Differences between Bearpaw Boots and Ugg Boots

Bearpaw Boots vs. Ugg Boots

Bearpaw and Ugg are two American footwear brands known for producing sheepskin and suede boots. While both companies manufacture boots with similar styles, they differ in materials, price, and market positioning. Ugg, founded in California in 1978, is positioned as a luxury brand, while Bearpaw, founded in 2001, offers a more budget-friendly alternative.

The term "ugg boots" originated in Australia as a generic name for utilitarian sheepskin footwear. Outside of Australia and New Zealand, UGG is a brand owned by Deckers Outdoor Corporation. Deckers has previously sued Bearpaw for copying Ugg brand designs, a case that was mutually resolved.

Comparison Table

Category	Bearpaw	Ugg
Primary Upper Material	Cow or lamb suede	Twin-faced sheepskin
Lining Material	Wool blend and sheepskin	Sheepskin fleece
Outsole	Rubber	Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), rubber
Price Range	Generally under $100	Generally over $100, with many styles exceeding $200
Sizing	Includes half and wide sizes	Whole sizes only
Brand Headquarters	Citrus Heights, California	Goleta, California (Deckers)
Vegan Options	Yes, using microsuede and polyester blends	Limited, first introduced in 2024

Venn diagram comparing Differences between Bearpaw Boots and Ugg Boots

Materials and Construction

Ugg boots are primarily made from high-grade, twin-faced sheepskin, which means the fleece and the skin side are treated as a single layer. This material is known for its softness and natural insulating properties that wick moisture. The outsoles are typically made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) for cushioning and flexibility.

Bearpaw boots commonly use cow or lamb suede for the exterior. The interior lining is often a blend of sheepskin and wool. The outsoles are made of rubber for grip and durability. Bearpaw also offers vegan alternatives made from materials like polyester and faux suede, an option the brand began producing in 2018. Some Bearpaw boots are treated with a water-repellent coating.

Price and Market Position

A significant difference between the two brands is their price point. Ugg is positioned as a premium, luxury brand, with its classic boot styles frequently priced over $160. Bearpaw markets itself as a more affordable option, with comparable boot styles often selling for less than half the price of Uggs. This difference is largely attributed to Ugg's use of premium twin-faced sheepskin versus the materials used by Bearpaw.