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Nike Mercurial Vapor V Review

Dec 6th, 2009
by bryan.
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Cristiano Ronaldo, Robinho and Pato, what do these World class players have in common? The Nike Mercurial Vapor V,Nike Vapor V from above that’s what! Over the past few seasons, Ronaldo has become the poster boy for Nike, with dazzling performances that saw him win the 2008 World Player of the year award. Each release in the Vapor range, over the past 2 years, has involved Ronaldo, and the Vapor V is no different. With that being said, these cleats obviously hold something special, and I was very excited to get my hands on a pair to review. I received a pair of the latest color released, in a Black/Voltage Yellow color size 9US. The Black/Voltage Yellow color was debuted by Ronaldo at his unveiling after signing for Spanish Giants Real Madrid!

Breaking In
After several weeks of wearing the Vapor V in practice sessions and also 2 games, my Vapor V’s have been well broken in! I got reports from friends, who also wear the Vapor V, that they encountered some blisters after wearing the cleats in a game on day 1. With this in mind, I chose to wear the Vapor V’s for jogging in the first few sessions, to give them an opportunity to mold to my foot.  Thankfully, the first few sessions were comfortable, and I didn’t encounter any blisters or other discomforts. I think one of the benefits to these cleats is how they fit my foot specifically. 

Fit and Weight
I have a medium to wide foot, and the Nike Vapor V is a comfy fit. In fact, these cleats fit very similarly to the Adidas adiPURE range. I wore a size 9US and they work out to be a perfect length. If you normally wear a size 9US, order a size 9US. They fit really well. Once you tighten the laces, they really fit snugly right around your foot and have that ‘I want to mold to you feet’ type feel!
The Vapor V weighs in at a super light 8.4oz, which is pretty similar to the Puma V1.10 (8.2oz). Nike use Teijin Microfiber on the upper of the cleat, a synthetic material that is light weight and easily conforms to the shape of your foot. In my opinion, it is hard to notice the weight difference in cleats, and it has not been proven to supply a huge increase in performance, but mentally it helps knowing you have a lighter cleat on your foot.

TechnologyNike Vapor V Flywire
The big advancement in this range: Flywire! We took time recently to summarize exactly what Flywire is. If you look at the inside of each cleat, you can see the outline of the wires. In case you are not familiar with what is for, Flywire is designed to minimize weight and maximize support. Its high-strength threads work like cables on a suspension bridge with support engineered precisely where your foot needs it.
Another advancement to this cleat is an additional blade that Nike have added at the front of the cleat. This additional cleat is designed to increase acceleration on the initial push. I have to say that this is something that is noticeable and a welcome addition to any cleat. I noticed it when taking off, your foot seems to gain addition grip on the surface, making it easier to push off.

Negatives
A few negatives about these boots. First off, Nike figure out your shoe laces! Maybe these are digned just to tied and tucked under the lace cover, but I want long laces to run around my cleats! This is just my own pet peeve I guess, and not something that affects performance in any way. One question I have about these cleats is what are you supposed to doe if the lace tears? It seems like change laces would be pretty impossible if you needed to. Other than this, I couldn’t find anything else wrong with these boots!

Bryan in Vapor V   Nike Vapor V shot   Nike Mercurial Vapor V

Conclusion
Priced at $220, the Nike Vapor V is one of the more expensive cleats on the market. To be honest, I haven’t been a fan and have kind of avoided the cleat in the past year. But after testing, I have to say I now understand what all the hype is about and why so many people are crazy to get their hands on them (although I still don’t understand what he craze over the Nike Vapor Berry was all about!!) I like the overall design of the Black/Voltage Yellow color, and found the cleat to be comfy. 

If you want to find out more info, or buy yourself a pair, head over to Soccer.com.
(Boots supplied for review by soccer.com)

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Posted in: Uncategorized.

Win a $25 Gift Card, and Adidas Predator X Winner!

Dec 4th, 2009
by bryan.
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Here is another quick competition as part of our pre Christmas giveaway. We have $75 in soccer.com gift cards (3x$25) to giveGift Card to 3 lucky winners. The winners will be randomly picked in the following way: 1 winner from our email subscription list, 1 from our Facebook page, and 1 from our Twitter followers. Easy as pie! The competition runs from right now until December 14th, when we will randomly select the winners* and get the gift card to you with in plenty of time to order before Christmas! If you are already following us via email, Facebook and Twitter guess what….you are already in the running to win!

