Soccer Cleats 101 Soccer Cleats News and Reviews
There is another unique aspect to the new Adidas Predator LZ outside of the 5 Lethal Zones that has people talking – the new Upper. In similar fashion to other recent Adidas releases, things have been switched up and the traditional K-Leather upper has been abandoned. In its place, Adidas is using a newly developed and advanced hybrid synthetic, called Hybridtouch. Already, players are comparing it against the KangaLite upper that Nike uses and it is a material we are sure to hear plenty about going forward!
With that in mind, here is exactly what you need to know about Hybridtouch:
- Hybridtouch takes 4 times longer than a traditional leather to absorb the same quantity of water.
- Hybridtouch is more resistant under stress conditions and maintains it’s snug shape for a longer period of time.
- Hybridtouch is 40% lighter than natural leather.
- The bonding of Hybridtouch material has an impressive performance in wet and dry conditions.
It all sounds impressive, but ultimately the real test will be when we get them out on the field for testing – which will start this weekend! Stay tuned for more updates, images and details as we get them. (the above stats were supplied by Adidas)
For those interested in pre-ordering a pair, they are now available from both Soccer.com and WeGotSoccer with a retail of $198.
any idea when another colorway or turf/indoor versions will be released?
on soccerpro.com there is a red/black colorway which looks a little better.
Does anyone know what Hybridtouch or Kangalite are made out of? The "hybrid" label suggests that they aren't just normal synthetics. Are they some sort of leather that has been heavily treated and altered to make a half-leather, half-synthetic material?
Need a solid blue version like the old Pred Pulse.
Hybrid as in Hybrid of the properties, not the material. They're 100% synthetic leather
But what’s the difference between a synthetic leather upper and a synthetic upper? Aren’t they essentially the same thing?
I think a synthetic leather is supposed to copy the feel of leather, while a synthetic upper is more like a plastic material. I could be wrong though. All in all, I think they are pretty similar.
That is a pretty accurate summary, Marshall!
Adidas, please bring back the focus on k-leather and stop trying to copy Nike.
Yes, k-leather is the way to go
R.I.P Pred. This is not Pred. Why adidas making this terrible shoes. Is like copy Mizuno Wave Ignitus. I saw someone comments in this Mizuno “put 3stripes anh it will be hit”.
And now after 2yrs, adidas make it 🙂 Anyway Mizuno is leather shoes, not like this s(hit)ynthetic leather. I know, that it will sell good bs adidas is big company.
Anyway Xavi,Kaka not debut this shoes,bs they lose in semifinal Champ.League in this Preds:D Awful release from adidas.
Nike and you sucks
When is the review out?:)
I can't wait to hear your review, i hope the performance aspect is an awesome as the asthetics!