How to recognise it
The front is the same as canvas sneakers: canvas, laces, a rubber toe and a band around the sole. The back is cut away, so you slip your foot in without hands and the heel stays bare.
Where it comes from
Backless canvas sneakers became popular around 2020, when big sneaker makers released mule versions of their classic models. They combine the look of canvas sneakers with the ease of slides.
Who and when it suits
The lightest summer shoes for town, holidays, the garden and quick errands. They go with shorts, linen trousers and summer dresses.
Variations and look-alikes
They come in white, black or colours, laced or laceless, on a thin or platform sole. Platform canvas mules add a few centimetres of height. They differ from ordinary canvas sneakers in the open back, and from slides in the canvas upper and rubber sole.
How to style it
- Tie the laces firmly: they hold the foot.
- Wear them without socks or with invisible ones.
- For long walks, choose canvas sneakers with a back.
- Wipe the canvas with a damp cloth.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01Are canvas sneaker mules comfortable?
Very for short trips and summer; for long distances the foot is held too little.
02How do they differ from slip-ons?
Slip-ons have a back; canvas mules do not.
03What do you wear canvas mules with?
Shorts, linen or cropped trousers and summer dresses.
04Can you cut the back off ordinary canvas sneakers?
Better not: the edge will fray. Choose ones made backless.