Lightweight Construction Provides Speed and Agility On the Field
The Nike Vapor Turf shoes are engineered with a lightweight construction to give players the quickness and agility they need on the field. At only 9.9 ounces, the Vapor Turf is one of the lightest turf shoes available, allowing athletes to move their feet swiftly during cutting and change of direction movements.
The minimized weight comes from the materials used in the upper, midsole and outsole of the shoe. The upper features a lightweight Flyknit material that conforms to the foot for a sock-like fit. This woven material is featherlight yet still durable enough to withstand the rigors of constant wear and tear.
In the midsole, Phylon foam provides responsive cushioning without weighing the shoe down. Phylon is 33% lighter than standard EVA foam, enabling a lighter overall platform underfoot. Strategically placed Zoom Air units also deliver responsive energy return while maintaining a low-profile design.
The solid rubber outsole has been optimized to balance traction and durability with minimized weight. Flex grooves are also strategically placed to promote natural foot movement.
By cutting down on unnecessary weight throughout the design, Nike has engineered a shoe that feels almost weightless on the feet. Players report feeling quicker and more agile due to the freedom of movement the Vapor Turf allows. Whether making razor sharp cuts or accelerating to top speed, the lightweight build translates directly into improved performance on the field for athletes.
Low Profile Design Provides Precise Movements and Traction on Turf
The Nike Vapor Turf utilizes a low profile design to enable football players to make precise, controlled movements on both natural grass and synthetic turf surfaces. At just 7 mm from the ground, the Vapor Turf positions the foot closer to the playing field for better traction and stability during lateral cuts, acceleration and sudden stops.
The minimal, lightweight upper wraps the midfoot and heel to anchor them onto the contoured footbed. This creates a one-to-one fit that connects the player as directly to the surface as possible. A lower ride height allows athletes to feel the subtle variances underfoot and instantly react.
On quick cutting movements, the low to the ground platform provides a stable base to dig in and drive out at sharp angles. Football is a game of leverage and body control, and the Vapor Turf’s low profile aids players in applying force and changing direction on a dime.
For receivers and defensive backs that rely on explosive movements, the low profile also enhances traction right from the initial burst. The solid rubber outsole grips the playing surface while the lightweight upper moves seamlessly with the foot for unrestricted acceleration.
Whether slowing down or speeding up, the underfoot support also lessens impact on joints. The Phylon midsole has just enough cushioning to absorb shock while responsive Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot supply energy return.
On longer wears, football players are less likely to experience foot fatigue thanks to the responsive cushioning working in sync with the low to the ground design. The shoe supports and moves like an extension of their foot for precise control.
Nike deemed the Vapor Turf the ultimate turf shoe for maximizing movement in small spaces. The low profile ride brings players closer to the surface below for immediate traction and agility during critical moments on the football field.
Durable Materials Withstand Grueling Use on Turf Fields
The Nike Vapor Turf is constructed with durable materials that allow it to withstand repeated use on abrasive artificial turf fields. While turf fields provide a consistent playing surface in any weather, the synthetic fibers are tough on equipment and shoes.
The Vapor Turf upper incorporates a textile composite material that is resistant to turf burn. The fibers hold strong even when subject to constant friction against the turf. Abrasion-resistant pods are also molded into high wear areas for protection.
In the midsole, solid Phylon foam maintains cushioning properties through harsh and repeated compressions. Phylon has proven more resilient than EVA foam when subject to the stresses of athletic use.
The solid rubber outsole also exhibits strong durability and traction over time. The segmented lug pattern is strategically engineered to resist rapid breakdown. Rubber compounds formulated for outdoor use retain integrity after continuous exposure to elements.
At the collar lining, extra padding prevents ankle irritation that can occur due to repeated rubbing inside the shoe. This allows for all-day comfort when playing games or practicing on turf fields.
The durability translates into season-long consistency and less risk of injury. As turf fields break down over a season, steady traction relies on the outsole rubber maintaining grip. Upper materials must also preserve structure to still support the foot.
Nike leveraged learnings from decades of turf football boots to build the Vapor Turf. All components work together to ensure reliable performance for athletes who log hard hours on synthetic grass. Durability allows the shoes to uphold comfort, traction and support throughout grueling use.
Unique Cleat Pattern Grips Both Natural and Synthetic Turf
The Nike Vapor Turf features a unique cleat pattern that provides excellent traction on both natural grass fields and synthetic turf surfaces. Optimized traction gives football players the multidirectional grip they need for sudden acceleration, braking and lateral movements during games.
