What kind of boots/shoes to wear in snowy winter in Philadelphia?

I can't answer the Ugg question as I've never owned a pair (not my style), but my advice is to get something that you don't care too much about. The worst part of NY winters is the aftermath of the snow & sleet, when the sidewalks and streets are covered in filthy gray slush and salt, and there's a good chance you'll step in a watery, icy puddle when attempting to cross the street . . . it's truly gross. When you walk, the slush & salt get kicked up and you end up with it stuck to the back of your legs. Seriously--any shoes you wear here are probably going to get pretty beat up if it snows. If it's not snowing, you can get away with wearing pretty much anything!