I Spent $1700 to Find the Best Minimal Leather Sneakers

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American Giant Hoodie: www.pntra.com/t/2-487507-2702...
Use Code "September" for 20% off.
The Best Jeans: www.daysofseptember.com/
Thursday: bit.ly/3hbEU3k
Uniform Standard: (Code YT10 for 10%): bit.ly/3hdR8IN
Oliver Cabell: bit.ly/3uDzJfJ
KOIO: www.pntrs.com/t/2-517738-2702...
Crown Northhampton: bit.ly/41D75KL
Common Projects: c.klar.na/al/8Bwu/
T-shirt worn in video: c.klar.na/al/8De2/
Shoe Trees (Essentials for getting these to last 5 years): amzn.to/3W2mEs3
White Shoe Polish: amzn.to/3iSdCzC
Cleaning Kit: amzn.to/3PiHPnE
Reddit Thread about Thursday: bit.ly/3HovrjW
Chore coat: c.klarna.com/al/8lTl/
Hoodie video: • $60 vs. $850 Hoodie!
So my current 5-year old daily worn Common Projects Achilles are starting to look beat up and need replacing so I figured I’d test the market to see find the best minimal leather sneakers. I went out and got my hands on 6 leather sneakers across the price spectrum to figure out the best overall shoe and the best value for money. We’ll talk about the fit, the leather, the build quality and more of each of these before making a final verdict.
Thursday Boot makes the cheapest pair here with their Premier Low Top. They cost $129 and were ordered in a size 9.5 in the Coffee color way. The leather on these felt the softest compared to the rest of the shoes featured today. The outer is made of a full grain American leather and the inner is lined with a super soft sheep skin. These’s aren’t my favorite looking sneakers and I think the laces have the a lot to do with that. All that being said, these are a solid pair for someone just getting into minimal leather sneakers.
Uniform Standard is next up for best minimal leather sneakers. Uniform Standard is based out of East London with the shoes being made in Portugal with Italian leather. The leather was stiff coming out of the box but you can sense the quality. The outer is made from full grain, Italian calf leather and the inner is slightly more supple. The sole is made of partially recycled rubber and is fairly tall at an inch and a half compared to the rest. They’re a solid reliable pair, coming in at a decent price point, with no frills attached to them.
Oliver Cabell was out to directly compete with the Common Projects as we’ll see with all the similarities. These are the Oliver Cabell Low 1s in a Nude color way in a size 9 which ended up fitting like a EU 42. They’re the cheapest made in Italy, with Italian leather and Italian soles showcased in this video. The leather on these sneakers is amongst the best. There have been reports it’s even sourced from the same Italian tanneries that CP uses. The soles are made by a brand called Margom which is industry best. They’re made in Italy and the best brands around the world use them. This is going to be your entry level Italian minimal leather sneaker. It's a competitive price for everything you’re getting.
KOIO’s Capris are up next in this Limestone colorway. KOIO uses a full grain cow leather for the inner and the outer. Overall, I think this is a great pickup especially if you can catch them on sale at $221. You’re getting stellar construction, great looks, Italian made, a plethora of colors all for under $250.
Crown North Hampton Harlestone Hand Stitch Derby in Black Horween Buffalo Leather are 100% made in as the name suggests North Hampton England with many methods that are typically seen on hand welted Dress shoes. The buffalo horween leather on these is phenomenal. Anchoring it down are soles hand made in France by Lactae Hevea. They’re handmade so they take some time to come in but are worth waiting for.
We all know Common Projects and what they offer by now so I’ll keep it brief as it’s pretty much exactly like the KOIO and the OCs. The feature a compressed leather counter unlike CNH’s full oak bark leather. The Margom sole is secured with stitches on the side so they’ll be able to be resoled if need be. The heel is hand lasted and features brass nails to give it extra durability.
The Common Projects pioneered this entire minimal leather sneaker thing and have remained a cult favorite. I’ve been a fan for the longest time but as I said in my first video on this channel. At $425 they aren’t worth it especially with Crown Northampton providing the level of sneaker they do at $50 cheaper and KOIO matching common projects at sub $300. However, there is an element of design that needs to be taken into consideration.
The end of the video has my conclusions and winners.
Intro 0:00
Sneaker 1 1:27
Sneaker 2 4:11
Days of September 6:05
Sneaker 3 7:00
Sneaker 4 9:55
Sneaker 5 12:21
American Giant Sponsor 15:54
Sneaker 6 17:38
My Choice 18:25

[@mikes41720]

I went with the KOIO Capri last year and could not be happier! I really like how they've held up with multiple wears. Just a really great quality leather sneaker.

