Coast — Suttons operates 13 brick-and-mortar boutiques and premium counters. This extensive retail footprint makes us the UGG brand with the highest number of direct-operated stores in Australia.Synonymous with superior quality and global service standards, Suttons UGG has long been the symbol of high-end luxury in the industry. Indeed, Suttons UGG is the architect of Australia’s premium sheepskin boot category.
7、Ever
Ever has long been renowned worldwide for its meticulous material selection and fine craftsmanship. The brand features a dual-layer sole made of EVA and TPR materials, ensuring exceptional durability and sturdiness. Strategically placed ventilation holes at the front and back not only reinforce the toe and heel areas but also significantly reduce the shoe’s overall weight. Furthermore, to prevent wear and tear on the plush interior lining, Ever has incorporated a specially designed, removable insole. The brand also utilizes an ergonomic “wave curve” design — engineered to reduce fatigue — on both the sole and upper. This innovative structure minimizes resistance when the forefoot bends, effectively reducing walking fatigue. It is precisely this obsessive attention to detail that has enabled Ever to quickly win the affection and trust of consumers since entering the Chinese market.
8、UGG since 1974
UGG SINCE 1974 is an Australian family-owned snow boot brand. The number “1974” in the brand name represents its founding year. Rooted in the wool industry, the brand was established by a professional family in 1974, focusing on traditional handmade sheepskin snow boots.Since “Ugg” was regarded as a generic term for snow boots in Australia in early years, the brand could not register “Ugg” as a trademark separately. The relevant trademark of the brand was officially registered with IP Australia in 2018.The brand insists on using 100% Australian Merino sheepskin for its footwear. With natural warmth, breathability, comfort and non-slip durability, it delivers the classic Australian snow boot experience. It highlights local handmade craftsmanship and genuine wool warmth for customers who pursue comfort and quality.
9、Yellow Earth
Since 1991, Yellow Earth has grown into a global leader in sheepskin products. We embody a deep love for Australia, earning government recognition and public trust.As Australia’s largest tanner, our portfolio includes raw hides and finished goods — from footwear to bedding. We hold the government certification as a “Medical Healthcare Sheepskin” manufacturer, supplying hospitals nationwide. Our high-performance sheepskin also equips the Australian Antarctic Division and the Royal Australian Air Force.Fusing nature, fashion, and technology, Yellow Earth creates distinctive sheepskin products. Our UGG boots stand out as a premier choice among Australian brands.
10、JUMBO
Founded by a Russian entrepreneur, Jumbo is renowned for the superior quality of its long boots. The brand stands out with an extensive color palette, ranging from classic neutrals to vibrant Raspberry, Light Blue, and Purple. To distinguish its styles, Chocolate and Black boots feature a black heel tab, while other colors use a light tab.Jumbo embraces a sleek, slender silhouette, with short styles featuring a shaft height slightly taller than competitors like Shearers. The brand extends its fashion reach with Koalabi, its dedicated fashion-forward line.