Two different types of shoes that seem to have their names used interchangeably are clogs and mules. While some will argue that they are the exact same kind of shoe, the fact of the matter is that they both actually have some varying features that set them apart from one another.

What Is A Clog?
Clogs are most often thought of as a wooden-bottomed close toe shoe. These shoes typically have a heel that’s an inch or two high, and are usually backless (though clog boots do also exist, which are usually about mid-thigh in length). Numerous countries have had a variety of names for these shoes, including the French term sabot, but the term “clog” has been the most popular of the lot.

Why They Are Confused With Mules
In the 18th century, when clogs were beginning to gain some popularity in the world, the French also created the mule. Mules, as opposed to clogs, have a high heel that is not made out of wood and they tended to be a lot fancier than clogs. A clog known as being a shoe of the “working people”, whereas mules were worn by aristocracy – at first. Later on down the line the reputation of mules deteriorated to that of them being only worn by lower class citizens and prostitutes. It’s taken centuries for mules to reclaim their reputation of being a fashionable and dignified shoe.

What’s The Difference?
While clogs may have a wooden heel that’s up to 2 inches in height (though many clog shoes are now created with rubber soles, which only adds to the confusion), mules usually aren’t made with a wooden heel. They also tend to not be backless, and they are typically a lot more “fancy” than the traditional clog. A clog is much better for casual wear, whereas a mule will be more appropriate for a night out on the town.