[@asim]

Yeah, I’ve really been enjoying mine!

[@EmperorOfSomething]

Wow! Those Crown Northhampton shoes look STUNNING! They are now on my wishlist for sure.

[@asim]

Wearing mine right now! The soles are game changers honestly

[@obamalastname34]

Yup insane how rappers buy plastic shoes when you can buy plastic free classic cordovan leather

[@Aaronricc]

@@asim If you had to compare sizing to KOIO vs CROWN?

[@prettyrickey7304]

@@obamalastname34 just rappers, huh? Interesting.

[@kmaniak96]

Killin it as usual! Love the videos and the detail you put into explaining the differences between the brands!

[@asim]

Appreciate it!

[@sapeurhaitien4848]

I second that! More videos, please!

[@Oubaitorii]

Appreciate your analysis and transparency. I personally will always stand by Common Projects. My pair from 7 years ago is still intact and able to be worn. The silhouette is unmatched in my opinion. Thanks!

[@bryanryan4504]

I remember about 15 years ago I bought two pairs of common projects sneakers for about a hundred each. One navy suede and the other smooth grey leather. Didn't know they are still a thing today

[@asim]

Minimal sneakers never go out of fashion I guess

[@robd7934]

Great video. I’m new here and was only familiar with Thursday’s. The issue you mentioned with the tongue and creasing is true, as I have the same issue with my pair. Will definitely do some research on these other options but doubt I’ll be dropping over $400 for a sneaker.

[@IThinkNowListenUp]

The original Great's made in Mexico were awesome. The footbed molded to your feet and had a wide toe box for all day comfort. Once they moved production to Italy, the all day comfort was gone.

[@brandonhill5976]

Had to sub bro! Great content! I’m binging at work and this is 🔥🔥🔥

[@asim]

Appreciate that bro! Hope it made work go by quicker

[@obieWanmotivation]

Thanks for this video as I've always wanted a quality pair of minimalist shoes. The black Crown Northhampton is calling me. Perfect 👌

[@asim]

Lmk your thoughts if you buy them!

[@clarencewilliams9432]

Great video. Im not sure when I really became a minimalist sneaker person. I believe it was 2020. I have purchased three pairs of Thursday boots. One pair of Beckett Siminon. Beckett fits tight around the front portion of my feet. My plans are to purchase two more pairs of Thursday boots. I'll most definitely look at Kois. What makes Beckett and Thursday boots so easy to purchase is that both companies have buy now pay later (After pay). Great video again.

[@EsEf125]

I love your videos, man. Thank you!

[@asim]

Appreciate you watching them!

[@raffypuffy9404]

Great review! I'll stick to my $59 8yoox white sneaks for now but I'm aiming for that koio ⚡

[@robramos3513]

Great video, I been buying Greats and New Republic Sneakers both very confortable and minimum styling.

[@mickeyauau]

Read your post on Reddit and also saw your video on polos way back. Love your content. Don’t stop making videos man! Btw, have you ever tried Kent wang’s long sleeve polo? I’m in the market for long sleeve polos. Maybe a potential future video on long sleeve polo comparisons 👀?

[@asim]

Appreciate it man! Hoping the channel keeps gaining traction so I can start making weekly videos. I haven’t reviews their long sleeve polos but if they’re anything like the short sleeves ones I’m a fan!

[@SAMCRAFT1230]

Great video! Definitely looking at picking up the Thursday sneakers in coffee thanks for the input that they look different than in the pictures. Also got a question, what joggers are you wearing at 2:40?

[@asim]

Lululemon ABC!

[@gregzargo9413]

Don't, their quality control is horrible. I retuned them twice and went with Magnanni. Way better than most.

[@JohnnyVichi]

rose anvil and other style tuber also have videos on these, thank you for the recommendation on the wide feet and will cop your jeans FOR SURE!

[@asim]

Appreciate that man!

[@SuperHoboSlayer]

@asim Great review! Can you consider reviewing the Aurélian Voyager Sneaker?

[@Iamjohnjain]

Love these videos, keep it up! Possibly do one over the best boots? 👀

[@asim]

Hopefully soon! Lmk if you have suggestions

[@czlowiek_w_spoleczenstwie]

​@@asim We all know that Grant Stone is going to be the winner in the price/quality category

[@Iamjohnjain]

@@asimyou could do a whole video on Thursday boots honestly *cough* @thursdaybootssponermyboy *cough*

[@KINGRG1]

My very first leather sneakers were Common Projects. I didn’t want to spend the money experimenting when I knew that either Common Projects or Crown Northampton’s were going to be the creme de la crème of minimalist leather sneakers

[@asim]

Not a bad strategy!

