How do Nike’s 2021 track spikes enhance athletic performance. What innovative features are incorporated in the new Nike spike designs. Which events are the 2021 Nike spikes optimized for. How do these spikes compare to previous models.
The Evolution of Nike Track Spikes: 2021 Edition
Nike has long been at the forefront of athletic footwear innovation, and their 2021 track spike lineup continues this tradition of excellence. The latest offerings showcase cutting-edge technology and design, aimed at helping athletes achieve peak performance across various track and field events.
One standout model in the 2021 collection is the Nike Air Zoom Victory. This spike is engineered for middle-distance events, catering to runners competing in races from 800 to 5,000 meters. Its design prioritizes support and stability, crucial elements for maintaining form and speed throughout these challenging distances.
Key Features of the Nike Air Zoom Victory (2021)
- Innovative Air Zoom technology for responsive cushioning
- Optimized support structure for middle-distance events
- Lightweight construction to enhance speed and agility
- Gender-specific sizing (men’s sizes, with guidance for women)
Athletes and coaches alike have praised the Air Zoom Victory for its performance-enhancing qualities. One user reported significant improvements in their 150-meter sprint times, while another expressed hope that these spikes would help shave crucial seconds off their 800-meter time.
Versatility in Design: The Nike Spike-Flat
Another notable addition to Nike’s 2021 spike collection is the Nike Spike-Flat. This innovative design bridges the gap between traditional spikes and training flats, offering a unique solution for athletes seeking versatility in their footwear.
What makes the Nike Spike-Flat unique?
The Spike-Flat combines elements from two popular Nike models: the lightweight design of the Streak LT and the aggressive traction of a traditional spike plate. This hybrid approach results in a shoe that excels in various scenarios, from interval training to longer distance track racing.
- Lightweight construction for speed and agility
- Added traction from the spike plate for enhanced grip
- Versatile design suitable for multiple event types
- Increased protection compared to traditional spikes
Specialized Spikes for Diverse Track Events
Nike’s 2021 spike collection caters to a wide range of track and field disciplines. From sprints to long-distance events, each spike is meticulously engineered to meet the specific demands of its intended use.
Event-Specific Spike Designs
- Sprint Spikes: Optimized for explosive power and maximum acceleration
- Middle-Distance Spikes: Balanced for speed and endurance
- Long-Distance Spikes: Focused on cushioning and support for extended races
- Field Event Spikes: Tailored for jumping and throwing disciplines
The specialized nature of these spikes allows athletes to fine-tune their equipment choices based on their specific events and personal preferences. This level of customization can contribute significantly to improved performance and comfort during competition.
Technological Advancements in Nike’s 2021 Spike Collection
Nike’s commitment to innovation is evident in the advanced technologies incorporated into their 2021 spike designs. These cutting-edge features aim to provide athletes with every possible advantage on the track.
Innovative Materials and Construction Techniques
- Lightweight, breathable upper materials for enhanced comfort
- Carbon fiber plates for improved energy return and propulsion
- Precision-engineered spike configurations for optimal traction
- Advanced cushioning systems for impact protection and responsiveness
These technological advancements not only improve performance but also contribute to the overall durability and longevity of the spikes. Athletes can trust that their Nike spikes will withstand the rigors of intense training and competition.
Sustainability Initiatives in Nike’s 2021 Spike Production
As environmental concerns continue to grow, Nike has taken steps to incorporate sustainability into their spike manufacturing processes. The 2021 collection reflects this commitment to reducing environmental impact without compromising on performance.
How is Nike addressing sustainability in their spike production?
Nike has implemented several initiatives to make their spike production more environmentally friendly:
- Use of recycled materials in spike construction
- Adoption of energy-efficient manufacturing processes
- Reduction of waste through innovative design techniques
- Implementation of responsible sourcing practices for raw materials
These efforts demonstrate Nike’s dedication to not only enhancing athletic performance but also protecting the planet for future generations of athletes.
