As we get settled into the season of fall, colorful leaves and autumn chills make summer feel like a distant memory. Along with fall fashions, it brings back the dreaded, uninspired UGG boot.

If you wish to save your dignity, do not slide your feet into these hideous sheepskin boots. My friends have tried rationalizing and defending expensive UGG footwear by stating it’s warm and comfortable — perfect for Upstate weather. I am no fashion authority, but since when is that a practical excuse? Consider bathrobes and sleeping bags, which are also snugly and warm, but definitely not socially acceptable as clothing. I might as well traipse across campus wrapped in blankets because it’s cozy.

Also as soon as water hits these sacred boots, which will happen, since rain defines Binghamton weather, they stain. When salt from snowplows further stain these dowdy boots, they will look grungy (and not in that hip ’90s-revival-vintage-plaid way).

In the ’60s, UGG Australia originally became popular by surfers down under who tied sheepskin to their legs after getting out of the water. They were actually called “Ugly Boots.” Unfortunately, their use has spread across the globe and they’re being worn by the masses, townies and college students alike.

It doesn’t take much more than common sense to realize that this incredibly overpriced garment doesn’t make your outfit more interesting or trendy. By wearing generic UGGs you are just adding to the growing clone UGG army of Binghamton comfort-skanks.

I would much rather see Moon-boots gain popularity, since they simulate anti-gravity and would be a much more spontaneous fashion choice. There is a bit of shock value, but at least mindless UGG boots would be out of the picture.

Out of curiosity and somewhat under the influence, I have tried on a friend’s pair. It felt as though I was walking on stuffed animals. This was an eye-opening experience, since I realized their miraculous and enticing comfort, but then saw my reflection in a mirror and realized how frumpy and lazy I looked.

It just makes you wish a different Australian trend rose to popularity, like boomerangs or “the Lucksmiths,” instead of UGG boots. Or why couldn’t we have taken on some Aussie lingo instead? Please say no to UGG boots. Instead choose self-respect. There are plenty of other options that are sleek, water-resistant, warm, intergalactic or whatever you desire that isn’t semi-functional or unattractive.

They are called UGGs for a reason.