5 Things You Need To Know About the adidas Gloro 16.1

Incredibly, it was last December when we were comparing the adidas Gloro 16.1 to the original Gloro release. Yes, that long ago! Since then, they have sold steadily and become a popular option for players in need of a contemporary style Copa Mundial.

As part of the Speed Of Light series released for Euro 2016, adidas introduced four fresh new Gloro 16.1 releases; three featuring their own individual color palette, and this version taking a lick of detailing from each of the other. No players actually wore these at the Euros and they haven’t received very much marketing exposure. So, if you haven’t seen or heard of them to date, there are a lot of other players out there with the same reaction.

This is a boot absolutely worth a revisit. So, with this White version in hand (compliments of Speed Of Light colors across the signature 3-stripe), here are 5 key things about the boot that you need to know.

Find the current Gloro 16.1 colorway line-up at soccer.com.

#1 – Old School Look, New School Performance

There is an extremely dramatic old-school look and feel about the Gloro series. Rather than having a generalized “modern” appearance, adidas has headed towards a more emblematic 70s styling, with that K-leather upper offering an extreme classic effect.

But when it comes to wearing them on pitch, they have everything going for them. The upper is super soft while the soleplate comes from one of the top performing boots on the market in recent times. They are simply a beautiful boot to wear, offering an ease of comfort without being overly complicated.

#2 – They Did Replace the Original Gloro

Originally we were told by folks at adidas that they were not set to replace the original Gloro. Instead, both the Gloro and Gloro 16.1 would offer players options in terms of classic style. But, in the months since it has become apparent that the original Gloro is being phased out, with few updated versions. The number of pairs available right now is also at a minimum. Then the Gloro 16.1 makes a surge with this highly visual set of colorways.

So, although it hasn’t been officially confirmed, it is pretty evident that the Gloro 16.1 is the immediate future!

 

#3 – They are Inspired by the 11Pro Series

One area that takes a more modern stance is the soleplate, where adidas has transitioned the successful Comfort Frame system over from the now retired 11Pro series. It has a lighter weight and more flexibility through pivot points to ensure you are comfortable from the very first sprint/chop/turn.

#4 – Perfectly Designed for miAdidas

I’ve got to be honest here, I think part of the reason adidas reinvented the Gloro was to accommodate the design with miadidas. I’m not saying it is the actual reason for this release, but there is certainly an apparent connection between these and the miadidas platform. By creating and shifting to a cleaner, non-stitched leather upper, adidas opens the Gloro up to a more dynamic customizable design. In other words, there is a lot more you can do with these and they prove to be a pitch perfect heritage style option for players to play around with.

#5 – The Leather is Simply Irresistible

When you have the opportunity to look at them up close, one of the first things you will be impressed with is the quality of the upper. There are no corners cut here, as adidas use a super supple K-Leather vamp. It really does look buttery soft, with light creasing adding to the quality factor. To the touch, it is one of the most impressive leathers I’ve had the opportunity to play around with. And on the ball it provides such a natural feel, you get an incredibly natural touch.

The “Speed Of Light” Gloro 16.1 is available at soccer.com.

Anything Else You Should Know?

1. In case you were wondering, the single layer of stitching at toe level provides a little extra support to the upper, while maintaining shape over time.
2. They weigh in at a decently impressive 8.250z.
3. If there is anything I don’t like about them, it is the tongue. It almost feels too padded, or a little overly conservative.
4. In terms of value for money, these are an absolute no brainer. You really can’t beat the quality you get for how much you are actually paying! They retail for $109.99.