[@bri1085]

You should've gone with the Crown Northampton's and got what you paid for.

[@EmperorOfSomething]

Dang, I didn't consider the idea of Common Projects shoes aging so well. I actually like the 5 years deep look - for more casual situations!

[@asim]

That’s exactly how I’m wearing mine right now. Got the fresh pair when I need to be more out together but the best up pair look right at home on some washed jeans or joggers

[@ericcarson342]

They do look good. Cost per wear is what matters. He got moneys worth.

[@deveradeo6260]

We see you man, keep the quality videos going!

[@asim]

Appreciate that!

[@marlonmora9939]

I actually have 3 pairs of The Great sneakers white, black and court style. I like the way they fit and they have held up nice thus far.

[@asim]

Great to hear!

[@mr0ptimistic]

I went with Crown Northampton and have no regrets. Worth every penny and can be worn all day long.

[@asim]

Glad you like em!

[@georgegammage4131]

Hey Asim, just purchased a pair of the denim jeans. Can’t wait to get them but will have to wait a few weeks as I am in the UK

[@asim]

Appreciate your support! We’ll have them out as soon as we can

[@piskooooo]

great video as always!

[@asim]

Appreciate you watching!

[@pavelberezovskiy]

When my Common Projects were no longer good to wear a couple of years ago, I decided to try Artisan Lab sneakers. While they might not be as top notch as CPs, they were significantly cheaper and, what was especially important for me, a bit wider in the toe box. I find wearing them much more than I used to wear my old CPs because they are more comfortable for me. For anyone in the UK or Europe I'd recommend giving them a try.

[@michaelcristofano5863]

I like your your review, very complete. Over a year ago I bought a pair of Oliver Cabell after checking out all the reviews. I liked the look, quality and the price point. Wearing them was a different story. Upfront I got a blister proximal to my right big toe. I chalked it up to breaking them in. While it was uncomfortable to wear I soldiered on and continued to wear them hoping the comfort would improve. No more blisters but they still are stiff and uncomfortable. I contacted Oliver Cabells but no response. I just had my Chuck Talylor's refurbished and they are my go to's. They are a leather no lace slip ons, no longer available but I can were them like slippers. I would still like a minimalist white leather shoe. I am liking the Crown Hamptons but I'll have to consider the price point because I already bought the OC's.

[@asim]

Yeah Oliver Cabell customer service is practically non existent. Not the biggest fan of them.

[@wineguapo]

Great video and thanks for the insight on each brand. I have experience with Thursday’s Premier and Common Projects’ Achilles Low. I had a problem with both being too narrow in the toe box for my toes to splay out. It feels like the toes are squished and it makes sense because of the design of these minimalist shoes. In your experience, did you find the toe box fit of the Crown Northampton to be wider than or equal to Oliver Cabell’s?

[@asim]

May be counterintuitive but Koio’s taper happens closer to the edge than CP’s which allows a bit more space for the widest portion of your foot. The Crown North Hampton definitely are more straight from back to front before curving in compared to the Oliver Cabells. Those may be your best bet but the higher quality leather is stiffer which may lead to a longer break in.

[@wineguapo]

@@asim might need to look into Koio and see their offerings. The Crown Northampton looks more straight and bulbous from the top angle when compared to the rest but I prioritize fit and comfort over aesthetic. All of these shoes look great in their own way but I agree with your conclusion that CP’s look better on the foot. Keep up the great work and look forward on more vids. You earned my sub!

[@MaxxSeemov]

I have very wide feet. All my dress shoes and boots are in G width and I find getting the right sized minimalist sneaker tricky. I've tried plenty but only Crown Northampton managed to fit me proper. I have the Overstone Derby in wide fit. It's not the sleekest looking pair when you buy it in wide but comfort over looks is key

[@DMorgan77]

New subscriber here, great video. Your explanations are fantastic. I have 2 pairs of Koio's gen1 sneakers and I love them. I tried Thursday's and absolutely hated them, my Stan Smiths are better imo. The jeans look great too. At first glance I didn't see the measurements for them though (leg opening, rise...).

[@asim]

Stoked to hear you loved the video and you agreed with some of the conclusions. How have the KOIOs aged? The size chart link is near the add to cart button!

[@DMorgan77]

@@asim great thanks. I'll check it out.

