Vans Just Turned Its Retro Runner Into an Even Easier Slip-On

The Super Lowpro Mule transforms the brand’s vintage-inspired sneaker into a backless silhouette that’s stylish, accessible and on trend.

Close-up of beige Vans Serio sneaker tongue with beige laces against a yellow background.

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By Hayley Helms

Published March 6, 2026

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Updated March 6, 2026

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The classic mule is simultaneously a perpetual favorite in fashion and a currently trending style.

While the traditional backless silhouette has been popular for years, a new crop of mule hybrids have revitalized the style, much like the recent surge of Mary Jane and ballet flat hybrids.

Now, Vans has debuted a new mule that transforms one of its most notable shoes into a style that’s even easier to slip on than the brand’s actual slip-on shoes.

Pair of black Vans Serio sneakers with white side stripes and gum rubber soles shown from top and bottom. — The padded tongue adds comfort and support, while the OrthoLite foam insole handles cushioning.

Slip out the back

The Super Lowpro was released in 2025 as a retro-inspired, low-profile (duh) shoe heavily influenced by the brand’s Serio Style 84 trainers.

Close-up of beige Vans Serio sneaker with beige laces and white side stripe. — The lace-up closure allows for the fit to be adjusted.

The new version of the popular silhouette retains the vintage styling that made it a hit, but adds in a trendy feature, or lack thereof; the Super Lowpro Mule is a backless take on the ’80s-inspired kicks, which brings a healthy dose of modernity to the equation.

Pair of pink suede Vans sneakers with white side stripe and laces on a light background. — Perforation details on the sides add texture and visual interest.

The Super Lowpro Mule doesn’t just look like a cool new interpretation of a shoe growing in popularity; it’s also a more comfortable, easily accessible take on the classic.

The mule remix means this new drop is even easier to slip in and out of than Vans’ own slip-on styles. Fans of hands-free and accessible design now have an option that caters to their skate-inspired taste, as well.

Pair of beige suede slip-on shoes with white trim and brown soles, viewed from the back. — I can’t think of another sneaker that’s this easy to put on and take off.

The low-profile stunner comes in three colorways: Taupe Beige, Pink and Black/White, all rendered with a slim suede and nylon upper, lace-up closure for an adjustable fit and the brand’s signature waffle outsole.

Availability and pricing

The Super Lowpro Mule is available now on Vans’ website, retailing for $80.

Beige suede slip-on sneaker with white side stripe and gum sole, viewed from the side.

Vans Super Lowpro Mule

$80 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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