The Impact of Nike’s 2021 Spikes on Athletic Performance
The true measure of any athletic footwear lies in its ability to enhance performance. Early feedback from athletes using Nike’s 2021 spike collection has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting noticeable improvements in their times and overall performance.
Athlete Testimonials and Performance Data
Several athletes have shared their experiences with the new Nike spikes:
- “The Air Zoom Victory helped me shave seconds off my 800-meter time.” – Anonymous middle-distance runner
- “I felt a significant improvement in my acceleration and top speed with the new sprint spikes.” – College sprinter
- “The comfort and support of these spikes allowed me to maintain my form even in the final laps of my 5K.” – Distance specialist
While individual results may vary, the consensus among athletes and coaches is that Nike’s 2021 spike collection represents a significant step forward in track and field footwear technology.
Comparing Nike’s 2021 Spikes to Competitor Offerings
In the competitive world of track and field equipment, it’s essential to consider how Nike’s 2021 spikes stack up against offerings from other major brands. While Nike has long been a leader in this space, companies like Adidas, Asics, and New Balance continue to innovate and challenge Nike’s dominance.
Key Differentiators of Nike’s 2021 Spike Collection
- Advanced cushioning technologies like Air Zoom
- Innovative hybrid designs such as the Spike-Flat
- Emphasis on event-specific optimization
- Integration of sustainability initiatives
While each brand has its strengths, Nike’s combination of cutting-edge technology, athlete-focused design, and commitment to sustainability sets its 2021 spike collection apart in the marketplace.
Customization and Fitting: Ensuring Optimal Performance
To maximize the benefits of Nike’s 2021 spike collection, proper fitting and customization are crucial. Nike has implemented several features and guidelines to help athletes find their perfect fit.
Tips for Selecting and Fitting Nike Spikes
- Consider your specific event and running style
- Pay attention to gender-specific sizing recommendations
- Allow for a snug but comfortable fit, with room for toe movement
- Consider custom insoles or orthotics if needed
- Consult with a professional fitter or coach for personalized advice
By taking the time to properly select and fit their spikes, athletes can ensure they’re getting the full performance benefits of Nike’s innovative designs.
The Future of Track Spikes: Nike’s Ongoing Innovation
As impressive as the 2021 spike collection is, Nike’s commitment to innovation suggests that even more advanced designs are on the horizon. The company continues to invest heavily in research and development, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in athletic footwear.
Potential Future Developments in Spike Technology
- Integration of smart technology for real-time performance tracking
- Further advancements in sustainable materials and manufacturing processes
- Exploration of biomechanics-based customization for individual athletes
- Development of adaptive cushioning systems that respond to different race conditions
While these potential innovations are speculative, they reflect the direction in which Nike and the broader athletic footwear industry are moving. Athletes can look forward to even more advanced and personalized spike options in the coming years.
Nike’s 2021 track spike collection represents a significant leap forward in athletic footwear technology. From the versatile Spike-Flat to the performance-oriented Air Zoom Victory, these spikes offer athletes the tools they need to push their limits and achieve new personal bests. As Nike continues to innovate and refine their designs, the future of track and field performance looks brighter than ever.
AIR ZOOM VICTORY (2021) – Dick Pond Athletics
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Push for your personal best in the Nike Zoom Air Victory.
Its design is built with the support and stability you need for a run from 800 to 5,000 meters.
5
100 %
Posted by B J DUHON on Apr 18th 2022
EXCELLENT !!!!!!!!!!
5
Nike air zoom victory
Posted by Richie on Mar 10th 2022
Loved how these when I was do 150s at 16-17 second pace !! I hope these will help me drop my 1:55 800 to a 1:50.
5
Great experience
Posted by Jeff on Mar 7th 2022
I had been searching for months for these spikes online (nothing local).