[@davidhunternyc1]

Wow, this was very educational! I better start saving my pennies for the Crown Northhamptons. Thank you.

[@asim]

Appreciate the kind words!

[@raiden3013]

i decided to order a koio triple white because of your video. i hope you do more videos!

[@asim]

Lmk how you like them! More vids coming soon!

[@phillipwong3754]

CP owner here and been wearing them for almost 10 yrs. I have around 10 pairs. Just buy them 2nd hand or on sale I personally never paid retail for mine. I recently bought a pair of off white ones for £50 98% new

[@asim]

Agreed!

[@AqidaXT]

Congrats on the merch launch! How would the jeans fit for someone with more athletic (thicker) thighs?

[@asim]

I have thicker thighs myself so they’ll fit like you saw in the vid! Should hug the thighs but not constrict

[@MisterJDee]

Hey buddy, great video... I'm wondering if the Oliver Cabell shoes squeek? Ive seen a few reviews that they do. Did you experience that problem? Cheers!

[@asim]

I think they did for the first few wears but have stopped now! Thinking about selling mine since I haven’t used them much since the video lol

[@vjdfl5]

I bought a pair of the Koi Capri's a couple ofnyears ago, and they have been my favorite shoe ever. I've probably worn them at least 4 days a week and they still look as good as new. Worth every penny. I wouldn't even consider spending the extra $ on CP. If you watch the tear down that Rose Anvil did, they are the exact same quality

[@asim]

Yeah the Koio's are a great pair at a great price!

[@Aaronricc]

Wow, great video. I've been wearing KOIO's for years but really enjoying these CROWNS!! Being in the USA, it will cost a small fortune for a sizing exchange, anybody have input on sizing compared to the KOIOS?

[@rehanmunshi85]

great review brother! which of these have removable insoles?

[@ortiztino]

I have some Greats Royales pre 2019 when they were purchased by Steve Madden Co. - They're still in great shape, I think I've got another 5 years in them. Just curious, did the quality go down after they sold to the Madden Group? Why were they not on your list? Thanks for the response and great review.

[@asim]

Heard mixed things on Reddit so figured I wouldn’t include it as there were better options available at the time

[@mccalljeff]

I am waiting on my first Crown Northamptons now. I am excited about them.

[@asim]

let me know how you like them once they are in!

[@cc50378n]

Thursdays - I sold mine. They are good for the money but the soles/bottom just feel too thin. Crown - very substantial and once broken in these are very comfy, plus you can resole these, so they are worth every penny. But they are just too heavy duty for summer. CP: these are great for summer when my Crown sneakers are just too hot. I admit I bought these on discount and will only buy them again if I can get some substantial discount.

[@prettyrickey7304]

Wish you reviewed the crown northhampton in the shell cordovan. I own a pair and they are the finest, most comfortable sneakers I have ever owned. I own four other pair in the Horween leather and they are equally well crafted and comfortable-the shell cordovan version is simply in a class by itself. Slightly pricier and over $600 but I would buy them over and over. Investing in a new pair in an alternate color shortly.

[@asim]

Need to get my hand on a pair of those. I would assume the break in is similar though right?

[@i_Lndr]

Ive been looking for a minimal low top for a while and came across common projects all black a couple of months ago in glasgow Scotland. These replaced my 26 year old soft calf leather PRADA Monte Carlos that the soles finally gave up. Totally gutted about the Pradas, im sure the CP will be a good replacement.

[@asim]

That’s insane! The Prada’s lasted you 26 years? Would love to see some shots of the shoes after being worn that long

[@i_Lndr]

@@asim yes 💯 and the calf leather still looks like new. Of course i didnt wear them everyday, At least 5 or 6 times a month. Nightclubs etc and travelled with them. Im going to try and get them repaired as they still look really good. I remember they cost me 365£ back then.

[@jacobandress3040]

Looking into getting a pair of the Oliver Cabells. I usually wear a 9.5 us, sometimes a 10us. Would you suggest sizing down to a 9 or up to a 10?

[@JnCartagena10]

what did you end up buying?

[@tylerbinner2462]

ISO some solid advice before pulling the trigger. Based on other sources as well as this great video, I am between Uniform Standard and Thursdays. Please give me some guidance... TIA.

[@asim]

I think aesthetics play a huge factor into this as they looks completely different. I think Uniform are built better

[@chump1971]

KOIO Capri. I picked up the white w/gum sole. Absolutely love those sneakers

[@asim]

A great pair!

