Introduction
You might not realise it yet, but these days UGG are much more than their signature ‘UGG Boots’. You know the type we’re talking about: the sheepskin-lined, slipper-esque boots that women (and men) across the globe continue to reach for on those days where they want to dress down and feel completely comfortable. Over the past few seasons UGG have worked hard to expand their men’s footwear line to include a variety of hard-wearing, rugged and, most importantly, stylish selection of boots and shoes that will appeal to fashion-conscious gents of all ages and tastes. So, forget all past stereotypes and any preconceptions you have about the brand, because today we break down the superb new AW13 UGG collection and pick out some of FashionBeans’ must-own silhouettes for the season…
UGG AW13: ‘For __ For Men’ Campaign
To help announce the new autumn/winter 2013 collection, UGG have launched their ‘For __ For Men’ campaign. Focusing on four key themes: For Game Changers, For Role Models, For Leaders and For Mentors, each is designed to celebrate men around the world who illustrate dedication, talent and passion in their day-to-day lives. The brand want to emphasise that they create footwear for the everyday male, as Nancy Mamann, Vice President of Marketing for UGG Australia, confirms: “We know that when men are comfortable, they are confident, and that confidence is what defines the UGG man.” It is an ethos that will resonate with the FashionBeans male. We dress well in order to look and feel our very best on a daily basis. However, although we document all the latest trends and key pieces that the industry is currently pushing, we have always encouraged you to make them fit in with YOUR personal style and overall lifestyle. If you don’t feel comfortable wearing a particular piece or trend, it will show, whether consciously or sub-consciously, via the way you hold yourself, how you act and the confidence you portray. UGG clearly understands this, producing versatile, easy to wear and classic styles that can be worn by men of all ages and walks of life. Emphasising this philosophy further, the campaign also includes an accompanying ad spot as part of the ‘For Game Changers’ theme, featuring UGG for Men ambassador Tom Brady of the New England Patriots. Directed by award-winning film maker Spencer Susser, the cleverly shot ad shows Brady walking through what at first appears to be a team bus, but is later revealed to be a journey through the key moments in his life – from high school athlete to Super Bowl-winning NFL player and a man of character:
‘For __ For Men’ Campaign Shots
UGG: AW13 Footwear Collection
Browsing the new AW13 UGG for Men collection, there are two key components that will appeal most to our readers: hard-wearing boots and smart shoes. With durable, practical workerwear currently trending and the industry emphasising an altogether more masculine and rugged aesthetic, UGG offer a wide range of high quality, built for purpose boots that will be able to cope with anything the harsh winter season throws at them. Whether you prefer edgy and contemporary biker styles or heritage-inspired hiking boots, there is something for every taste and personality. On the other end of the scale, the collection also includes a superb selection of refined silhouettes that will slot seamlessly into your smart-casual or formal wardrobe. From versatile loafers and classic suede bucks to the must-own silhouette of the season, the Chelsea boot, UGG provide a shoe for every occasion and dress code. Here we identify the key designs that should be on your radar…
Hard-Wearing Boots
The Hannen Boot
The Hannen boot is the epitome of rugged, contemporary workerwear. Constructed in ultra-rich, oiled and waterproofed full-grain leather, this is a boot that delivers performance and aesthetics in abundance. The tall silhouette helps keep your feet dry in even the worst of weather conditions, whilst the exclusive Vibram outsole offers durability and traction as standard – perfect for tackling ice, snow and torrential downpours. Inside, the classic UGG sheepskin lining not only ensures warmth, but is also designed to be completely breathable and wick moisture away, increasing comfort and making them a pleasure to wear for extended periods. Pair these rugged boots with other classic workerwear staples: denim, flannel checks, donkey jackets and corduroys will all look superb with this style, emphasising a return to the masculine dressing of old. For more inspiration, check out our articles on the Hunter Gatherer and All-American aesthetics. Available in cordovan (below) and black colour ways:
The Rockville II Boot
