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Podiatrist: Ugg Boots Do Uggly Things To Your Feet

Ugg boots have become something of a phenomenon lately. Hollywood made them trendy and the Midwest made them mainstream.

At more than $100, they're not cheap but they've become a must have -- especially for teenage girls. What many Ugg lovers don't realize though is, according to one podiatrist, the flat, shear ling lined boots are actually bad for your feet.

"They keep your feet warm in the winter and summer. You don't have to wear socks with them, that's the main reason I bought them," said Crystal resident Angie Peterson.

"They're comfortable," said Minneapolis resident Amanda Weinkauf.

They're a major fashion trend that hasn't gone out of style yet in Minnesota.

"I think they're ugly," said Weinkauf.

That doesn't stop thousands of women and girls from wearing and loving the Ugg boots.

"Very comfortable, they feel like pillows on your feet," said Peterson.

However, podiatrists warn the shear ling boots are actually hard on your feet.

"The biggest problem with them is the fact that they have no support. They're completely flat on the bottom," podiatrist Dr. Kari Prescott.

Doctors say that lack of arch support can lead to foot and leg problems.

"If you don't have external support, all the muscles in your legs, really from the knee down, can become achy, sore. Some people refer to that as shin splints," said Prescott.

A foot condition called plantar fasciitis, or heel spurs, may also happen. Slipping in an arch support can help.

"This provides some curvature and it's not ideal," said Prescott.

And even forewarned about potential problems, Ugg wearers still love their boots.

"No, I'd probably still wear them," said Peterson.

"I'd still wear them," said Weinkauf.

"It's always fashion over practicality, isn't it?" said Prescott.

Ugg Australia said they've been in business for 30 years and haven't had complaints about their classic flat shear ling Ugg boots hurting feet. They say the boot sells so well because it is comfortable.

As for arch support, Ugg Australia said they have 140 styles coming out for fall '09 and many of those do have arch supports in them. They said they also are adding outer support and added comfort features to the classic Ugg boot.

Doctors say flat shear ling boots can actually be harder on feet than high heels because they're worn for longer periods of time. And it appears Uggs are recession proof because they remain a top seller.

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