[@lucashyde1164]

Ive got two pairs of oliver cabell. It was very uncomfortable and didnt look as good as I wanted on my feet since its wider. Ended up throwing them away or not using them on shelves. Just invested in a koio and Ive never been happier. Hope to try common projects one day but so far i love koio's sustainability goals more and the off white color way they provide works better for my skin tone

[@asim]

Glad the koios worked! The Oliver Cabells seem hit or miss it seems like.

[@Bankmumric]

be careful about the common projects. I bought a pair a few years ago and i tried over and over to go on walks with them in hopes they would become comfortable. i never managed to walk them in and i still have scars on my heels after them. Beside the pain the look absolutely great on me

[@pedrocols]

Honorable mentions to Ace Marks and Greats.

[@baberoot1998]

Was that Downtown Houston? I am from Houston...and I swear...that footage of the city...looked like Houston to me. Anyway...great review. Enjoyed your video.

[@asim]

Good eye haha, shoot in downtown houston all the time

[@Latissimus65]

What are the widest options of these? I have a list of like 7 shoes in my notes app that Im deciding between, lol.

[@OGustus]

Good review. Taking off 🛫 where The Kavalier stopped.

[@asim]

Appreciate that 🙌🏽

[@brendaslummer8890]

I stay with the Achilles all day...I had Koio's, Oliver Cabell's, but I always return to CP. Btw. the way...u can get them on sale for 200-250 easily...worth it for me

[@asim]

Yup, I agree completely!

[@Juanhtx16]

Can you make a video of the best cashmere sweater brands to wear? 🙏🏻

[@asim]

That’s actually next! Any recs prior to me starting to film?

[@petertalili3573]

I have the Koop in canvas and I loved them at first but, they barely started doing wides I get a lot of pinky toe rub on mine

[@ymora826]

I actually went with the Crown Northampton handstich line buffalo ink leather sneakers at first but I ended up selling them after a couple of months. when they first arrived they were beautiful with the star of the show being the ink blue horween buffalo leather. But I got tired of them pretty quick as I felt that I was walking directly on concrete. I just bought the Adidas Stan Smith lux shoes and I got them on sale for $60 plus shipping and so far they are nice shoes and more comfortable than the Crown Northampton's

[@FeelLikeGastly]

rocking Stan Smith lux shoes as well and love them!

[@xijinpooh8534]

Dope vid !

[@asim]

Thanks!

[@Lord_Mad_Dog]

goral tops them all. theyre also blake stitched so theyre easier to resole and would theoretically last the rest of your life

[@asim]

These were in the running in shoes to choose, looked like they fit the bill

[@justinsnyder2373]

Another vote to review Gorals please! Their quality would be above this tier but I would love your opinion and review as well.

[@a97b18b]

How does the Oliver cabell compare to koio? What I didn’t like about koio was the slight rise in the heel and I felt the shoe too narrow. If I sized up the shoe was too big. Ended up giving them to my sister, but would like to find another pair of leather sneakers

[@asim]

The Oliver’s will have a slightly less narrow toe box if that’s what you’re wanting. Uniform Standard maybe more up your alley if you’re wanting something wider

[@f.kieranfinney457]

The standard non-hand stitched Crowns are a relative bargain. I have a pair of the hand stitched and many pairs of high quality dress shoes and boots. Crowns are absolutely on par with any of them. And Incredibly comfortable. I bought a grey pair but they had a somewhat magenta tone not represented in their photos. (Grey is very difficult to make). I’ve stripped them and enjoy the more raw look. The colors on their site are obviously not 100% accurate. Also not uncommon when colors are so rich. And wait times are 4+ months. (Spring for the custom shoe trees, they’re beautiful too). Managing expectations is important because depending on the tanning process shoes like this can spot stain if splashed. They’re not an all-weather shoe in some cases. Important to know when spending $300+ on a pair of shoes. But. Well-maintained and re-soled, they could last 30 years which makes them sort of a bargain.

[@asim]

Very insightful comment! Thanks for sharing. Crowns are super nice!

[@usacijudge1]

I would recommend you take a look at Allen Edmonds Alpha or Courtside. They're amazing.

[@asim]

I remember buying a pair from them a few years back and they were super heavy. I’m not sure if it was another model or these though

[@represto]

To tidy up your look is to change from your bunny ears knot to a reef knot. It's symmetrical and lays flat.

[@asim]

Yeah, need to get into the habit of that

[@richardcaliendo3138]

I had the same issue with Thursday. The tongue shifts to the side. I exchanged them with a new pair. Same issue. So I have two outs that I do wear but the buckling looks crappy.

