Adidas F50 adizero: Leather vs Synthetic

After reviewing the Synthetic version and the Leather version of the Adidas F50 adizero, many of you were keen to know how they performed against each other. Well, without making you all wait any longer, here is the full scoop and a simple comparison of both boots side by side. Let me start of by saying that no images do the Chameleon version justice, including the image above that really doesn’t capture the real colors and details seen on the cleat.

There are several differences between both upper materials that give them their own distinct advantages, so I have broken it down into different areas:

Size: The Synthetic version fits slightly longer and wider than the leather version. I can confirm after swapping them on and off, that the leather version is a lot more snug from first wear. Over time, the leather stretches giving you a little extra room. Synthetic is typically not designed to stretch, so allowing them to have a larger fit means you don’t have to worry as much about discomfort while breaking them in.

Weight: Adidas use a single layer Sprintskin upper in the Synthetic version meaning you are getting a lighter boot. In terms of weight, there is 0.2oz weight difference and that really is not a great difference on a normal cleat. But if you are after the complete lightweight package, you are going to want the Synthetic version. Realistically, you are not going to notice any difference in weight.

Style: The biggest difference in terms of style lies in the fact that the Synthetic version has a shiny finish, while the Leather version has lined stitching along the front. When you look at both boots you can clearly see the difference. One other difference is the fact that the leather version has a less metallic look than the more smooth looking Synthetic version. This is evident in the pictures.

Feel: Even though the Synthetic version is extremely smooth looking, it comes with Grip’n Groove technology across the entire boot. These are the same type of rivets that are seen on the Jabulani ball and add a little extra feel to the boot. The leather version feels just as you would expect. It is a Galeo Cow leather that is treated at the leather tannery to form a surface that’s soft, lightweight and breathable. While wearing them, you will notice that the leather version bends with the contours of your feet unlike the Synthetic which kind of folds onto itself.

Support: The leather version offers more protection as the upper material is a lot thicker than the Synthetic. With that being said, Adidas have chosen to exclude the internal TPU support bands, which are designed to offer increased stability and support, from the leather version. Either way, you are getting protection and support, just in different ways.

Summary: Before anyone starts to comment asking which version is better, I will tell you now that it is all down to personal preference. If you prefer leather boots and want to spend some time molding them to your feet then go for the leather version. You will also have the advantage of a little extra padding across the strike zone. But if you want the complete speed package with the added bonus of Grip’n Groove technology and a Sprintframe, the synthetic version is the right choice for you!

Check out the full Synthetic range
Check out the full Leather range

Whichever version you do decide to go with, leave a comment below letting us know why you choose it and how it turns out!