# Mule-Style Streetwear Sneakers The Vans Authentic Sneakers Now Have a Crushable Heel By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2025-02-08 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-authentic References: [highsnobiety](https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/vans-authentic-crushable-heel-sneaker/) & [vans](https://www.vans.com/en-us/shoes/icons/authentic-c5310) The [Vans Authentic](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/authentichtvibram) sneakers are some of the most recognizable footwear styles when it comes to streetwear, so the brand has elevated them with a clever feature that will make them even more wearable. The sneakers now feature a crushable heel that will enable them to be worn like [mule-style shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/harbor-mule-slipon) and will thus allow for easy on and off. The incorporation of the flatpack heel accent comes as a simple yet important update that would help to make the sneakers even more desirable amongst diehard fans. The updated Vans Authentic sneakers were unveiled as part of the brand's Spring/Summer 2025 collection and will be available in select styles and colors for fans to peruse now ahead of the warm weather. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.4/10 - Popularity: 73% | Activity: 84% | Freshness: 35% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Hip Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/hipfashion) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Mule-style Adaptations:** The integration of crushable heels in traditional sneakers showcases a growing trend towards footwear versatility and convenience. - **Functional Streetwear:** Streetwear brands are increasingly incorporating functional elements to enhance user experience and expand their market appeal. - **Seasonally-tailored Footwear:** Spring/Summer collections featuring adaptable designs highlight the trend of aligning fashion releases with seasonal consumer needs. ### Who This Affects Most - **Footwear Industry:** The incorporation of innovative elements like mule-style options in sneakers represents an opportunity for significant competitive differentiation. - **Fashion Retail:** Retailers can leverage hybrid footwear designs to cater to consumers seeking both style and ease of use in their purchases. - **Sustainable Fashion:** Design updates that focus on multi-functionality may support sustainable practices by encouraging prolonged use of garments and accessories. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Reimagined Skate Classic Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/charms-pack.md) - [Formally Transformed Skate Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mastery-atelier.md) - [Ultra-Durable Skate Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/authentichtvibram.md) - [Hybrid Skate Slip-On Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/erap-shoe.md) - [Formal Skate Boat Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-2-eyelet.md) - [Textured Sneaker Collabs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beams-and-vans.md) - [Sleek Suede Skate Clog-Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/harbor-mule-v3.md) - [Collab Fashion Trainers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/valentino-x-vans.md) - [Futuristic Sculptural Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-future-clog.md)