UGG: how to spot counterfeits and avoid them

Genuine and counterfeit products have been at war for a long time. UGG is no exception. In just a few years, it has become a staple in our wardrobes, and the "Classic Short" lined boot has become a household name. A genuine indoor boot, UGGs combine comfort and high quality. Counterfeit products are made from inexpensive materials, which is why so many advertisements are appearing at very competitive prices. It has to be said that these imitations are very well made! They mainly encourage individuals to resell fake pairs of UGGs at high prices while certifying their authenticity. However, it is possible to prevent unpleasant surprises.

1. The packaging

If you buy your pair of UGGs as new, they will certainly be delivered or given to you in their original box. The packaging is the first thing you should check. UGG places great emphasis on the quality of its products, but also of its packaging: quality cardboard, boots wrapped in beige, yellow and black checked paper. A fake pair of boots will almost certainly be delivered in plastic pockets and/or damaged cardboard.

Also, check that the shoe size is in US size.

Note the difference in packaging between the original (left) and the counterfeit (right) (source: official website)

A shoe delivered with a cardboard label attached is bound to be a fake.

2. The sole

When you buy or receive your pair of boots, remember to twist the sole - you'll have no trouble doing this if you're dealing with real UGGs.

However, if you find it difficult to bend and the sole is stiff, your product is certainly wrong.

The sole of the original model twists easily in the photo on the left, unlike the fake model in the photo on the right (source: official website).

3. Watch out for the price

UGG stands out not only for the quality of the products it uses, but also for its prices. Made from real fur and sheepskin, they focus above all on the quality and comfort of their shoes. So don't dream! A pair of Uggs at a ridiculously low price is almost certainly a fake model of inferior quality, even if you're buying a pair that's already been worn by someone else.

4. Safety label

The first thing to do when you receive or buy your pair of Uggs is to check that the safety label is on the left boot and on the box.

Until 2015, UGG affixed a QR code to these labels, which you could scan using a mobile app. You were then redirected to the brand's official website when your UGGs were real. If you're making a hand-delivered purchase from a private individual and the boot has these old labels, don't hesitate to scan them when you meet up to ensure the authenticity of the product or to check that it has the new label!

So always check that this safety label is present, and if it's a delivery, ask the seller for a photo.

Another solution is to ask the seller directly for the certificate of authenticity, which was originally included in the box at the time of purchase.

The old safety label had a QR code (left), the new label is the one in the photo on the right (source: official website)

5. Quality

Take a close look at the quality of your shoes - if the fur on your shoes comes off easily, they're almost certainly fake.

The use of synthetic materials gives them a different feel, colour and smell. What's more, the stitching is often poorly done when you buy fake UGGs.

6. Heel label

Also, take the time to analyse the label on the heel - don't be tempted by the one that says 'UGG Australia'. We tend to think that UGG shoes are made in Australia, but in reality they come from China and Vietnam.

An authentic label always has a small "R" in a circle next to the UGG. Don't hesitate to compare the pair you find on the internet with photos of an original pair.

In many cases, the font, weight and colours used are not the same. The first "G" in UGG is also larger than the other two letters and must be placed on top of them.

Differentiate the label on the heel of an original pair of UGGs (left) from a counterfeit (right) (source: official website)

Buy your pair of UGGs securely with Obvy!

A pair of UGG boots is expensive. Buying second-hand seems to be an interesting alternative for acquiring a pair of boots more cheaply. However, you need to be wary of offers that are too tempting. You should always check the truthfulness of what the advertiser says by comparing it with the various points discussed above. Finally, use Obvy for your transaction. You'll be able to buy your pair of UGGs by hand or by delivery in complete security. You'll have full traceability of the transaction and all the information about the seller.

In particular, Obvy will enable you to turn around in the event of any unpleasant surprises during your purchasing phase and model verification.