You may ask how something so oddly shaped is the most in-demand shoe option on the market. The easiest answer? Comfort. But then there's something to be said for versatility. I'm not much of a sandals fan, because I don't enjoy having my feet out on display. So the closest thing I'm going to get to sandals are slip-ons. I picked up a pair of Boston Clogs from Birkenstock a few years ago and found them to be instant-certified bangers. They started being my WFH slippers, then grocery-getters, and gradually evolved into my everyday shoe choice. The shoe's super power is the ability to contour to your feet—whether it's leather, foam or even rubber—they're meant to develop a customized fit over time. Honestly, I was surprised how often I would wear them and how good they looked with everything—little did I know it was only the beginning of a slip-on/clog “mulement”.

Although Birkenstock laid the foundation, other brands have embraced the heel-free push. It's excellent that you can find any pair for any budget, and they'll look great. One brand that may be a no-brainer that recently put its hat in the clog field is Crocs. Their Dylan clog is under $60, and even the most anti-Croc guys on our team are considering a pair. This is major because trends start from subcultures and then hit the mainstream, and this is definitely one of those examples. Crocs joining the wave seems like a big ole' corporate stamp of approval for clogs.

While the mule has been gaining steam for a while, it's clearly the shoe for the summer season. Call it a testament to the current state of style and the direction it's going in—no rules are the new rules. The shoe adds a bit of “freaky” casual energy that guys are embracing these days and making their own. And while they come in several materials and shapes, they all share one commonality: Heels out. Wear them with your summer shorts, beat-up jeans and chinos, even a casual suit. Think of it like ice cream, there are flavors for everyone and you really can't make a bad choice.