Unless you are walking down Langley’s halls with your eyes closed, it is a rare occasion not to see at least 20 girls wearing Ugg Australia boots. Uggs may be fantastic for keeping your feet warm on cold winter days, but recent studies show they are also a sure way to mess up your feet.

Uggs have completely flat soles with no arch support. In time, this can drop your natural arch and cause painful tendon conditions, according to the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. The furry boots also do not provide any ankle support, which along with the lack of arch support can create back problems as well.

The creators of Ugg boots originally intended for them to be worn as slippers, which explains why the boots are not waterproof and also why they are suggested to be worn without socks. However, taking up this advice to forgo socks with Uggs can be even more problematic.

Due to the sheepskin lining, your feet may become hot and sweaty. The resulting moisture leads to fungus growth inside the boot and hence on your feet.

“As long as you don’t wear them all the time, you could probably avoid some of these problems,” P.E. teacher Coach Clark suggested. However, not all students will take Coach Clark’s advice.

“I wouldn’t change how much I wear them because they’re really comfy,” said sophomore Chandni Patel.

One senior, Jackie Chappelear, is doing what all Langley Ugg-wearers should. “When I’m not really thinking about it, Uggs are second-nature to put on and wear in the morning. But knowing this information now, I would limit my time wearing them.”

Taking the side effects into consideration, the choice between looking fashionable and having healthy feet is up to you.