Uggs were extremely popular back in the Juicy Couture days, and they’re making a strong comeback. Their popularity stems from their iconic look, slipper-like comfiness, and unbeatable warmth, especially in extreme cold.
Yet, the problem is that the expensive price tag isn’t the only downside to these furry boots that would make you look elsewhere. The warmth that they provide comes from sheepskin with fleece attached, which is definitely cruel.
However, there are many cruelty-free options that look and feel like an original pair of Uggs, minus the troubling origin. So, this article will give you the best available vegan Uggs alternatives.
At a Glance
- PAWJ California Tall – Best Overall
- Room of Fashion – Best Waterproof
- Camel Crown – Best Ankle High
- DAWGS 9” – Most Affordable
The 4 Best Vegan Uggs Alternatives in 2021
If you need help finding cruelty-free Uggs substitutes that have the same warmth, comfort, and look, here are our top picks.
1. PAWJ California Tall – Best Overall
PAWJ has become a big name in the world of vegan footwear. Their whole purpose is to create an animal-friendly alternative to stylish winter boots that use animal skin. The reason why we included this brand is the PAWJ California Tall boots that are the closest thing to Uggs that you could find.
Their design is identical to the infamous Uggs in every way. You can basically fool your Uggs-loving friends into thinking that you’re wearing them.
The soft synthetic suede looks and feels exactly like its animal counterpart. However, the difference is that you can enjoy it without guilt. Also, the faux fur and faux shearling replicate the softness and fluffiness that Uggs are known for. However, unlike Uggs, they have an impressive variety of colors.
Furthermore, the EVA soles are flexible and practical so that you can wear these boots comfortably. Besides, these boots have double nylon stitched seams, which add to their durability; these boots won’t fall apart anytime soon. Moreover, they have reinforced heels because softness doesn’t equal flimsiness.
However, there is one downside to these boots: their price tag isn’t for everyone.
Pros
Cons
Final Verdict
The PAWJ California Tall boots are the most identical vegan alternative to Uggs. Even their prices are similar.
2. Room of Fashion – Best Waterproof
If you’re looking for vegan alternatives to Uggs that are waterproof and affordable, there’s no better option than the Room of Fashion boots.
This pair comes in an impressive selection of colors that makes you forget about Uggs. There’s also so much detail in the design that you wouldn’t expect from such a budget-friendly pair.
The boots have 100% synthetic materials, so no animals have suffered just so you can rock some footwear. They’re waterproof, so you can brace the rainy days looking absolutely fabulous. Also, they’re lined with very soft vegan fur that puts Uggs fur to shame. Moreover, we love the cushioned soles because cute boots that aren’t comfortable aren’t worth it.
Also, it only makes sense that the outsoles of a waterproof pair that you will subject to rain are made of anti-slip TPR rubber. You can walk confidently in these boots, knowing that you won’t slip.
All that being said, these boots tend to run large, so order a size small to get the right fit for you.
Pros
Cons
Final Verdict
The Room of Fashion boots are the ideal waterproof option to replace Uggs in your vegan closet.
3. Camel Crown – Best Ankle High
Ankle-high boots are a must-have in every closet. Unfortunately, many cute ones on the market are far from being vegan-friendly. The Uggs are definitely not. So, we recommend the Camel Crown boots as an animal-friendly alternative.
These boots stand out in a wide selection of colors that flatter every winter and autumn closet. They look like they just came out of Pinterest.
The affordable pair has faux nubuck uppers that no one can tell apart from the actual Uggs. They look soft and cozy. Also, the faux lining is plush and warm like a cozy blanket in the dead of winter. Plus, the round-toe design is fantastic for wider toes that need a little bit of room.
In addition, the outsoles are made of anti-slip EVA foam with a deep tread that gives you enough grip to go about your day, even on slippery terrain.
However, one flaw stands out, which is that the size runs a bit small, so order a size up.
Pros
Cons
Final Verdict
The Camel Crown boots are the best vegan ankle-high option that replaces Uggs.
4. DAWGS 9” – Most Affordable
One of the biggest downsides to Uggs is their high price tag. Nevertheless, staying warm and cozy doesn’t have to break the bank. The DAWGS 9” boots know how to imitate everything that made Uggs popular at a very affordable price.
These boots are made of microfiber, which mimics genuine leather better than any other synthetic material. It also has tensile strength that real leather wishes it had. In addition, microfiber is lightweight enough to make the boots easy to pack for a Christmas trip.
Moreover, the boots have an extra-thick faux shearling lining that will keep you warm on the chilliest days and coldest nights. Plus, they’re pretty comfortable and easy on the feet, thanks to the memory foam insoles. Their choice of round toes is ideal because it lets the toes breathe.
