When it comes to soccer cleats, the Nike Mercurial is the gold boot standard. If you’ve been looking to lace up in any of the most recent iterations of the shoe this past year – notably the Nike Mercurial Dream Speed Superfly 8 Academy and Nike Mercurial Vapor 14 Elite – you aren’t alone.
Built for speed, the legendary Mercurial collection offers a high-tenacity fit and explosive momentum to all who dare wear it. Explore the Nike Mercurial collection at Premium Soccer – football enthusiasts' favorite soccer store in Montreal. Various colorways and sizes are available and are constantly being updated.
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History of the Nike Mercurial soccer shoes
The first Mercurial boot – the R9 – was initially released during the 1998 World Cup, and worn by the legendary Brazilian football player Ronaldo. Instantly distinguishable by its lightweight qualities and advanced high-performance fibers, the model became an instant hit among players.
With early releases coordinated to match major football tournament dates, it wasn't long before everyone kept looking to see how Nike would improve on their innovative soccer cleat. Over the years, Nike has been notorious for updating the technology built into this shoe, notably with Vaporposite technology - the grippy, grid mesh found on the upper of the shoes for ballers to have ultimate ball control.
Since its launch over two decades ago, Nike's Mercurial soccer cleats have been a favorite among elite and amateur football players alike. They continue to be at the forefront of technological advances when it comes to maximizing performance from a soccer cleat. We especially can't wait to discover the new Nike Air Zoom Mercurial, which launched with the 2022 Women's Euro tournament.
Currently in its fourteenth version – the Mercurial Vapor 14 – the popularity of this Nike soccer cleat is indisputable. There's a reason why the pros keep lacing up in this iconic shoe for over 20 years.
Differences between the Mercurial Vapor & Superfly
When comparing the Mercurial Vapor and Superfly styles, all you need to know is that apart from the dynamic fit collar of the Superfly, these soccer cleats models are virtually identical.
A perfect example would be the recent drop of the new Kylian Mbappé signed cleats: the gorgeous burgundy Nike Zoom Mercurial Superfly 9 Elite KM FG with collar and the Nike Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 Elite KM FG.
No matter the pitch you're playing on – with soleplates available in FG, MG, TF IC variations – if you're looking for explosive speed and incomparable touch abilities, the Mercurials are definitely the go-to shoe for you. Deciding between investing in a pair of Superfly's versus Vapor's really does come down to personal preference, and how the feeling of a higher collar affects your game.
Whatever Mercurial model you go for, feel free to dominate the pitch thanks to the connected sensation to the boot this skin-tight collection offers. Thanks to the Vaporposite upper and Flyknit construction, enjoy the comfortable medium between knitted and more synthetic materials on your feet.
You can also find minor differences in these styles based on the tier of shoes you buy from. Nike offers Elite, Pro, and Academy versions of each Mercurial shoe. Each tier corresponds to the level of player targeted, which is reflected in the quality of materials and technology used within the shoe's construction, as well as in the price.
Who wears Nike Mercurial soccer cleats?
Superstar football players who have worn Nike Mercurials during their careers include Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, Sam Kerr, Marcus Rashford, Erling Haaland, Romelu Lukakku & Ada Hegerberg – just to name a few.
At this point, the better question might be who hasn't worn a version of the iconic Mercurials. Perfect for fullbacks and strikers thanks to their extreme lightness and grip, these dynamic soccer cleats are some of the most technically advanced soccer shoes on the market.
Today, the Mercurial is the most worn model of football boots by professional players. Thanks to the rich history of the football boot, Nike's constant technological advancement of it, and the notoriety of the pro players who wear them, there's no denying the popularity and legend status of the Mercurials.
About Canada’s Premium Soccer Store
Premium Soccer is the largest soccer shoe and apparel retailer store in Montreal. Come visit us in-store to discover 7000 square feet dedicated completely to soccer gear. Enjoy shopping our online store for the best variety of soccer footwear and licensed and performance apparel in Canada.
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