EMU and UGG are two different brands of sheepskin boots: EMU Australia is an Australian company based in Geelong, while UGG is an American brand owned by Deckers Brands. While Emu and Ugg boots look similar, stemming from the same Australian sheepskin bootmaking tradition, they differ in origin, production location, and specific design features. Below, we'll compare them point by point.
To sum it up
- UGG – a brand founded in 1978 in California by Australian surfer Brian Smith, since 1995 it has belonged to the American company Deckers Brands; production is carried out mainly in China and Vietnam.
- EMU Australia – a brand operating under this name since 1994, originating from the Jackson's Tannery; the Platinum line is produced in Australia.
- Both types of shoes are made from double-sided sheepskin (double-sided / two-sided) – fur on the inside, suede on the outside.
- In Australia, "Ugg" is common name for sheepskin boot, but in the US, Europe and China UGG is a registered trademark of the Deckers company.
EMU vs UGG – Where Do Both Brands Come From?
UGG Company was founded in California in 1978 by Australian surfers Brian Smith and Doug Jensen, who brought sheepskin boots from Australian beaches to the United States. In 1995, the company was acquired by Deckers , which transformed it into a global fashion brand. Today, UGG is an American company headquartered in Goleta, California.
EMU Australia traces its roots to the Jackson's Tannery, founded in 1948. Since 1994, the company has operated under the EMU brand and is headquartered in Geelong, Victoria. The name refers to the emu, the bird featured on the Australian coat of arms. The brand gained popularity in the 2000s, when sheepskin boots transformed from niche surf footwear into a fashion hit.
Is UGG an Australian brand? A name dispute.
In Australia, the words "ugg," "ug," or "ugh boots" have for decades simply meant sheepskin boots , regardless of the manufacturer. Deckers registered the UGG trademark in many countries, but in Australia, local manufacturers successfully defended the right to use the name as a generic term. Therefore, many companies sell "ugg boots" in Australia, while in other countries—the US, Europe, and China—the UGG trademark is registered to Deckers.
In 2016, following actions by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Deckers changed its name from "UGG Australia" to simply "UGG," now positioning the brand as Californian. In Poland, "uggi" is colloquially used to refer to any footwear of this type, including EMUs, as is the case in Australia.
Materials and construction of EMU and UGG boots
The base material is the same: double-sided sheepskin One side is made of wool, which keeps your feet warm, and the other is suede. UGG calls it "reversible sheepskin," while EMU calls it "reversible sheepskin." The differences lie in the details of each model.
- UGG Classic II (like the Classic Short II) - Shearling and suede are factory-treated to resist water and stains, feature a shearling footbed, and a lightweight Treadlite by UGG outsole designed for cushioning and traction.
- EMU Platinum Model (For example, the Platinum Stinger) – hand-sewn in Australia from waterproof Australian sheepskin, features a removable, contoured insole, a contoured heel counter, and a dual-layer EVA and rubber outsole. The manufacturer also boasts Woolmark accreditation.
Important: Both brands offer dozens of models, including more affordable lines and shoes made from a variety of materials. Therefore, compare specific models, not just logos – a description of materials, soles, and waterproofness is always available in the product specifications.
Comparison Chart: EMU vs. UGG
| Characteristic | Energy Union of Australia | Ugg |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Country | Australia (Geelong, Victoria) | USA (Goleta, California) |
| Owner | An independent company, descendant of the Jackson Tannery. | Deckers Brands (since 1995) |
| The beginning of the brand | 1994 (tannery since 1948) | 1978 |
| Place of production | The Platinum line is available in Australia and is part of a collection released overseas. | Mainly China and Vietnam |
| Material | Double-sided sheepskin, merino wool | Double-sided sheepskin, suede |
| Example of a model | Platinum Sting | Classic Short II |
| Water protection | Waterproof leather (platinum line) | Factory impregnation in the Classic II line |
| The name "ugg"« | In Australia, he might call his shoes that. | Registered trademark outside Australia |
What to choose – EMU or UGG?
- Looking to buy Australian made products? Look for the EMU Platinum range and the 'Made in Australia' label or product description.
- Are brand recognition and a wide range of models important? UGG has a very large collection, including platform styles, mini boots, bow boots, and slides.
- Are you walking in wet snow? Suede or sheepskin boots are not considered rubber boots. Choose models labeled "impregnated" or "waterproof," and regularly treat older pairs with the manufacturer's recommended suede protector.
- Price. It depends on the line, store, and season—sales can change the price-quality ratio. Compare the same type of shoe (for example, short classic ankle boots) from both brands.
- Beware of counterfeits. Buy from official brand stores or trusted authorized retailers.
In both cases, care is the same: shoes should be dried away from the radiator, and dirt should be removed with a brush and products designed for suede and sheepskin. Detailed recommendations are provided by the manufacturer of each model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is EMU a knockoff of UGG?
No. EMU Australia is an independent Australian brand with its own history and factory in Geelong. Many companies produce sheepskin boots, and in Australia, "uggs" is the generic name for this type of footwear.
Are UGG boots made in Australia?
No. UGG is a brand of the American company Deckers, and its products are manufactured primarily in China and Vietnam. Since 2016, the company has used the name "UGG" instead of "UGG Australia.".
Where are EMU shoes made?
The EMU Platinum line is handcrafted in our Geelong, Australia, factory using Australian lambskin. Some other collections are made outside of Australia—check the label to find out where they were made.
Are EMU and UGG boots waterproof?
Some models have impregnated or waterproof leather (e.g., UGG Classic II, EMU Platinum), but these are still suede shoes, not rubber boots. They may become soaked if exposed to water for long periods.
Why are all these shoes called "Uggs"?
In Australia, "uggs" was long a generic term for sheepskin boots. In Poland, the name came largely due to the popularity of the UGG brand and became a colloquial term for the entire style.
See also
- What is the difference between sneakers and tennis shoes?
- What is the difference between suede and nubuck?
- What is the difference between leggings and gaiters?
- What is the difference between a perfume sample and an original perfume?