[@asim]

Yeah definitely not my favorite

[@abcthecamper1799]

LETS GO! Long time sub and love this type of vids.. slight correction ( as a 4 pairs of koios owner), that the new version of koios are not margom sole but they say that they are as good or even abit better than margom ( that I cannot comment since I only have the old version) From where I live, with taxes, the price I paid for my koios is the same as common project.. but I chose koio becuase they are edge painted ( more durable) and imo the pannels look and the tounge of the shoe fits more to my liking (I have the triple white for 3 years and there have probably a few more years to go). Also I own 1 pair of crown northampton and they feel like a different tier.. its like comperring between mercedes and bugatti.. both great cars, but one is one tier above the other. Aslo to note, if one of you guys get a nice shoe, get shoe trees, and contidion them about every 6 months to a year (they will last you way more if you do). shoes like this are investment and should be treated as such :D

[@asim]

Great insight here! Was not aware of the margom sole change on the KOIO so definitely worth noting. I agree with the different tier for the CNH compared to the rest. I linked some shoe trees and polish in the description bc I swear by them to keep these lasting as long as they did

[@abcthecamper1799]

@@asim Also suggestion for more videos.. 1) chinos (must check asket) 2) denim jackets ( can be super interesting) (must check a.p.c) 3) joggers 4) socks

[@fredperry9235]

Didn't like how my Thursdays wore. A little wide too. My Grensons are surprisingly good. I have Italian made ones too which are also good.

[@leojohnwayne1422]

Is it true to size?

[@fredperry9235]

@@leojohnwayne1422 Grensons?

[@MNEAntonio]

Its funny nobody speaks about Santoni footwear. They are 100 x more comfortable and the build quality is insane + they have a big history in making footwear.

[@thebighurt3172]

I have my original four pairs of common projects from 19 years ago: white, black, suede blue, and gray. They are still alive and kicking. I believe they were $135 at the time. SOHO NYC.

[@MaestroAbar]

Common Project have always had crappy leather and quality control issues. Companies like Herring have been making high quality, classic styling leather sneakers at an affordable price (Crown Northampton too) for many years, which are quite a bit better both in styling, craftsmanship, and leather quality. Thursday have run into QC issues recently, which is a bit unfortunate.

[@asim]

I think CPs leather gets a bad rep after the Rose Anvil video. I read a rebuttal of that on Reddit and they also had valid points as to how it’s not as bad as he makes it out to be. Agree with you on the fact others like CNH do it significantly better with a more artisan approach

[@MaestroAbar]

@@asim I'd have to disagree about the leather quality of CP (having owned 2 pairs and talking to other folks as well, not just online reviews). The problem I've noticed with CP leather is that it is a heavily corrected grain leather, and depending on the leather you can get unsightly creases on the toe box / side of the sneaker that you can't get rid of just by polishing or brushing (and doesn't look natural either). The QC issue I've mentioned is mostly in the stitching between the upper and the sole, where there are noticeable gap between the overlapping segment of the upper being stitched to the sole, and overtime, the stretch of the threading can cause the gap to widen/glue to separate. Something you wouldn't expect from a high end sneaker that's only been worn a few month. I've since stopped wearing CP so maybe they've improved on their quality, but that's been my experience.

[@christianong6205]

We are the same size 9.5 US in Thursday low top, thinking of getting the Crown Northampton. What size did you get?

[@asim]

Hit up their customer service, super nice people that’ll help figure out size based off what other brands you wear

[@stevelalley6194]

Would you say the toe box is equivalent to either Topo, Altra or Lem shoes? I really like wide toe boxes.

[@cruxae]

Can you compare the GAT options? MM Replicas, Beckett Simonon, etc.

[@asim]

Not my style but maybe in the future!

[@njskaterat]

Which joggers do you recommend to go with shoes like this? Like what’s the best quality jogger in your opinion? I would like to upgrade my white shoes, as well as upgrade joggers too.

[@asim]

Lululemon ABC for sure. They look great bc they have a bit of structure making them look slightly “dressed up” if you can ever use that term that for joggers lol

[@asim]

Have a whole vid on joggers a few videos back

[@asim]

Subscribe for a similar video on cashmere sweaters that’s shaping up to a be a great one! Should drop in a few weeks so definitely hit the bell to be notified.

[@theguitarhero7]

That’d be awesome. Check out Luca Faloni. Love my sweaters from them.

[@wangray9456]

I highly recommend Giorgio Armani cashmere polo.

[@Shaverboy516]

Excellent video, I’m surprised New Republic didn’t make the list.