My search alert hit and I called them. The guy on the phone was very nice and answered my questions. My transaction went through online and it shipped the next day. Arrived two days before they said it would. Will definitely use them again!
My search alert hit and I called them. The guy on the phone was very nice and answered my questions. My transaction went through online and it shipped the next day. Arrived two days before they said it would. Will definitely use them again!Nike Spike-Flat Spikes Unisex White/Black
Mixing the versatility of the Nike Streak LT with the added traction and aggressiveness of a spike plate, the Nike Spike-Flat offers a lightweight design with a little extra protection to handle interval training and longer distance racing on the track.
Long HurdleLong Hurdle
3k-10k3k-10k
RubberRubber
All around running shoes offer comfort and cushioning for daily runs, jogs, walks, and long mileage. They offer enough versatility for both faster and slower runs and are a great option for those who want one running shoe to do it all.
Fast run or uptempo running shoes are lightweight and responsive. They offer streamlined designs that have minimal uppers and offer a high level of energy return.
These shoes are a great option for faster runs in the week or those looking for a livelier experience.
Max Cushion shoes offer premium cushioning with ample ground protection and a stable ride. These types of shoes provide abundant impact protection that softens landings while running at any pace or distance. These types of shoes are best for slower recovery runs and easy days where comfort takes priority.
Racing shoes are designed with optimal performance in mind. These types of shoes have snug-fitting uppers, energetic midsole foams, and features implemented for maximum efficiency. These types of shoes are best for runners looking to gain the ultimate advantage in races but may sacrifice some durability and comfort.
Walking shoes offer stability and comfort through a supportive upper and stable midsole. They offer a smooth heel-to-toe transition with enough cushioning for all-day comfort and plenty of ground protection.
Casual shoes provide comfort for daily activities with an aesthetic appeal.
They offer plenty of cushioning for all-day wearability and have comfortable uppers with durable materials.
Gym Workout shoes offer a stable and versatile ride. They have a firmer underfoot feeling that provides stability for lateral movements with comfortable uppers. These types of shoes are best for trips to the gyms, cross training, casual wear, and light running.
Road running shoes feature smooth outsoles that are designed for running on paved surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, and bike paths.
Designed to handle most trail runs, these shoes prioritize comfort and a smooth ride. These shoes are great for anything from smooth singletrack, park trails, and fireroads making them ideal for those who run from their doorstep on streets before hitting the trail.
These shoes are best used for hard, rugged trails such as shale, granite or sandstone where grip on smooth surfaces and underfoot protection are important.
Designed for use in muddy, soggy conditions, these shoes feature very aggressive outsoles that dig deep into soft ground for exceptional traction.
These shoes feature technical outsoles designed to grip snowy and icy trails making them ideal for winter trail running.
Cushioning level, or stack height, refers to how much shoe is between your foot and the ground. For this category, we reference the amount of cushioning below the forefoot as the heel height will be equal to or greater than the forefoot height.
Learn more about stack heights and how we measure them.
14-18mm. The shoe has a thin midsole that allows for a natural running experience. Racing shoes and minimalist shoes are common here. These shoes offer a feeling of being connected to the road or trail.
19-23mm. The shoe has a slightly cushioned feel and may feature added cushioning technologies. Performance training shoes and some trail shoes are common here. These offer protection during footstrike but prioritize a lightweight, grounded experience.
24-28mm. These shoes have a stack height that fall near the middle of the spectrum.The shoes in this category are verstaile and great for all types of runs and distances.
29-34mm. The shoe has a thick midsole and ample cushioning. These shoes are highly protective and absorb more impact than the body.
35mm plus. The shoe has an extremely thick midsole and extra cushioning. The focus is on protection and soft foam underfoot with hardly any ground feel.
Neutral shoes support the foot through a normal range of arch collapse and generally do not have a built-in technology to correct movement.
Stability shoes are a great option for those who overpronate or need added support. These shoes help to limit the inward rolling motion of the ankle while running or walking and assist in guiding the foot straight through the gait cycle.
