Q: Who founded UGG Since 1974?

 A: UGG Since 1974 was founded in 1974 by Arthur and Faye Springthorpe, a young Sydney couple with deep roots in the wool and sheepskin industry. Arthur's early years as a wool classer in New South Wales shearing sheds gave him the rare expertise to handcraft moccasins and UGG boots from scratch. What started as a small workshop operation has grown into one of Australia's most celebrated UGG boot makers, now run by Arthur and Faye's grandson Todd Watts.

Q: What sheepskin do you use in your UGG boots?

A: We use only premium A-grade double face Australian Merino sheepskin with a minimum thickness of 17mm. Our sheepskin is ethically sourced exclusively from Australian and New Zealand farmers who raise their animals for food. We do not source from farmers who raise animals for their skin alone, and we do not use sheepskin from countries with lower animal welfare standards. Every hide is hand selected to ensure only the fluffiest, thickest sheepskin makes it into your UGG boots — we hand cut around any natural blemishes like seed holes or scars to ensure an unparalleled result.

Q: Is your sheepskin ethically sourced?

A: Yes. We are one of the only UGG boot makers in the world to manufacture exclusively from ethically sourced Australian and New Zealand sheepskin. We only source from farmers who raise their animals for food — meaning our sheepskin is a by-product of the meat industry. We strongly oppose and do not support sheep being raised solely for their skin. All our farming partners operate under the Industry Animal Welfare Standard governed by Australian state and federal law.

Q: Is the sheepskin in your UGG boots real or synthetic?

A: 100% real. We only ever use genuine A-grade double face Australian Merino sheepskin in our UGG boots. We do not use synthetic sheepskin, faux fur, or blended materials. Genuine sheepskin naturally regulates temperature — keeping your feet warm in winter and cool in summer — something synthetic materials simply cannot replicate.

Q: What does A-grade sheepskin mean?

A: A-grade is the highest classification of sheepskin, meaning the hide is thick, dense, and free of significant natural blemishes. Our sheepskin has a minimum wool pile thickness of 17mm, which gives our UGG boots their signature warmth, softness and comfort. Lower grade sheepskin — used by many cheaper UGG boot makers — is thinner, less dense, and wears out far more quickly.

Q: How are UGG Since 1974 boots different from the American UGG brand?

A: UGG Since 1974 is an Australian owned, Australian made family business that has been handcrafting genuine Australian UGG boots on the Gold Coast since 1974 — several years before the American UGG brand even existed. The American UGG brand is owned by Deckers Brands, a US corporation. Despite trading on Australian imagery, Deckers' UGG boots are manufactured in Asia. Our UGG boots are made by hand in our own Gold Coast workshop using A-grade Australian Merino sheepskin, authenticated with Australian Made labels, and crafted one pair at a time by skilled Australian craftspeople.

Q: How are your UGG boots different from cheap UGG boots sold online?

A: Most cheap UGG boots sold online are mass produced in factories in China, Vietnam or other parts of Asia using lower grade sheepskin or synthetic materials. Our UGG boots are handcrafted one pair at a time in our Gold Coast workshop by experienced Australian craftspeople using only A-grade Australian Merino sheepskin. We manufacture to order — meaning your UGG boots are made specifically for you after you place your order, not sitting in a warehouse. Our customers regularly report their UGG boots lasting 10 or more years with proper care.

Q: Are your UGG boots Australian Made certified?

A: Yes. Every pair of UGG Since 1974 boots is authenticated with an official Australian Made sew-in label and tags. The Australian Made certification is a government-backed standard that verifies products are genuinely manufactured in Australia using Australian materials and labour. You will find this label sewn into every pair of UGG boots we produce.

Q: Do you manufacture UGG boots to order or hold stock?

A: We manufacture every pair of UGG boots to order. This means when you place your order, we begin making your boots specifically for you in our Gold Coast workshop. We do not hold pre-made stock sitting in a warehouse. This approach eliminates waste, ensures freshness of materials, and means every pair of UGG boots receives individual attention from our craftspeople. It does mean a manufacturing lead time of approximately 4 weeks, which we believe is a small wait for a pair of UGG boots that will last you many years.

Q: Can I visit your UGG boot workshop on the Gold Coast?

A: Yes! We offer exclusive factory tours of our Gold Coast workshop where you can see exactly how our genuine Australian UGG boots are handcrafted from start to finish. It is a rare opportunity to see authentic Australian UGG boot making in action. Visit our Factory Tours page for more information and to book.

Q: Should I wear socks with UGG boots?

A: This is entirely personal preference, but most of our customers wear their UGG boots without socks — and for good reason. The natural wool pile of genuine A-grade Merino sheepskin acts as a natural moisture wicking layer that keeps your feet dry, regulates temperature, and resists odour. Wearing socks can actually reduce these benefits. However if you prefer the feel of socks, a thin merino wool sock works best as it complements rather than compresses the natural wool pile inside the UGG boot.

Q: Do UGG boots smell?

A: Genuine A-grade Merino sheepskin is naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking, which means our UGG boots resist odour far better than synthetic materials or leather. Many of our customers who wear their UGG boots daily without socks report no odour issues at all. If you do notice any odour over time, airing your UGG boots out overnight after each wear makes a significant difference.

