This Unique Shoe Looks Like Vans and Crocs Had a Baby

If you’ve been tempted by Crocs’ comfort but deterred by their divisive looks, this new Vans could be the mule you’ve been waiting for.

Gray Vans slip-on shoe without laces against a blue background.

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By Hayley Helms

Published March 2, 2026

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Updated March 2, 2026

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Boat shoes. Loafers. Heritage skate shoes. These funky kicks. Vans has demonstrated time and time again there’s no shoe style it can’t conquer, and the brand’s latest release proves the innovation streak is far from over.

The Authentic Foam Mule brings together classic skate DNA and the comfort of a lightweight, foam mule, resulting in a boundary-pushing silhouette that may just convert even the most ardent Crocs skeptics.

Pair of navy blue slip-on rubber shoes with ventilation holes and thick soles on a blue background. — This new take on the foam mule is for the style-minded who also prioritize comfort.

Summer-ready slip-on

Crocs has its fair share of detractors based on aesthetics, but there’s no denying the comfort of the foam clogs.

That’s what makes Vans’ new release so exciting; there’s nothing new about a mule made of foam, but one done up in classic skate style? That’s a fresh take.

Navy blue slip-on clog with ventilation holes and thick rubber sole against a blue background. — The Authentic Foam Mule fuses all-day comfort with heritage skate style.

The Authentic Foam Mule, like its Crocs competitors, is made from a single piece of injected foam.

It delivers lightweight, breathable comfort, thanks to its material as well as its details, such as the eyelet and sidewall vents that maximize airflow.

Pair of black slip-on rubber shoes with textured soles on a blue background. — A grippy outsole and textured interior guarantee grip from the inside out.

Designed in homage to the iconic Authentic, the easy-wearing style also features a textured interior that keeps the fit secure, while a reverse waffle outsole enhances grip on slick surfaces.

Pair of gray Vans slip-on shoes shown from the back with red "Vans Off The Wall" logos on the heels. — These may be the most easy-wearing slip-ons in Vans’ entire catalog.

Three earthy colorways — Bungee Cord Brown, Black and Navy Blue — keep the mule grounded, and its classic skate style and comfort-focused construction make this a compelling choice for the upcoming warmer weather.

Availability and pricing

The Authentic Foam Mule is available now on Vans’ website, retailing for $50 (right around the same price as the Crocs Classic Clog).

Olive-green slip-on clog with ventilation holes and thick textured sole.

Vans Authentic Foam Mule

$50 at Vans

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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