How To Choose Between the Nike Superfly V and Vapor XI

Visually, they offer a striking resemblance. But outside of that dual color appearance, the Mercurial Superfly V and the Vapor XI are completely different boots. From the upper material to the style of cut, Nike has created two new type of performers that explosive style players can look to take advantage of. What they do share in common lays in the soleplate primarily, where both are built on a new plate mapped to the natural contours of the foot.

The Superfly V is about as advanced as a boot has ever been. Originally previewed at Nike’s Innovation 2016 event, it is built to be a total speed system. Underfoot, they feature a new plate mapped to the natural contours of the foot. A dynamic mid-cut collar secures foot to ankle, while the upper is a textured Flyknit material, speedribs covering the upper for extra definition on the ball.

It is not difficult to tell where the new Vapor XI is different; they have no mid-cut collar and the upper is a lightweight Teijin microfiber. You still get that ribbed texture upper (speedribs) but the material itself feels very different. The outsole is identical, featuring the same plate mapped to the natural contours of the foot.

Determining which boot suits your style best depends on what you expect from your boot. Both are built with explosive, attacking soccer in mind. The Superfly features a fit that is a lot more snug and unites the foot through leg, whereas Vapor XI allows for more natural movement along the ankle through sharp cuts. Price is also something to factor in, with the Superfly priced at almost $100 more than the Vapor. Don’t buy into the hype that just because the Superfly is more expensive it is that much a better boot, both are top of the line for the categories they sit in. So, if you feel like the Vapor suits your playing style, take advantage of the lower price rather than wishing you had more to spend.

Find Superfly V and Vapor XI available at soccer.com.