One of the latest cleats that Charly has released to market is the Hyperstrike PFX. What could be classed as their most advanced silo to date, the Hyperstrike is designed around Motion Knit technology for an ergonomic fit and freedom of movement. Matched with colorful upper designs and a competitive price point, they are likely to become a possible option for a lot of players. What do they have on offer and are they worth investing in?

Charly are a big name brand in Mexico, where they originated. But they are not in the same spectrum as big brands like Nike, Adidas or Puma. This means they are somewhat limited with the materials they use to create their releases, and they don’t do any major press releases to really drive up customer attention. For some, you might not have even heard about Charly as a brand before!

When it comes to Performance, the Hyperstrike is a very standard style release that manages to adequately perform without overwhelming the senses. Up close, you can see that detail was put into the design and that their was a focused approach put into their construction. The collar is a Neoprene type material, so has a somewhat cheaper feel to the knit collars found on elite level releases. It offers a similar stretch to more of the mid to lower tier releases from Nike and adidas. Does it serve its purpose? Yes, it helps to keep you comfortably locked down in place as you play.

The upper offers up an even more interesting role, especially when you see them up close. You can see how a layer of synthetic has been “melted” across the knit underlayer, adding extra durability to what is a very flexible material. Charly define this as they Motion Knit technology, implemented for an ergonomic fit and freedom of movement through wear. In play, I would say it provides a pliable feel on foot, especially as you wear them over time. But, it definitely doesn’t offer up the same pliable motion we have experienced with many other current market releases.

They drop right into the control category thanks to the extra definition that exists across the forefoot, offering a little extra grip on the ball. I also like that the material itself is thin enough to ensure you create a nice connection between your foot and the ball as you dribble at speed.

When it comes to fit, they offer a similar sizing to most other releases you will find on the market. I went true to size with this pair, and they worked out just fine. If anything, I feel like they might have offered a slightly longer fit over time, with some stretch and natural adjustment loosening them up. If you find that you like a tighter fitting boot, I’d definitely recommend entertaining the option of going down a half size.

If you consider the current price of the Hyperstrike (down from $180 to $80) they have to be a boot that you at least research. There is absolute value on offer, especially for players that like to be a little adventurous and try something different. If you compare them to other brand options in that price range, they definitely have more to offer performance wise.

You can find all the latest Hyperstrike colorways available at SOCCER.com.

The post Charly Hyperstrike PFX Feature Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

The GAMEMODE series is adidas’ way of allowing players to express their love for the game of soccer through their own style. Made with a series of recycled materials, the knit upper on this colorway features at least 50% recycled content, and its colorway officially listed as Wonder Mauve.

Let me start by explaining how GAMEMODE is basically the reincarnation of the F30 adiZero series, but rather than synthetic this version features a knit upper! For those not familiar with the adiZero line-up, the F30 was the takedown or mid-tier model that retailed around the $120-$140 range during their life on the market. They were seen as a value for money option when a budget was in play. When we compare GAMEMODE and F30 side-by-side, they have a lot in common and that bodes well for their $99 price point.

In creating the silo, adidas focused on comfort and simple playability, looking to design a shoe that fits a wide range of foot shapes. Their is nothing overtly complicated about them, they feature a one-piece upper and a flat but versatile outsole. On foot, they do have a very basic feel. There are boots that offer extra padding or protection inside the boots, but the GAMEMODE doesn’t feature anything like that. They offer a very accommodating fit, wide through the forefoot with stretch thanks to the knit upper. In terms of length, they are true to size.

In terms of materials, the upper does feature a very thin overlay that keeps the knit bonded and in shape. Again, it does have some stretch to it but you don’t need to worry about it overstretching, and the overlay adds to the durability on offer. Around the ankle and through the lacing is where you can find the most open area of knit. It has some serious stretch through those areas since it doesn’t have the same thin synthetic overlay. So, if you want to see how much stretch is actually in the knit, this is where you can find out. It adds a high level of comfort since it conforms to your foot shape when you put them on.

Underfoot is the one area where I was underwhelmed when it came to performance. The one piece soleplate doesn’t have any natural bend when you take them out of the box, so it takes time to break them in. You can see in the images how it runs flat from toe to heel. I’d actually describe it as being somewhat cumbersome, a little bland and sluggish in play. Most of the weight seems to sit in the soleplate too, so they are bottom heavy. For some, that might prove useful to keep you balanced on the surface, but I personally prefer something lighter that compliments pace and acceleration.

