Cleatology – Checking Out The Diadora Mondiale S.C.

What better way to celebrate a Thursday than to take a trip down memory lane with this 90s inspired boot that you won’t find in too many spots anymore. In fact, these is not a great deal of info available on these boots anywhere!

They are the Diadora Mondiale SC, a full bodied boot that is not afraid to flaunt its “built for durability” appearance. This is not your quintessential boot release and they definitely wouldn’t appeal to most modern day boot fans out there. These boots stand for something completely different to what we see on the market today and when released, they were intended to suit the style of a different type of soccer player. It was all about finding a way to provide a comfortable fit in a long-lasting, protective package.

Best of all, these were created in the original home of Diadora, Italy. it even says it on a little tag that sits inside the boot:

Carefully selected materials, a refined design, accurate processing and advanced technology. There is a firm, near Venice, which has been developing its style on the basis of these features for many years now. This firm is called DIADORA, which is the name of this product. A name that stands for quality.

When it comes to the actual boot, there is a lot that goes into their overall construction. Take for example the buttery soft K-leather upper, where Diadora added some extra features like a forefoot stability strap (think Puma EverFit Cage) and “reflex” reflective trim. When you consider additions like these, there was a very futuristic spin put on the release – Diadora were pushing boundaries for their time. In pushing those boundaries, the boots weigh in at a high end 12oz.

Underneath the boot, the same was true. A multi density Nylon outsole was key to the footbed construction. Diadora then took a Carbon/Kevlar plate and placed it from the heel through the midfoot (the zig-zag pattern seen on the below image.) Its purpose, as you would expect, was to provide some additional strength through that region. There was also an unusual take on the stud configuration, where the 7 interchangeable studs were almost misaligned across the surface. Even the back two studs sit about a half inch apart, with the inner stud sitting closer to the heel of the soleplate.

In keeping with Italian branding, the colors employed through the boot mimic the Italian flag. A blast of Red, White and Green detailing is added to that ever classic Black K-leather upper.

You are not likely to find many pairs of these boots anywhere. I did some research and it seems like the market has forgotten this classic marvel. If anyone out there has additional info or an experience with the boots to share, let us know in the comments below.

Final note, this pair (with original box) is ready for a new home – if you have an interest in making them part of your collection,  feel free to drop me a line to discuss!