Entering is easy, and following us in all 3 ways gives you 3 chances to win:

  1. Follow us on Twitter
  2. Follow us on Facebook
  3. Subcribe to our email updates.

I also have some old cleats (size 9) that I will be passing on in the next few weeks for those interested. Watch out for follow up updates for more info!

* Winners will be selected at random. Open to US residents only. The competition runs until December 14th, with winners being contacted via email. This is a SoccerCleats101 competition, and we are paying for the gift cards ourselves. Winners will be required to share with us what they ordered, so we can let our readers know!

Adidas Predator X Winner
Eddie Gaines of Norwalk, Connecticut is the winner of our Adidas Predator X giveaway (posted on 11-19). After some discussion, Eddie chose to order the indoor version of the Predator X, or the Absolado X in the white/dark brown/pure yellow. He has promised to get back to us with info on his experience with the shoes, so watch out for that in the new year. And if you want to catch him in action, he plays indoor at the United Athletic Center in Fairfield!

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Posted in: Giveaways.
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Puma V1.10 vs Adidas Predator X

Nov 24th, 2009
by bryan.
4 comments

V1.10 vs Predator XOne of the most common questions I have got through feedback over the past few months has been related to how the Puma V1.10 compares to the Adidas Predator X, and which I think is better. It is hard to say which one I think is better as they are completely different cleats, and everybody has their own opinions of what works for them. But I can list some of the key differences between the cleats, including a description of the shape of the Puma V1.10 that a lot of people ask about, to help you decide for yourself. (Click on any of the images to see full size)

Shape and Size
Both Adidas and Puma have stuck with the shape of each cleats predecessor. Adidas have changed up the Predator X by deciding to go without a tongue. This has left a huge divide between fans, with some liking the new design, while others are opposed. The change leaves the Predator X looking more like the adiPURE. I prefer the change-up for one reason, I have experienced the wrap around lace tearing before, leaving my cleats with a ‘floppy’ tongue! Puma, on the other hand, have not made many changes to their ‘boxed’ toe design (see image below). This is something that I am not extremely fond of, and it seems to take a half size from the cleat (if you order these cleats, order a half size up!). If you compare the picture of the two cleats, you will see how the Puma V1.10 angles to a point at the big-toe, while the Predator X has more of a round top design. Puma have stitched the upper to the sole, meaning a the V1.10 is an extremely durable cleat. The stitching does make for a different front design as it raises the cleat slightly up. The Predator X comes down at a more sharp angle.

Adidas Predator X AbovePuma v1.10 Above

Materials
The materials used in both cleats are extremely different. Adidas have chosen to move away from Kangaroo leather and instead moved to a full grain calf leather that they have names ‘Taurus’. Taurus properties combine softness with lightweight durability and weatherproof features. On the other hand, Puma use a lightweight microfiber and also a mesh textile in other areas. Puma have stitched the upper to the sole, and helps keep the cleat well attached. If you have ever worn a cemented cleat you will have noticed that in areas it lifts off the sole, and in some cases it comes apart. This is one of the huge benefits to the Puma V1.10 that allows it to have a longer lifespan.

Weight
The weight of a cleat gives an indication of who it is designed for. The Puma V1.10 weighs in at a super light 8.2oz, while the Predator X weighs in at 11.2oz. Using a lightweight microfiber instead of a leather takes away a lot of weight. Puma also use Carbon fibers and a lighweight Pebax outsole to decrease weight throughout the cleat. As a comparison to other cleats, the lightest currently on the market is the Nike Superfly that weighs in at 6.8oz, while the Nike Total 90 range weighs in at 11.4oz.

ConclusionPredator vs V1.10 Sole
These cleats are quiet the opposite and offer completely different options for soccer players. The Puma V1.10 is a superlight cleat that has been designed for quick wingers and forward players. Nicolas Anelka is a prime example of who these cleats are designed for. You will not be surprised when I tell you who the Adidas Predator X is designed for, playmakers and decision players. As a staple of the range, David Beckham opitimizes who these cleats are designed for. In saying that, it is hard not to class these as an all over the field cleat. I have tested these as a winger and had great success!