In terms of the type of fields where they can be used, I actually rate them as best on turf surfaces. The low profile configuration provides adequate traction on artificial surfaces without any over bite, so you feel mobile in play. They are also solid on FG, making them a good option for players that regularly play on both types of surface.

adidas has definitely decided that GAMEMODE is going to be a creative playground, where they can make and release unique, small batch designs at a pricepoint that can reach a lot of fans. This knit version is currently available for $99.99.

Or you can find the entire GAMEMODE line-up available at SOCCER.com.

The post adidas GAMEMODE FG Knit Edition – Up Close Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

Whether you are looking for an indoor specific, hard court or just an off-field shoe option, the Tiempo Legend 9 Academy IC is going to be an option that drops on your radar. They prove to be one of the lightest Tiempo Legends to date, featuring a soft leather upper with raised textures backed by soft foam pods for a clean touch on the ball.

On foot they follow right in line with what you would expect from a Tiempo release: tight and snug. Given that you are going to use them on hard surfaces, where you will experience extremely quick and sharp movements, the first thing I’d recommend is going a half size up from your soccer cleat size. In other words, I normally wear a 9US but would feel most comfortable wearing these in a size 9.5US.

When it comes to performance, this Academy IC version has several key features that differentiate them from an FG version. For example, they have a reinforced scuff zone right around the toe region. This adds a little extra durability for those moments where you drag your foot along a hard court surface. And they feature a very effective rubber outsole that is designed to provide multidirectional traction on street, court and indoor surfaces. The multi-textured outsole really does provide the next level grip you need in play, allowing you to focus more on your game and move confidently at speed. I have an appreciation for a shoe that you can wear distraction free, without having to worry about grip on hard surfaces. These pass the test and are an awesome option and offer what you need in play.

Then there are the pods in key touch areas including the instep. This gives them a CTR360 type vide, where a little extra material helps cushion the ball in play. A final piece that adds value is the REACT cushioning under foot. This is the white popcorn material toward the heel. It adds some extra sponge and bounce when you step, perfect when you are playing on hard courts. Overall, a lot to like about these and I’m definitely adding them as a top recommended IC option.

Visually, I’m loving the overall design that Nike has gone with. There are a wide variety of colorways available in the silo, and each combinations seems to work flawlessly. This pictured version is super clean, with a white base and black/solar yellow detailing across key areas. It was one of the originals released in the series, so they are not as readily available.

But you can find all the latest versions available at SOCCER.com.

The post Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Academy IC – Feature Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

Built for the game’s most creative playmakers, the Phantom GT2 Elite is one of the ultimate data-driven boots Nike has ever created.

Based on extensive research, the Generative Texture (where the ‘GT’ comes from) across the upper provides precise touch and control when shooting, passing and dribbling. The second generation release features a more defined, raised patterning across the upper to help create optimal spin to control the flight of the ball. Adding to that, an off-center lacing provides a clean strike zone.

Coming an explosive Sapphire/Grey Fog/Blue Void/Volt colorway, a range of angles and lines intersect with color blocks to create a very unmistakable look on field. One of the key features of the GT2 is how expansive Nike can be with the designs and colors used. It is the volt swoosh that really adds to the effect on this version, easily seen from distance.

There are a few other things worth pointing out that I really like about these:

• They are one of the wider fitting options that Nike has on offer right now. Yes, it takes some time to squeeze in through the knit collar. But once on, the forefoot cavity provides nice spacing to keep you comfy in play.
• That knit collar, I love how it sits and feels along the ankle line. It creates a secure fit that has the ability to stretch depending on your ankle shape.
• Underfoot, they feature a Hyperquick soleplate system with an updated stud layout that is optimized for dynamic traction through quick changes in lateral direction.
• Weight wise, they drop in at a very respectable 7.5oz. That is the sweet spot, providing the right balance of speed and durability.
• Love the included boot bag, one of my favorites with a Nike release to date. It follows the same colors and pattern as the actual boots.

They are, however, the type of boot that takes a few wears to really break in properly. You need to get them into quick, dynamic game action in order to loosen up the materials. If you can ease them in through a few practice sessions first, you will get the most out of them!

