Track Classic Sneakers — Common Projects
Our Track Classic sneakers reinterpret the 1980s running shoe through the lens of minimalist Italian craftsmanship. Built on a lightweight EVA sole with a suede and nappa leather upper, the Track Classic features layered paneling that nods to vintage athletic design while maintaining the clean lines we’re known for.
We source full-grain nappa leather and premium suede from family-run tanneries in Tuscany and Veneto, selecting hides for even grain and natural suppleness. Each Track Classic upper is hand-cut and stitched by artisans in Marche, where we’ve partnered with the same workshop for over a decade.
Sizing & fit notes
The Track Classic fits true to Italian sizing, which typically runs one size smaller than US sneaker sizing. We recommend ordering one full size up from your usual Common Projects Achilles size if you prefer a relaxed fit, or staying with your standard size for a snug athletic feel.
The nappa leather upper molds to your foot over the first few wears, so expect slight give around the midfoot and toe box. The padded collar sits just below the ankle bone, and the EVA midsole provides moderate arch support. If you’re between sizes, size up — the lace system allows for easy adjustment.
Design heritage & modern updates
1980s running silhouette
The Track Classic draws from the golden era of performance running design, when brands layered suede, mesh, and nylon to balance weight and durability. We stripped that functional aesthetic down to its essentials — clean paneling, minimal branding, and a neutral colorway that works across wardrobes.
EVA cushioning
Unlike our court-inspired models built on flat rubber soles, the Track incorporates a lightweight EVA midsole that compresses slightly underfoot. This adds cushion for longer wear without the bulk of traditional running shoes. The same construction principles we apply to our minimal runner designs inform the Track’s refined comfort.
Design & construction
More from the Common Projects lineup
Customer reviews
Track Classic buyer questions
The Track Classic runs true to Italian sizing, the same as our Achilles models. However, because the Track has more internal volume due to its athletic construction and padded collar, many customers find it slightly roomier in the toe box and midfoot. If you wear a 41 in the Achilles Low and prefer a snug fit, stick with 41 in the Track. For a relaxed, all-day comfort fit, size up to 42.
The main difference is the midsole — the Track’s EVA cushioning adds about 5mm of height compared to the Achilles’ flat rubber sole, which can affect how the shoe feels on your foot during the break-in period.
We don’t recommend wearing suede sneakers in heavy rain or snow, as prolonged moisture can stain suede and weaken adhesives over time. Light drizzle is fine if you apply a suede protector spray before your first wear and reapply every few months.
If your Track Classics do get wet, stuff them with paper towels to absorb moisture and air-dry them at room temperature for 24 hours. Never use a hairdryer or place them near a radiator, as direct heat can crack the leather and cause the EVA midsole to warp.
Every pair ships in our signature dust bag and minimalist box with care instructions printed inside the lid. You’ll also receive a set of replacement tonal laces and a small branded suede brush for regular maintenance. We include a product care card detailing how to clean both the nappa leather and suede panels.
With proper care, most customers report 3-5 years of regular wear before needing a resole. The Goodyear-welted construction allows a skilled cobbler to replace the rubber outsole without compromising the upper, so many owners extend the lifespan beyond five years by refreshing the sole once the tread wears down.
The nappa leather and suede upper will develop a natural patina over time, which most customers find desirable. Regular brushing and occasional conditioning keep the materials supple and prevent cracking.
We list the Track Classic under men’s sizing, but the design is fully unisex and many customers across gender identities wear them. Our Italian sizing system is based on European measurements, so we recommend using a size conversion chart if you typically shop women’s US sizes.
For reference, an EU 36 in the Track converts to approximately a US Women’s 6 or US Men’s 4. The sneaker’s silhouette is neither particularly narrow nor wide, so it accommodates a range of foot shapes.
Both models draw from 1980s running design, but the Track Classic uses premium suede and nappa leather with a streamlined layered construction, while the Retro Low features a canvas and mesh upper with a contrast terry lining and prominent heel tab. The Track has a more refined, minimalist aesthetic suited to versatile wear, whereas the Retro leans into vintage sportswear styling.
The Track also uses a denser EVA midsole for better long-term support, while the Retro’s cushioning is softer and more compressible — ideal for casual short-distance wear but less supportive over extended walking.
We currently offer the Track Classic in select seasonal colorways through our main collection, typically releasing two to three new shades each year. Custom orders and made-to-order colorways are not available for the Track at this time, but we occasionally produce limited runs in collaboration with retail partners.
If you’re interested in a specific color, we recommend signing up for our newsletter to receive early access notifications when new Track variants launch.