Soccer Cleats 101 Soccer Cleats News and Reviews
Nike is back with the second generation of what is their lightest, fastest and greenest production boot on the market – the Nike Green Speed II. When the initial Green Speed was released, there was an absolute mass frenzy and the 2012 pairs sold out within hours. This time around, Nike has a new colorway and and added some addition personal touches, so don’t expect there to be too much different this time around.
We are one of the first to not only have a pair, but to also have had the opportunity to test them out already. Just to note, the images were taken after testing, so you might notice they have a slightly worn look. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know about the new boot, with some bonus comments on performance!
All Conditions Control
There is not a great deal different between these and the original version, except for the colorway and the inclusion of All Conditions Control (ACC) technology. ACC, which is a special treatment applied to the solvent-free Kanga-Lite synthetic upper during the development process, has the purpose of enhancing ball control in both wet and dry conditions. We have already seen this technology added to the current Nike line-up (including the Clash Collection) with positive feedback from players, so it makes sense to add it on this futuristic release.
What….No Funky Colors?
And then there is the colorway. My initial reaction when I saw them for the first time was one of shock. Not because they look bad, but rather because Nike chose a less obnoxious colorway than I was expecting. My eyes were ready for something like a Fluorescent Blue, so how refreshing was it to see the Black/White colorway when I opened the box. In fact, my reaction was caught on video for our summary episode of these boots (to be posted in the next few days!) so you will actually get to see it. In play, the White forefoot is really white, like the purest white you will find and it really stands out in play.
Renewable and Recycled Materials
As with the original release, the Nike GS 2 boot is constructed using renewable and recycled materials, designed for explosive performance on the pitch and lower impact on the planet. Every component has been optimized to reduce weight and waste, creating Nike’s lightest football boot ever at a superlight 5.6oz. Conceived and engineered in Italy, Nike use a bio-based traction plate, which is made primarily from castor beans to ensure strength and flexibility on pitch, alongside a sock liner made from 100% castor beans. The boot laces, lining and tongue are made from a minimum of 70% recycled materials, while the toeboard and collar feature at least 15% recycled materials.
Performance – Taking Them to the Pitch
If you had the glorious opportunity to own or wear a pair of the original Green Speed, they fit and feel the very same. For those who might be interested in this installment, note that they start out tight and need a few sessions to really break in. Because of the materials used, there is a particularly evident stiff feel through the ankle. Over time it does loosen up but don’t expect to take these out of the box and into a game, they need time. Through the forefoot, they offer a roomy fit and the Kanga-Lite synthetic upper is extremely soft – a definite plus and an area Nike has really perfected. The ACC technology adds a slightly tacky feel that really allows for a confident feel on the ball.
I’ve got 2 more sessions to really get a good feel for these boots, expose them to a 90minute game, and then they live the retired life of luxury! If I notice anything different, I’ll make sure to add some updates.
Who Will Wear Them?
Theo Walcott, Eden Hazard, Raheem Sterling, Mario Goetze, Christian Eriksen and El Shaarawy are just some of the players who will be sporting them over the next few weeks.
When and Where Can I Buy Them?
For those of you eager to pick up a pair, there are going to be several sites listing them for pre-order with a price of $250. We will have an updated list of retail sites posted below as we find them. Their official date for availability/delivery will be December 1st, but I have a feeling they might be sold out by then!
Finally – I want to hear what you have to say about this new release. Has Nike taken a gamble by going with a White/Black design? And do you think these will sell out as quickly? Comment below!
