What Are Koolaburra Uggs?

20 Jan What Are Koolaburra Uggs?

If you’ve ever slipped your feet into a pair of those soft, cozy, sheepskin boots known as Uggs, you know just how amazing they feel. As someone who loves comfort as much as style, I was beyond excited when I first discovered Uggs. There was just something about that plush wool lining and cozy comfort that felt like wrapping my feet in a hug. But as much as I adored my Uggs, they definitely made a dent in my wallet. So when I learned there was an affordable alternative to the pricey Uggs brand, I had to try them out for myself. Enter Koolaburra – a company creating boots remarkably similar to Uggs but without the luxury price tag.

A Brief History of Uggs

Before we dive into the world of Koolaburra, it helps to understand the background of the uber-popular Uggs brand. Uggs started in 1978 when Australian surfer Brian Smith brought sheepskin boots to the beaches of California. Surfers and beach-goers went crazy for the cozy, fuzzy boots, loving how they kept their feet warm after a day of catching waves. From modest beginnings in Southern California, the Uggs brand grew in popularity over the decades. By the early 2000s, Uggs exploded into a major global fashion trend, becoming a must-have item for women. Supermodels, Hollywood starlets, and fashion icons like Oprah endorsed them. Of course, with huge demand came luxury pricing, and real Uggs now cost $200 and upward per pair. But for many fans of the fuzzy boot style, less expensive alternatives like Koolaburra allow us to channel the Uggs look for less.

The difference between uggs and koolaburra lies in the affordability factor. For many fans of the fuzzy boot style, less expensive alternatives like Koolaburra allow us to channel the Uggs look for less.

So what exactly are Koolaburra boots, and how did they come about? Koolaburra is an Australian footwear company, founded in 1991 by a family of shoemakers. They specialized in sheepskin boots and footwear early on. Because Ugg boots were becoming increasingly expensive and hard to obtain overseas, the demand for more reasonably priced sheepskin boots grew. Koolaburra stepped in to fill this need in the marketplace by offering high-quality boots made from real suede and sheepskin, similar in design to the increasingly pricey Uggs.

Unlike the original Uggs made in Australia and cost upwards of $200, Koolaburra boots are produced in China to keep costs low. This more affordable production allows the company to retail most styles for $100 or less – a steal compared to the staggering costs of genuine Uggs. Koolaburra boots maintain excellent construction despite the lower prices with real sheepskin lining. The uppers are typically made from plush suede rather than expensive twin-faced sheepskin. But to the average eye, Koolaburra boots look remarkably similar to Uggs in style and comfort.

Key Features of Koolaburra Boots

So now that we know the backstory of the company, let’s look at what makes Koolaburra boots special:

Sheepskin Lining

Like classic Uggs, all Koolaburra boots feature a plush genuine sheepskin lining. This creates that wonderful soft, cozy feel against your feet that sheepskin boots are so famous for. The wool interior naturally wicks moisture to keep your feet dry as well.

Suede or Leather Uppers

The finest Koolaburra boots will have uppers made from premium suede, like authentic Uggs. Some more affordable styles may use leather uppers instead. But both suede and leather exteriors give the boots a stylishly fuzzy, fleecy look and feel.

Fashionable Boot Silhouettes

From short ankle boots to slouchy knee-high styles, Koolaburra offers many of the same boot silhouettes that made Uggs a fashion must-have. Popular types include classic short boots, tall boots, slippers, and ankle booties.

Quality Materials

While not made in Australia like real Uggs, Koolaburra boots do maintain high-quality materials and construction. They hold up well over seasons of wear and tear. The suede and leather is thick and plush, while the soles are durable.

Non-Slip Soles

Koolaburra outsoles are typically fashioned from materials like latex and rubber to provide traction and prevent slipping on slick surfaces.

Lightweight Feel

Thanks to the breathable interior lining and flexible soles, Koolaburra boots are lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear. Walking around in these cozy kicks, your feet won’t feel weighed down.

Affordable Prices

Easily the best thing about Koolaburra boots is the price. Ranging from around $60-$120 for most styles, you can purchase terrific Ugg-like boots without going broke.

Koolaburra vs. Uggs: How Do They Compare?

Now that we’ve gotten to know Koolaburra boots, let’s discuss how they stack up against the Uggs brand. Here are some key differences and similarities:

• Prices – The most obvious distinction is the cost. Real Uggs retail for $200 and up normally, while Koolaburra boots cost between $60-$120 typically. That’s quite a price difference!
• Materials – Uggs are crafted from plush twin-faced sheepskin with suede outer surfaces. Koolaburra uses single-faced suede or leather uppers with genuine sheepskin interiors. Both are high quality, but Uggs edge out with thicker hides.
• Origins – Authentic Uggs hail from Australia, while Koolaburras are made in China. But both companies know their sheepskin boots!
• Styles – When it comes to silhouettes, Koolaburra offers many similar styles to Uggs. You’ll find classic short and tall boots, slippers, booties, moccasins, and more. The looks are remarkably alike.
• Comfort – Since both brands use real sheepskin lining, the comfort level feels very comparable. The wool interior provides equal coziness.
• Quality – While the materials differ slightly, Koolaburra boots maintain excellent construction and durability. Well-made pairs should last for years with proper care.
• Accessibility – One of the biggest perks of Koolaburra is its availability and affordability. Uggs can sell out quickly and you may need to join a wait list. Koolaburra boots are readily available online.

