# Smooth Suede Slip-On Mules Nike ACG's Rufus Mule has a Neutral Palette and Chunky Base By Amy Duong | Published 2024-02-25 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rufus-mule-1 References: [highsnobiety](https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/nike-acg-rufus-mule-limestone/)  [Nike ACG](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-exploraid) recently announced that it is breathing life back into the [Rufus Mule](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rufus-mule) silhouette for the year and it is seen once again with the same durable build. The silhouette was first released in 2011 and gets an earthy tonal palette this time around. It arrives in a Limestone colorway with a smooth upper made from [suede materials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rhodes-suede-mule). It is also designed with padded comfort points that offer a soft step. It rests on a chunky rubber midsole and grippy outsole unit for traction. The shoe's branding is kept minimal with a small Swoosh detailing the front and another embossed onto the side. It is rounded out by the "All Conditions Gear' printed on the insole. Image Credit: Nike ACG ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 76% | Activity: 44% | Freshness: 21% - 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 - **Earth-toned Colorways:** Opportunities for brands to explore natural hues in product designs for a timeless aesthetic. - **Comfort-driven Silhouettes:** Potential to innovate footwear with enhanced comfort features without compromising style. - **Minimalist Branding Approach:** Potential for companies to differentiate by embracing subtlety in branding strategies. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Footwear Manufacturing:** Innovative materials and design techniques can elevate the comfort and style of footwear offerings. - **Fashion Retail:** Offering minimalist, earth-toned collections can attract consumers seeking a blend of style and simplicity. - **Outdoor Gear Market:** Exploring durable yet comfortable footwear options can cater to adventure enthusiasts seeking practicality and style. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Retro Sleek Minimal Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rufus-mule.md) - [Neutral Outdoor Slip‑ons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/acg-rufus.md) - [Light Green Gradient Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rufus-shoe.md) - [Camouflage-Inspired Patterned Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/calm-mule-2.md) - [Pink Fuzzy Slip-On Loafers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/calm-mule-1.md) - [Camouflage Pattern Slides](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/light-blue-realtree.md) - [Fuzzy Plush Clog Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-calm-mule.md) - [Comfy Anti-Fashion Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rhodes-suede-mule.md) - [Faux Reptilian Slip-On Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-acg-moc-premium.md)