First comer Cruggthe hybrid between a pair of Crocodile and UGG which made the internet say “Gee thanks, I hate this.” The diabolical invention was quickly followed by toe shoes, stiletto clogs and, from 2022, bread shoes. But just when we thought fashion’s obsession with “ugly” and unconventional shoes was collapsing for the better, boom: People are now wearing a popular 80s hairstyle on their feet. Welcome to the wild world of mule shoes.
What is a mullet shoe?
Imagine the wind caressing your hair as it gently flutters through the strands. Now visualize the same phenomenon occurring on your feet. Featured on the Internet by an Australian-based sports shoe brand Volleymullet shoes are high-top shoes that visually embody the “basketball in the front, party in the back” energy – with long luscious locks attached to her heels. Yes, you read that right. It’s a mule, but for your feet. And it looks something like this:
If you’re slightly uncomfortable at this point, you’re not alone. Volley’s mullet shoes, part of his High Legacy collection, come with a white canvas body, strap detailing on the collar, the brand’s signature herringbone outsole and an original rubber sole called DAMPENERTECH 10 shock-absorbing footbed for all-day comfort . As for the mullet, well, it’s a detachable hairpiece – “made 100% animal-free”, don’t worry – linked to the shoes with velcro.
“Did someone say it was a mule shoe?! No it’s not a prank, our MULLET VOLLEYs have landed,” the description on Volley’s website bed, retailing the product for $85 when its original version (without the velcro-based synthetic hair) only costs you $75.
Shoes to do or not to do?
Now, a pair of high top sneakers with a silky set of light brown locks cascading down the back looks quite enchanting. I mean, we’re basically talking about a popular hairstyle that made a iconic return in 2020. Where the detachable mullets find their way onto the shoes, the combination also offers exciting possibilities to cut, style and even dye them in multiple ways to truly personalize the whole experience.
But here’s a little reality check: imagine putting on those hairy shoes on a rainy day and coming back to your apartment with mud stuck on the animal-free hair. As someone who often trips over their own feet, the design also increases the possibility of landing on your face, given that the locks are a few inches longer than the shoe itself.
That being said, that’s the whole appeal behind the internet’s fascination with unconventional footwear in the first place. Cutting fresh loaves for prom shoes? The Internet was there. Breaking two guilty shoes against each other to create “the antichrist of shoes”? Internet users have it is done.
In the case of bread shoes and Cruggs, both had founding personalities preaching a simple idea – with DIY tutorials dominating our feeds as users jumped on the trend and dedicated hashtags. Considering the fact that Volley pioneered a concept that can be easily conjured up with extensions and tape, it’s safe to say the internet is right behind it. Damn, these Todaytelevision presenters Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon have already exploited its potential:
For the brand in question, however, the release of its limited edition kicks comes with support for a good cause. In partnership with black dog institutea nonprofit facility for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mood issues like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, Volley developed the pair to help fund mental health research efforts.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44, and around 60% of Australians reporting symptoms of mental illness do not seek help,” said one. blog post on the Volley website indicated. “That’s why we’re proud to partner with Black Dog Institute to bring you a one-of-a-kind Mullet Shoe! 100% of the proceeds from this limited release shoe will be donated to the Black Dog Institute to support the amazing Mules for mental health cause, encouraging you to shape and grow your mule for the month of September to raise much-needed funds for mental health research.
Have you heard that, dear Internet user? I know good intentions haven’t stopped you in your previous quests for the next big “trend” for views. But I’d like to avoid stopping at the local supermarket and seeing people competing in the “Mule Shoe Olympiad” anytime soon.
