2016’s Smartest Football Boot Technologies and Trends

Ever since football enthusiasts put boot to ball, the beautiful game has evolved with every passing decade, changing as new technology alters the way the game is played. It is no surprise then that goal-line technology and vanish foam sprays have started trending on fields across the world, balancing the human unpredictability of the game with the precision of state-of-the-art technology. With such incredible sport advancements, how could football boots get left behind?

From the days of screw-on studs, the humble pair of football cleats has come a long way in changing how traction, control and touch affect play. Boot makers today put a lot of research into designing shoes that enhance their performance and skill. With each brand using their own trademarked technologies, 2016’s smartest shoes are specifically designed for various positions on the field, promoting features to provide optimal performance.

ADIDAS

At the forefront is adidas, the makers of the first football studs, renowned for footwear that boosts forward positions and strengthens the defense. The ultra-light adidas Ace 16+ Primeknit FG, crafted for mid-field and defense positions, makes the ranks impenetrable with heel caps that deliver a locked-in fit and a groundbreaking stud design that improves control. The one-piece knitted PRIMEKNIT upper with versatile, lightweight outsole provides extra grip for the wearer. The adidas Messi 15.1 FG/AG uses a special MESSIFRAME construction for a locked-in fit and maximum traction, a MESSITOUCH X-ray surface with lethal grip and the MESSIGAMBETRAX stud configuration for explosive speed worthy of Lionel Messi himself.

NIKE

Creating legends with its incredible lineup of football boots, Nike packs its own innovative technology into its range of footwear. The Nike Mercurial Vapor X FG is designed to destroy defenses with a tongue-less upper and ultra-thin Teijin microfibre synthetic leather that contours to the shape of the foot, and an all-over micro-textured upper that grips the ball for extra touch. A Vapor traction pattern is designed with direct-inject blades that dig and release quickly for both stability and lightning speed on the pitch. The Nike Magista Onda FG boot features a synthetic leather upper with an all-over grippy texture for precision striking, passing and dribbling, a TPU plate for lightweight durability and comfort, a four-cleat heel design that provides optimal penetration and stability, and a contoured die-cut EVA foam sockliner that provides cushioning and comfort.

PUMA

Offering a range of the latest cutting-edge technology is Puma with its impressive 2016 lineup of football boot technologies. The anatomically-engineered PUMA evoPower 1.3 FG uses an AdapLite upper material that allows the foot to bend for a barefoot kicking motion, an AccuFoam lining that provides an even surface for added accuracy, an ultra-lightweight PEBAX outsole with bladed and conical studs that combine ground penetration with optimal agility, and a spine-like Gradual Stability Frame that delivers stability from heel to forefoot. The extremely lightweight PUMA evoSpeed 1.4 FG favours sprinters with a mono-layer microfibre upper that provides a closer rapid touch, a laser-cut SPEEDFRAME structure that supports quick turns, a high performance PEBAX outsole and an external web heel counter for support and durability, while conical studs enhance traction and acceleration.

With 2016 just beginning, the entire year lies ahead, filled with the possibility of glorious victories, incredible match turning points and pulse-racing takeovers. Own each of these moments with the latest trends in football tech at your feet and defy the opposition with brilliant performance. Check out the latest range of football shoes at Sun & Sand Sports and get started on your way to triumph.