Definition of Mule Shoes

A mule, the result of the cross between a horse and donkey, can wear horse shoes. Mule shoes are a type of footwear for humans, usually worn by women in modern society.

  1. The Facts

    • A mule is a type of shoe that is backless. If a shoe has no back or strap around the heel and is designed for the foot to slide into the shoe, it is a mule.

    History

    • In ancient Rome, a mulleus was a ceremonial shoe made of dark red leather, worn by highly-placed Roman officials. Later the term "mule" referred to the shape of the shoe, not the color or material. In the Baroque period (1680-1720), mule shoes with heels were favored by both men and women.

    Significance

    • Throughout the times that followed ancient Rome, the mule shoe conveyed status by implying luxury. Common people could not work wearing a shoe that would slip off so easily. The elite in society showed they had no need to work by displaying their feet in backless shoes.

    Function

    • Among modern consumers, mule shoes are popular for two reasons: the slip-on style is convenient, lacking any time to put on with no buckles or laces to tie, and mules can be worn with any style of dress from casual to formal.

    Types

    • Normally close-toed, mules can also be open-toed. Mule shoes can be clunky or delicate, platform or flat or heeled, round-toed or pointy-toed. Consumers can find any style shoe in mule styles. Mules can be created with any number of materials.