Comparison of Common Projects and Greats Sneakers

Introduction

Sneakers have transcended their original athletic purpose to become a staple in contemporary fashion. Their versatility allows them to complement a wide range of outfits, from casual streetwear to smart-casual ensembles suitable for the office or social gatherings. With numerous brands offering various styles and qualities, selecting the right pair can be daunting. Among these, Common Projects and Greats stand out for their reputation in quality and design.

One of the key differences between these two brands lies in their pricing. Common Projects, as a luxury label, commands premium prices, with their Achilles sneakers often exceeding $400. In contrast, Greats offers more budget-friendly options, with sneakers typically priced between $111 and $200. Additionally, the manufacturing processes differ: Common Projects shoes are primarily machine-made with meticulous hand-stitching, while Greats sneakers are entirely handcrafted, emphasizing artisanal craftsmanship.

Initial Impressions

First Glance: Common Projects

Common Projects sneakers are renowned for their minimalist and sleek aesthetic. Their design philosophy centers around simplicity, sophistication, and subtlety. The shoes feature a clean silhouette devoid of prominent branding, with the only distinctive mark being a gold foil stamp at the heel indicating size, style, and color. Crafted with high-quality leather, these shoes exude luxury and are suitable for both casual and formal settings. Their streamlined profile with rounded toes enhances their elegant appearance. The durable Margom outsole ensures longevity and slip resistance, making them a practical choice for everyday wear.

First Glance: Greats

Greats sneakers mirror the refined minimalism of Common Projects but incorporate a broader range of materials and styles. Their offerings include leather, suede, and knit uppers, providing options for different preferences and seasons. The design maintains a clean, contemporary look with rounded toes and subtle detailing. Some models bear the brand’s logo on the tongue, adding a touch of branding without compromising style. Constructed with premium Italian craftsmanship, Greats sneakers combine durability with comfort. The rubber outsoles are designed for excellent traction, and the inside linings are made from soft, breathable leather to keep feet dry and comfortable throughout the day.

Detailed Comparison: Features and Specifications

Construction Analysis

Common Projects shoes are crafted with precision, emphasizing high-quality leather and meticulous detailing. The all-round construction ensures durability, with reinforced heel tabs that facilitate easy wear and provide ankle support. The interior lining combines soft leather and suede, enhancing comfort and traction. The non-marking outsole, paired with the classic gold stamp, exemplifies understated luxury.

Greats shoes are also handmade, employing top-tier Italian craftsmanship. They incorporate various materials—full-grain leather, suede, and knit—to cater to different preferences. The knit models utilize recycled plastic yarn, promoting sustainability. The heel tabs and soft linings contribute to ease of wear and comfort. The rubber outsoles are vulcanized for durability and performance, suitable for diverse surfaces.

Stitching and Leather Quality

Both brands employ precise, hand-stitched techniques ensuring the shoes are robustly assembled. Common Projects uses treated Nappa leather, which is soft, flexible, and maintains a polished appearance, though it may require a break-in period. Greats utilizes full-grain leather that ages beautifully and offers long-lasting durability, with some models featuring innovative knit uppers for breathability and style variation.

Pricing and Value

The Common Projects sneakers represent a high-end luxury investment, with prices reflecting their premium materials and craftsmanship. Their durability and understated elegance justify the expense for many enthusiasts. Conversely, Greats provides a compelling balance of quality and affordability, making stylish, durable sneakers accessible to a broader audience. Both brands deliver value, but the choice depends on budget and brand preference.

Build Quality & Durability

Both brands excel in construction quality. Common Projects shoes are known for their longevity, thanks to the resilient Margom soles and high-grade leather. Greats sneakers also boast impressive durability, with reinforced stitching, quality materials, and vulcanized rubber soles that withstand daily wear. The removable insoles of Greats further enhance comfort and ease of maintenance.

Insole Features

Common Projects insoles are fixed, offering minimal cushioning, which may not suit all preferences. In contrast, Greats features removable OrthoLite insoles with antimicrobial properties, providing superior comfort, support, and hygiene.

Outsole Technology

The Common Projects employ a durable Margom cup-sole, attached with a combination of stitching and glue, ensuring longevity and reliable grip. The Greats sneakers utilize vulcanized natural rubber soles with tread patterns designed for enhanced traction, sewn securely to the upper for durability.

Fit & Sizing Considerations

Common Projects shoes typically fit true to European sizing but may run narrow; ordering a half size down is often recommended for a snug fit. They do not offer half sizes, so those with wider feet may need to consider sizing up. Greats shoes run true to size but tend to be about half a size larger than standard measurements. It is advisable to order a half size down for a better fit, especially for those with narrower feet.

Style and Versatility

Both brands excel in creating versatile, minimalist sneakers suitable for various occasions. Common Projects shoes stand out for their subtle gold detailing and sleek profile, making them suitable for formal and casual wear. Greats sneakers offer similar versatility with additional options like knit uppers and branding elements, appealing to those seeking contemporary streetwear aesthetics.

Pros and Cons

Common Projects

• Elegant, minimalist design with a luxurious appeal
• Highly versatile for both casual and formal outfits
• Stitched sole enhances durability
• Premium Italian Nappa leather with a polished finish
• Excellent traction provided by Margom outsole
• Easy to maintain and clean

Cons

• Premium price point may be prohibitive for some
• Toe box can be narrow, possibly uncomfortable for wide feet
• Sizing may be tricky, especially for half sizes
• Potentially stuffy in hot weather due to leather material
• Heavier than some other sneaker options

Greats Sneakers

• High-quality full-grain leather that ages well
• Durable construction suitable for daily wear
• Removable insoles with antimicrobial properties for comfort and hygiene
• Vulcanized rubber soles with excellent traction
• Affordable pricing for quality craftsmanship

Cons

• Heavier weight may impact long-term comfort
• Limited width options, with most models fitting medium feet

Final Thoughts

Both Common Projects and Greats deliver exceptional sneakers that combine style, comfort, and durability. While Common Projects appeals to those seeking luxury and understated elegance, Greats offers a compelling mix of quality and affordability, making stylish footwear accessible to a broader audience. Your choice should align with your budget, preferred aesthetics, and specific needs.

Ultimately, investing in either brand ensures a reliable, fashionable addition to your wardrobe, capable of elevating your everyday style.