Retro Low Women’s Sneaker – Common Projects
The Common Projects Retro Low reimagines our signature minimalist silhouette with nostalgic athletic references. Crafted entirely in Italy from premium full-grain leather, this women’s sneaker features a slightly chunkier sole profile than the Achilles, nodding to vintage running shoes while retaining the clean lines we’re known for. Each pair is hand-numbered with our signature gold foil stamping on the heel.
The common projects retro sole sits roughly 8mm higher than our Achilles Low, offering more impact absorption without sacrificing the sleek profile both styles share. We engineered the midsole with dual-density EVA foam originally developed for Italian running shoes in the late 1980s.
Sizing and fit notes
Our Retro Low runs true to Common Projects sizing, which follows European whole sizes. If you typically wear a US women’s 8, you’ll want a EU 38. The shoe is built on a slightly wider last than the Achilles, accommodating a broader forefoot without excess volume in the heel.
We recommend ordering your usual Common Projects size if you already own a pair. First-time buyers should measure foot length in centimeters and consult our size chart; the Retro Low does not stretch significantly during break-in since the leather is pre-softened during production. The padded collar sits snugly around the ankle bone without digging, and the tongue remains centered thanks to interior keeper loops stitched at mid-foot.
Care and maintenance
Wipe the leather with a damp microfiber cloth after each wear to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, use a dedicated leather soap applied with a soft brush, working in small circular motions. Avoid saddle soaps with heavy waxes, which can clog the leather’s pores and prevent natural breathability.
Store your Retro Low with cedar shoe trees to maintain shape and absorb moisture. We do not recommend machine washing or submerging the sneakers in water, as this can delaminate the midsole and cause the leather to stiffen. If the shoes get wet, stuff them loosely with newspaper and air-dry at room temperature away from direct heat.
Construction & materials
More women’s low-top styles from Common Projects
Customer reviews
Questions about the Retro Low sneaker
Both models run true to European sizing, but the Retro Low is built on a slightly wider last through the forefoot. If you wear the Achilles comfortably, order the same size in the Retro. The Retro’s extra sole height does not affect length fit, only the visual profile and cushioning underfoot.
The leather arrives with a water-repellent treatment that handles light rain and splashes. We do not recommend prolonged exposure to heavy rain or puddles, as the vegetable-tanned leather can darken and the midsole adhesive may weaken. Reapply a leather protectant spray every few months to maintain water resistance.
The Retro Low features a vintage-inspired cupsole with dual-density EVA foam, sitting roughly 8mm higher than the Achilles. The upper includes subtle toe perforations and rounded eyelets, details borrowed from 1980s running footwear. Our Achilles remains sleeker and lower-profile, while the Retro offers more cushioning for all-day wear.
Yes, every pair is handcrafted in Italy by artisans in the Marche region. The leather is sourced from Tuscan tanneries and vegetable-tanned using traditional fourteen-week processes. Each sneaker is hand-numbered with gold foil stamping as a mark of authenticity.
Use a damp microfiber cloth for daily maintenance, wiping away surface dirt after each wear. For deeper cleaning, apply a small amount of leather soap with a soft brush in circular motions, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Avoid bleach-based cleaners or abrasive sponges, which can damage the leather grain and dull the finish.
The gold foil is heat-pressed into the leather and designed to last the lifetime of the shoe with normal wear. Abrasive cleaners or harsh scrubbing can dull the metallic finish, so we recommend gentle cleaning methods. The stamping will not peel or flake under typical conditions.
Core colors like white, black, and grey are restocked regularly throughout the year as new production runs arrive. Seasonal and limited-edition shades are produced in small batches and typically do not restock once inventory is gone. Sign up for our newsletter to receive alerts when specific colors become available again.