If you are looking for a clean and simple pair of white sneakers look no further than the Common Projects white original Achilles ($410). Common Projects is known for quality and simplicity throughout its products. In this review, we will be focusing on the white original Achilles sneaker that started the clean, minimalist, white leather sneaker cult.
Packaging & Experience
Finding a pair of Common Projects is pretty easy as you can find a pair on most department store websites as well as Mr. Porter (which is my preference). From the time I ordered the sneakers and arrival was about two days from Mr. Porter, though note that I live in New York. CP packaging is simple and clean, as are the shoes, of course, which come with a dust bag as well as an extra pair of laces. A
Style & Design
These timeless sneakers are clean and simple. When it comes to sleek, clean, and minimalist sneakers, you really cannot do better than CP. Nothing is quite as sleek or clean. And, of course, these can be dressed up with a suit to the office all the way down to worn with sweats on the weekend. These sneakers are well designed and only have a gold serial number stamped on the sneaker as a logo (only certain people will recognize that design). Once you pick up a pair of Common Projects you join a cult of people who have joined before you as part of the sneaker trend.
Another thing is that Cp also has by far the most available leathers, colors, and style options when it comes to these sorts of sneakers as well. A
Quality & Construction
These sneakers are handmade in Italy from soft Italian leather. You can wear these shoes from snow to rain as they are durable for all weather conditions. The break in period is pretty quick and once broken in molds to your foot to become the most comfortable pair of shoes you own. You can expect to have these shoes last you many years down the road before it’s necessary to pick up another pair. In the luxury shoe department, this is the very top. Yes, they’re pricey — and you’re paying a bit for the name (and those gold letters we spoke about above) — but you’re getting what you’re paying for. A
The Fit
I always take an 8 in shoes and this was no exception. Very true to size, they only come in full sizes, though, so if you’re a half size go up to the full size. You can always buy two pairs to test for your size from Mr. Porter as shipping and returns are free. A-
Value & Conclusion
The Common Projects original white Achilles will run you $410. Other sneakers in this price category are Gucci and Golden Goose. The former we have found aren’t as durable and clean. While you can find more options that even have half sizes, many competitors in the luxury market do run even more expensive. The Golden Goose are a simple sneaker, but aren’t as comfortable nor versatile when compared to the Common Projects. Common Projects are the pound for pound best white clean sneaker on the market for all the reasons listed. They’re the original. You can’t go wrong with these sneakers as they are a great investment for any wardrobe. Final Grade: A