After a slew of angry readers pointed out to me that Uggs or Ugg-style boots are hideous and unsuitable for very wet conditions, (okay it was about 3 people), I thought it was time for an Alternative To Uggs post.
First, these lined bikers from Panama Jack. I have a pair and they’re terrific. If you don’t like this exact style there are millions more. It’s a Spanish brand and they’re terribly good at shoes, the Spanish. Mine were very comfy from the start and they are cosy and all-weather.
There are also these from Tom’s – not exactly all-weather but good for pottering about a cold ground-floor and for nipping out for short errands in cold temperatures. I have a similar pair, called the Nepal boot (they no longer make them); I bought them about 5 years ago and they’ve held up very well.
Lots of votes for Sorel. I do like the shape and look of these, (many don’t), but I bought a pair a few years ago and my toes got really cold in them. Almost definitely not the boots’ fault as I get that Reynes’ syndrome thing where all the blood drains out of my fingers and toes if I get too cold – Uggs are the only boots where my toes never get cold. BUT if you do not suffer from this, Sorels seem to be massively popular. They have a few different designs if the fisherman-boot look isn’t your thing.
Like these: look, really very nice from Sorel, via Urban Outfitters. *Starts to regret furry boot choice* Millions of other warm boot choices on UO, too. Seems clunky winter boots are IN, fellas.
I also rather love Moon Boots and think these are pretty top.
In terms of a warm high-top trainer – my friend at school, Sinead, goes about in a pair of Nike Air Jordans and looks the business. Converse high-tops are not warm enough.
Who was saying you can’t wear UGGs to the office? What about these shiny patent snow boots from Other Stories? Quite something. Just a thought.
I got these for wet London days and I’m really happy with them. Look like leopard Chelsea boots but totes waterproof.
https://www.joules.com/Women/Wellies/Rockingham/Waterproof-Chelsea-Boots/Dark-Leopard?id=Y_ROCKINGHAM|DKLEOPD
After years of hoping they would, Ugg now does their classic boot in a waterproof, grippy sole version, in leather and suede. Used them last year in the snow/ice with a buggy and dog in tow (fml) and was warm, dry and did not slide around.
I’ve recently bought a pair of high top looking tan shoes from ECCO, with shearling lining and gore Tex outer. I am very excited for their arrival. They look warm, waterproof and like normal dare-i-say-trendy shoes.
Esther, I love you, but recommending a boot (the Panama Jack) that is lined with “natural fur” nooooo please don’t do it.
That’s what I was thinking. What’s ‘natural fur’? Part of me hopes it’s a bad Spanish translation for ‘wool fur’, but it’s not, is it?
Same same. Have been googling for more info but to no avail.
It’s not clear from the linked page but if you do a search for all boots there is a little symbol on most of the thumbnails which says 100% sheepskin lining (including for the boots linked). You can see here (scroll down): https://www.panamajackshop.com/uk/en/woman/footwear/boots
🙂
So it does! Still a bit concerned about the ones that say ‘fur’ on them so I’ve just emailed them to ask. Will keep you posted on the reply.
Why has my name changed to juliemaspring?!! Anyway, as promised, here is the reply from Panama Jack. So I think it’s okay to buy with a clear conscience.
Hello Julie,
Thank your contacting us!
We kindly inform you that our Igloo collection is made with natural sheepskin lining. The main characteristic of this material is that it is thermical and it keeps the natural body warm offering a pleasant comfort.
On the other side, our fur lining is also very warm, though it is not natural it is made with high quality imitation fur.
The insoles of some models are removable and you can wash them, however the rest of fur is not removable, in any case you can always use a damp sponge or cloth to remove dust or dirt.
We hope this information helps you to decide the most appropriate style for you.
Best regards from the Panama Jack Team!
I bought a pair of UGG biker boots last winter, and they were the best purchase ever. Really warm with the sheepskin inside, but look like regular bikers and waterproof too. Something like this https://www.ugg.com/uk/niels-ii-boot/1095130.html?dwvar_1095130_color=CPM#start=11&cgid=women-boots
Also I have bought sheepskin insoles for my trainers (as recommended by chloelovestoshop) which are a game changer
Thank you, this is exactly the post I have been needing for the past few weeks. Love the Panama Jacks with their proper sheepskin lining and not that yucky faux fur business that gies all shaggy after a few wears. Timberland also did a gorgeous version of the leather-sheepskin biker boot last year; hoping they will repeat it 🙏🏼 but if not it’s Spanish boots for me 🥾
I too am an Ugg fan Esther and have bought Bear Paw (similar American ones) in the past. What I like is not having to faff around with socks and the great think about Uggs is you don’t have to. I recently bought some Wrangler tan fur lined grippy soled boots but it looks like I have to wear socks with them… 🤨
I know this might be controversial(ly expensive), but what about Penelope Chilvers Incredible boots? I bought mine on ebay…
I’ve got the waterproof Ugg Glendale boots in Dove and they’re the business. I also fancy a pair of the Adirondacks but. Must. Stop. Spending. Money!
Heart eyes for those Jordans…
There is one boot and one boot only for me during the winter season (well, a pair) – DOC MARTENS. I have a hightop black pair, a regular black pair, dark red, and jazzy purple. Just have to bash them up with a hammer when they’re new (because otherwise owwwww) and you’re sorted for ANYTHING. I intend to wear the purple pair under my wedding dress next September. Once a grunge girl always a grunge girl.
Great post, thanks Esther. I got some Sorels last winter similar to the above (I think on your recommendation ) and they were incredible during Beast from the East or whatever that weird March weather was called. Have had Moon Boots in the past, but I found they developed holes in the sole if you’re walking on pavements a lot (as opposed to snow). But maybe they’ve sorted this out now.
I have fleece-lined biker boots from Rocket Dog and they make me look like I’m about to kick off, and I love them.