UGG Season Isn’t Over Yet: Here Are Some Equally-Cozy, More Affordable Alternatives to Buy Right Now
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Arguably the coziest shoes that you can actually wear outside the house, UGG’s combination of tanned sheepskin and fluffy fur has made the boots a staple in many a cool weather wardrobe. Over the past couple of years, during the midst of quasi-lockdown life, the Australian boots have been more inviting than ever. And their appeal has shown no signs of slowing — especially over recent gifting seasons. (For those who were searching — and are still searching — for the TikTok-famous Tasman UGG Slippers, don’t fret, because luckily for you we’ve found some look-alikes for a steal below.)
Although best known for their soft furry lining, UGGs also have a year-round cult following in the fashion world (somewhat like Crocs). Over the years, they’ve been spotted on everyone from Beyoncé to Kendall Jenner to Pharrell — all of whom prove that the bulky boots can, in fact, be stylish. This year, as cozy looks continue to rule supreme, UGGs are especially on-trend.
If you’re looking to upgrade your cozy, all-season footwear, we highly recommend splashing out on a pair of UGG Classic Mini boots (available in both men’s and women’s sizes on Amazon). They feature UGG’s stylish mini look, as well as their trademarked thick, Uggplush lining (that keeps feet warm without overheating) and a sheepskin exterior. Better still, UGG has upgraded the boots in recent years with things like water and stain resistance and a Treadlite outsole for more cushioning and grip. Pick them up in chestnut or black for the signature UGG look, and pair them with jeans, sweats, dresses, or any other pieces to showcase them in style.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I was afraid these would make my feet too hot and sweaty, but that hasn’t been an issue at all. And I have been wearing them as slippers during the Texas summer heat with no problem. I finally realized that I have spent so much money on cheap slippers trying to find one that fit, lasted and were comfortable. These may be a little more of an investment up front, but I am confident I will have these for years to come. And I can wear them outside — unlike most slippers — and not worry about damaging them! They even have a small amount of arch support.” —BKT
What Are the Best UGG Boot Alternatives?
One of the downsides with UGG boots is the price. Luckily, you don’t necessarily need to shell out for UGG brand boots: some of the best UGG boot alternatives offer similar fluffy coziness and minimal style at a lower price. Here are some of the best UGG boot alternatives we’ve found online that not only have 4-star ratings or higher, but are confidently noted as: “perfect to get if you want the UGGs look but don’t want to spend the UGGs money” by countless shoppers. Below, we’ve included picks for both men and women — with some that we’ve even tried out ourselves.
The Best UGG Boot Alternatives for Women
Koolaburra by UGG Koola Tall
California brand Koolaburra began as an early competitor to UGG, but it saw such great success that UGG purchased the brand in 2016. Now it’s called “Koolaburra by UGG,” and the brand supplies more affordable takes on its parent company’s shoes. These Koola Tall boots are one of the best offerings from Koolaburra, boasting a real Australian sheepskin exterior and a comfy faux fur lining. Pick them up in this versatile black color to be teamed with jeans, sweats, or cargo pants.
Promising Customer Feedback: “These are soooo comfortable! I wanted the UGGs but they are sooo pricey and these are the exact same!” — Kelso
Dr. Martens 2976 Fur Lined Chelsea Boots
There’s one big problem with UGG boots (or any suede alternatives): They’re not the most durable, especially in wet conditions. If you need something more robust, check out these stylish Dr. Martens 2976s. They look just like the brand’s edgy, best-selling Chelsea boots, only the inside is lined with plush faux fur. Like all Dr. Martens, you can expect years of hard wear from the boots — only you’ll be cozier in these than other Dr. Martens.
Promising Customer Feedback: “These are my new favorite boots. Perfect for the rainy cold weather we’ve been having. Very comfortable and cute.” — Christina
Fireside by Dearfoams Mid Calf Boots
Another one of the best UGG boot alternatives, these Fireside by Dearfoams booties that have a flexible EVA outsole for long-lasting comfort and stability. The boots’ materials are temperature regulating, meaning your feet will stay warm in the winter and cool in the toastier months. Available in five neutral shades, these feature Dearfoams’ signature design that ensures your feet will feel right at home — even when you’re on the go.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I’ve been rather disappointed by my last few UGG boots. They really don’t hold up like the ones I bought like ten years ago. So I decided to try something else at a lower cost. And I have to say I can’t tell much of a difference between these and my UGGs. They are SO warm and comfortable and I saved a few bucks. I’ve been wearing these for the last 2 days pretty much and I have no concerns yet.” — Haleigh
ZGR Women’s Classics Boots
These Classics snow boots from ZGR look almost identical to the UGG Classic Short boot. Despite their budget-friendly price tag (under $40, as of writing), the ZGR boots are actually quite well made. The upper is a thick suede that’s been treated to repel water, and the lining is a chunky faux fur and shearling blend. The outsole, meantime, features a grippy rubber pattern for traction on wet or snowy ground.
Promising Customer Feedback: “They seem pretty durable and well made, I’ve had them for a few months now and they’re still in good shape. Nice to have when the temperature dips and it snows a bit. Overall good slip-on boots for the price.” — Caty Hiney
Project Cloud Mini Ankle Boots
For those who refuse to splurge on anything over $100, but still want a durable (and cozy) cool-weather shoe, look no further than these Mini Ankle Boots from Project Cloud. They’re a great alternative to the routinely sold-out UGG Ultra Mini. Undoubtedly on-trend, snag this much sought-after style, that’s available in both classic plus alternative neutral shades, for less than half the price.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I wanted to jump on the mini “UGG” trend but didn’t want to pay the price. These fit great and are comfortable. The color is a great neutral too. I want to buy them again in another color.” — Amazon Customer
The North Face Women’s ThermoBall Booties
The North Face’s best-selling ThermoBall booties are something of a modernized UGG boot that look like sleeping bags for your feet. They use The North Face’s ThermoBall Eco insulation to keep your feet toasty, even in super chilly weather, and a traction outsole lets you wear the slippers outdoors too. They’re even water-repellent for use in the snow or rain.