Retail wise, there are plenty of options available in the range right now. Original retail has them at $249.99, but there are several versions available on sale listed under the $200 mark.

Find all available pairs listed at SOCCER.com.

The post Nike Phantom GT2 Elite – How Do They Perform? appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

We snoozed a little on this pair, as Lotto has already moved on to their next generation of laceless boot. But, we still wanted to do a quick up-close feature on the Lotto Solista 100 III Gravity for those interested in finding out what they are all about.

If you didn’t know, Lotto were the very first brand to introduce laceless soccer boots to the market, way back in 2006. But, they have never really nailed down overall performance and a truly as-one fit with their boots. Where the Solista 100 takes a step forward is in the collar design, with Lotto taking some much needed inspiration from the likes of Nike and adidas, using a more adaptive knit materials rather than tough, unpredictable rubber.

I’ll start by saying that this is a great little package that is presented really well by Lotto. Inside the box and along with the actual boots you will find a much needed shoe horn, a signature black boot bag, and some nifty posters highlighting lotto’s long laceless journey. All together, it is much more than you will find in a box of elite level boots from other big brands.

The Lotto Solista 100 is built to be streamlined and agile and from the first time you see them in person you can tell what they are all about. Lotto has plenty of experience working on laceless designs, they have modified and tweaked the design numerous times since the original. And I can say with confidence that these are easy the best they have created. Using a knit collar is a game changer, providing players with a much more responsive fit around the ankle and a much more comfortable level of performance.

Even the upper design has been significantly upgraded, lotto use a one-piece 3D knit that features a textured embossing through the forefoot, enhance grip and control on the ball. When everything is factored in, they are a surprisingly durable boot that stills offers a very responsive feel and fit.

I will note that out of the box, they do feature a very snug fit. The first thing you will need to do is use the included shoe horn to squeeze your foot in. Don’t leave the shoe horn at home in the box, because you will need it the first few times you go to put the boots on. The upper needs to have a lockdown fit in order to ensure you are not falling out of them during play. So, expect a little adjustment phase as you allow the materials to gently stretch to your foot shape. Needless to say, this is even more true if you have a wider foot shape, don’t rush the process. I have a medium to wide fit and found that after a few wears they felt comfortable, a lot more comfortable than the first time I put them on! They lasted all of 15 minutes on their debut out of the box. After that, I wore them around at home, letting the materials loosen to my fit, before taking them out on pitch again.

Undefoot, you get all the tried and trusted Lotto tech that you expect. And it performs just as consistently as on previous models. Punto Flex Technology enhances the flexibility and reactivity through the forefoot area. Lotto has placed 6 EVO-studs (semi-circle with a little chunk taken out) in strategic areas to improve traction, acceleration, braking and sudden direction. Added to that are 5 conical studs to improve stability, flexibility, easier multidirectional moves and take off from ground.

And finally, the most unique aspect of the Lotto Stadio is that they are the most affordable laceless boot on the market, dropping in under $200. That isn’t cheap, but it certainly is a price tag that is more attainable, and there are likely to be more players who can entertain that price. Our pair – pictured in Blue Azure – are now sold out, with Lotto already releasing the next generation model at the same price point. It also doesn’t seem like there have been many updates outside of the actual visual design.

Find the latest version of laceless Lotto available at SOCCER.com.

The post Lotto Solista 100 III Gravity – Laceless Feature Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

PURE, ABSOLUTE, SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT SPEED!

That is exactly how I would describe the Puma ULTRA SL 21, a boot that brings back gravity-defying technology onto the soccer pitch. Over the past few seasons, there was an obvious shift in the trend as brands look to create more stable boot designs. Puma’s history with SL has been mixed, with some successful designs and some designed to only last 10 games.

With this latest edition, they have re-tooled and created something that should (in theory) last a little longer. This is in part thanks to an upgraded, specialized upper made of a thin woven mesh and coated with an advanced, ultra-thin TPU skin. What you get is a lightweight, durable upper able to withstand the most explosive speeds! Each shoe weighs in at an incredibly light 3.6oz.

Underfoot, the outsole is constructed with exclusive Pebax tooling technology to support energy transfer when accelerating at lightning speeds. Combined with the innovative new upper, this lightweight stable plate makes the ULTRA SL 21 one of the fastest, most elusive boots available today.

