Once dismissed as little more than house shoes or something to throw on for a quick grocery run, mules have become a firm favourite among fashion enthusiasts in 2026. Easy to wear yet polished enough to elevate an outfit, today’s designs span structured leather, woven huaraches and waterproof materials. Whether paired with shorts, loose denim or relaxed tailoring, these five styles offer a refreshing alternative to the usual sneakers and sandals

Our Legacy Camion Mules

Photo: Our Legacy

For a mule that still feels polished and makes an impact, Our Legacy’s Camion is hard to beat. Reworking the Swedish label’s cult Camion boot as a relaxed slip-on, it combines a subtly squared toe with a crossover strap and metal buckle. A leather midsole and sturdy Vibram outsole preserve its rugged character, making it an ideal match for wide-legged trousers, faded denim or relaxed tailoring when an ordinary sandal feels just a little too casual.

Birkenstock Amsterdam Wrapped

Photo: Photo @birkenstock

Already have a pair of Birkenstock Bostons in your collection? The Amsterdam Wrapped offers a cleaner and more understated alternative. Its buckle-free upper is made from especially soft suede, which continues over the midsole to create a smooth, seamless finish. Inside, Birkenstock’s signature contoured cork-latex footbed and lightweight EVA sole deliver familiar all-day comfort. Relaxed yet refined, it works effortlessly with linen trousers, shorts or lightweight workwear throughout the warmer months.

Chamula Polanco Woven Leather Mules

Photo: Instagram @chamulabymegco

For something lighter and more artisanal, Chamula’s Polanco Mule brings traditional Mexican huarache craftsmanship into the summer wardrobe. Its woven leather upper gives the rounded, closed-toe silhouette plenty of texture while allowing it to feel breezier than a conventional leather shoe. The open back also makes it easy to slip on and go. Pair it with linen trousers, cotton shorts or loose denim to bring a little more character to an otherwise simple warm-weather outfit.

G.H.Bass Easy Weejuns Larson Penny Slides

Photo: G.H.Bass

G.H.Bass gives its classic Larson penny loafer an off-duty update with the Easy Weejuns Larson Penny Slide. The backless silhouette retains the polished leather, penny strap and signature hand-stitched detailing of the original, but adds a lightweight, unlined construction and cushioned insole for easier summer wear. Finished with a durable, water-resistant rubber sole, it looks equally at home with tailored shorts and a T-shirt or chinos and a relaxed blazer.

Plasticana Opana Mules

Photo: Instagram @plasticana.kr

Plasticana’s Opana Mule proves that practical footwear does not have to look boring. Its open-back, garden-shoe-inspired silhouette is made from the brand’s distinctive upcycled hemp material, creating a lightweight, water-resistant and surprisingly durable slip-on. Its warm caramel tone and rounded shape also make it easier to style than you might expect. Simple to clean and throw on, it is well suited to rainy commutes, beach trips or laid-back summer weekends.

Also see: Your guide to Freen’s summer bandana style