Adidas Predator LZ in Bright Gold/Black/White

When you need a colorway that matches a winning ambition, Gold is a pretty obvious way to go. And now that the Adidas Predator LZ has been released in this Bright Gold/Black/White, I imagine there will be no shortage of the new colorway on fields right around the country!

The merge of Gold to Black on this version is very similar to that seen on the Infrared/Black release from a few weeks back, and it offers a sharp look. I am slightly surprised that Adidas didn’t choose to use a different color through the Lethal Zones, something that probably would have increased the effect of the Gold – but as it is the look is very distinguished and sure to sell well.

Retail wise they sit at the same $219.99 as the other 4 colorway releases we have seen thus far in the Predator LZ range.

So, what makes the new Predator so different from previous editions? On this release, you get 5 different areas where technology has been employed, producing 5 different levels of performance. Rather than being a Power boot, this latest release is more of a hybrid that offers players more control right throughout their game. The 5 Lethal Zones are as follows:

1. The large First Touch zone has recessed ribs to cushion impact and stop the ball. It’s a vacuum effect for instant control.
2. The Drive zone has a raised and thicker 3D shape following the natural curve of the instep to help create rebound distance and open the game.
3. The Dribble zone is designed for quick contact with the ball and close control.
4. The large Control/Pass zone is memory foam with a sticky coating on top. This ensures consistency, precision and killer passing.
5. On the Sweet Spot zone 3D ribs ensure longer contact with the ball to generate speed and spin.

As is the current trend with new releases, the upper has been re-engineered to combine the properties of a leather and synthetic upper. The material used is a mix of synthetic and a new Hybrid SL, adding an interesting twist to the release. The real test will be how they perform in game – something I will update on after this weekend. The Predator Zones are each composed of a SL rubber that adds a new element of control.

In terms of weight, they come in at 8.0oz, which is just a slight bit heavier than the adiPower Predator and is definitely lightweight for a power boot. Within the soleplate, Adidas has again placed a cavity for players who want to take advantage of miCoach technology.  Finally, they are going to have an initial retail price of around $220.