Do UGG Slippers Stretch Over Time?

January 10 2025, by Edward Stone, 5 min reading time

Find out if Ugg slippers stretch and how to ensure the perfect fit. Get tips for comfortable wear and shop smarter today!

There’s a reason UGG slippers are such a fan favorite. The ultra-comfortable, durable, goes-with-anything shoe is perfect for cold-weather climates or cold tile floors. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, UGG slippers will make you feel like you’re wearing pajamas but make it look like you have it all together.

After landing on the perfect style and color for your UGG slippers, there’s one more decision left to make before adding to cart: size. While this might seem straightforward, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider before checking out with your new purchase.

For answers to questions like, “Do UGG slippers stretch?” read on!

UGG Materials and Their Role in Stretching

UGG slippers are made from sheepskin and suede, both of which stretch over time. For this reason, it’s important that they fit snugly when you first buy them—more snugly than is comfortable.

The wool lining will also mat down over time, giving the shoe a looser fit.

With all these variables in the fabric, we recommend buying UGG slippers that are a half-size to a full size smaller than you usually buy. Don’t worry if they feel too snug at first—they’ll stretch!

Factors That Influence Stretching

While all sheepskin and suede have some natural give, the extent to which your UGGs will stretch over time depends on several factors.

The most common include:

Material Composition – Not all UGG slippers are made entirely of sheepskin. If your pair is full sheepskin (both upper and lining), they will stretch significantly over time. However, if they have a suede outer with a sheepskin lining, the stretch will be more limited. Many modern UGG slippers now feature a blend of wool and synthetic fibers that mimic sheepskin, meaning they won’t stretch as much as pure sheepskin styles. Additionally, all slippers with a pile lining may feel roomier over time as the pile compresses.
Frequency of Wear – The more you wear your UGG slippers, the more they’ll mold to your feet. Since they’re likely the coziest slippers in your closet, expect some stretching with regular wear.
Fit at Purchase – Unlike Cinderella, you’re not looking for a perfect fit right away. UGG slippers should fit snugly at first because they will loosen over time, though the amount varies based on the materials.
Environmental Factors – Heat and moisture can also contribute to stretching, but unless you’re intentionally trying to loosen the fit of your slippers, it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to these elements.

Ensuring the Proper Fit

We all know the pain of ill-fitting footwear, but its consequences can surpass discomfort and enter into more serious territory, such as improper movement, Achilles tendonitis, and blisters.¹ For this reason, it’s important that your UGG slippers are the perfect size—not too big and not too small.

After purchasing your slippers, they should feel a bit snug, but luckily, breaking them in (without risking overstretching them) is easy. Wear them consistently for 14 days; after those two weeks, your UGG slippers should feel stretched to a comfortable fit.

If They Still Feel Too Tight…

Try some of the following remedies to break in your slippers without overstretching them:

Golf balls – If your toe box is too tight, golf balls might be just the hack you need. Simply insert two golf balls side by side in the toes of the slipper and leave them there for up to three days. Voilá!
Shoe stretcher – Insert a professional shoe stretcher into your slippers to allow the fabric to give.
Thick socks – Wearing thick socks can break in your slippers faster than wearing them sockless, so it’s worth a try if your slippers are feeling too snug.²

Caring for UGGs to Maintain Their Shape

UGGs will last a long time so long as they’re given the proper TLC now and then. If you plan on wearing your UGG slippers outside, it’s important to apply the UGG stain and water repellant—especially if you live somewhere with frequent rain or snow.

Simply spray your slippers from six inches away in a well-ventilated area and allow them to dry for at least 24 hours away from direct heat or sunlight. This will do wonders in protecting your shoes from the elements.

If they do suffer from a stain, clean them with the UGG Sheepskin Cleaner and Conditioner and brush them with a suede brush to keep the sheepskin intact.

Make sure you store them away from direct heat or sunlight, as this can cause them to fade or stretch. Stuff them with newspaper or butcher paper when you’re not wearing them to preserve the shape.

Everything You Need to Know for Long-Lasting, Perfectly Fitting UGG Slippers

The TLDR when it comes to properly sizing your UGG slippers is yes, they do stretch, and you should plan to purchase a half- or full-size smaller than you typically would. Luckily, BootWorld makes it easy with a seamless checkout experience and a generous return policy—so if you guess wrong on sizing, fear not! BootWorld has you covered.

Now that the sizing mystery has been solved, it’s time to have some fun browsing all the styles and colors UGG has to offer. Whether you opt for Ansleys, Ascots, or Coquettes, your UGG slippers are guaranteed to keep you cozy this season and for many seasons to come.

Sources:

DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center. The Big Dilemma: When Your Shoes Are Too Big. https://denielfootandanklecenter.com/the-big-dilemma-when-your-shoes-are-too-big/
Healthline. What to Do When Your Shoes Are Too Tight. https://www.healthline.com/health/shoes-too-tight#_noHeaderPrefixedContent