On shoe websites you'll come across "clog", "mule" and "sabot", sometimes for exactly the same shoe. Yet these terms have nuances. Here's how to see clearly and choose with confidence.
In short
- Mule: a backless shoe, open at the heel.
- Clog: originally wooden, today a closed-toe mule with a thick sole.
- Sabot: the French word for clog, often used in fashion.
- Loafer mule: the front of a loafer, the open back of a mule.
- Sandal: an open shoe held on by straps.
The mule
A mule is any shoe without a heel counter, meaning it's open at the back. It can be flat or heeled, open- or closed-toe. Its big advantage: you can slip it on in a second, hands-free.
The clog
Historically, clogs were carved from a block of wood. Today the word mainly refers to a closed-toe mule with a rounded shape and a thick sole, often with a cork effect. That's exactly the shape of our Sienna clog: closed round toe, open heel, adjustable metal buckle.
The sabot
"Sabot" is simply the French word for clog. In fashion it's often used for suede or velvet buckle clogs, which have been very popular in recent years. In practice, sabot and clog describe the same style.
The loafer mule
The newest member of the family: the front of a loafer, with its stitched apron, and the open back of a mule. It has the dressier look of a loafer and the hands-free slip-on of a mule. Our Varenna loafer mule takes this shape in vegan suede, with a thick treaded sole. Torn between the two styles? Read loafers or mules: which to choose?
The sandal
A sandal leaves the foot largely uncovered and holds it in place with straps. With two adjustable straps and an anatomical footbed, like our Ravello sandal, it offers real support for summer.
And the lined clog?
It's a clog with a faux-fur lining, designed for winter. It keeps the instant slip-on and adds warmth. Our Bormio clog takes the Sienna's shape with a lining that rises to the collar and a treaded cork-effect sole.
Which one to choose?
- For all year round: a closed-toe clog, worn with or without socks.
- For a dressier look: a loafer mule.
- For summer: a sandal with adjustable straps.
- For winter: a lined clog.
For the warm season, our Sienna + Ravello Duo brings together the clog and the sandal for a gentler price than buying them individually, and the Summer Trio adds the Varenna loafer mule.
Quick comparison
| Type | Front | Back | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mule | Closed or open | Open, backless | Varenna |
| Clog | Closed | Open, thicker sole | Sienna |
| Sabot | Closed | Open | French word for clog |
| Lined clog | Closed | Open, fur-lined | Bormio |
Frequently asked questions
Are a mule and a clog the same thing?
A clog is a type of mule: closed at the front, open at the back, with a thick sole. Not all mules are clogs.
Are clogs comfortable?
Yes, as long as they have a cushioned footbed, a well-cupped heel and an adjustable buckle.
Can you wear clogs in winter?
Yes, with socks, or in a lined version. See how to wear clogs in fall and winter.
Read also
- Loafers or mules: which to choose?
- How to choose suede-look clogs
- Vegan suede, microsuede, suede: what's the difference?
- Comfortable sandals: how to choose them
The pack deal
With Build your own bundle, choose 1 to 12 pairs from the whole collection: €59.98 for 2 and €79.98 for 3 for styles at €39.99, with a free brush for every 3 pairs. Or take a ready-made pack: Winter Trio, Summer Trio or Sienna + Ravello Duo. Details: how the price per pair works.
Vegan suede clogs, loafer mules, sandals and lined clogs: discover All our styles. Free delivery and 60 days to change your mind.
