Common Projects Alternatives

It’s no surprise that when white sneakers came on the scene, it took me a minute to admit they were a wardrobe essential.

Once I knew they were a staple, I was all in. And I wanted the best, but by best I don’t mean couture. I wanted a white sneaker that combined high quality materials and construction with a sleek, modern minimalist silhouette.

I considered buying a pair of Common Projects since they are known for combining quality materials with clean modern designs. but couldn’t bring myself to spend $400+ on leather & rubber that, let’s face it, won’t last until the world burns (okay, maybe I didn’t have the money either but that’s beside the point).

If you’re like me and don’t think a brand has to be expensive in order to drip, enjoy these alternatives I found to the most popular Common Projects shoes:

Table of contents
  • Common Projects Alternatives
    • Jak – Royal White
    • Closed – Monochrome Sneakers
    • CLAE – Malone
    • Oliver Cabell – Low 1
    • Uniform Standard – Series 8 Triple White

Common Projects Achilles Low Alternatives


Our pick: Jak – Royal White

The proof is in the pudding and the Royal truly lives up to its name with a luxurious look and feel. The cut is low with a full-grain leather upper and a soft calf leather lining. The rubber sole is cemented and stitched to the upper making it longer lasting. The leather is firm but will quickly acclimate to your foot with a bit of stretch. They are born comfortable but if you need extra cushion, every pair comes with an extra insole for more padding (as well as extra laces).

If you’re looking for a super minimal, timeless leather sneaker with dress-up or dress-down versatility, a pair of Jaks Royal White will have you feeling like the king you are.

Our pick: CLOSED – Monochrome Sneakers

Life is too short for ordinary sneakers. Step up your game with CLOSED’s hand-made Italian leather sneakers. Not only will you look good, but you’ll feel good too thanks to their comfortable, lightweight, and flexible inner sole. From stylish designs to premium quality, these are the perfect shoes for any occasion.

Our pick: CLAE – MALONE

Although reminiscent of Common Projects White Bball, the Malone Vegan White Light Gum is Clae’s take on white sneakers. Made from recycled, 100% vegan materials, it stands on its own two feet with a premium synthetic upper and a retro vibe heel – unapologetically CLAE and unapologetically vegan.

Not only is it uber durable, but it’s also uber comfortable for a work-eight-hours-and-hit-the-gym kind of day. The insole is engineered EVA and the sole is premium court for stability.

These are the white trainers you never knew you needed. Until now.

Our pick: Oliver Cabell – Low 1

The Oliver Cabell low 1’s are a beautiful shoe with a silhouette most resembling the Common Projects. They were one of the first brands on the scene when the white leather sneaker trend popped up and the fact that they’ve been going strong for years shows their quality and aesthetic is one that people love.

Our pick: Uniform Standard – Series 8 Triple White Sneakers

The Uniform Standard Series 8 sneakers take on a different silhouette but still give the same premium Italian crafted sneaker. The shape is a more turtle-shelled aesthetic similar to the Adidas Superstar, the sole is slightly bigger, giving you a sneaker that adds more height. If you love the Common Projects sneakers but want a slightly different silhouette, this is perfect for you.