With the motorcycle jacket and biker aesthetic currently trending within the industry, the biker boot has become THE must-own silhouette for 2013/14. The Rockville II is a superb example, made in rich full-grain waterproof leather and finished with a moulded rubber outsole. A classic design, it features traditional toe cap detailing and two metal buckle fasteners, which give it an edge and a real sense of authenticity. It would look superb matched with a timeless black leather biker jacket or waxed Barbour International. Comes with two interchangeable insoles, one leather and one sheepskin, offering custom comfort. Available in black (below), dune and cinnamon colour ways:
The Capulin Boot
Hiking boots have quickly become a modern footwear essential. Offering the perfect blend of fashion, function and practicality, they can adapt to multiple looks and will slot effortlessly into your current wardrobe. The Capulin boot is a traditional hiking silhouette made from an ultra-rich, oiled and waterproofed full-grain leather and features an exclusive Vibram outsole for superior durability and traction. Additional details include contrast metal fasteners and herringbone accents, which not only bring texture and character to the piece but also reinforce the heritage aesthetic and premium feel. Of course, they come complete with UGG’s signature sheepskin lining for comfort, warmth and temperature control. As this design is so versatile, the styling possibilities are endless; pair them with slim cords and a tweed blazer to play on the heritage vibe, dress them down with heavyweight chinos and a cable knit at the weekend, or combine with a parka and durable denim in order to tackle the elements in style. Available in black and stout (below) colour ways:
Smart & Refined
The Via Ponte Loafer
We all know that the Italians are the masters of laid-back, sophisticated style – and these Via Ponte loafers are the epitome of dressed down chic. Evoking classic Italian shoe cobbling, they are constructed from full-grain leather and incorporate modern UGG comfort features, making them the perfect weekend shoe. The boat shoe-esque lace detailing is a particularly nice design touch, which helps effortlessly separate this loafer silhouette from the crowd. With function always high on the agenda at UGG, the signature sheepskin heel lining helps counteract any friction or rubbing that you may experience with traditional loafers, ensuring these are the most comfortable slip-ons you will ever wear. In terms of styling, try dressing down your tailoring by wearing them sockless with a suit during spring/summer, or combine with a simple blazer and jeans combination to bring a touch of continental panache to your look. The loafer is arguably the most versatile shoe design currently on the market, which makes these an essential purchase for any style-conscious gent. Available in stout (below) and black colour ways:
The Nevio Derby Shoe
The Nevio is UGG’s interpretation of the classic Derby shoe. With their premium suede upper, they merge the finest elements of European craftsmanship and attention to detail with modern styling. Key features include a lightweight EVA outsole complete with thick, rugged tread that offers superior comfort and traction, no matter the weather. The Nevio would be ideal for pairing with your current collection of suiting for work, but would look just as great combined with jeans and a polo at the weekend. Available in three distinct colour ways, including chocolate and black, our favourite has to be the beautiful blue suede version (below), which features brown laces and contrast beige sole:
The Stevenson Boot
Pushed on the AW13 runways by the likes of Burberry Prorsum, the Chelsea boot is currently experiencing a surge in popularity. A timeless classic, the style has previously been sported by everyone from The Beatles to Alex Turner, with the silhouette’s edgy feel and versatile nature the key to its appeal and longevity. The Stevenson boot is UGG’s latest rework of this iconic design. The ankle-height, double-gored Chelsea boot is lined in new, single-density smooth leather and features a sheepskin heel counter, ensuring the comfort you would expect from the brand. Classic and refined, you can dress them up with a slim-fitting suit for a contemporary, Mod-inspired take on formal wear, or pair with black skinny jeans and a biker jacket at the weekend – the epitome of effortless cool. Available in tonal black (below) and chestnut colour ways:
Final Word
Offering a wide range of high quality, stylish footwear that doesn’t sacrifice on comfort, UGG have delivery a contemporary collection that would slot seamlessly into any modern capsule wardrobe. All styles showcased today can be purchased now, along with the rest of the AW13 collection, at UGGaustralia.co.uk.