Product Details:
The perfect training shoe for intervals on the track, the Nike Spike-flat takes the simple and sleek design of the Streak LT and adds on a horse-shoe spike plate to create a more aggressive feel.
Cushlon foam paired with a Zoom Air unit in the heel offers lightweight protection with plenty of responsiveness.
A four pin spike plate is the same design seen in the Matumbo and is built to create a little extra bite. Finished off with a snug and breathable upper, the Nike Spike-Flat creates a unique offering that track athletes will enjoy for a mixture of training and racing.
Model Number: DN1699-100
Nike Mercurial Football Boots for Top Speed
The latest designs and history behind the Nike Mercurial football boots for fast footballers. From 1998 to the present day.
The Mercurial series began with Nike’s collaboration with the Brazil national football team. The Brazilians are often referred to as ball wizards for their ability to pull off incredible feints and are the most decorated football team in the world. At that time, Nike thought about how to create boots that would match the level of play of the Brazilian national team. And as a result, the Mercurial series was created.
The newest models to date are the 2022 Nike Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 and Nike Zoom Mercurial Superfly 9 boots.
Between themselves, they are distinguished by the high collar of the Superfly. The soft elastic collar improves support and many players choose this boot modification.
These shoes feature the ultimate lightweight Vaporposite+ upper that wraps the foot 360 degrees. With minimal weight and reliable grip, they allow you to instantly accelerate and reach maximum speed.
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Zoom Mercurial XXV (2023)
Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 xxvzoom Mercurial Superfly 9 XXV
in 2023 Nike Fo Otball could not ignore such an important milestone as 25 years old Mercurial series. The Mercurial XXV Anniversary edition includes standard versions of the Vapor and Superfly boots, as well as a limited edition “Disruption” with a full chrome upper and sole. Read more >
Elite, Pro, Academy and Club versions
Elite version Academy version Pro version Club version
When choosing football boots, you need to consider what level of football you are at.
And also an important factor is the budget for the purchase. Nike boots are divided into 4 levels depending on the professionalism of the player:
- Elite – an elite model with the most advanced technologies
- Pro – a professional model with a set of best technologies
- Academy – a semi-professional level with simpler technologies
- Club – amateur level with a set of the simplest technologies.
Creation of the Mercurial series
Ronaldo at the 1998 World Cup
The main source of inspiration for Nike in the late 90s when creating new boots was the young Brazilian striker Ronaldo. During the game, he was patient – he calmly “read” the game and waited for the right moment. But then, when the opportunity arose, he quickly accelerated to the ball and shot at goal. After scoring a goal, he again passed into another state.
In general, he showed a different character on the field. And in translation from English, “mercurial” just means changeable or fickle.
MERCURIAL UNPERMANENT
Nike needed to create a boot that could handle such an explosive striker, and to do that, they had to be lightweight. Therefore, designers looked towards running shoes. The first concepts of the Mercurial boot were a hybrid of a running studded bottom and a Tiempo upper. To keep the weight down, the well-established kangaroo leather had to be abandoned. Instead, they used artificial leather made from synthetic material KNG-100. The second important change was the reduction of the plate from the standard 3mm for boots to just 1.75mm.
Ronaldo and the first Nike Mercurial boots
These revolutionary solutions shocked many at that time. The boots were released and were a great success. Ronaldo scored his first goal in the new Mercurial on June 16, 1998. Since then, strikers around the world have scored thousands of balls in the boots of this series. She became a symbol of speed and determination to win. Constantly evolving, it also influenced the aesthetics of football in general.