And by elusive, they are more of a limited edition release, only available right now in one colorway. It was officially listed as Aged Silver/Black/Elektro Aqua, released as part of the “Tech Pack”.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been wearing these in games. As it stands, they have got through 4 games fully intact. There is still a lot of wearing to be done in order to really test the overall durability. But, to date, they have held up fine and seem like there is plenty of wear still to get from them. Let’s be honest here, any time you look to purchase an SL boot, you have to know that they won’t last as long as a more traditional release. Less materials just naturally means that they are likely to fall a part quicker. So, you need to take that into account before investing in a pair.

How do they feel on foot? Incredible lightweight. You absolutely notice a difference when you put them on foot, they feel like wearing a pair of ballet slippers or just a soleplate with a bunch fo feathers glued on. They truly are insanely light. At the same time, they are also very comfortable – I’ve really been enjoying wearing them. Initially, I was nervous about how they would fit, but from first wear they have been impressive.

One of the first thing you will notice when you slip them on for the first time is how the upper materials hug your foot. Immediately, the super thin upper forms around your shape, providing a semi relaxed but snug fit. In terms of actual size, just stick to your normal size, they fit true in length and offer a little extra stretch through the width compliments of the knit.

Important to note, with an upper material comes a lot of natural feel on the ball. So, you will feel everything that touches the upper just a little more than you would with other boots. This includes striking shots and feeling the impact of another players studs. I’ve already been on the end of some painful challenges across the forefoot and I’m sure there are more to come!

Overall, I’m ULTRA impressed with how Puma has re-tooled this version of super lightweight speed. Time will tell if they prove value for money – I’ll follow-up on that over the next few weeks – but initial reaction offers a lot of optimism.

Find remaining pairs available at SOCCER.com.

The post Puma ULTRA SL 21 Tech – Feature Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

Released as the new era of Puma King, the King Platinum dropped on the market with the tagline “Return of the King.” It is an attempt to reinvent what is a more traditional style silo, taking it into the modern era of lightweight construction and ankle collars.

Highlight of the release has to be the soft, high-quality kangaroo leather that is strengthened by an inner skeleton layer through the front of the vamp. You can tell where this is via the light ridging. As well as adding support to the upper and ensuring increased durability, it is also gives a little extra texturing on the ball.

Find the King Platinum in Black available at soccer.com.

All in all, the leather upper really is spectacular and adds to the quality of a boot that weighs in at 7.0oz. Puma taking a heritage boot into the speed category, and I’m not joking with that. This is the type of release that is sleek and refined, ready for pacey wingers or center mids who need to be light on their feet as they ping balls around the field. They hold some Nike Tiempo Legend VII vibes, with similarities in how they are pieced together. And then they are crossed with a leather adidas adiZero release to give a really well balanced end product.

Visually, the inner skeleton layer adds an unusual look that isn’t as illustrustrious (or “clean”) as some other k-leather boots. It almost looks like a tiered ladded right up through the central portion of the forefoot. The added texturing doesn’t offer a lot on the ball, but as is the case with any leather upper boot, you get a little extra feel and touch as you dribble. They are not exactly a “strikers” boot, but they do provide clean contact with the ball.

It gets better with the inclusion of a knit collar, next level feel and fit around the ankle. It provides some compression to keep your foot locked in the boot, while keeping you comfortable. Because of the stretch, it doesn’t leave you feeling constricted in the boot, providing plenty of natural movement as you swivel and turn. I personally love its inclusion and feel like it adds a whole new dynamic to the release.

Some important notes when it comes to fit on foot. First wear, I was a little nervous that they were going to be too tight. There was a lot of pressure on my heel and I took them off pretty soon after putting them on. It took 2-3 wears before I felt confident enough to really break them into extended play. Once I did break them in, they felt really good, and got better after more wears. The key is to allow them to loosen up, let the leather soften naturally to your fit and the collar to gently stretch with your movements. I’d rate them as a true-to-size option that need a little time to adjust. It is a boot you need to be patient with, but can reap the benefits of as a result.

It has taken a while for us to get our hands on a pair of King Platinum, so this review isn’t as timely as you might expect. But, Puma has stated that they are keeping the King Platinum as part of their 2021 line-up. Anywhere that currently has pairs available has them listed as a 4 or 5 star boot, with plenty of positive reviews flowing in since their release.

