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Low effort, high reward. That's what fashion's ongoing love of mules is all about. Essentially a slipper that's become socially acceptable for outdoor wear, the mule has mooched down many a runway (both virtual and physical) ever since the loungewear-obsessed era of the early 2020s. Four years later, we're still just as into these backless loafers as we ever were. In fact, that little glimpse of the heel still inspires us with a kind of medieval-like hysteria at catching a flash of flesh.
Defined by their backless construction, comfortable base and capacious front end, a good pair of mules can be worn freely between outdoor and indoor spaces, whilst remaining cosy and really rather breathable, too. What's more, unlike fluffy novelty slippers, you can wear them to stand in the Sainsbury's queue without fearing you've started to look like a latter-day Shelley Duvall.
And regardless of aesthetics, the reality is that you'll want to continue wearing them long out of lockdown because mules, clogs, backless loafers – whatever you want to call them – are the very definition of functional footwear. Even the chef-loved croc is a form of mule (clog… mog?) after all, and if crocs aren't the ultimate ergonomic shoe, we don't know what is.
So, here to help you make your own transition into free-footed salvation in the coming weeks, is our dedicated edit of the best clogs, mules, and backless loafers out there. From Ugg's ever-cosy Tasman's to Gucci's ultra-slick take on the silhouette, it's true what they say – there's a mule out there for everyone.
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Birkenstock
- Fabrication: Wool felt
- Sizes: 35-48
- Colours: Grey, beige, brown
When it comes to laidback footwear, few brands spring to mind quite so instantaneously as Birkenstock. Luckily enough, many silhouettes from the LVMH-acquired sandal brand now come with serious style clout. Most prominently: the rejuvenated Boston style which first debuted over four decades ago and whose silhouette epitomises off-duty minimalism with its practical wool felt design and backless silhouette.
Lemaire
- Fabrication: Leather
- Sizes: 39-45
- Colours: Black
A classic mule with a textural twist, these sophisticated leather slip-ons from Lemaire tread the line between everyday and formal wear. Woven from vegetable-tanned buffalo leather, they boast a shiny finish and are stacked on a small heel to perfectly elevate your silhouette. Guaranteed to complement any avenue of style – from an impeccably tailored suit to relaxed denim – they're a smart addition to see you through endless sunny seasons to come.
The North Face
- Fabrication: Recycled polyester
- Sizes: 39-46
- Colours: Black, yellow, red, white (+2 more)
They've walked up and down TikTok FYPs the world over, and now they're ready to strut their way into your wardrobe. The North Face's puffy-as-can-be padded mules have made quite the name for themselves on social media, but they're far more than just a pretty face. Made with recycled materials, the body boasts a unique insulated synthetic fill, sat on a cushioned, shock-absorbing grip sole.
Clarks
- Fabrication: Suede
- Sizes: 39-45
- Colours: Caramel, black
Clark's has been serving classic and comfortable footwear for as long as we can remember, deeming it a top port of call for a pair of mules to last. Our top pick from the current collection? This suede style. Clad in a stunning caramel shade which lends itself so well to the mule design, they're accented with a polished buckle detail and distinctive logo fob. Built on a natural crepe rubber sole which absorbs the impact of every step, your feet will thank us later.
Gucci
- Fabrication: Leather blend
- Sizes: 38.5-49
- Colours: Brown
Retro, chic, and positively covered in logo detailing — these mules are unquestionably a Gucci creation. Borrowing the silhouette of the old-school house slipper and setting it on a comfortable leather sole, this pair has been enriched with the house's all-over GG Supreme motif, and, of course, the iconic horsebit finish. A favourite among the fashion crowd, their style effect makes them well worth the investment.
Cos
- Fabrication: Ethylene vinyl acetate blend
- Sizes: 38-45
- Colours: Black
Sometimes, less really is more. Making a case for that exact sentiment: these black mules by Cos. Kept simple and effective, they bring a modern alternative to the traditional sandal through their lightweight EVA material (a proportion of which is recycled vinyl ethylene acetate). Fitted with perforations on the sides for an extra bit of breathability, their open-back design makes them the ultimate companion to see you through off-duty days with ease.
Dr Martens
- Fabrication: Suede
- Sizes: 39-45
- Colours: Black
Thought Dr Martens was just about chunky leather boots? Think again. The boot-famed brand also boasts an excellent selection of casual footwear, with a special shoutout going to these slip-on mules. Crafted from a stark black suede texture, they're based on the brand's acclaimed yellow-stitched sole and promise to keep your steps secure thanks to the pin-buckle fastening and adjustable strap. Big yes.
Tod's
- Fabrication: Nubuck
- Sizes: 39-45
- Colours: Navy, beige, brown
For those with a more sartorially-inclined wardrobe, Tod's traditional take on the mule is bound to satisfy. Modelled on the driving shoe design, they're assembled from full-grain nubuck which becomes softer with time (hello, longevity) and are lined with a soft faux shearling for maximum cosiness.
Officine Creative
- Fabrication: Leather
- Sizes: 40-47
- Colours: Brown
Crafted in Italy from a supple suede texture, Officine Creative’s latest mule offering is an essential cosy companion to your footwear collection. Bringing a contemporary take to the classic clog style, they’re shaped to a rounded silhouette and filled with a fluffly shearling on the inside. Technically aligned with your best indoor slippers but fronted with stylish charm, they’re a favourite for team GQ.
Hermès
- Fabrication: Suede
- Sizes: 39-46
- Colours: Caramel, beige
When it comes to making a mule that truly toes the line between outdoor-wear and cosy house shoe territory, Hermès has done a brilliant job. Assembled from a suede goatskin and detailed with ecru shearling lining (also stitched around its rounded toe), this caramel-coloured design infuses the brand’s famed ‘H’ cut-out at the front of its body. A staple of luxury style, rest assured that they'll last a lifetime.
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