[@asim]

Had a bad experience with their driving loafers a few years back so didn’t want to go out and purchase another pair from them

[@Shaverboy516]

@@asim That can happen, we’re they willing to work with you to resolve the issue?

[@asim]

Wasn’t really an issue but just wasn’t a big fan of the quality. Got some suede loafers in and they were super stiff even after extensive wear. The suede/leather quality wasn’t the greatest either

[@essaundiema5745]

How did you miss the Ecco Soft 8? The sole beats everything I have come across. The outer leather is durable and inner soft leather, amazing. I'm finding it difficult to get such sneakers. Ecco kinda releases products in small quantities. Once they run out of stock, they don't restock! The price for the ones I have is $160. I don't know why you chose shoes with the same type of sole. They look more of leather vans than sneakers =(

[@passiondimension]

great comparison, one question how do you compare the weight? which pairs are the lighter one? thanks

[@pbmc_]

I love my koios. So comfortable!

[@asim]

Great shoes!

[@alexminer448]

Are there any suggestions for how to avoid creasing?

[@asim]

There’s a beauty in seeing these worn and creased but to avoid them I’d recommend shoe trees after every wear and just being cautious when you wear them

[@MRT021286]

Great review. Asim, what size are you in CP?

[@asim]

Thanks Rustam! I’m a 42 in common projects

[@Justdudeit5]

Great video, do penny loafers next.

[@asim]

Appreciate it!

[@trubadyr99]

The most important factor to me is comfort, softness of a shoe. Very often I see reviewers price highly those robust, sturdy shoes, which in reality are not comfortable at all but last very many years.

[@f.kieranfinney457]

Crowns are very soft due to minimal style construction. Break-in was fast. Cork foot-bed conforms. Just as comfortable as a cheap Sketcher.

[@asim]

These all get softer with wear but the Koio and Thursday provide the most padding and the crowns provide the most “bounce”

[@f.kieranfinney457]

@@asim starting soft isn’t always good - ask my mistress. Soft shoes tend to break down sooner imo. I factor 24 hrs into break-in for all shoes. Too soon and I grow suspicious.

[@dietman]

Can you do a video on the best long sleeve polos to buy?

[@asim]

Potentially! I did a video on normal polos a bit ago and I know a lot of those brands also make long sleeves polos so it may be repetitive

[@dietman]

@@asim what’s your take on Kent wang’s long sleeve polos? They have cuffs added to the end of the sleeves, not sure if it looks classy or out of date 🤔 Please do 🙏

[@roatanbound2023]

I have two pairs of Crowns and they're fantastic shoes. I have a pair of the Horween Navy Blue hi-tops that I expect to have for decades, and a pair of the all-white Abington Toe cap - which since they're white are almost exactly the same as the all-white Derby shoe. You could definitely have used these as the example from Crown, as they still hold up to the Common Projects at the $300 USD price point, but I'm glad you did the hand stitch to show how much higher quality you can get for a similar price point to the CP's. One thing I will say is that the next pair of white sneaks I buy will probably not be Crowns, despite how much I love them. The fact is that while we all love developing a patina on colored or black leather shoes over years of wear, most of us want our white sneaks to be shiny and immaculate. And the fact is that paying $300 for shoes with that long of a break-in period (it was realistically 2-3 months of occasional wear for me), you're still only gonna have one or two good years, unless you really baby them. I think my next pair of whites will be the Oliver Cabells. By the way I just ordered a pair of the hand-stitch in green buffalo from Crown. If you're interested, I'll let you know how they look when they arrive! Keep up the good work!

[@asim]

Thanks for sharing! Some great info in this comment. I agree with your thoughts there, I think the Crowns look best in color and your new green pair should be epic!

[@winkcz]

any chance you would do some video about those jeans? Thanks

[@asim]

Days of September 👀

[@WillChousThoughts]

Thanks

[@asim]

Anytime, thanks for watching

[@mrgr]

I bought Axel Arigato but after a failed first purchase where i bought 2 numbers bigger even though i measured my foot. Koio is on my list but can't risk again. I live outside of EU so shipping and customs is way to expensive

[@asim]

Yeah make sense. May be worth looking into some of the others as well!

[@sNt_31]

Hi, Do Thursday sell within Europe or Ireland specifically or only shipped through US?

[@josemanuel2244]

They have international shipping

[@richvanbondoc3179]

Planning to purchase Uniform Standard. I usually wear UK 8/US 9. Is it ok to size up to UK 9/EU 43? Do they fit well?

[@asim]

Reach out to support for sizing help. Their sizing is a bit off. They recommended me sizing up i think and it fit like the my 42 common projects.

