Calf Leather Mules

The mules feature Italian cowhide uppers with a waxy finish, constructed on a cork footbed with a Vibram mini ripple outsole. Both the Natural Calf Leather and Black Calf Leather versions develop distinct patina characteristics through wear, with the natural leather darkening from exposure and the black leather developing grey highlights.

The mules are built with Italian cowhide uppers that have a supple hand and waxy finish. The construction uses vegetable tanned calf leather, the same material 3sixteen employs in their wallets. Each mule features a leather lining, suede footbed, and cork sole topped with a Vibram mini ripple outsole for traction.

The choice of the Vibram mini ripple sole connects to 3sixteen's footwear history, as this sole type appeared on several custom Viberg makeups produced for the brand in previous years. The simplified silhouette omits adjustable straps, creating a streamlined aesthetic that allows the mules to pair with diverse outfits, from pool-side shorts to cropped slacks worn with socks.

3sixteen produces their in-house footwear designs exclusively in Portugal, utilizing the same Portuguese factory that manufactures their Square Toe Side Zip Boot and Constructs Hiker Boots. The company's Portugal-made footwear typically features Goodyear welt construction, though specific construction details for the mules vary from their boot offerings.

The vegetable tanned leather used in the mules shares sourcing with other 3sixteen leather goods, providing material consistency across the brand's non-denim product line.

Both colorways of the Calf Leather Mules develop character through regular wear. The Natural Calf Leather version darkens relatively quickly when exposed to wear and sunlight, creating a deepening patina over time. The Black Calf Leather version develops grey highlights that become increasingly prominent with use, creating visual contrast against the base color.

These aging characteristics align with 3sixteen's broader design philosophy, which emphasizes products that develop character over time rather than deteriorating with age.

3sixteen recommends customers take their usual Birkenstock Boston size when ordering the Calf Leather Mules. Those with higher insteps may benefit from sizing up one size for improved comfort. The upper leather stretches and molds to the wearer's foot during the break-in period, accommodating individual foot shape.

When first wearing the mules, customers should assess heel placement on the cork sole and available toe room. Initial snugness against the forefoot is acceptable if adequate space exists in the front of the shoe, as the upper will stretch to mold to the foot with continued wear.

The Calf Leather Mules represent 3sixteen's approach to in-house footwear design, following collaborations with established footwear manufacturers such as Viberg. The mules' emphasis on material quality and aging characteristics reflects the brand's focus on products designed for extended wear and natural patina development.