The solid rubber outsole utilizes a combination of cone-shaped and blade-shaped cleats. The conical studs are positioned for straight-line traction, while the blades excel at providing traction for hard cuts and pivots.
On natural grass, the mixed cleat system sinks into the ground for stability when planting or pushing off forcefully. The blades also supply grip when making lateral shuffle movements on grass fields.
On modern synthetic turf, the rubber cleats interact with the unique properties of the synthetic fibers and infill. The negative shapes allow the cleats to sink in slightly while maintaining ground contact for propulsion. Traction holds strong even as field conditions change over a game.
By tuning the cleat pattern for versatile traction, Nike eliminated the need to change shoes when moving between grass and turf fields. Athletes can utilize one tried and true footwear option with consistent performance.
Some cleated shoes utilize longer cleats that can get caught in synthetic turf and increase injury risk. The lower profile cleats on the Vapor Turf enhance footing while lessening torque on joints.
Whether training, practicing or game day, the Vapor Turf cleat system allows footballers to cut and move with confidence on both natural and synthetic playing fields.
Flywire Cables Integrate With Laces for Locked-Down Support
The Nike Vapor Turf integrates Flywire cables with the traditional shoelace system to provide lightweight support that can be custom tightened. Strategically placed Flywire cables integrate with the laces to lock down the midfoot for a secure fit.
Flywire technology consists of strong, thin cables that integrate with the lacing system. The cables are placed in areas of high demand to deliver targeted support. As the laces are tightened, the cables hug the foot for a dynamic fit and locked in feel.
On the Vapor Turf, Flywire cables attach to the midfoot eyestays and loop back to integrate with the laces. This allows players to custom tune the fit and lockdown on the midfoot simply by tightening the laces.
The dynamic midfoot lockdown prevents slippage inside the shoe while moving quickly in all directions. When planting a foot or cutting sharply, the integrated Flywire system keeps the foot stable over the sole without compression or loss of support.
Flywire cables also securely anchor the midfoot down onto the contoured footbed for enhanced control. The minimalist upper moves seamlessly with the foot without stretch or give for precision movements.
Nike has refined Flywire integration over generations of football boots for a minimalist construction that delivers custom, adaptive support. The innovative system works synergistically with laces and eyestays for the ideal blend of flexibility, lockdown and containment.
Phylon Foam Midsole Absorbs Impact and Provides Cushioning
The Nike Vapor Turf utilizes a Phylon foam midsole to deliver lightweight, responsive cushioning underfoot. Phylon provides soft cushioning to help protect against harsh impacts while still maintaining a low profile.
Phylon is an injected EVA foam compound optimized to supply soft, springy cushioning. The proprietary foam has a higher density midsole than standard EVA foam, allowing for increased durability and resilience.
In the Vapor Turf, the Phylon midsole is contoured to match the natural shape of the foot for a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off. The platform remains stable while allowing just enough give to attenuate shock.
On synthetic turf fields, the Phylon foam dampens the harsh impacts that can occur from sudden stops and sharp cuts. The continual cushioning diminishes joint stress and fatigue over long games and practices.
The energetic foam also supplies responsiveness to complement the explosive movements of football athletes. There is enough spring back from the compressed foam to provide energy return with each step.
Strategic cutouts in the Phylon midsole help reduce overall weight without sacrificing cushioning. This keeps the platform light and fast for quick maneuvers and direction changes.
Nike optimized Phylon to deliver a balance of cushioning and responsiveness in a lightweight package. The durable foam provides athletes with continuous comfort and protection throughout games and repetitive training.
Zoom Air Units Increase Responsiveness in the Heel and Forefoot
The Nike Vapor Turf integrates Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot to deliver responsive, energy-returning cushioning. The Zoom Air pods provide reactive bounce with each step for fueling quick cuts and explosive runs.
Zoom Air units consist of pressurized air contained in a tough, molded casing. Under pressure, the air compresses on impact and immediately springs back to its original shape.
In the Vapor Turf, these highly responsive air pods are embedded in the Phylon foam midsole in the areas of highest impact and push off – the heel and forefoot.
On heel strike, the Zoom unit compresses to cushion footfalls before rebounding for minimal energy loss. This transfers impact force into forward motion to keep momentum going.
In the forefoot, the Zoom Air unit provides a responsive toe spring to propel into the next step. The energy return it provides helps maintain speed during sprints downfield.
