# Deconstructed Hybrid Sneaker Mules A New 2002R Mule Joins the Refined Future Series By Amy Duong | Published 2024-03-18 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-mule-2 References: [highsnobiety](https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/new-balance-2002r-mule-2024/)  The New [Balance](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sky-blue-colorway-1) [2002R](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protection-pack-7) mule gets another update as a part of the Refined Future series, which is also known as the [Protection Pack](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/goretex-protection-pack). The concept takes familiar silhouettes and gives them a more rugged deconstructed look. The 2002R mule is the latest to retrieve this treatment led by a great colorway palette. The silhouette is detailed with a range of grey hues across the deconstructed base. It is free of a heel and shoelaces over the forefoot -- instead, it has a raw-edged suede fabric with mesh textures for a breathable feel. At the base foundation is the notable N-ERGY midsole with a slightly yellowed tinge to give it a worn-in look. Branded logos decorate the shoes with traditional badges to round it out. Image Credit: @Cozyxyz ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.1/10 - Popularity: 36% | Activity: 36% | Freshness: 22% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Deconstructed Hybrid Designs:** Embracing the trend of deconstructed hybrid designs to offer a rugged yet refined aesthetic. - **Refined Future Series:** Exploring the concept of the Refined Future series to reimagine familiar sneaker silhouettes with a modern twist. - **Protection Pack Innovation:** Integrating the Protection Pack concept to enhance sneaker mules with a durable and stylish approach. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Footwear Manufacturing:** Innovating in the footwear manufacturing industry by incorporating deconstructed elements for a fresh take on sneaker designs. - **Fashion Design:** Pushing boundaries in the fashion design industry with the development of the Refined Future series that blends rugged deconstruction with contemporary style. - **Branding and Marketing:** Revolutionizing branding and marketing strategies within the footwear sector through the implementation of the Protection Pack to appeal to consumers seeking durability and aesthetics. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Hybrid Slip-On Textural Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m2002na.md) - [Deconstructed Lifestyle Sneaker Packs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protection-pack-7.md) - [Premium Leather Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-leather.md) - [Deconstructed Paneling LIfestyle Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906-sneaker-2.md) - [Collaborative Stylish Sneaker Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-530-mules.md) - [Bright Colorblocking Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-sneaker-5.md) - [Blue Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sky-blue-colorway-1.md) - [Earthy Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olive-and-black.md) - [Sleek Retro-Futuristic Sneaker Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-2000-abzorb.md)