Women's Mules and Flip Flops: Birkenstock to Slip On

The women's mules and flip-flops in the section are mostly by Birkenstock: Arizona Big Buckle with a wide buckle, Madrid with a single strap, Kyoto in nubuck, lined versions with shearling for mid-season, and Gizeh flip-flops. Easy slip-on open shoes.

Mule, flip-flop or sandal?

The mule slips on without any back strap: the heel is left free. The flip-flop holds the foot with a strap between the toes. The sandal, however, fastens with straps that provide better support when walking.

Mules and flip-flops are the quickest to put on, perfect for home, the beach, and summer days.

The Arizona Big Buckle

The Big Buckle version of the Arizona replaces its two classic buckles with large metal buckles. Available in several materials, it gives a more fashionable twist to the most famous mule from Birkenstock.

The Madrid and the Kyoto

The Madrid, with a single strap, is the most minimalist mule in the range. The Kyoto, made of nubuck, offers a different style that covers more. They all rest on the cork and latex sole from the brand.

The lined mules

The Shearling versions, lined with sheepskin, transform the Arizona or the Madrid into a winter mule. Warm and soft, they can be worn at home or in dry weather during autumn and winter.

The Gizeh flip-flops

The Gizeh from Birkenstock is a flip-flop on an anatomical sole: more comfortable than a flat flip-flop, it supports the arch of the foot. It is also available in narrow width.

The right size

Birkenstock only makes whole sizes. If you're between two sizes, the brand advises choosing the larger one. The heel should rest in the hollow of the sole without hanging over.

For a slim foot, the narrow versions fit better, especially with a mule without a back strap.

Mules and outfits

Arizona Big Buckle: with straight jeans or wide trousers for a stylish look.
Gizeh: with a summer dress or shorts.
Lined mule: with knit trousers, at home or to go out in dry weather.

Mules and socks

In mid-season, wearing a ribbed sock with an Arizona extends the season. Avoid wearing socks with a flip-flop, as the strap between the toes doesn't work well with them.

The Boston, the slip-on clog

The Boston clog is a closed mule at the front: it protects the toes while keeping the heel free. Worn with a ribbed sock, it is great for autumn, and barefoot in spring.

What colour mule?

Natural leather, taupe and brown match with most outfits. Black goes well with raw denim or a dark outfit. A patent or metallic version, like the Arizona Big Buckle in patent leather, adds a sparkle to a simple outfit.

For a first pair, a neutral tone is the easiest to wear.

Mules and wide trousers

A buckle mule slips under wide trousers or loose jeans that fall over the foot: only the strap shows, for a casual and modern look. With cropped trousers, it reveals the ankle and lightens the silhouette.

A mule for home

Many wear their Birkenstock mules like slippers: the sole supports the foot and prevents walking flat on a cold floor. The lined versions are particularly suited for this use.

Breaking in a cork sole

The sole is firm at first. Wear your mules for a few hours a day, then gradually increase the time: they will take the imprint of your foot in a few weeks.

Maintaining your mules

Nubuck and suede should be brushed dry, patent leather can be wiped with a soft cloth. Birko-Flor can be washed with soapy water. Avoid standing water, which damages the cork.