Are Uggs Waterproof?

There’s nothing better than slipping your feet into a fluffy, cozy, and warm pair of Uggs on a cold day. It’s literally like walking around with a blanket wrapped around your tootsies. Not only are they super comfortable (we’d argue the most comfortable shoes ever created), but they’re also stylish and oh-so versatile. Seriously, what other pair of shoes can you wear with leggings, jeans, shorts, and even casual skirts and dresses?

While there’s no denying that Uggs are utterly fantastic, they do come at a price, and we mean that literally; they aren’t exactly cheap. Depending on the style, they cost between $100 and $200, which, for most people, is kind of steep (especially considering the way the global economy has been going lately). Whether you purchased them as a gift for yourself or you were given them as a present, it goes without saying that you want to make sure that your Uggs look as good and remain comfy for as long as possible. That begs the question: Are Uggs waterproof?

So, are they? Keep on reading to find out if wearing your Ugg boots in the rain or snow, or trudging them through a puddle, is safe, and if not, if there’s anything you can do to protect them from water.

Are Uggs Waterproof?

What are Ugg Boots?

In Australia, where Uggs originated, the locals may associate these boots with “daggy” style and the “bogan” culture, but throughout the United States and Europe, these boots have become synonymous with casual fashion and of course, comfort. Thanks to the relaxed look and the variety of style and color options, they’re a staple in the wardrobes of both guys and gals. Uggs lend a kind of “caveman chic” look to fashion’s modern landscape.

With a sheepskin exterior and a fleece interior, Uggs will keep your toes toasty and warm on frosty days. Due to their fleece lining, they’re clearly defined as cold-weather footwear; however, a chill in the air isn’t all that you have to contend with when cold seasons roll in. Precipitation in the form of rain, snow, sleet, and ice are also pretty common. Hence why you’re wondering if Uggs are waterproof, because you obviously want to make sure they stay in great shape for as long as possible.

Are Uggs Rugged and Moisture Ready?

The short answer to this question is no, standard Ugg boots are not waterproof. Some Ugg boots are made to stand up to moisture; however, most are not. The sheepskin suede that the exterior is crafted from and the fleece that lines the interior are what make these boots so famously cozy; however, it’s because the boots are made of these materials that they aren’t waterproof. Both materials are highly porous, which means that they are not waterproof, unfortunately.

Why Your Uggs Should Avoid Moisture Like the Plague

If there’s one thing that can totally decimate both the look and the comfort of your Uggs, it’s moisture. Not only are they not waterproof, but due to the porous nature of the materials they are crafted of, they actually draw in moisture like a sponge. The suede exterior is extremely susceptible to moisture damage. Almost as soon as they’re exposed to water, the soft, velvety exterior will turn rough, stiff, and spattered with stains. Remember the move Gremlins? Well, Uggs are kind of like those cute, cuddly little creatures; when they get wet, things will get ugly really fast.  

For most readers, this probably isn’t surprising. If you’ve ever known someone who had a pair of Uggs, you probably admired their casual chic footwear when they first got them, but if you continued to pay attention to their feet, after a year or so, you likely noticed that they no longer looked as appealing as they used to. If they’re tan, they’re tan or light brown, they get speckled with dark spots and look blotchy, and if they’re black or gray, they’re covered with white marks wherever they made contact with moisture.

We aren’t knocking Ugg. They make really high-quality products that can last a super long time, but in order to make sure they retain their look and comfort they have to be properly cared for. That means that if it’s raining, snowing, sleeting, or hailing, you should really think twice about slipping them on. It also means that if you approach a puddle or a stretch of dew-coated grass while you’re already wearing them, you should find an alternative route.

Are Uggs Waterproof?

What Weather Should You Wear Your Uggs in?

There’s no denying that Uggs are some of the coziest boots on the market, and so it would seem that they would be an ideal way to protect your feet on those wind-swept snowy days, or when you’re trudging down the sidewalks after a chilly rain. However, given the fact that they aren’t waterproof, not even in the slightest (well, unless you purchase a pair that have been treated), they absolutely aren’t suitable to wear on days or in situations (dew-covered grass, puddle-filled fields, etc.) where moisture is present or could become present.

So when can Uggs be worn? While they should avoid moisture at all costs, there are actually plenty of scenarios when these stylish and comfy boots are the perfect choice. They’re great on subzero days that are filled with wall-to-wall sunshine. They’re perfect on those chilly spring or fall mornings or evenings. They’re excellent to wear when you’re hanging around a campfire. They’re fantastic when you’re running errands. They’re great for wearing on date nights or hang outs with your guy or gal pals.

They’re excellent for date nights with the husband or wife, or even with the kiddos. In other words, there are tons of scenarios when you can wear your Uggs; just make sure that you practice good common sense. If the forecast calls for precipitation or it’s actively falling from the sky, don’t wear them, and if you’re already sporting your Uggs and you come across moisture on the ground, steer clear and your favorite boots should be just fine.