Furthermore, the rubber soles are slip-resistant, which makes them practical, not just aesthetically pleasing. Speaking of aesthetics, their color choices are pretty similar to Uggs, as well.
However, these boots aren’t without flaws. Firstly, we wouldn’t recommend them for heavy-duty use, such as hiking; everyday use is more than adequate. Secondly, if you have medium to wide feet, you may want to order a size up.
Pros
Cons
Final Verdict
The DAWGS 9” boots are the best affordable, cruelty-free alternative to Uggs.
How to Pick an Uggs Alternative
Whether you’re an experienced vegan shopper or have just decided to give up Uggs, there are a few things that would help if you knew them before buying a vegan-friendly alternative.
Cruelty-free
One of the most important steps of buying vegan shoes is to ensure that they’re free of any animal-based materials. When it comes to winter boots that resemble Uggs, make sure that they don’t have genuine leather, suede, fur, wool, sheepskin, and so on.
There are many ways to check. If you’re shopping in-store, touching the materials yourself will give you an idea because animal skin feels incredibly different from its alternatives. Another way is to read the labels; symbols that resemble animal hides are a no-no.
Also, asking the manufacturer in-store or online about whether they use animal products or not definitely helps.
Vegan Materials
Synthetic
In terms of synthetic alternatives, microfiber is a good place to start with. It’s a lightweight synthetic material that imitates the classic softness of Uggs suede and nubuck. On the other hand, PU leather is the best alternative to genuine leather known to man. It’s better for the environment than PVC, but it still does the job without causing harm to animals.
Moreover, Gore-Tex is a hidden gem in the world of synthetic fabrics that is lightweight, breathable, and waterproof, which makes it ideal for outdoor and winter boots. Nylon is also popular in vegan shoes because it’s cheap, resilient, water-resistant, and moisture-wicking, meaning that it’s more hygienic for your feet than actual Uggs.
Natural
There’s nothing better for the environment than going back to nature. The most popular and sustainable plant-based leather is Pinatex, and it’s made of the waste leaves of the pineapple plant. Like the real thing, it’s durable and sturdy. Yet, it’s easier to take care of than animal leather.
Cork is another popular alternative that is sustainable, like pineapple waste. It’s known for its durability, stain and scratch resistance, and low-maintenance. Plus, cork makes a pretty stylish alternative, thanks to its unique look and feel.
Another cool natural alternative would be cotton. Cotton canvas boots have always been around, and they’re even better when lined with cotton too. They’re affordable, breathable, and easy to clean.
Length and Type
It’s important to know the length of boots that you’re looking for before you make a decision. Mini, wedge, and ankle boots are the most versatile because you can wear them on casual and dressy occasions. You can also rock them in the cold, mild cold, or moderate weather.
On the other hand, calf, knee-high, and over-the-knee boots are the way to announce that winter has come. They keep you extra warm and fuzzy. If the winter gets pretty serious where you live, we recommend snow boots.
The style of boots you pick can also say a lot about you. Chelsea boots are an effortless yet stylish way to let your inner Harry Styles come out. On the other hand, triplet bow back boots will look cute on literally anything. There’s so much to choose from, and each choice can work with the right outfit.
Fit
It goes without saying that finding boots that actually fit your feet is essential. Take your measurements before you shop online, and pay attention to any notes that the manufacturer posts about sizing.
If you try the shoes in person, wear the socks you’ll usually wear with them, or go sockless if that’s how these boots work. In addition, make sure your toes have wiggle room because the boots should be snug but not tight.
FAQs
Are Uggs Vegan?
No, Uggs pride themselves on using genuine animal leather in all of their products, mainly suede, fur, wool, and sheepskin. So, it’s not just a brand that is non-vegan but may include a few vegan options; it’s a 100% non-vegan brand, and vegans should completely skip their products.
Why Should You Never Buy Uggs?
Uggs are harmful both to animals and the environment. All of their products use genuine animal-based materials, such as twin-face sheepskin, leather, and wool, to achieve their signature warmth.
Also, the leather industry that Uggs participates in results in greenhouse-gas emissions and land pollution. Plus, there’s an abundance of Uggs cruelty-free alternatives.
What Are Vegan Boots Made From?
A variety of cruelty-free materials, whether natural or man-made, can build your favorite vegan pair of boots. Synthetic and plant-based leather, faux suede, microfiber, nylon, cork, hemp, faux fur, cotton, and more.
Final Thoughts
We hope that our list of the best vegan Uggs alternatives and our guide have helped you make an informed decision. If you still need a little bit of help, here are the highlights.
The PAWJ California Tall boots are the best alternative to Uggs in terms of looks, quality, and comfort. Next in line, we have the Room of Fashion boots that are waterproof and affordable. Finally, the Camel Crown boots are the best ankle-high Uggs alternative.