All models of the
series
Let’s trace the evolution of technology and design of the series from the very first model 1998 years to latest:
| Model name | Year of manufacture |
|---|---|
| Mercurial | 1998 |
| Match Mercurial | 2000 |
| Mercurial Vapor | 2002 |
| Mercurial Vapor 2 | 2004 |
| Mercurial Vapor 3 | 2006 |
| Mercurial Vapor SL | 2008 9 0064 | 2009 |
| Mercurial Vapor 6 and Super fly 2 | 2010 |
| Mercurial Vapor 7 and Superfly 3 | 2011 |
| Mercurial Vapor 8 | 2012 |
| Mercurial Vapor 9 | 2013 |
| Mercurial Vapor 10 and Superfly 4 | 2014 |
| Mercurial Vapor 11 and Superfly 5 | 2016 |
| Mercurial 360 Vapor and 360 Superfly | 2018 |
| Mercurial Va por 12 & Superfly 6 | 2019 |
| Mercurial Vapor 13 & Superfly 7 | 2020 |
| Mercurial Vapor 14 and Superfly 8 | 2021 |
| Mercurial Zoom Vapor 15 and Superfly 9 | 2022 | Zoom Mercurial XXV | 2023 |
Nike Mercurial (1998)
These are the first boots that were made specifically for speed.
Initially they were called Tiempo Ultra Light and Ronaldo Ultra Speed. The upper material of the KNG-100 behaved like genuine leather, but did not absorb water. It was also thinner and lighter than kangaroo skin. And the sticky coating, borrowed from the wheels of racing motorcycles, provided maximum control of the ball. Cleats provided undeniable advantages on the field and as a result, the attitude of the football industry towards synthetic materials has changed.
On the outside, the boots featured a distinctive wavy design with a grey-blue upper and yellow accents. And since they were on the feet of such an outstanding football player as Ronaldo, they quickly became very popular.
Nike Match Mercurial (2000)
The development of the second version of the boot was part of the Nike Alpha Project. In addition to the Match Mercurial, the design team created several other football models: Mercurial R9, Air Zoom Italia and Air Zoom Mercurial. The last boot on this list is a rare model with full-length Zoom Air cushioning.
This five circle logo project has become associated with performance and excellence on the court. Having launched a line of already very light boots, the designers continued to work on further weight reduction.
By achieving a weight reduction of 230 grams in Match Mercurial, the team proved that they are not going to stop there. Externally, the second generation was similar to the original Mercurial, but got its own visual aesthetic. The upper of the boot was copper in color with black areas at the toe and heel.
Nike Mercurial Vapor (2002)
The first Mercurial was focused solely on the development of maximum speed on the field. Having reached the third version, the designers shifted their focus somewhat. They set themselves the task of creating a boot that fast players could run across the field for all 90 minutes of the match. And for this, ideal sensations from the contact of the foot with the ground are required.
Continuing to work on the lightness of shoes, the designers began to weigh every element of previous models, down to glue and thread.
The innovative cut allowed not only to reduce weight, but also added comfort. The new last took into account the natural shape of the foot and brought it closer to the plate. In 2003, a women’s version of the Mercurial Vapor was created, which took into account the characteristics of the female foot.
The design of the upper continued the theme of speed and was inspired by the fastest sports cars. The colorway was a dark gray upper with a white side swoosh and light green accents on the studs and rear.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 2 (2004)
The Mercurial Vapor II continues to improve comfort and ground contact. The heel here had an enlarged lug for extra ankle cushioning.
Several eye-catching colorways were released: the red and white “Team Red” and the gold and black Ronaldo signature boots. The bold design stood out on the legs of another rising star, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo. And this was the beginning of the transfer of the baton from one Ronaldo to another.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 3 (2006)
When designing the Vapor III, the focus was on bringing the ball closer to the player’s foot without sacrificing comfort throughout the match. Teijin microfiber was used in the upper part of the boot, which adapted to the shape of the foot. The heel cup received more padding, the speed last was anatomically contoured, and a two-piece studded plate provided multi-directional traction and acceleration.
