The history of Australian sheepskin boots is rich, complex, and often misunderstood. So let’s set the record straight with the facts.

The iconic Australian sheepskin boot was born in Australia decades ago and quickly became part of our cultural fabric. Surfers on the east coast in the 1950s and 1960s slipped them on after long sessions in the ocean, valuing their ability to keep feet warm against the early morning chill. By the 1970s, sheepskin boots had moved from coastal carparks into everyday Australian life, and soon after, makers began introducing them to the world.

It was during this golden era that Arthur and Faye Springthorpe, a young Sydney couple with a background in wool and sheepskin, founded what is now known as Since 74. (In Australia and New Zealand, Since 74 is known as Ugg Since 1974.)

Arthur’s early years as a wool classer in New South Wales shearing sheds gave him the expertise to handcraft moccasins and sheepskin boots in a small workshop, one pair at a time. What began as a way to provide for their young family soon flourished into a thriving business, employing skilled craftspeople dedicated to working with this remarkable natural material.

Through the 1970s and beyond, Australian manufacturers helped elevate the sheepskin boot into an internationally recognised product. Newspaper and magazine advertisements proudly celebrated it as a distinctive homegrown design, carrying the authenticity of Australia to the world.

Over time, we adopted the name Since 74 abroad to keep our story simple and consistent for international customers. Whatever the name, one thing has never changed: every single pair of boots is still made by hand in Australia, just as Arthur and Faye did from the very beginning.

Today, their grandson Todd continues the legacy, making Since 74 one of the most enduring third-generation family businesses in the country. Many of our craftspeople have been with us since those early years, their skill and dedication shaping the boots that carry our name.

Our approach has always stood apart from fast fashion. We manufacture to order, meaning we make only what our customers need: avoiding waste, eliminating dead stock, and ensuring every pair is built to last. Every boot is crafted under Australian standards for quality, health, safety, and working conditions, giving us complete oversight and responsibility for the people who bring them to life. Unlike brands that outsource production offshore, we remain committed to keeping our workshop and our craft right here in Australia.

Because our capacity is finite, peak seasons can extend our manufacturing times. We deeply appreciate the patience and support of customers who understand that true craftsmanship takes time.

For us, sheepskin boots are more than footwear. They are a symbol of heritage, sustainability, and authenticity - a story passed down through generations. We’re not just another sheepskin boot company. We’re Since 74.