Promising Customer Feedback: “When my husband got a pair of these for Christmas, I was so jealous!! I went online to see if they made them for women too and I was so happy to see that they did. I bought a pair and have fallen in love. They are as comfortable as any bootie and so warm. I am hooked on them and wear them all the time. I find that they are 100% true to size.” — Scarlett
Athlefit Platform Chelsea Boots
For anyone who can’t be fussed with laces, consider these perfectly UGG-adjacent Chelsea Boots. Complete with an easy, pull-on-and-go style, fuzzy lining, and an anti-slip platform heel that gives you the height without making it feel like you’re wearing stilts, these are not only trendy but they’re practical for slippery temperatures too. What’s more: they also come in a variation that features a form-fitting, sock-like ankle shaft for an even cozier fit and feel.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I really wanted the UGGs version of these, but their pricing was way too expensive. Came across these and they are amazing comfort and quality, with the exact look – minus the price tag.” — Frequent Buyer of Things
Bearpaw Women’s Tabitha Slipper
For an easy slide-on opening and ample grip in chilly conditions, enter: The Tassman-esque slipper style that’s easier to find than the original and won’t cost you most of your paycheck. Ideal if you’re having a day in and your only reason for leaving the house is to grab the mail or meet the Uber Eats person downstairs, these feature a sturdy sole and lining that won’t make your feet feel like they’re sitting in a swamp.
Promising Customer Feedback: “If you can’t afford the ridonkulously priced UGGs these are a great alternative! They are really cute and comfy, very well made and I would def recommend. Fit as pictured, perfect!” — Carrie Ann
The Best UGG Boot Alternatives for Men
Bearpaw Men’s Brady Boot
Slightly more rugged than real UGGs, these Bearpaw Brady boots feature a fortified toe and heel and a real suede exterior. Inside, you’ll find a thick wool blend lining that’s fit for chillier temperatures. Bearpaw offers the boots in both wide and regular sizes and in four colors, including this classic hickory above, but the camouflage option is also great for bold fits. We recommend rocking the boots over baggy jeans with a statement sweater to nail casual, cooler spring style.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I have purchased Bearpaw for years. Better quality than UGG, better price than UGG. Last a really long time. Bearpaw coating is amazing.” — Maria
Koolaburra by UGG Men’s Burra Mini
These Burra Minis are also from Koolaburra, the former UGG competitor. The affordable brand showcases a low ankle design that works great for wearing around the house or outdoors. A faux fur lining ensures plenty of warmth and coziness, and the boots’ real sheepskin exterior is sure to last for several cool seasons. Wear them on chilly mornings or get creative with, say, baggy sweats and a military jacket for that low-key effort look.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I’ve had several pairs of Koolaburra by UGG. The fit is good, the warmth is comfortable and they look good, with many compliments when worn. They are a price beater to the UGGs, which makes them a good competitive market for those of us who don’t want to spend astronomical prices (even though I’ve also owned and worn UGGs in the past). These are comparable in style, comfort, and looks.” — Richard
The North Face Men’s ThermoBall Booties
These best-selling ThermoBall booties from The North Face resemble the newer Maxxer Mini and Dune Slip-On Lta UGGs, and they have the same same, but different vibe: warm, ultra-cozy, and statement-making. They’re essentially a thick down jacket for your feet, complete with a grippy rubber outsole and a water-repellent finish for use outdoors. They’re also very well-made: My personal pair has lasted through seven winters of constant wear. Plus, we think the booties can actually be an effective style statement when worn with baggy chinos or sweatpants and, say, a graphic T-shirt.
Promising Customer Feedback: “These shoes are life savers! My husband has cancer which causes his extremities to be cold. Really cold. We tried a few indoor/outdoor shoes before finding ThermosBall Traction Booties. These shoes keep his feet warm. He has worn them for almost a solid year, everyday. Many nurses & other patients at his clinics have ask where to get them. They are still like brand new, just wipe off. We recently ordered another pair. Easy to put on and take off. Again, I say once more, they are life savers!” — Norma
L.L. Bean Men’s Wicked Good Boots
If you want the feel of UGG boots in a more stylistically versatile shoe, check out these Wicked Good boots from L.L. Bean (that still allow you to shave off a few dollars when compared with UGG price points). The boots’ silhouette is a classic three-eye look with a suede upper that’s stain and water-resistant. Inside, you’ll find plush, sweat-wicking shearling lamb fur and a memory foam footbed for added support.
Promising Customer Feedback: “I’ve worn several pairs of another brand for years…this is hands down better by a mile. The craftsmanship, stitching, and traction soul are all significant improvements. These are a 10+. (Note: negative reviews over arch support, hiking, etc…are off-topic…these are designed for casual wear, not backcountry hiking.) Great for post-surf!!” — Greg H
Koolaburra by UGG Men’s Easson Chelsea Boot
For a lace-less look that feels more polished than the O.G. UGG boot, opt for the Easson Chelsea boot from Koolaburra. Accessible elegance that gives us the comfort of house slippers is our M.O. for in-office looks and date night outings on cool spring evenings. Grab this look for less, while stocks last, because there’s never been a better time to give your footwear collection an upgrade.
Promising Customer Feedback: “Bought as a gift, but quality is really good. Nice gray color. Good alternative to actual UGG boots.” — Julnoelle
Customer reviews have been edited for length and clarity.