The white leather sneaker is a wardrobe essential, always ready to complement any outfit on any occasion, from the pub to the upscale party and even with a suit to a Michelin-starred restaurant. Common Projects Achilles Low have a well-deserved name with their not inexpensive take on this premium footwear basic - and there are many minimalist and affordable Common Projects alternatives from similarly obsessive artisanal makers available for your everyday sneaker collection. We've rounded up some of the best plain white leather sneakers, all much-loved around here, so we'll leave the final choice up to you.
Best Common Projects alternatives in 2024
Pini Parma White Luxury Sneakers
Introducing the Pini Parma White Luxury Sneakers, meticulously crafted in Italy. These sneakers feature a sleek white calf leather upper and soft calf leather lining for unparalleled comfort. Completed with a stitched rubber sole by Margom, these sneakers blend exquisite craftsmanship with contemporary style for the discerning gentleman.
CLAE Bradley
The CLAE Bradley is another Common Projects Achilles Low alternative. Crafted with Italian Nappa leather, its upper exudes luxury. Inside, leather and recycled polyester lining provide a plush feel. Enhanced with a recycled PU foam insole for superior comfort, all resting atop the Standard Premium sole, boasting 30% natural rubber for durability and support.
Oliver Cabell Low 1 White
Modern materials and long-established techniques are the hallmarks of all Oliver Cabell footwear. Stitched and lasted in Marche in central Italy using local full-grain calfskin leather, with rubber Italian Margom outsoles, Low 1 White sneakers are true to the Oliver Cabell philosophy of "everyday wear, forever". Perhaps the closest to a Common Projects Achilles sneaker as you'll find.
North-89 Court*
Scandinavian minimalism comes no better than this. Design is in Stockholm with each pair hand-crafted in the Portuguese city of Porto. Consider this a waterproof take on the Common Projects Achilles Low, with nylon laces and a durable rubber cup sole. Comfort is key for North-89 and so insoles are memory foam, for a personal snug fit around your feet.
WAHTS Cartes Retro Tennis Sneaker
From a company that likes to say their pieces "follow the rules of comfort and style", the Cartes Retro Tennis Sneaker from WAHTS does just that, with outer construction from high-end Italian suede and an inner of cosseting soft leather. Detailing is subtle, crafting is in Portugal where each sneaker is individually hand-stitched.
Closed Monochrome Sneakers*
Made entirely in Italy, Closed's Sneakers Low are constructed from a mix of soft suede and smooth leather. Outsole is a subtle contrast to the pure white upper, in cream rubber. Detailing is obsessively executed, including a Closed badge on the tongue and soft leather insole.
Velasca Belèratt
Milan-based Velasca are on a mission: to bring you true artisanal footwear. Each pair of their smooth calfskin white Belèratt sneakers is carefully handmade by a small family concern in the shoemaking town of Montegranaro in Italy. Outer sole is in white rubber and the sneakers are designed, say Velasca, to "complement your casual looks without disrupting any colour combinations".
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