From the precision and durability of the adidas Predator to the lightweight, sock-like Nike Mercurial, the boots you wear on the pitch say a lot about you as a player. So whether you’re looking forward to getting back playing five-a-side with your friends or lining up for your local team again, we’re here to keep you Match Ready with our round-up of the best new football boots of 2020 so far.
Nike Mercurial Superfly 7 Cr7 “Safari”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly 2 was the first player edition football boot to use Tinker Hatfield’s famous “Safari” print. The look quickly became an on-pitch classic and ten years later, the iconic design has been reimagined for a new decade.
The Nike Mercurial Superfly 7 and Vapor 13 CR7 Safari mirror the original 2010 design, but these new editions also incorporate CR7’s famous celebration, signature and logo on the sockliner. Both boots are made up of 360-degree Flyknit construction, using high-tenacity yarn to give you a sock-like fit. Best used on short, slightly wet grass, the return of Safari print to the pitch means that these have to go down as one of the best new football boots of 2020.
Nike Mercurial Superfly 7 “South Korea”
Nike partnered with the South Korea football team in April to launch a sports and lifestyle collection which included these fearsome Mercurial Superfly 7s. The boots dropped a month later as a Nike exclusive in South Korea.
Inspired by the white tiger, a sacred creature in Korean mythology, the boot’s Flyknit constructed upper is suitably decked out in black and white tiger-print. NikeSkin overlay adds durability to the upper and creates a flexible, barefoot feel on the pitch. The design is completed by a lightning-like Nike swoosh, Orbit Red accents on the midsole and Korean script on the heel.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 13 Neymar Jr “Jogo Prismatico”
Nike’s latest collaboration with Brazilian and Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar is guaranteed to dazzle on the pitch. But beyond the surface, this boot is all about the details. Hidden amongst the kaleidoscopic print you’ll find references to Neymar Jr. and Nike Football history, including the player’s own tattoos.
Coming in a full range suitable for different playing surfaces, the “Jogo Prismatico” also uses 360-degree Flyknit construction for the boots upper, with ultra-thin NikeSkin overlay promising a more precise touch. The All Conditions Control (ACC) finish means you get reliable contact in wet conditions, while the angular studs combine with a new stiffer chassis for explosive acceleration.
adidas Predator 20.2
A boot that comes packed with nostalgia, the adidas Predator has been at the forefront of some of the beautiful game’s most memorable moments for over twenty-five years. Two decades in the game and the new generation of Predator still ranks among the best new football boots of 2020.
Engineered with DEMONSKIN technology, rubber spikes across the upper and toe box let you manipulate the ball with the Predator’s legendary swerve and spin. The coated textile upper and lightweight TPU outsole maximise comfort on the pitch. while strategically placed studs enhance your traction and agility.
Nike Phantom Vision 2 “SKULL & CROSSBONES”
The debut release from Nike Football’s Future DNA series, this Nike Phantom design pays homage to the original Hypervenom 1 from back in 2013.
The Nike Phantom Vision 2 “Skull & Crossbones” stays true to its predecessor with an orange and black colourway and skull and crossbones graphics on the heel. The boots upper is brought up to speed for the modern game with features such as a hidden lacing system to provide a smooth striking surface and additional texture spots throughout for improved control.
If your game is all about touch and technique, then these are the boots for you. The Phantom Vision 2 is the boot of choice for many of the game’s tekkiest players, including Kevin De Bruyne, Marco Veratti and Kai Havertz.
NIKE MERCURIAL SUPERFLY 7 “LEMON VENOM”
A firm favourite of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé, stand-out on the pitch and reach frightening speeds with the Nike Mercurial Superfly 7 “Lemon Venom”.
Alongside the previously mentioned Flyknit constructed upper and NikeSkin technology, the Nike Mercurial “Lemon Venom” features a redesigned heel for increased comfort, while a new perforated internal lining offers unrivalled breathability. Nike Grip System eliminates slippage, while the internal chassis system works to ensure increased responsiveness off the mark.