Final note; I agree and disagree with Puma’s “Return of the King” tagline. Yes, it is a King release with all the characteristics that you expect from the k-leather upper to the consistent soleplate underfoot. But, it is also a reimagining of the silo, a fresh introduction to a modern day king that takes the performance of the silo in a new, upgraded direction. Overall, a very high quality release!

Pairs that do remain can be found at soccer.com.

The post Puma King Platinum Feature Review – Return of the King appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

If you are a player that appreciates old school, traditional style boots without the flashiness of current day releases, you might want to check these out! We are talking heritage style to the max, built for the modern game.

Last week, a pair of Legacy Blanc arrived in via the Legacy Boot Co. and they really are special. Imagine them as a bottle of Champagne sitting amongst a shelf full of Whiskeys! What exactly are we talking about here? Well, here is what the brand has to say about their boots, in their own words:

We make soccer boots in small batches using the finest materials. Each shoe is hand stitched by a skilled artisan and made with premium leather. Like a fine wine, our cleats soften and play better with age. 

Opening the box, you are immediately met with the unmistakable pure scent that you only get from a fresh pair of true leather boots. Hands up if you just got the smell from reading the description!!! In person, they are everything you would expect from a handcrafted boot, with their traditional styling and meticulous stitching. There isn’t anything flashy to see here, instead everything is built to be simple and efficient.

When it comes to materials and what you are getting in a pair, here is the Legacy description in their own words:

They are hand-made with the best, softest leather available and if cared for properly, will last a long time and look even better with age.  We suggest you condition your boots whenever they appear dry, using an oil based treatment (such as saddle soap) or standard leather conditioner. The leather will soften over time and adapt to the shape of your foot. It really is a beautiful boot for the beautiful game!

On foot, you immediately get that nostalgic feel, evoking memories of the game in its purest form. They fit very much true to size, with the 9US I wore fitting very comfortably. If you are considering a pair, I’d recommend starting out with what you consider to be your normal boot size. The brand does state they accept returns and want players to have the correct fit so that they can get the most out of their pair. Given that they are a natural leather, they will stretch over time in similar fashion to something like an adidas Copa Mundial or a Puma King. That is worth bearing in mind as you try them on for the first time. In terms of the leather, it really is super supple right out of the box. As you run your fingers across the forefoot, it gently folds and molds very easily.

Underfoot, they have created their own custom soleplate. These are perfect for use on FG and AG surfaces, with the low profile, conical configuration providing a balanced level of traction. The plate also evenly distributes pressure really well, so you have the added bonus of comfort. As you are probably aware, that is a very important aspect of a new boot!

The Legacy brand is based in Brooklyn, New York and the boots are handmade in Chile. The Legacy Boot comes from being a part of this culture and being inspired by it. The idea was born from their own search for a simple, classic, leather boot. The Legacy team couldn’t find something that matched their needs. So, the decided to build a shoe.

One of the more unique aspects here is that unlike larger brands, you get a true story that goes along with the boots. In fact, they include a little card along with the boots that introduces you to one of the craftsmen that made them. A real personal touch that gives you additional insight into their story.

Finishing up, it is important here to note that this is not a boot designed for everyone. Most modern-day players will look toward brands like Nike and adidas to fulfill their tech heavy needs. Legacy is a brand that offsets the modern market, something you can see clearly through their detailing. You get an imprinted Legacy logo on the boots, on the soleplate, under the tongue and on the insole, ensuring you know what it is you are wearing. It is something to appreciate.

And there is also the retail price to comprehend, with pairs available for $195. That is on the high-end for a classic style boot and puts it into competition with some of the top brands elite boots. That in itself provides a wild challenge. But, there is a definite market for a more tradition boot like this that can provide players with something a little more simplified, built with quality materials and a natural feel on foot!

If you are interested in what they have on offer, check out the Legacy Boot Co. website!

The post Legacy Boot Co. “Blanc” – A Modern Classic Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

Take this one as a mini throwback, as we revisit the signature boots worn by Lionel Messi at the World Cup last Summer, the Nemeziz Messi 18.1 released as part of the adidas Energy Mode Pack.

