Published 20 May 2026 · Last updated 21 May 2026 · 6 min read
Quick answer: Choose UGG slippers for indoor warmth (open- or closed-back, light outdoor use). Choose UGG moccasins for a closed-back, harder-soled slipper-style that can handle short outdoor trips and casual wear. Choose UGG boots for full ankle-to-mid-calf coverage in colder weather, all-day outdoor wear, or proper winter footwear. All three use the same A-Grade twin-faced Australian sheepskin lining (water-resistant, never waterproof).
Quick comparison
| Style | Best for | Sole | Coverage | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slippers (scuffs / ankle) | Indoor warmth, lounging | Soft EVA, light | Foot only | AU$70–$120 |
| Moccasins | House-to-shop trips, casual wear | Hard rubber or EVA | Foot only, closed back | AU$90–$150 |
| Classic UGG boots | Outdoor winter wear, all day | Hard rubber/EVA, deeper tread | Ankle to mid-calf | AU$130–$260 |
UGG slippers
UGG slippers are primarily indoor footwear. They come in two main shapes:
- Scuffs (open-back) — easiest to slip on and off, lightest. Ideal for lounging.
- Ankle slippers (closed-back) — warmer and more secure for moving around the house.
Soles are typically a soft EVA designed for indoor floors. Some styles have a slightly harder sole for the occasional outdoor step. Slippers run true to AU sizing; if you’re between sizes, choose the smaller size.
Browse our women’s UGG slippers and men’s UGG slippers.
UGG moccasins
Moccasins are the middle ground — they look more like a low shoe than a slipper, with a closed back and a hard outsole. They’re comfortable enough to wear at home all day, but can handle the school run, popping out for coffee, or even a relaxed dinner.
Sole types vary: cow suede sole moccasins are softer and more indoor-leaning; rubber sole moccasins (like our Popo moccasin) are more durable outdoors.
Sizing: moccasins run true to AU. Wider feet may want to size up half a size; the closed-back design has slightly less stretch than ankle slippers.
UGG boots
UGG boots provide proper winter coverage from ankle to mid-calf, sometimes higher. They have deeper outsole tread for outdoor traction and use the same A-Grade twin-faced sheepskin lining as slippers and moccasins. Sub-styles include:
- Classic short (ankle height) — the most popular all-rounder.
- Classic tall (mid-calf height) — warmer, good for skirts and dresses.
- Mini / ultra mini — just-above-ankle, trending fashion silhouette.
- Platform UGGs — raised sole, taller look.
- Lace-up styles — sealed seams repel water longer than slip-on ankle boots, but still water-resistant only (sheepskin is never fully waterproof).
UGG boots are the most versatile choice for an Australian winter wardrobe. See our women’s, men’s and kids’ UGG boot collections.
How to choose between the three
Pick by primary use case:
- I want maximum indoor warmth, easy on-off: ankle slipper or scuff.
- I want one pair that works for around-the-house and short outdoor trips: moccasin.
- I want all-day winter footwear and a fashion piece: classic UGG boot.
- I want all three (and many of our customers do): start with the boot, add a slipper for evenings, add a moccasin later for transitional wear.
If you’re unsure on sizing, our UGG sizing guide covers AU/EU/US conversions and special cases like wide feet.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between UGG moccasins and slippers?
Moccasins are closed-back with a hard outsole (suitable for short outdoor trips and casual wear). Slippers are typically softer-soled and either open-back (scuffs) or closed-back ankle slippers, designed primarily for indoor wear.
Can I wear UGG slippers outside?
Briefly, for trips like the mailbox or bin. For sustained outdoor wear, choose moccasins or boots with hard rubber outsoles.
Do UGG boots and slippers run the same size?
Yes — both run true to AU sizing. If you’re between sizes, choose the smaller AU size; sheepskin stretches and moulds within a few wears.
Are moccasins warm enough for winter?
For Australian winters (Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth), moccasins are warm enough for indoor wear and short outdoor trips. For sustained outdoor winter wear — especially in cold-climate states like Tasmania or alpine areas — classic UGG boots are better.
Which style is best for travel?
UGG moccasins. They look like a low shoe, pack small, work indoors at the hotel and outdoors for sightseeing, and don’t scream “slippers” in public.