When you purchase sheepskin footwear, you’re taking part in a clothing tradition as old as human civilization. For thousands of years, mankind has been wearing sheepskin on their feet and their torsos as a way to keep warm, show off one’s wealth, and even survive the harsh elements 30,000 feet in the air.

These days, you’re most likely to recognize sheepskin in footwear, like in these classic UGG boots that feature genuine sheepskin throughout the entire shoe. You can find sheepskin boots, sheepskin slippers, and other sheepskin footwear available from many brands.

But sheepskin is more than a fashion statement. This all-natural leather, found in products like the UGG Coquette slipper, may not be the tough-as-nails leather that you’re used to, but it has a lot benefits that probably aren’t on your radar.

But First, What Is Sheepskin?

Genuine sheepskin is the hide of a sheep, but unlike most leathers, the fur—in this case, wool—remains naturally attached. Keeping the hide and the wool together means you’re getting all of the same amazing comfort and protection that sheep enjoy.

While genuine sheepskin footwear can be expensive (but worth it!), there are other ways to get the benefits of sheep’s wool in your shoes.

Some manufacturers reduce costs using a wool lining, where the wool of the sheep is “knitted” to a backing which is then laminated to leather. This still offers the coziness, breathability, and moisture wicking qualities of the real thing, but you do miss out a bit of the “moldability” feature of genuine sheepskin.

The Benefits of Genuine Sheepskin Footwear

Whether you’re into fashion, comfort, or protecting the environment, genuine sheepskin footwear is a great choice for your next boot or slipper. Here’s why:

1. Sheepskin Provides a Unique Fit

Sheepskin easily molds and stretches to the shape of your foot, giving you a customized fit. Choose a snug fit when you buy genuine sheepskin footwear so that it can mold effectively. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse not to lend your friend your favorite pair!

2. Perfect for Every Season

Sheepskin has a unique ability to regulate temperature. Even though it does an excellent job keeping your feet warm during the cold seasons, it’s also surprisingly effective at not getting too warm in moderate temperatures because it breathes and wicks moisture well.

3. A Healthy Option for Your Feet

Sheepskin contains a fine natural oil called lanolin. This oil is naturally created by the sheep to protect itself from the extremely harsh and drying conditions of the open range. Among humans, the lanolin is often used to combat dry skin or other skin irritation like diaper rash in babies.

When sheepskin is used in a shoe, lanolin remains in the wool, helping to naturally lubricate and protect the fibers (and your feet!) as you wear it. With its natural properties, genuine sheepskin helps you avoid the synthetic colors and additives while enjoying the benefits of modern shoe technology.

4. Provides Another Level of Comfort

Sure, those big tufts of sheepskin popping out the top of UGG boots look like clouds. But try one on for yourself, and you’ll know they feel like clouds too. Genuine sheepskin is soft, very giving, and pliable on your feet. Plus, as long as they’re taken care of, this luxurious comfort only improves with use.

5. Sheepskin is Green

Lamb is one of the world’s most popular meats, so using sheepskin ensures that nothing goes to waste. It’s also biodegradable and sustainable.

Sheepskin Footwear: Both Practical and Luxurious

Sheepskin footwear effortlessly blends practicality with luxury, offering up the perfect shoe for many occasions. Whether you’re buying sheepskin UGGs (featured in iconic styles like the men’s UGG Tasman slipper) or another brand, you really can’t go wrong with a quality sheepskin shoe. So, go ahead and stock up – guilt free.

For tips from our experts or a complimentary footwear consultation, come see us at any of our stores or contact us online at [email protected].

Reviewed By:

Ed Stone brings over 45 years of footwear knowledge and passion to his role as President of Boot World, a family-owned company and an industry leader in safety and occupational footwear. A second generation "shoe dog” Ed's footwear knowledge is unparalleled, serving as an informal advisor for some of the worlds largest footwear brands including Wolverine, Timberland PRO, and Reebok Works.

A lifelong Southern California resident, and ardent conservationist, Ed enjoys hiking and open water swimming.