The 5 best men’s mules to slip into

Summer is here – is your shoe wardrobe ready?

If you’re the type to alternate between sneakers and flip-flops, this is the footwear trend you’re going to want to slip into: men’s mules.

While semi-reminiscent of Hugh Hefner lounging in a scarlet-red robe, mules are far more versatile than we give them credit for. They’re a more dressy alternative to sneakers when you need some polish to your look, but they’re also great for dressing down a suit when dress shoes would be a bit overkill. In short, you literally can never go wrong with the right pair of mules.

Here are our fave mule styles for SS24 along with our picks for the trendiest brands to shop. Scroll below to discover our selection.

Mules are all about ease, but “easy” doesn’t have to mean expected or basic. Ethylene-vinyl acetate, more commonly known as EVA or poly, has made its way in the shoe world in the last few years. It’s used as a shock-absorbing element in running shoe soles, and also as a standalone main material. Enter experimental Japanese shoe brand Suicoke. Made in Italy with Premium Bio EVA rubber, the Suicoke MOK mule is our pick for a sporty, casual-but-interesting mule: think of them as Crocs, but fashion-forward. They feature punched holes in the upper for breathability and snug fit thanks to the handy hook and loop fastening. Style these mules with a Japanese-inspired barrel pant, or lean in the Gorpcore vibe with utilitarian pieces.

No respectable mules list would be complete without mentioning the quintessential, most recognisable mules of all: the Birkenstock Boston. The German brand Birkenstock is best known for its ergonomic soles and practical footwear, but many of their models—including the Boston—have become fashion darlings in recent years. The Boston mule is available in a variety of colours and fabrications (like boiled wool, leather, suede, and EVA), so finding the perfect pair is easy as pie. Collaborations with brands like Stüssy have turned the Boston mules into favourites among the streetwear crowd. That’s how we recommend styling them, with cargo pants and baggy t-shirts, or with relaxed-fit jeans for a more classic look.

Founded in 1876, G.H. Bass & Co. are most known for developing the original Penny Loafer, the iconic Weejuns. In the past 150 years, Penny Loafers have become a staple of preppy dressing for all genders. And there’s good news: if you ever found yourself wishing for a pair of mules as smart as your Weejuns, your prayers have been answered. The Winston Mule Easy Weejuns Loafers are exactly that: the preppiness of the classic Penny Loafer with a contemporary, relaxed twist. Available in three versatile colours—including the viral black and white—the Weejuns mules are perfect for dressing up a pair of baggy shorts and a boxy short-sleeved shirt, or to add a touch of irony to your summer suiting. Let Grandpacore Summer commence!

Sneaker mules are somewhat of a new entry in the world of backless shoes, but they’re quickly making waves. There’s no better way to combine the sportiness and comfort of your favourite sneakers with the practicality of backless mules than, simply, removing the back from sneakers.

One of the models we’re seeing the most on it boys and fashion creators are New Balance’s 2002RM mules, which are none other than the slip-on version of New Balance’s classic 2022R sneakers. The 2002RM feature a suede (or leather) and mesh panel in place of the shoestrings—no need for those, right?—, New Balance’s signature ABZORB midsoles and N-ergy shock-absorbing outsoles for maximum support and comfort.

Sometimes a man just has to treat himself, and what better way to do so than by splurging on a pair of new designer kicks? In the spirit of self-care, we just had to include a designer pick in this best mules list: say hi to the Medusa mules by Versace. Crafted in luxe suede, leather, or shearling with a Medusa gold-tone plaque hidden in the leather construction, these premium mules feature a classic, slightly chunky silhouette, which is at the same time modern and farmers-market-ready. Just like many other pairs in this list, the Medusa mules are extremely versatile in terms of styling, pairing well with oversized suiting, casual joggers and cargos, and wide-leg jeans.