Why Can't You Get UGGs Wet in Ireland? What Every Local Should Know

In Ireland, finding the perfect pair of slippers is almost a national obsession. With endless rainy days in Galway, unpredictable showers in Dublin, and chilly evenings everywhere from Cork to Donegal, nothing feels better than slipping into a pair of soft UGGs by the fire. But here’s the kicker—UGGs and wet weather are a terrible match.

Most folks don’t realise that classic UGGs slippers aren’t waterproof at all. Sure, they’re made with lovely sheepskin and soft fleece that feel unreal on your feet, but those materials are like sponges when it comes to water. When you step out to bring in the bin or pop to the shop in a drizzle, you can end up with soggy slippers that never quite feel the same again.

All across Ireland, there’s this idea that UGGs can handle being worn out and about just because they’re sturdy-looking, but one wild autumn morning in Limerick can leave your slippers ruined for good. If you want your UGGs to survive an Irish winter, it’s all about knowing what they can—and can’t—handle in our damp climate.

• What Makes UGGs Popular in Ireland
• Why Water Is Bad News for UGGs
• Rainy Day Slip-Ups: How to Protect Your UGGs
• When Your UGGs Get Wet: Emergency Rescue Tips
• Best Alternatives for Irish Weather and Where to Find Them

What Makes UGGs Popular in Ireland

It’s not just a trend—UGGs have become a household favourite all across Ireland. With the weather rarely making up its mind, people crave reliable warmth and comfort, especially at home. The moment the wind picks up along the coast in Salthill or the rain starts beating down on the streets of Cork, Irish folks want something cosy to pad around in, and UGGs hit the mark.

The sheepskin lining is a big part of the appeal. Ireland has a long history with sheep farming, so most people trust natural wool to keep feet warm without making them sweaty. That’s a win when your toes get cold even if you have the heating on. UGG slippers are breathable, which means they’re comfy in just about every season, whether it’s a mild summer evening or a freezing January night during the post-Christmas chills.

Plenty of people working from home in Dublin or Limerick have swapped stiff shoes for soft slippers, and you’ll regularly see UGGs by the front door in Irish households. They’re easy to slip on and don’t look out of place if you need to step outside to check the post or nip next door.

Another reason UGGs are a hit here? The love for branded, long-lasting gear. Irish shoppers often look for stuff that’ll survive a good bit of wear and tear (because who likes replacing shoes every year?). UGGs cost more than your average pair of slippers, but you quickly hear people saying they’re worth every cent because they last.

Just to give an idea of their popularity, check out this local stat:

So while Ireland’s weather might keep us indoors more than we’d like, UGGs have earned their place as the go-to for comfort. It’s no wonder every big Irish retailer from Brown Thomas to Arnotts stocks them these days.

Why Water Is Bad News for UGGs

There’s a reason every shop assistant in Brown Thomas warns you: water and UGGs just don’t mix. These slippers are made from genuine sheepskin and suede, which are super comfy but really sensitive to water. If they get soaked—even just while you dash out to collect a takeaway—the fibres swell, the dye can run, and next thing you know, you’ve got wonky, stained, or shrunken slippers. In Ireland’s wet climate, that pretty much means most days of the year.

Irish weather can be brutal on anything that isn’t waterproof. UGGs aren’t built with weather-resistant layers like some boots and trainers you see in Arnotts or Dunnes. Instead, the soft sheepskin soaks up moisture quickly, and letting them dry in front of a radiator (which seems like a good idea) actually hardens the material and twists the shape. Once that happens, comfort and warmth go straight out the window.

• The inside fleece lining matts down and loses its fluffiness when wet, so goodbye cosy feet.
• Wet sheepskin invites mildew and smells—especially if you leave your slippers by the back door in places like Limerick or Galway where dampness lingers.
• The sole gets weaker and can even start peeling or cracking if exposed to puddles or standing water, which is a hassle nobody wants.

The company behind UGGs outright says their classic styles are designed for indoors only and can’t handle rain, slush, or heavy dew. And Irish customer reviews often mention slippers getting ‘ruined’ just from one walk through wet grass or a surprise bit of drizzle outside SuperValu.

If you want your slippers to last and actually enjoy that reliable Irish comfort, keeping them dry is the number one rule. Treat them like your favourite jumper—not something you’d take out into a Mayo downpour.

Rainy Day Slip-Ups: How to Protect Your UGGs

The truth is, Irish weather is brutal on UGGs. One look at a forecast for Cork or Sligo and you know—rain can strike any minute. But if you’re set on keeping your slippers looking fresh, you’ll need to be smart from the start.

