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# Sporty Sneaker Mule Hybrids
Bryant Giles and New Balance Unveil a Special 2002r Mule Design

By Amy Duong | Published 2022-07-08 | Lifestyle
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-mule
References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2022/7/bryant-giles-new-balance-2002r-mule-first-look-release-info) & [gonehomme](https://www.gonehomme.com/)

Artist Bryant Giles joins forces with [New Balance](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m2002na) once again and this time around, he launches a special 2002r mule design to join the label. It features a [laceless forefoot](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mule-loafer) and it is constructed from durable canvas materials at the base foundation. It is also joined by both [suede and mesh throughout the upper](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/green-suede) before it is marked with colorful graphics of facial features that come from a variety of angles.

Additional details include the breathable perforated suede panel and the oval-shaped logo that nods to New Balance Running in place of where the traditional lace unit is. The lateral side is detailed with a velcro N logo with mismatching artwork seen on the insoles.

Image Credit: @prvt.selection

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.3/10
- Popularity: 11% | Activity: 15% | Freshness: 12%
- 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) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Sneaker Mule Hybrids:** Opportunity to merge the comfort of a mule with the style and functionality of a sneaker.
- **Canvas-based Design:** Potential to explore sustainable and eco-friendly materials for shoe construction.
- **Graphic Design Detailing:** Innovation opportunity to incorporate unique and eye-catching graphic designs in shoe fashion.

### Where This Applies

- **Footwear Industry:** Innovative designs can help footwear companies differentiate themselves and capture market share.
- **Fashion Industry:** Fashion brands can expand their product lines by incorporating sneaker mule hybrid designs in their collections.
- **Sustainable Fashion Industry:** Sneaker mule hybrids made from eco-friendly materials can appeal to consumers seeking sustainable fashion choices.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Deconstructed Hybrid Sneaker Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-mule-2.md)
- [Hybrid Slip-On Textural Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m2002na.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)
- [Hybrid Breathable Sneaker Loafers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906l-magnet.md)
- [Sleek Retro-Futuristic Sneaker Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-2000-abzorb.md)
- [Sneaker Hybrid Loafer Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906l.md)
- [Laceless Sleek Trail Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/610-shoes.md)
- [Artfully Dynamic Collaborative Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tareet-1.md)