Cristiano Ronaldo wore these boots in a bold ‘Cactus’ colorway while Brazil’s Ronaldo received a limited edition Mercurial Vapor III R9in honor of the record for the number of goals scored in tournaments. Also in 2007, a 10th Anniversary colorway for the Mercurial series was released. She repeated the color scheme of the original first boots.
Nike Mercurial Vapor SL (2008)
In January 2006, Mark Parker became CEO of Nike. He challenged every design team in the company to create something outrageous with no limits.
And along the way, rethink innovation in sports shoes.
Taking on the challenge, Nike Football has taken the Mercurial Speed Boot concept even further with an all-carbon-fibre boot. Her weight was only 185 grams. And these boots have become a global product, because. the upper was made in Italy, the plate was made in Germany, and the sole was made in South Korea. Featuring a carbon upper and a bold colorway with pink swoosh, these boots will be remembered by players and football fans for a long time.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 4 (2008)
Designing a continuous strike surface and giving the boot the look of aerodynamic sprint spikes for running was a priority in shaping the look of this model. A Teijin overlay on the upper covered the laces, while a new fiberglass inner chassis provided instant acceleration. The operation of the boots was reminiscent of the propulsive click of track spikes.
The focus on speed was enhanced by the “Orange Peel” and “Citron” colorways.
These were some of the boldest color combinations ever seen on a football field. And the pink coloring of “Vapor Rosa” finally “broke the brain” of adherents of strict black boots.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 5 and Vapor Superfly (2009)
Mercurial Vapor 5Mercurial Superfly
The Vaporfly 5 retains the same lace-covering patch as the previous version. A novelty was the second modification of the Vaporfly – it was the lightest and fastest of all Nike boots at that time. A composite upper made use of ultra-thin Teijin artificial leather and new Nike Flywire material provided support for the foot. This finely tuned foot shell provides the best possible fit and unparalleled ball feel.
New lightweight spikes and carbon fiber chassis further reduce weight. The seven-layer carbon outsole was also as resilient and flexible as possible. The well-coordinated work of the technological upper and the new lower part made it possible to react faster to changing game situations and instantly accelerate.
And the design of the boot emphasized the high-tech aesthetic.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 6 and Superfly 2 (2010)
Mercurial Vapor 6Mercurial Superfly 2
The second generation Superfly was inspired by the cheetah. They focused their attention on issues of speed and grip. Following the ideas of Cristiano Ronaldo, Nike developed the SENSE technology, studs that can extend and retract a few millimeters depending on the pressure exerted on them and the condition of the ground. The application of this technology allowed to achieve optimal speed and stability in all directions.
In the summer of 2010, the Elite modification was released, in which a carbon fiber plate was used, which further reduced the weight. She received the colors “Mach Violet” and “Total Orange”. The colors have been put together in a special way based on research into which colors stimulate peripheral vision the most in gaming environments.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 7 and Superfly 3 (2011)
Mercurial Vapor 7Mercurial Superfly 3
The goal of the third version of the Superfly was to make the most of every chance in the game.
It was necessary to exclude small trips and slips that the opponent could take advantage of. For this, the grip in the forefoot was strengthened and a three-blade configuration was developed. This reduced the risk of slipping and improved speed when changing direction.
The composite upper is further streamlined with a carbon fiber chassis. The coloring of the boots continued the idea of maximum visual stimulation from the Elite version of the previous generation.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 8 (2012)
Excluding the 2008 Vapor SL, the new model is the eighth numbered version of the Vapor boot. The accents in its development were the ideas of explosive acceleration to the ball and its touch at maximum speed.
New flexible fiberglass outsole used a new studded traction system. It provided fast penetration into the ground, and the central spike with a high pressure point allowed for increased acceleration. The contour last follows the natural shape of the foot and has a softer heel.
There was also a lowered toe and a modified arch of the foot. The Teijin’s suede upper improved touch and ball control for a barefoot feel.