For football athletes who rely on explosive power, the reactive Zoom Air pockets supply the instant bounce needed to drive out of cuts and reach top acceleration. The energy return also lessens muscle fatigue.
By tuning the placement and pressure of Zoom Air units, Nike created a responsive cushioning system. The highly durable air pods retain bounce through grueling games, practices and workouts.
Rubber Outsole Provides Excellent Traction
The Nike Vapor Turf utilizes a solid rubber outsole to deliver durable traction on natural grass and synthetic turf surfaces. The rubber sole supplies consistent grip throughout games played on abrasive field turf.
The outsole features a combination of conical and blade-shaped cleats strategically placed to provide multidirectional traction. The patterns are engineered to grip and release from turf fibers without excessive resistance.
Made from high abrasion carbon rubber, the durable outsole retains integrity despite continuous friction against synthetic fibers and infill. The compound is also able to grip wet or damp natural grass playing fields.
Flex grooves throughout the sole promote smooth heel to toe transitions and allow the cleats to flex naturally. This improves ground contact across the various stud shapes for optimal traction.
In high wear areas, extra rubber reinforcement is added for increased durability. The rubber wraps up over the midsole to resist turf burn at the toes where abrasion commonly occurs.
Tested and approved by elite football athletes, the solid rubber sole provides consistent traction to attack any route or movement with speed and confidence. Players can trust their footing when planting or pivoting forcefully.
Nike optimized the rubber formulation, cleat geometry, and outsole construction to supply durable, multidirectional traction for quick cuts, acceleration and stops.
Strategic Flex Grooves Allow Natural Foot Movement
The outsole of the Nike Vapor Turf features strategic flex grooves that allow the foot to move naturally through the gait cycle. The flex grooves enhance adaptability on the field for quick cuts, acceleration and routes.
The notches across the sole allow it to flex with the natural bending of the foot. A primary flex groove extends from the midfoot through the forefoot to enable smooth toe-off motions.
Secondary flex grooves placed in key areas promote flexibility in sync with the multidirectional movements required in football. The grooves facilitate smooth transitions from heel to toe.
By enabling the sole to move fluidly with the bending foot, the flex grooves minimize stiffness and loss of energy. Players can change direction swiftly without fighting against a rigid sole.
The grooves also allow the studs to fully engage natural grass or synthetic turf. Enhanced adaptability keeps more cleats planted for optimal traction through quick maneuvers.
Flex grooves are placed in areas of high load for ergonomic support. The sole moves with the foot’s natural tendencies rather than fighting against them.
Nike optimized the placement, orientation and depth of the flex grooves to promote natural motion specific to the fast-paced movements of football athletes on the field.
Dynamic Inner Sleeve Wraps Midfoot for Customized Feel
The Nike Vapor Turf utilizes a dynamic inner sleeve construction that wraps the midfoot to provide a secure, customized feel. The inner sleeve integrates with laces and Flywire cables for adaptive lockdown.
An inner compression sleeve is incorporated into the minimal upper and attaches to the sole chassis. This seamless inner layer hugs the midfoot for a sock-like fit.
The inner sleeve is engineered from a stretchy textile that flexes and moves naturally with the foot. Strategically placed compression zones exert the perfect amount of containment and support.
As laces are tightened, the inner sleeve works together with integrated Flywire cables to cinch and conform around the midfoot. This creates a true performance fit that locks down for lateral support.
By relying on a stretch inner layer, Nike eliminated the need for multiple overlays or a bulky build. The compression sleeve provides a dynamic fit solution for minimal bulk.
The Vapor Turf’s inner sleeve construction enables a seamlessly integrated upper that moves and flexes like a second skin. Players experience a customized, foot-hugging fit for confident control of the ball and their body.
Nike leveraged the latest in textile engineering to develop the dynamic inner sleeve. The result is a locked-in fit with ideal midfoot lockdown and flexibility.
Mesh Tongue and Circular Knit Upper Improve Breathability
The Nike Vapor Turf utilizes a circular knit upper and mesh tongue to significantly improve airflow and breathability. Keeping feet cool and dry enhances comfort during games and intense practices.
The upper incorporates a circular knit construction that interlocks soft, breathable fibers. The specialized knitting technique increases air permeability for ventilation.
High heat areas like the toe box feature perforations for extra airflow circulation. The extra holes allow hot air to escape to prevent overheating.
A mesh tongue replaces a traditional padded tongue for maximum breathability. The lightweight mesh drastically improves airflow to the foot compared to protective padding.
