Soccer Cleats 101 Soccer Cleats News and Reviews
When we talk about elite level releases that come with a high profile and heavy expectations, the adidas Predator EDGE+ is one of the first silos that comes to mind. Holding that iconic Predator name adds significant pressure on the shoulders of the EDGE, with a tiered rubberized ribs along the upper and a laceless collar style creating a visual standout. This is the boot you will see a lot of pro players wearing in games, as adidas look to highlight the range on pitch.
If you have heard us talk about the Predator EDGE.1, you will know that there is a lot to be desired from the modern hybrid power/control silo. The all important question then is how does the EDGE+ compare and can you expect them to perform any differently?
Here we take a look at how they actually compare and talk about some of their key features!
Predator EDGE+ vs EDGE.1
There is 1 significant difference between both releases – laces! Like most top-tier releases, adidas has removed the laces from EDGE+ and raised the price by $30. It is a wild and weird concept that we have become familiar with over time. A brand chooses to take away the option to tighten the boots but increases the retail price from $250 to $280.
Personally, I prefer having the option and ability to be able to tighten up based on how I want them to fit. But, I realize there are players that enjoy the laceless sensation and opportunity to play without having to stress about lacing up. It all comes to down to your own experience and expectations from the fit.
But, note that this is the only significant performance difference between both versions of EDGE. Internally, the fit and shape is the same. Across the upper, all of the upper components exist in the same fashion. And the same traction system is used.
Predator Silo – Changing Dynamics
Over the past few years, we have seen different directions taken with the Predator as adidas adjusted to market changes. First, they decided to retire the iconic silo around 2015, before making a dramatic u-turn and reintroducing it to the market in 2018. That 2018 version didn’t seem to hold the true DNA of a Predator style release, instead featuring a tiered dampening style structure across the forefoot. It was the Predator MUTATOR and FREAK, along with their DEMONSKIN upper, that really started to raise excitement levels again.
With the Predator EDGE, adidas decided to take things in another new direction, mimicking a previous versions upper tech (Predator LZ) while introducing a next generation fit. If you are looking for a summary of this review here it is: I just don’t think adidas got this one right, and considering their own high expectations I’m really confused at how this end product made it to market!
ZONE SKIN Upper
Adidas has gone with strategically positioned rubberized ribs across the forefoot, engineered into four “control zones” across the instep and toe box. The obvious purpose is to optimize ball manipulation, giving players a powerful edge and a little extra pop when striking the ball. if we are exclusively talking about these zones, they do add a noticeable amount of grip on the ball and ensure you get some added ping off the surface as you strike shots. They not only look like the Predator LZ, but the overall performance in terms of feel on the ball is very comparable. The only real difference lies in how pliable the upper material feels on the Pred LZ compared to the stiffer Pred Edge.
PRIMEKNIT Mid-Cut Collar
There is a very unique cut to the mid-cut collar. It is a premium two-piece PRIMEKNIT material designed for breathable comfort, easy step in, and secure lock down. And I’d agree that it serves its purpose very well. They are a relatively easy boot to slip your foot into, one of the best when it comes to options with a higher collar. And it really hugs the ankle well, providing a soft and secure fit thanks to its stretch fit. It leads into an off center set lacing system, something else that plays off real well. Some prefer a laceless fit, I generally prefer to have laces so that I can dictate how tight the boots feel on foot. If it something you are interested, they could definitely be worn with the laces taken out.
Traction and Soleplate
Underfoot, Adidas has changed things up by including a new FACET FRAME. It is intended to provide stability and dynamic traction. The all-new soleplate construction features a weighted forefoot piece that redistributes weight toward the front of the boot, optimizing power transfer when striking the ball. This is one of the additions that increases the overall weight of the boot – the Predator EDGE weighs in over 9oz making it one of the heaviest boots on the market at the moment.
Final Note – Fit!
When it comes to fit, length wise they are true to size. And in width, they offer a decently wide forefoot cavity. I’d actually compare them as being one of the better wide fitting options currently on the market. Just note that the internal structure won’t adjust or stretch over time. So, what you get from first wear is what you can expect over the life of the boot.
Find all the latest Predator EDGE+ available at SOCCER.com.