In terms of appearance, the bright “burning” Mango color scheme attracted the most attention.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 9 (2013)
With the ninth edition of the Vapor, the designers focused on maximum ball control. The top of the boots was equipped with two technologies. The first is ACC (All Conditions Control) for a stable feeling of the ball in any weather. The second is Speed Control, with a texture that resembles a golf ball and provides equal soft touch and friction on the ball.
Lightweight cleat plate made from two separate pieces of fiberglass for increased flexibility. Asymmetrically configured dual studs provided ultra-responsive acceleration and traction in all directions.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Mercurial Vapor 9 CR7 colorway comes in neon colors with a Safari print. Another interesting colorway was “Supernova” with an intergalactic print that emphasized the explosive speed that seemed to come from another world.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 10 and Superfly 4 (2014)
Mercurial Vapor 10Mercurial Superfly 4
The Superfly 4 was inspired by the idea that these boots are designed for players who are always one step ahead of their opponent. The new 3-strand Flyknit weave in the upper reduces the amount of material between the foot and the ball. As a result, the touch and feeling of the ball has improved significantly. To improve the connection of the player with the boot, a high Dynamic Fit collar was introduced. A For added lockdown and efficient power transfer, the designers have added Brio cables sewn directly into the upper of the boot.
But even this is not a complete list of innovations. On the heel of the boot, additional spikes were added to increase stability. Combined with enhanced forefoot traction, this further brought out the track roots of the Mercurial Series and provided a new level of traction and propulsion.
With the high collar, which was first used on the Nike Magista, the boot’s appearance has been redesigned.
It was even used in the HTM Nike Free Flyknit Mercurial SP football shoe as a visual part of the design rather than a functional element. As a result, the high collar solution was the beginning of one of the most significant trends in the recent history of football shoes.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 11 and Superfly 5 (2016)
Mercurial Vapor 11Mercurial Superfly 5
Every component of the new model has been designed to work together to unleash the player’s full speed potential. The designers used a new anatomically shaped plate to eliminate the gap that previously existed under the foot. A new vacuum forming process has made it possible to create a single-layer chassis for the outsole. It is now 40% lighter, yet stronger and more responsive than the previous carbon fiber plate.
For the first time, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) data has been collected to implement science-based decisions in clutch pattern selection. As a result, a pattern was selected that, when accelerated, acted like the claws of an animal.
For the first time, data-driven textures were used to create the Flyknit “Speed Rib” 3D texture. Embossed surfaces provided the necessary friction between the top of the boot and the ball. The look of the Superfly 5 is best shown in a series of colorways for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Nike Mercurial 360 Vapor and 360 Superfly (2018)
Mercurial 360 VaporMercurial 360 Superfly
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2018, brand new 360 editions were released with a focus on perfect fit. After all, the correct landing is the basis of speed. The entire foot in these boots was covered in Nike Flyknit material that hugs the foot and eliminates the gap with the outsole.
In fact, the new boots had no sole at all. The insoles interacted immediately with the internal chassis, tuned for maximum responsiveness. Using computational programming, the chassis has been individually tuned for each boot size. This ensured the correct fit not only for the base size, but for the entire size range.
Precisely placed studs in the toe and heel provide traction. The aggressive forefoot allows for acceleration in all directions, while the heel studs help the player stay in place when needed. The boot features a minimalistic upper design with a Swoosh badge on the toe and a stylized “M” on the heel in honor of the series’ name.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 12 & Superfly 6 (2019)
Mercurial Vapor 12Mercurial Superfly 6
The next numbered editions of the Vapor and Superfly continued the Flyknit full-fit design. In fact, these were improved 360 versions of 2018, because this design appealed to many players around the world.
This is an improved Flyknit yarn with microtexturing and a NIkeSkin overlay. The ACC (All Condition Control) technology has also been improved. Many interesting colorways were released for these boots, but the grey-yellow and blue variant were the most memorable.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 13 and Superfly 7 (2020)
Mercurial Vapor 13Superfly 7
The 2020 update brings the same proven technologies to bear.