This pair sort of missed us when they were initially released, but it just so happens that this pair dropped in our lap this week, and considering their current ridiculously good sale price, we figured they were definitely worth a more detailed look. With an absolute standout Solar Green/Core Black colorway that is extremely easy to spot on pitch, next up for discussion is their actual performance, and of course the question of value for money.

One cool feature of the Nemeziz Messi 18.1 is the fact this is the pair that matches those that Messi wore. There is also a high-end laceless Nemeziz 18+ available, but they are not pair Messi likes to wear. Instead, he is all about laces and having an integrated lacing system that allows him to tighten and customize his fit.

adidas complimented that with a slightly more traditional style ankle cut. I say slightly more traditional, but they really are anything but. Yes, they are cut at a similar height to traditional boots, but there is a V groove cut out that makes them very different. This cut contours around the ankle socket and creates a very specific fit around your foot. It is called a “Dual Lock Collar”, designed to allow for more explosive movements as you look to accelerate at speed.

As with all Nemeziz releases, the upper materials are a combination of Agilitybandage, Agilityweave and revolutionary Torsiontapes.

• Agilitybandage wraps around your midfoot, providing a compression fit and a barefoot-like touch on the ball.
• Torsiontapes offer incredible lockdown through every twist and turn on the lateral and medial sides of the foot.
• Agilityweave in the toe and heel provide an even softer touch than before while still offering a light weight fit on your foot.

Underfoot, they feature a glassy looking Chrome Green Torsionframe outsole. It is designed to keep you light on your feet as you look to zoom around the pitch. Torsionribs are also added, enhancing the amount of dynamic grip you get as you offer dynamic push-off the surface.

The biggest concern with these seems to surround the actual fit. First note, it does take a little work getting your feet into the boots, but there is a trick. If you angle your foot at around 90 degrees across the opening, and use the V angle cut, you can slide your feet in easily. Hold the boot by the front and heel portion of the collar and pull them on. I personally found the fit and comfort on foot to be highly positive. The actual fit easily accommodates a medium fit, but there is little stretch in the upper. So, if you are a wide fit of feel that the fit is too tight when you try them on for the first time, look elsewhere. You also have to be comfortable with the idea of wearing a boot that truly hugs your foot.

Do they offer value for money? On sale, I’d have to say that they definitely do. Reviews have been mixed, but our experience with them was all positive. And I will definitely recommend them over the laceless version. The idea of laceless is fun, but in reality having some laces will allow you to really dictate your own personal fit. They also have the bonus of being one of the more durable options currently available on the market, so you will be able to get extended wear out of them.

Find remaining pairs available on sale at soccer.com.

The post adidas Nemeziz Messi 18.1 “Energy Mode” Feature Review appeared first on Soccer Cleats 101.

During the World Cup this Summer, Neymar broke out a pair of special edition “Meu Jogo” Mercurial Vapor 360. They were designed to represent Neymar’s expressive style of play on the pitch, although lets be honest not even this canary yellow colorway could live up to some of the Brazilian’s most “expressive” moments.

We are a little late picking up a pair, but with plenty still available, we figured now was as good a time as ever to piece together a feature review on! Note that a lot of elements here come from testing the Mercurial Vapor XII silo, rather than these specific boots. But they should provide you with the key details you need to know if you are considering picking up a pair!

Neymar Signature Release

Neymar first wore these in the Brazil vs Mexico game in Russia. He scored a goal, grabbed an assist, and helped Mexico move on to the World Cup quarter finals with a 2-0 win. Pretty much an ideal way to introduce a new boot! They come in a Brazilian style canary yellow with an underfoot graphic that leverages the 360 construction of the Mercurial. “Meu Jogo” references Neymar’s commitment to playing his game.

Neymar says of his playing style, “I got here because of my football. If football brought me to where I am, if it made me conquer the things I did, then I don’t need to change.”

Unboxing the latest signature Neymar Vapor 12 Elite. Who likes yellow boots? – #nike #nikesoccer #neymar #njr #psg #brasil #soccercleats #vapor 12 #mercurial #nikevapor #newboots #nikefootball #unboxing

A post shared by SoccerCleats101 (@soccercleats101) on Aug 27, 2018 at 3:15pm PDT

Mercurial Superfly vs Mercurial Vapor

Here lies one of the unique elements to the current Mercurial line-up. Both the Superfly and the Vapor are identical minus one key piece; the dynamic fit collar. Outside of this single piece of material, they are very similar in style, fit, feel and performance. So, what you hear about the Vapor will sound very similar to the Superfly.

