Soccer Cleats 101 Soccer Cleats News and Reviews
Nike is back with a new release in the Mercurial Vapor range that looks to blow the Vapor VII out of the water! The Nike Mercurial Vapor 8 has been completely re-engineered to suit the needs of players who want great control and a new level of traction. There is a lot to take in about the new release, so we have broken each feature of the new boot into categories for a more simplified read.
Designed for Speed
Everything about these boots seems to be streamlined toward speed, starting with the fact that they have been trimmed down to an extremely lightweight 6.5oz. The upper has also been developed in such a way that it fits in an ultra snug fashion right across your foot, with a 4mm toe box reinforcer giving players a snug and seamless fit.
Touch and Control – Suede Upper
Other major changes include the transition to a Teijin microfiber upper material that offers a suede like finish to enhance touch and control. This is obviously an area that increases intrigue and I am interested to see just how they feel to the touch.
The Nike Vapor 8 is currently available on order from soccer.com!
What is different about the soleplate?
Then there is the soleplate – oh yes, this is where things really get interesting! I can’t say that the reinvention of a new glass composite soleplate surprises me, especially after all the criticism that went with its predecessor. A new anatomical last, which is enhanced by a more minimalist and softer heel area,doubles up with a completely reengineered stud configuration for a new level of comfort, support and traction. Traction is key here, especially when you determine the type of player these boots are designed for. Cristiano Ronaldo has been a long time Nike Mercurial wearer and when asked about the new boot he said:
“The Mercurial Vapor 8 gives my game an edge combining the latest design and innovations. I can get ahead of defenders, knowing that the boot will give me the speed and grip I need without compromising support, control or, of course, style.”
Stud Configuration
It all kicks off with a new 2-blade heel design. We are all accustomed to a 4 blade or stud heel design and it is something we expect from a boot. The Pele Trinity recently curbed that expectation and now the Vapor 8 goes a step further. The concept here is that the design allows for a quick release from the turf. Up front, you get an asymmetrical stud configuration that feature sharper studs to cut through the turf more effectively. This will in turn have benefits as you look to cut and turn quickly.
The Visuals
Something Nike has sort of transitioned from was the idea of visually enhanced boots, but, the Vapor 8 offers a look that is designed to stand out in-game. The initial colorway comes in a Mango, with a multiple colored flash existing on the heel to help the boot stand out. From initial images of the boot in-game, the colorway is definitely easy to spot.
Other Details
There is obviously a lot more that goes with this boot and we are eager to get our hands on a pair to test. I’m excited by the changes that Nike has made and feel this version has a lot more to offer players than the Vapor VII. I’m not so sure about this particualar colorway, but there are plenty of new looks lined up that are sure to cater to all tastes. Watch out for the boots as they make their official debut on March 24th, with an official launch date of March 29th set. The Nike Vapor 8 will retail for $220.
Stay tuned for more images and details on the new boot throughout the day! What are your thoughts on the new release and will you be looking to pick up a pair?