How to Style Koolaburra Boots

The great thing about Koolaburra boots is their versatility. Sheepskin boots pair well with so many outfits from jeans to skirts, dresses, leggings, and shorts. Here are some of my favorite ways to rock these cozy kicks:

With Jeans

One of the simplest ways to wear Koolaburra boots is by pairing them with jeans. Cuff your skinny jeans and tuck them into short classic boots. Or layer tall boots under bootcut or straight-leg denim. I love to add chunky knit socks peeking out the top, too, for extra warmth and style.

With Leggings or Tights

Leggings and tights complement Koolaburra boots beautifully. Slouchy boots worn with thick leggings create a chic juxtaposition of textures. Or wear sleek fitted ankle booties with opaque tights and a dress for feminine flair.

With Dresses and Skirts

Don’t reserve your Koolaburra boots for pants only! Short boots look adorable, peeking out under hemlines of dresses and skirts. And tall knee-high varieties help keep your legs warm and cozy under your favorite flared skater skirt.

With Shorts

While we often relegate boots to the colder months, you can definitely wear Koolaburras with shorts too. Cuff jeans or denim cutoffs over top of ankle boots for a casual vibe. Or pair tall boots with tights and mini shorts when temperatures drop.

For Pajamas

Thanks to the plush interiors, Koolaburra boots make amazing house slippers too. So don’t be afraid to rock them with your comfiest pajamas as well. Just tuck your pants into the boots for a pulled-together bedtime look.

Caring for Your Kookaburras

To keep your Koolaburra boots looking and feeling fabulous for many seasons, be sure to practice proper care:

• Protect suede – Always spray suede uppers with a waterproofing spray. This prevents moisture damage and staining. Re-apply the protector every few months.
• Dry naturally – Never force dry wet boots near heat. Always allow boots to air dry fully at room temperature away from direct sun.
• Use shoe trees – Placing boot trees inside boots while drying helps wick moisture and maintain shape.
• Clean stains – Spot clean suede uppers by gently brushing stains with a suede brush or eraser. Use a damp cloth for dried dirt. Avoid excessive scrubbing.
• Check soles – Examine soles regularly for excessive wear. Have a cobbler replace the soles if needed to prevent damage to the sheepskin lining.
• Store properly – Keep boots stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not being worn. Stuff with paper to hold shape.
• Avoid extremes – Don’t wear boots in heavy rain or snow, which can damage the suede. Also, avoid wearing in extreme heat, which could cause linings to separate.
• Fluff interior – Use a suede brush to fluff up compressed sheepskin fibers inside boots. This restores softness and insulation.
• Treat spills – Blot liquid spills immediately with a clean cloth. Sprinkle with cornstarch to absorb grease or oil then brush off residue.
• Freshen odors – Eliminate boot odors by sprinkling interiors with baking soda. Leave overnight then shake out baking soda in the morning.
• Touch up suede – Disguise scuffs on suede by gently buffing with fine-grit sandpaper. Test on a small area first.

Following these tips will help properly care for your Koolaburras so you can enjoy season after season of cozy comfort and style! Proper maintenance is easy and will extend the life of your boots significantly.

FAQs

Q: Are Koolaburra boots as warm and soft inside as Uggs?

A: Yes, the interior lining of Koolaburra boots contains genuine sheepskin just like Uggs, so they provide that same cozy warmth and softness. The plush wool lining regulates temperature and wicks moisture.

Q: Can you wear Koolaburra boots in heavy rain or snow?

A: It’s best to avoid wearing suede Koolaburra boots in heavy rain or snow. The suede material can become damaged when wet. Choose a waterproof leather or rubber rain boot for stormy weather.

Q: How do you clean the inside of Koolaburra boots?

A: Use a suede brush or soft cloth to brush out dirt inside boots gently. For odors, sprinkle baking soda inside overnight then shake it out. Never submerge the sheepskin lining in water when cleaning.

Q: Do Koolaburra boots run true to size?

A: Koolaburra boots generally fit true to size. However, many customers recommend ordering 1/2 size up for a roomier feel, especially if you plan to wear thick socks.

Q: Can you re-sole Koolaburra boots when the soles get worn down?

A: You can have a cobbler replace the soles on Koolaburra boots once the tread wears down. This extends the life of the boots since the suede uppers will remain in good condition.

In conclusion