A seamless, knitted one-piece upper wraps the foot for a comfortable feel. A NikeSkin overlay with ACC coating provides a secure touch in both dry and wet conditions.
Nike Aerotrack zone in the forefoot. The angled studs here grip the turf firmly, delivering explosive acceleration with every stride. Interesting colors include Neymar’s multi-colored Jogo Prismatico boots, as well as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Safari print colorway.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 14 and Superfly 8 (2021)
Mercurial Vapor 14 in Navy Mercurial Superfly 8 in Black
The 2021 generation of minimalist design uses minimal materials to play at maximum speed. The shock-absorbing insole creates additional comfort and helps in performance of fast jerks. NikeGrip technology prevents the foot from slipping in the boots during acceleration.
Flyknit upper made as light as possible. To create it, only the amount of material that is really necessary for high functionality was used.
Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 and Superfly 9 (2022)
Mercurial Zoom Vapor 15Mercurial Zoom Superfly 9
New to the Mercurial line for 2022, the Superfly 9 and Vapor 15 boots feature Zoom Air technology.
Long used in running shoes, the airy inserts now help footballers get even faster on the pitch. Read more >
For the latest versions of the Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 and Superfly 9 boots, see the front of this article. To be continued…
***
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Where to buy?
You can buy branded Mercurial boots in these stores. Compare prices:
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See the full list of stores here.
See also
Which Nike model is right for you?
What is the difference between boots belonging to different groups?
First, technology used . All the latest developments are used to create, first of all, elite models. At other levels, less high-tech methods and elements can be used.
Second, materials . More expensive models use more durable and flexible materials – this applies to both the sole and the top of the boot. This is due to the fact that in football boots, for example, of the Elite level, football players spend half of their lives, because for them football is an everyday job. Boots worn by professionals are much more likely to be subjected to intense stress than those played by amateurs. A noticeable difference between the Elite level boots is also that in their manufacture there is a great emphasis on reducing the weight of the model. Each Elite model will be significantly lighter than models of any other level.
Of course, boots of different levels differ in the price of . Elite are the most expensive models, and Club are the budget ones. Equipment may also vary: more expensive models often come with a special bag for shoes.
As a rule, the brand tries to release all four levels within each line.
For example, the Nike Spectrum Pack collection includes all levels of the Phantom GT : Elite, Pro, Academy and Club. Consider the differences between professional levels using this model as an example.
1. Nike Phantom GT Elite DF FG Boots
Price: 29 999 Р
Features:
A complete package of all the upgrades: Padded toe and instep construction, Flyknit stretchy supportive upper, textured surface for a precise touch, high traction outsole, and through-arch overlay for lightness and stability. One of the fundamental differences is the All Conditions Control (ACC) technology, which allows you to reliably control the ball regardless of weather conditions. This technology is used mainly in expensive models. In the Elite model, we also see an updated shape of the pimples: round pimples seem to be cut diagonally.
2. Nike Phantom GT Pro DF FG
Price: 16 199 Р
Features:
The Pro model uses the same technologies as the Elite model, but there are still differences.
This, for example, is a less voluminous alluvial relief and a less pronounced inscription with the name of the model. The spikes are more rounded, the sole is no longer so light.
3. Shoes Nike Phantom GT Academy DF FG/MG
Price: 8 399 Р
Features:
In the Academy model, the toe with an instep is already without sealing, the sole is also without an overlay. The transition between the Flyknit fiber and the upper material is rougher – there is no feeling of a one-piece close-fitting construction, and there is no All Conditions Control technology. The requirements for amateur boots are much lower: amateur football is much less intense and regular than professional football, and besides, a certain level of play does not always allow you to notice the difference between the technologies used.
4. Nike Phantom GT Club DF FG/MG Cleats
Price: 5 299 Р
Features:
Club-level boots have a significantly smaller non-slip padding area, a different collar design, and a less flexible upper material.