Personally, I really prefer the low cut Flyknit collar that sits around the ankle of this Vapor silo. First, it provides a classic feel that doesn’t take much to adjust to. Then you get the bonus of a slightly constrictive fit that comes compliments of a Flyknit material. It keeps you locked in place without fear of discomfort like you might experience from more rigid materials.

Visual Elements

The design is extremely clean in person, you are immediately drawn to the detailing right across the surface of the boot. On the upper, Nike use the primary canary yellow color, but mix in some gold flakes that seem to create a slight shimmer effect. This same gold color is used on the heel, where there is an series of arrows pointing from the heel toward the front of the boot, obviously providing players with some reminders on where they are supposed to kick the ball. “This way to goal.” Looking directly at the heel, the design is slightly trippy and it definitely catches your attention. 

Underfoot, that soleplate. DROOL. What a design. Nike has gone with a metallic chrome finish that just oozes class and sophistication. It has a sort of liquid bronze finish to it, where it looks more fluid than static. Added to the mixed arrow effect on the dynamic style soleplate.  

Breaking In and Comfort

Starting out, these are not going to be a boot that provides immediate comfort. The upper material is slightly stiffer than you’d expect and you have to contend with an unusual racing style undulated soleplate. When you receive your pair to wear, I’d stress the importance of getting them out of the box and on your feet to walk around in, allow them to loosen up slowly. This is not a boot you are going to want to break into a game on first wear. Time will be key to getting the most out of them long term. Allow for the materials to gently stretch over a few training sessions.

360 Flyknit Upper

One of the key features of this Vapor silo is the fact they are built using a full Flyknit upper. The material actually wraps under the boot and there is a single layer of stitching along the spine of the soleplate that holds them together. As a result, I was expecting to encounter a very pliable material. But, rather than having a stretch feel like you’d expect a knit to have, it is a lot more like a synthetic that needs some wear to break in. The reasoning; they are designed to lock your foot in place and eliminate unwanted movement.

Rather than applying Nike All Conditions Control (ACC) as an outer layer, ACC is embedded into the Flyknit—eliminating additional skin, while remaining tough against the elements.

Touch, Control and Shooting

One of the things Nike did with this release was infuse ACC into the Flyknit upper material, essentially eliminating a layer. That is in theory. But what it actually does is make the upper more rigid, meaning you are losing out on the natural level of touch on the ball. After a wear wears, the material does loosen so it becomes less of an issue.

The addition of micro-texturing across the Flyknit provides extra traction on the ball. You can see it clearly in the images above, and it really is as prominent as it looks. This helps increase control at top speed. The texturing is extremely defined, way more than you’d expect. They sit in a series of horizontal lines down toward the toes. Whether you are looking to add some additional swerve on a shot or a little extra power on goal bound strikes, it plays a positive role. The additional surface area allows you to really wrap your foot on the ball when you need to add a little spin. And for players in need of a power style boot, dare I say you get some additional ping of shots thanks to its placement through the strike zone.

Traction and Soleplate

There is a lot of undulation featured on the insole of the Superfly VI, something we also saw on the Superfly V. This is part of the dynamic internal system used by Nike to create a “Racing-seat-like” fit. Coupled with a split soleplate chassis and Chevron studs, everything on these is built for explosive speed and sharp deceleration.

How do they Fit?

Compared to previous Mercurial releases, this boot is a lot more accommodating and provides some additional width to suit a wider audience. In saying that, they are still a Mercurial geared toward speed, so the silhouette is intended to be sleek and aerodynamic. I have a medium/wide fit, and they felt just “OK.” Through the forefoot, I had the right amount of space for them not to impact performance, but I can’t say with confidence that the same would be true for a wide fitting player. If you have the chance to try them on, I’d definitely recommend doing so before buying.

Retail Details

There is an entire line-up available as part of the Meu Jogo collection. Included is a range of FG boots and sole hard court releases. The primary boot is obviously these Vapor XII Elite. I personally think they are absolute quality, the design is invigorating and stands out in a stylish way on foot. They also come with a special NJR bag, retailing for $274.99.

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