• Use a waterproof spray made for suede and sheepskin. You can easily find these at shops like Arnotts in Dublin, or order online from Irish chains like Brown Thomas. Spray them before you ever wear your UGGs outside. This blocks light splashes, but it won’t turn them into wellies, so don’t push your luck.
• Have a rule—UGGs stay indoors. They’re called slippers for a reason. Toss a pair of Crocs or old runners by front and back doors for dashing out with the recycling or grabbing a delivery when the rain’s lashing down.
• Check the weather before wearing them outside. Tempted to show off your UGGs at the local Spar on a drizzly morning? Think again. Even a bit of Irish mist can leave stains and hard water marks.
• Get a suede brush. These brushes (any decent shoe shop like Clarks or Schu can sort you) do wonders at brushing off dirt or refreshing matted spots after a day by the peat fire.

Not sure how much rain your county gets? Here’s a look at average annual rainfall for a few Irish spots:

No pair of UGGs will last the year without a bit of care in a country that sees this much rain. If your slippers do get splashed, shake off any water and let them dry naturally—never on a radiator or stove, or you’ll end up with slippers fit only for the dog basket. The main thing is to use a bit of common sense: indoors is best!

When Your UGGs Get Wet: Emergency Rescue Tips

If your UGGs have braved an Irish downpour or just met a kitchen spill, don’t panic—but don’t just stick them by the radiator, either. High heat can shrink the sheepskin or warp the sole, leaving your favourite slippers wrecked. The trick is quick action and a bit of patience.

"Never use direct heat to dry UGGs. Letting them air dry naturally will help the sheepskin return to its soft, comfortable state," says Clodagh Murphy, owner of Galway's Cosy Home Footwear Shop.

Here’s exactly what to do if your UGGs get soaked, whether it’s after a rainy walk to the corner shop in Salthill or an unexpected puddle indoors:

1. Pat Them Dry: First, use a clean towel to blot the outside. Don’t rub, just press gently to soak up as much water as you can.
2. Stuff With Newspaper: Wad up newspaper (the Irish Independent works a treat) and stuff the slippers to help them keep their shape and absorb moisture.
3. Avoid Heat: Do not put UGGs on a radiator, in the hot press, or by a fire. Sheepskin doesn’t get along with harsh heat. Leave them in a room with good airflow—near an open window is grand if it’s not humid.
4. Swap the Paper: Change out the newspaper every few hours until it stops feeling damp to touch. Depending on how wet your UGGs are, this can take a day or two.
5. Use a Brush: Once they’re dry, gently brush the nap with a soft suede brush. You can grab these in most shoe shops around Dublin’s Henry Street or Cork’s Patrick Street.

If you get caught out in heavy rain a lot (not hard in Ireland), it’s a good idea to treat your slippers with a sheepskin protector spray—most big chemists and shoe shops from Boots to Arnotts stock these. But remember, this only adds a bit of water resistance. Classic UGGs are never truly waterproof.

If your UGGs come out a bit stiff or misshapen, don’t bin them just yet. Sometimes a gentle steam or wearing them round the house will help bring them back to life. But if the damage is severe, it might be time to save your best pair just for indoors and pick up a pair of proper waterproof slippers for outdoor dashes between the sheds and the bins.

Best Alternatives for Irish Weather and Where to Find Them

Let’s be real—if you live anywhere in Ireland, you need slippers or indoor shoes that are ready for unexpected puddles on the doorstep or a leaky back porch. Classic UGGs just aren’t built for that. So, what actually works well for our damp Irish weather?

First up, waterproof moccasins. Brands like Sorel or The North Face do weather-resistant slippers that keep rain out but still feel cosy. If you’re shopping in Dublin, check out Arnotts or Brown Thomas—they usually have the latest waterproof ranges, especially in winter. For a more affordable option, Penneys (Primark) often stocks indoor-outdoor slippers during the colder months, and they’re surprisingly decent in drizzly conditions.

Rubber-soled fleece slippers are another solid bet. Slippers with thicker, grip-friendly soles (like the Skechers GoWalk range) handle quick dashes outside without turning to mush. Elverys Sports locations in Cork, Limerick, and Galway carry loads of these, and you can compare styles before settling on your favourite.

Now, if you’re after proper Irish-made options, try Dubarry’s collection. They’re most famous for boots but also do durable house shoes with water-resistant finishes, ideal for Irish homes where people pop out to the shed or garden. You can find Dubarry in their own shops and at specialist outdoor retailers like Great Outdoors in Dublin.

• Waterproof moccasins: Best for a balance of warmth and weather resistance.
• Rubber-soled fleece slippers: Solid for grip and damp floors.
• Irish brands like Dubarry: Extra tough and known for quality.

If you’re leaning toward online shopping—Amazon UK delivers to Ireland, and sites like Littlewoods Ireland often have weather-ready footwear without crazy delivery fees. Just make sure to check return policies in case the fit’s off.

The right slippers let you stay dry and comfy all year, whether you’re grabbing turf from the shed or relaxing after the weekend GAA match. Match your pick to real Irish life, and you won’t regret leaving the UGGs for drier days indoors.