Winter Sandals, Summer Fleece
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I saw something shocking on my way to work the other day. While bundled in a long sleeved shirt, wool sweater and coat, with a Pashmina, hat and gloves, I saw a man with his bike a the bus stop in SANDALS. He wasn’t overly well dressed for cold weather, in jeans, t-shirt and open jacket. Now, having lived in Oregon for the past decade I have come to be aware of what “true Oregonians” consider winter attire. This primarily consists of the inbred belief that flip-flops are a necessity year round, and sweaters and umbrellas are for tourists.
I do not uphold this belief. I love getting dressed up for winter, layering on leggings with my sweater dress and UGG Swell Tall boots, a sweater and a jacket, and a rotating army of scarves, hats and gloves. I don’t enjoy being frozen, especially knowing how easy a situation that is to avoid. So personally, I do not consider myself a “true Oregonian.” I like umbrellas, and only wear flip flops when it’s above 75 degrees.
Based on the population of Oregon, I’m probably in the minority. Although I have come to accept that these people are just immune to cold in a way I am not, I do still think they are crazy. I’m guessing that the good folks at UGG Australia caught wind of these people because look at what they have to offer: sandals with fleece!

Amelie
Yes, you heard me, UGG Australia has been making sandals with fleece sock liners and cushioning. They’ve got the casual flip flop look, like the Nomad and Gypsy, or there’s the Mar and Amelie for those who want a stylish wedge.
And of course, after a decade of mocking these poor schmucks who cheerily slush through snow in their Birkenstocks, I have to say that I actually like the UGG Australia sandals. There is something oddly appealing about some soft fleece to cushion your foot, no matter what the season.
So for all the “true Oregonians” out there, maybe the UGG Matala is a way to stay true to the bizarre Pacific Northwest winter fashion code, with fleece protection against dangers of pneumonia and frostbite!

Matala