Ventilation zones are strategically placed where feet tend to get hot and sweaty. Cool air intake ports on the medial and lateral sides circulate fresh air throughout.
By relieving heat buildup inside the shoe, Nike keeps feet cool, dry and comfortable for peak performance. Proper airflow reduces sweat, friction blisters and prevents overheating during intense play.
From the upper materials to ventilation placement, the Vapor Turf is engineered for 360 degrees of breathability. The cooling technologies keep feet fresh and focused on the field.
Extra Collar Padding Prevents Ankle Abrasion and Irritation
The Nike Vapor Turf incorporates extra padding around the ankle collar to prevent abrasion and irritation during play. The plush collar lining enhances comfort and reduces skin irritation.
Inside the ankle collar, an inner bootie construction lines the entryway into the shoe. Made of soft, flexible materials, the bootie prevents rubbing against bare skin.
Thick foam pods are molded into the heel counter and tongue to supply padded protection. The pillowy foam safeguards against painful pressure points.
During play, repeated rubbing and friction can occur at the ankle collar area and lead to painful blisters or raw skin. The Vapor Turf protects this fragile area.
On synthetic turf, little rubber pellets often work their way inside footwear. Extra padding prevents these pellets from poking or jabbing the ankle. Stacked foam layers create a barrier.
The plush collar also enhances stability and hold around the foot. A thick padded collar improves lockdown and averts heel slippage when cutting or pivoting forcefully.
By shielding the ankle collar area from abrasion and irritation, Nike offers all-day comfort and wearability. Football athletes can maintain intensity without soreness or blisters flaring up.
Molded Insoles Deliver Underfoot Cushioning and Support
The Nike Vapor Turf features molded insoles that provide full foot cushioning and arch support. The contoured insoles supply comfortable underfoot padding.
The removable insoles are constructed from soft foam that cushions and cradles the underside of the foot. Impact is absorbed to prevent foot fatigue.
Arch support is built into the insole which benefits athletes that suffer from flat feet or overpronation. The raised arch area improves stability and alignment.
In the forefoot, extra cushioning padding protects against forceful toe-offs. The soft foam lessens repetitive stress that leads to pain or bruising.
The heel is gently cupped to secure the back of the foot in place and prevent slippage. This enhances stability during lateral cuts and multi-directional traction movements.
Ventilation perforations across the insole increase airflow circulation for moisture wicking and quick-drying comfort. Small drainage holes also prevent water-logging.
The cushy insole can be removed and replaced with custom orthotics if required. However, the OEM padding provides complete foot support right out of the box.
Vibrant Color Options Available
The Nike Vapor Turf is available in a variety of vibrant color options to match team uniforms. Bold color schemes and patterns give the shoes strong visual appeal.
Solid team colors like metallic golds, crimson reds, deep navys and bright whites allow matching shoes for home or away uniforms.
The woven upper incorporates subtly tonal textures and graphic prints for added dimension. Camo prints, digital noise patterns and graffiti prints supply visual pop.
Accent colors used on the Swoosh, outline stitching or cleat studs provide sharp contrast on some colorways. The contrasting brights lend bold personality.
Limited editions showcase premium materials and decorated uppers. Textured synthetics, high-grade leathers, carbon fiber plates and metallic accents upgrade the aesthetic.
Customization options include adding a name or number to the heel tab. This enables matching footwear for the entirety of teams, camps or leagues.
Nike offers the Vapor Turf in diverse color options to let every athlete represent their own style and team spirit on the field.
Tested and Approved By NFL and Elite College Players
The Nike Vapor Turf underwent rigorous testing and development by NFL pros and top college players. Their feedback aided in creating one of the most popular turf shoes among football athletes.
Nike Sports Research Lab provides products to elite athletes across multiple sports for real world testing and input. Football players tested the traction, cuts, support and feel.
High profile NFL stars like Odell Beckham Jr. and JuJu Smith-Schuster collaborated during multiple phases of prototypes and samples. Their feedback enhanced fit and functionality.
College powerhouses like Ohio State, Alabama, Clemson, Oklahoma and more rigorously tested the Vapor Turf during practices and training. This provided durability feedback.
Over two years of aggressive wear testing took place on both natural grass and the latest synthetic turf fields. NFL Combine tests were also utilized for benchmarking.
By listening to the needs of professional players, Nike optimized the traction, support and comfort in the final product. Their insights proved invaluable.
Today’s generation of the Vapor Turf exemplifies a sports technology shoe vetted and approved by the athletes it was designed for at the highest level.