[@richvanbondoc3179]

The EU 43 though, does it fits well? Not too loose?

[@knotthead17]

You mentioned the Uniform Standard are the lowest, what about the tallest soles? Also can you number them in order of comfort?

[@mikemurphy8996]

You can wash those shoes as well. They come out really nice as well

[@gurinderaujla9082]

How were you able to find the Crown Northampton's for $400 USD? Might be b/c I'm shopping from Canada but it racks up to over $500 USD after conversions and paying for import duties. That's the biggest reason why I ended up sticking with common projects I was able to snag them on sale for $275 USD.

[@asim]

I’m based out of the states so that’s probably why it was cheaper for me

[@Latissimus65]

Hows the width on the thursdays? I have wide feet and seems like all casual white sneaks run narrow

[@tylerbinner2462]

All the research I have done says the Thursdays run narrow.

[@aaaapple803]

I've very narrow feet, do you think Crown Northampton will be too loose in size(width) and too bulky in shape?

[@asim]

I wouldn’t say they’re bulky but they provide the most room in the toe box compared to the rest. I think you’ll be okay!

[@aaaapple803]

@@asim Got it and thanks for reply

[@Chy12451]

Which shoe did you find had the widest toe box? I always have issues with narrower profile shoes.

[@asim]

Crowns

[@Chy12451]

@@asim thanks for the response! I’ll look into them.

[@dinovega158]

I bought both Oliver Cabell and Koio and I must say, the Oliver Cabell has a better silhouette than the Koio. Koio's 1.5in mid-sole looks too thick. I also have a pair of common projects. Overall, my view is Oliver Cabell has best value for money and better styling.

[@asim]

The finishing seems to be hit or miss for most people

Crown one is amazing.

[@asim]

Yeah, leather quality second to none!

[@josetamad]

Great vid

[@asim]

Appreciate it!

[@jveshg60]

where is your couch from? great video!

[@asim]

Crate and Barrel Gather! Absolutely love it

[@therealcarlchao]

Fun video! Although - based on the date of the video and colorway of Koios, I would say those are almost certainly Gen 2, which no longer have the Margom soles. It is their proprietary sole that's designed with both natural and recycled rubber, and IMO they seem almost identical to the Margoms on my Common Projects in terms of quality and comfort. That being said, I still prefer the CPs due to the overall silhouette (can't beat that design), but a very close second would be Koio. I also absolutely love Koio's commitment to sustainability and the environment, as noted on their beautiful and informative website. Koio also has so many other cool shoes like the Primo high top and Retro Runners, to name a few. Promise I'm not a Koio spokesperson :P

[@asim]

Yeah! I seemed to have missed that in my research but definitely not margom soles. Appreciate your insight and glad you agree with my findings!

[@spicykimchi1]

I have a few pairs of unfeatured shoes - Johnston & Murphy (or is it Murphy & Johnston? I can't be bothered to check.) They're a bit disappointing. The white midsole part fades quickly. It doesn't matter how much you clean them, they just turn off-white quickly. One pair went to sh!t after about a 1.5 years, but I did wear them out in the rain one time. Are they supposed to fall apart after getting wet once? I don't know. Oh yeah, I don't know about other brands, but the Johnston & Murphy ones aren't comfortable. They need some padding.

[@asim]

Used to wear their dress shoes a ton growing up before I bought a pair of Allen Edmonds

[@the-truth-hurts]

I'll bet I'm not the only person who finds it incongruous to pay a maximalist price for a minimalist sneaker (or status symbol). Especially when there's an excellent/better alternative for a fraction of the price. Yup, I just got some Thursday's for $129. And they are awesome.

[@asim]

Cost per wear, the CPs cost me $250 up front but ended up costing me a few pennies each time I wore them over the past five years.

[@the-truth-hurts]

@@asim Whatever works for you. At today's prices , the CPs are almost triple the cost of Thursdays, and from everything I've heard the CPs offer no difference in quality. So a person could ask themselves, how much would my $300 cash savings today be worth in 5 years, if properly invested?

[@asim]

In the video I mentioned I’ve never bought a pair higher than 300. I think my cost was around 250 on my pairs so at around $100 more it made sense.

[@ejcandrin]

+1 for Thursdays, especially the Horween versions which, Crowns aside, are the nicest leather used amongst these sneakers.

[@Nattymatty7]

@@the-truth-hurts let me guess, you’re a crypto or nft investor? Hahah

[@IThinkNowListenUp]

Which one is best for all day comfort?