To tell if your UGGs are fake, look for specific authenticity features such as security stickers, examine the material quality, inspect the craftsmanship, and consider the purchase source and price.
Key Indicators of Authentic UGGs
Genuine UGG boots and slippers incorporate several distinct features designed to differentiate them from counterfeits. By carefully checking these details, you can determine the authenticity of your footwear.
The Security Sticker and Hologram
One of the most reliable ways to identify real UGG products is by locating the security sticker or label. Every official UGG product comes with this feature, which is typically found on the outside of the shoebox or sewn directly into the footwear itself.
- QR Code: Many genuine UGGs feature a QR code that, when scanned with a smartphone, should direct you to the official UGG website, confirming the product's authenticity.
- Reflective Holographic Logo: Alternatively, or in conjunction with the QR code, you might find a reflective holographic logo. This logo changes appearance or color when viewed from different angles, similar to a security feature on currency.
Material Quality
Authentic UGGs are crafted from high-quality, twin-face sheepskin, meaning both the wool and the suede exterior are from a single piece of sheepskin.
- Feel: Genuine sheepskin feels incredibly soft, thick, and plush on the inside, while the outside suede is smooth and supple. It adapts to your foot temperature, keeping you warm in the cold and cool in warmer conditions.
- Fake Material: Counterfeit UGGs often use synthetic fur or thin, coarse sheepskin. The inside may feel scratchy or matted, and the exterior might be stiff or have a plastic-like sheen.
Craftsmanship and Stitching
Pay close attention to the construction details of the boots.
- Stitching: Authentic UGGs feature neat, even, and sturdy stitching throughout. There should be no loose threads, frayed edges, or visible glue residue.
- Finish: The overall finish should be impeccable, indicating high-quality manufacturing.
- Fake Stitching: Counterfeits often have sloppy, uneven stitching, loose threads, and noticeable glue marks, especially around the sole and seams.
Sole and Tread
The sole of genuine UGG boots is designed for durability and comfort.
- Flexibility and Durability: Authentic soles are flexible yet robust, providing good support and traction.
- Tread Pattern: Many UGG models feature a distinctive "UGG®" sunburst pattern or other specific textured designs on the sole.
- Fake Soles: Counterfeit soles are often rigid, made from cheap plastic or rubber, and may have a generic or poorly defined tread pattern.
Inner Tags and Labels
Examine the tags sewn inside the boot or on the packaging.
- Print Quality: Authentic tags have clear, crisp printing with correct spelling of the "UGG®" logo, sizing information, and care instructions.
- Material: The tag itself should be made from good quality fabric.
- Fake Tags: Counterfeit tags may have blurry printing, misspellings, or be made from flimsy, cheap material.
Packaging
The packaging of genuine UGGs reflects the premium quality of the product.
- Box Quality: Authentic UGGs come in a sturdy, well-constructed box with clear, consistent branding and graphics.
- Inserts: Look for tissue paper, authenticity cards, or other informational inserts that are neatly placed.
- Fake Packaging: Counterfeit UGGs often come in flimsy, poorly printed boxes, or generic packaging with little to no branding.
The Smell Test
- Genuine Scent: Authentic sheepskin has a distinct, natural lanolin scent that is earthy and slightly musky.
- Fake Scent: Counterfeit UGGs often have a chemical or plastic odor due to the synthetic materials used in their construction.
Price and Purchase Location
Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Price: Authentic UGGs are premium products with a corresponding price tag. Significantly low prices are a major red flag for counterfeits.
- Purchase Source: Always purchase UGGs from authorized retailers, reputable department stores, or the official UGG website. Avoid street vendors, flea markets, or unauthorized online sellers, as these are common sources of fake products.
Real vs. Fake UGGs at a Glance
For a quick reference, here’s a comparison of common features:
| Feature | Authentic UGGs | Counterfeit UGGs |
|---|---|---|
| Security Label | QR code to UGG site or reflective holographic logo | Missing, fake, or non-functional QR/hologram |
| Material | Twin-face sheepskin (soft, thick, breathes) | Synthetic, coarse, sheds, doesn't breathe |
| Stitching | Neat, even, sturdy, no loose threads | Sloppy, uneven, visible glue, loose threads |
| Sole | Flexible, durable, specific tread pattern (e.g., UGG) | Stiff, cheap plastic, generic/poorly defined tread |
| Inner Tag | Clear print, correct spelling, quality fabric | Blurry, misspellings, flimsy tag |
| Packaging | Sturdy box, clear branding, proper inserts | Flimsy box, poor print, generic, often no inserts |
| Smell | Natural lanolin scent | Chemical or plastic odor |
| Price | Reflects premium quality | Significantly lower, "too good to be true" |
| Purchase Source | Authorized retailers, official UGG website | Unauthorized sellers, street vendors, suspicious websites |
By meticulously examining these details, you can confidently distinguish genuine UGGs from fakes.
