Mules for back to school

Arizona, Madrid, Kyoto: the mules Birkenstock

The Madrid, launched in 1963 as a gym sandal, is the oldest model in the Birkenstock range: a single strap, with the foot almost free. The Arizona, introduced in 1973, adds a second buckle strap, making it suitable for both slender feet and high insteps; its Big Buckle versions feature an oversized buckle. The Kyoto replaces the buckles with a wide hook-and-loop strap, while the Florida has multiple straps for better foot support. For the new season, the Arizona Shearling, lined with wool, extends the wear of mules until the first chill.

The other shoes

Back-to-school shoes also come in:

• Sneakers.
• Sandals.
• Slides.
• Flip-flops.
• Espadrilles.
• Heels.

All shoes can be found on the shoes page.

Footbed and Birko-Flor: the keys to comfort

The footbed Birkenstock, made of cork and latex, mimics the shape of a foot resting in sand: concave under the heel, arch support, and raised areas under the toes for grip. It shapes to the foot after a few days, accommodating its pressure points. The Birko-Flor, an exclusive synthetic material from the brand, imitates leather, is water-resistant, and can be cleaned with a wipe; the nubuck, a suede-like leather, requires a brush and a waterproofing treatment. Papillio, a brand from the same house, retains this footbed and adds fancier finishes, like on the Arizona Flex. Birkenstock offers narrow and standard fitting options, a handy tip for making the right choice.

City mules, fashion mules, and recovery mules

The mules from Tamaris, Bugatti, and TT.Bagatt focus on soft soles and moderate heights for walking all day in the city. Guess, with the Elyze, Steve Madden, with the Missile, and Buffalo, with a sparkly vegan model, play the fashion card: thick soles, logos, and shiny finishes. Les Tropéziennes express their Mediterranean style down to children's sizes with the Bali. Additionally, the Nike ReactX foam mule is designed for after sports: its thick, cushioned sole relieves tired feet after training, and its open shape slips on easily in the locker room.

Good deals

Good bargains can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24h are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

How to wear mules in the new season?

In September, mules can be worn barefoot with wide trousers, a midi skirt, or cropped jeans that show the ankle. When the mornings get cooler, a pair of thick solid-coloured socks can step in without breaking the look.

How do Birkenstock mules fit?

Birkenstock labels the European size and two widths, narrow and normal. The foot should leave a few millimeters of space in front of the toes and behind the heel, without touching the edge: if you're unsure between two sizes, the larger one is often the right choice.

How to clean suede mules?

Brush the suede dry with a crepe brush to lift the nap, treat stains with a special eraser, and then apply a waterproofing agent. Avoid soaking them and never let them dry against a radiator.

Can you wear mules all day?

Yes, as long as you choose a model with an anatomical or well-padded sole and a strap that holds the instep. A mule that is too flat or too loose forces the toes to curl to hold it in place, which tires the foot by the end of the day.

Are heeled mules comfortable?

A low or medium heel, from three to five centimetres, remains comfortable if the sole is wide and the strap is well adjusted. Beyond that, the foot slides forward without support to keep it in place: save high heels for occasions where you walk little.