Mules are claiming the spotlight this year as the must‑own shoe, transforming from controversial to coveted. Their ascent reflects a shift away from complex laces and chunky soles toward effortless, slip‑on designs.
Fashion's most divisive shoe has officially become its coolest. If the endless discourse around slim ballet sneakers and aggressively low-profile trainers isn't quite doing it for you, know that mules are the real footwear story of 2026.
So, is it then time to call this sneaker-mule mashup, snules?
Fashion insiders, sneakerheads and trend spotters are all betting on the backless silhouette as the season'es must-own shoe is lazy, a little luxe and surprisingly versatile. The only catch? You'll probably need to book a pedicure, my friend! Whether you like it or not, exposed heels that are cracked and dirty don't really make the cut.
With this a cool pair of socks will also finally get some attention that it has starved for religiously for years. That said, the mule obsession doesn't stop at the fashionable sneakers. This year has also been a way for mules to become synonymous with wellness, all thanks to Nike Mind 001- the futuristic recovery mule that is not only orthopaedic but also sci-fi minimalism.
Part of the reason why mules may be getting the attention right now is perhaps, after years of chunky trainers, complicated lacy designs and ballet sneakers enjoying the fame, mules want to be part of the bigger conversation around niche sneakers to have.
Here are some mules sneakers that you should be on a look out for:
Featuring iconic three-strips and flat-gum sole, the new Adidas Samba Mule home the same comfort as the original sambas except they are backless.
A clog-style version of the original Mexico 66, Onitsuka Tiger has a new iteration that is constructed with a mesh and is slip-on.
A modernised open-back slip-on shoe that reimagines the classic trainers by Asics combines the techy, late-2000s aesthetic and signature comfort of the original with a backless design that offers effortless, on-and-off wear.
The new 1906 Loafer takes the silhouette's signature features the open holed mesh upper, the curvilinear synthetic overlays, and the 860v2 sole unit. The juxtaposition of sneakers and loafers creates a mule. It blurs the lines between high-performance heritage and cutting-edge fashion.
Born from years of research and testing, Nike Mind technology features 22 individually articulated foam nodes that help be one of the best orthopaedic slip-on right now.