Q: Are UGG boots warm enough for winter?

A: Absolutely. Genuine A-grade Merino sheepskin is one of nature's finest insulators. The dense wool pile traps warm air close to your foot, keeping your feet warm even in cold conditions. What makes sheepskin UGG boots exceptional is that they also breathe — so unlike synthetic insulation, your feet stay comfortable rather than overheating. Our UGG boots are worn and loved by customers across cold climates worldwide including Canada, the UK, Scandinavia and the US.

Q: Can I wear UGG boots in summer?

A: Yes. Because genuine sheepskin is a natural temperature regulator, UGG boots work in warmer weather too — the wool wicks moisture away from your foot and allows airflow, keeping your feet cooler than you might expect. Many customers wear their sheepskin slippers and lighter UGG boot styles year-round.

Q: What size UGG boots should I buy?

A: Our UGG boots are sized true to your everyday shoe size. If you normally wear a size 8, order a size 8. Our sizing is unisex across the entire range. We always recommend measuring your foot against our size chart before ordering, as there can be slight variances between different countries' sizing systems — particularly between US, UK, EU and Australian sizes. If you are between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up as the wool pile will compress slightly with wear.

Q: How do I measure my foot for UGG boot sizing?

A: Stand on a piece of paper with your heel against a wall. Mark the end of your longest toe, then measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimetres. Compare this measurement to our size chart. Always measure both feet and use the larger measurement — it is common for feet to differ slightly in size.

Q: Do UGG boots stretch with wear?

A: The sheepskin upper will soften and mould slightly to the shape of your foot over the first few wears, giving you a personalised fit. The wool pile inside will also compress slightly with regular wear, which is completely normal. This is why we recommend sizing true to size rather than sizing down, as UGG boots will not stretch significantly larger.

Q: Do you make UGG boots for men, women and kids?

A: Yes. We make genuine Australian UGG boots and slippers for women, men and kids across a wide range of styles, colours and sizes. Our sizing is unisex, so men and women use the same size range. Our kids UGG boots range covers sizes from toddler through to older children.

Q: What UGG boot styles do you offer?

A: We offer a wide range of UGG boot styles including classic tall UGG boots, classic mid UGG boots, classic mini UGG boots, platform UGG boots, button UGG boots, sheepskin slippers, moccasins and more. All styles are available in a range of colours made from our A-grade Australian Merino sheepskin. We also offer customisation options on selected styles.

Q: Can I customise my UGG boots?

A: Yes. We offer customisation on selected UGG boot styles, allowing you to personalise your boots. Visit our website for current customisation options available.

Q: How long will my UGG boots last?

A: With proper care, our customers regularly report their UGG boots lasting 10 or more years. Because we use A-grade Australian Merino sheepskin and premium thread and binding, our UGG boots are built to withstand years of regular wear. This is the opposite of fast fashion — we make UGG boots designed to last, not to be replaced every season.

Q: How do I care for my UGG boots?

A: Before first wear, treat your UGG boots with a suede protector spray — genuine sheepskin is not naturally water resistant and this step significantly extends the life of your boots. Do not machine wash your UGG boots. Spot clean only using a damp cloth and a sheepskin-specific cleaner. Stuff your UGG boots with newspaper when wet to help them retain their shape as they dry. Always dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight. Store in a cool dry place. Air your UGG boots out after each wear to maintain freshness.

Q: Can I get my UGG boots wet?

 A: Genuine sheepskin is not naturally water resistant so we strongly recommend treating your UGG boots with a suede protector spray before first wear and reapplying regularly. Light rain and splashes are generally fine on treated UGG boots, but submerging or soaking should be avoided. If your UGG boots do get wet, stuff them with newspaper and allow them to dry naturally away from heat — never use a dryer or direct sunlight to dry UGG boots.

Q: How long does it take to receive my UGG boots?

A: As we manufacture every pair of UGG boots to order, please allow approximately 4 weeks for manufacturing before your boots are dispatched. Once dispatched, Australian orders typically arrive within 3-7 business days. International shipping times vary by destination. We keep you updated at every stage of your UGG boot order.

Q: Do you ship UGG boots internationally?

A: Yes, we ship our Australian made UGG boots worldwide. We notify you at each stage of production and dispatch so you always know where your order is.

Q: What is your UGG boots returns policy?

A: As our UGG boots are handcrafted to order we are unable to accept returns for change of mind. We offer exchanges, credit notes, or refunds for manufacturing faults. Please contact hello@uggsince1974.com.au within 30 days of receiving your UGG boots if you have any concerns.

Q: Do you offer a warranty on your UGG boots?

A: Yes. We offer a 12-month manufacturing warranty on the craftsmanship of every pair of UGG boots. This covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover general wear and tear or damage caused by improper care.

Q: Why do some UGG Since 1974 orders ship with a Since 74 label?

A: Due to trademark requirements outside Australia and New Zealand, UGG boots shipped internationally are labelled Since 74 rather than UGG Since 1974. The boots are completely identical — same A-grade Australian Merino sheepskin, same Gold Coast workshop, same craftspeople, same quality. Since 74 is simply our international trading name.