A Koolaburra vs. Ugg comparison can be so confusing, and the confusion lies in the relationship between Koolaburra and Ugg. In this article, we will look at the similarities and differences between Koolaburra and Ugg. And the important things you need to know about them to help you make an informed purchase decision.
Koolaburra and Ugg are Decker brand products. They are winter footwears that are largely similar but also have their fair share of differences. Koolaburra is the more affordable brand made from sheepskin, suede, and faux fur, while Ugg is mainly made from sheepskin. Further, Ugg has been in the market much longer than Koolaburra, which is the latest addition to the Decker brand.
Koolaburra vs. Ugg Boots – Similarities
Let’s take this comparison further and pinpoint the key similarities between the two.
Koolaburra and Ugg boots have similarities, considering that one is inspired by the other. We discuss these similarities below.
Warmth and Comfort
Ugg boots are made from sheepskin lined with wool. The wool lining provides extreme warmth and comfort. On the other hand, Kookaburra is made from a combination of sheepskin, suede, and faux fur. The three used together to afford you great warmth and comfort as well. You will notice that the upper part of Koolaburra has less fur, but that should not make much of a difference.
The sheepskin wool used to make the footwear helps regulate the temperature within the boots. This means they should be used without socks to allow direct contact with the body.
Look and Design
The two boots have a similar design, and there is no noticeable difference between Ugg boots and Koolaburra in terms of looks alone.
Ugg boots (Ugg and Koolaburra) are stylish and youthful. Koolaburra tends to be trendier, but the look is inspired mainly by the classic Ugg design.
Both are designed for winter but can be worn all year round. They are offered in a variety of colors, but the range of colors is similar for both. In summer, when it gets too hot, you will find them a bit uncomfortable because they are unbreathable.
Differences between Koolaburra and Ugg Boots
Although not so pronounced, there are several differences between Koolaburra and Ugg boots. We discuss some of these differences below.
Place of Manufacture
All Koolaburra boots are made in Australia, while Ugg boots are made in China or New Zealand, depending on the style. New Zealand is known for sheep, so it makes sense that sheepskin Ugg boots are manufactured there.
Price of the Boots
Ugg boots are pricier compared to Koolaburra and other similar brands. This is primarily because of the quality of material used to manufacture the Ugg boots. It is said that Ugg boots are manufactured from Grade A, Twin face sheepskin, the best grade you can find. Ugg boots may cost you between $150 and $ 330, while the price of Koolaburra ranges from $60 to $131.
That is why Koolaburra is considered a more affordable version of the Ugg brand. Whether you go for the more affordable Koolaburra or, the pricier Ugg, rest assured that you will get value for money.
Durability and Comfort
Suede leather is generally durable compared to the other materials used for making shoes. This places Koolaburra above Ugg boots when it comes to durability. However, Ugg boots can maintain their shape and softness for longer if well maintained.
History and Origins
The American footwear company, Ugg, which is part of the Deckers brand, was formerly known as Ugg Australia. Koolaburra, which is an American footwear company that imports authentic sheepskin footwear, was acquired by Deckers in 2015.
The new line was christened Koolaburra by Ugg (and that is why comparing Koolaburra and Ugg sounds funny). Koolaburra by Ugg is, therefore, the latest member of the Ugg family.
Upper
The upper part of Ugg boots has farther compared to Koolaburra boots. This might be attributed to the fact that Koolaburra is targeting people who prefer less far up.
Koolaburra Vs Ugg Boots
| Difference | Ugg boots | Koolaburra by Ugg boots |
| Quality | Premium product | Good quality |
| Upper | Has more fur | Has less fur |
| Price/Target customers | Midrange and high-end segments | Budget and Midrange segments |
| Durability | Reasonably durable – Good care enhances longevity | Durable |
| Appearance | Stylish and youthful | Stylish and compact |
| Materials | Grade A, Twin face sheepskin | Suede, sheepskin faux fur |
| Fur and Sole | Thicker and more cushioned | Above-average thickness and cushioning |
| Country of Origin | China & New Zealand | Australia |
| Duration in the Market | Has been around for a while | Relatively new in the market |
Is Koolaburra by Ugg Fake?
Koolaburra by Ugg is not a fake brand. It is actually a legitimate brand of the Decker outdoor corporation. “Fake” claims have emerged due to the similarity between the two products and significant differences in price.
The two brands belong to the same company. It, therefore, beats logic for the Decker Company to create a fake version of their product. Ugg created Koolaburra Ugg as a more affordable brand for people who cannot afford the expensive Ugg boots.
That said, it is important to ensure the boots you are buying are authentic Koolaburra by Ugg boots. Buy from reputable retailers such as DSW, Zappos, Amazon, or Nordstrom. You can also buy from the official Ugg website.
How to Clean Ugg boots
Cleaning Ugg boots is not complicated at all. However, be warned that extra caution is required when a stubborn stain is involved. Otherwise, you might end up damaging your shoes. In most cases, you will need an Ugg cleaner and air conditioner. If you cannot access the two for any reason, you can use the simple DIY described below.
- Gently brush off the dirt using a laundry wash (underline Gentle)
- Moisten the dirt surface using a clean moisture sponge (should not be immersed in water).
- To maintain the shape of the Ugg boot, fill it with dry pieces of paper and leave it to dry naturally. The room should be well ventilated.
- After the boots have dried, brush them with suede. Be sure to brush in one direction to restore the original form of the boots.
Removable sheepskin insole can be hand washed using a mild detergent and cold water.
Note that suede in Koolaburra is not 100% waterproof and may make the boots leak. You should therefore avoid washing the two together if you have both Ugg and Koolaburra.
Conclusion
Koolaburra and Ugg are two excellent products of the Decker outdoor corporation. The two winter footwear products target two different market segments based on budget. Ugg boots are more expensive and have been in the market longer. Koolaburra by Ugg, which is primarily inspired by the classic Ugg look, is the new kid on the block. While Ugg is made with sheepskin alone, Koolaburra is made from a combination of sheepskin, suede, and faux fur.
If you are looking to buy winter footwear, Koolaburra and Ugg boots ought to be among the options you are looking at. They are stylish, durable, and functional. You can go for Ugg or Koolaburra by Ugg, depending on your budget. There have been claims that Koolaburra by Ugg is a fake. But we hope that this comparison has assured you that those claims are unsubstantiated.