If you looking to get yourself a pair, you can find the Puma V1.10 and the Adidas Predator X over at soccer.com.

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Posted in: Adidas, Puma.
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Stuffitts: A Prevention For Smelly Soccer Cleats?

Dec 2nd, 2009
by bryan.
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Over the past few months, we have been searching for different solutions to the very unsavoryStuffitts Promo problem of smelly soccer cleats. After seeing our last few reviews, the team over at Stuffitts contacted us and sent a few pairs of their product to test out. ‘Stuffitts’ are odor and moisture absorbers that are shaped like feet and slip into your cleats. They are the creation of Mike Huebner, who while running marathons in 2007 decided it was time to create a solution for his smelly runners. Before getting into the review, here are the basics you need to know about Stuffitts:

  • Shaped like feet, and slip into your cleats.
  • Dual Wick Fabric has a two layer patent technology that absorbs moisture.
  • Comes in 3 colors (Black, Red and Blue) and 4 sizes (small, medium, large, XL).
  • Filled with Eastern Red Cedar.
  • Outer cover is removable for washing.
  • Work as a ‘prevention’ for smelly soccer cleats.

Scent
Have you ever spent some time outside chopping wood, or been in a forest where some tree’s have recently beenStuffitts felled? Well, that smell is exactly what you get from these guys. The Eastern Red Cedar is a very refreshing smell, and works in eliminating odors in your cleats before they start. One fear I had initially, was that the smell was going to overtake my whole soccer bag and car. But, I am glad to report this is not so. Even though the smell seems strong (when you bring the Stuffitt to your nose the scent is very powerful) it is not overwhelming when left exposed, and you really can’t smell it from arms length away. Over the past few weeks that I have had the Stuffitts, they smell as new as they did the day I opened them….always a good sign!

Size
I used the large size inserts in my US 9 soccer cleats and they fitted nicely. They are shaped just like a foot, with the main area being tightly compacted. The toe area is more loose and has less filling. This is beneficial as it means you are not forcing the insert in, and if your cleats are a half size smaller the toe area has some leeway to bunch up a little.

Technology
The outer cover is made of a dual wick fabric, which has a patent technology that helps absorb moisture. This in turn means that the opportunity for bacteria to grow is substantially reduced. Another cool aspect is the fact that you can Stuffittstake this cover off and wash it. This means it is easily reused in other/new cleats. There is something substantially profound about the red cedar bark used other than the fact that it is rot resistant and holds its scent for long periods! It in fact is extremely absorbent and helps draw moisture from the cleat into the core of the Stuffitt, and this is one of the key attributes of the product. After testing, the Stuffitt has been proven to be 8x more effective in drying shoes than air drying. That is a huge difference!

Price
This in my opinion is the down point of the Stuffitts. To get yourself a pair it is going to cost $24.99. The average price of a pair of cleats is $100, so you are investing 25% to keep them from smelling. For some people (and their parents) this is a worthwhile investment, but for the average player it might be a little above budget. But one thing you should bear in mind is what you are getting when you buy a pair and that is quality that lasts! Since they are reusable, I reckon that the two pairs I have will cover the cleats I review until next summer!

Summary
Overall, I have to say that the Stuffitts work as described. My feeling is that they are best used as a preventative measure, rather than a solution to already smelly cleats. They smell uniquely different, and definitely help to dry out cleats after playing. If you play regularly in wet conditions these would be absolutely ideal to help dry out your cleats, meaning they are ready for the next practice or game. When you buy a pair, they come with a removable strap that means you can keep them together and not loose them. I found the strap to be particularly useful when I was drying them out (hanging them over a clothes line). You are sure to see more about Stuffitts in 2010, and I have a feeling they will be a big competitor in the market-space. To find out more, or to get yourself a pair, head directly over to their website www.stuffitts.com.

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Posted in: Tested!.
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Limited Edition Puma V1.10 Kehinde Wiley

Nov 28th, 2009
by bryan.
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Puma V1.10 Kehinde WileyPuma are about to release an interesting Kehinde Wiley inspired version of the V1.10 range, as part of the ongoing PUMA Global Football campaign that is leading up to, and through, the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa. This release is going to be limited edition, with only a 302 pairs up for grabs. The cleat has been created by Kehinde Wiley, an American artist who is renowned for his paintings of African-American mixed with his signature graphic backgrounds.

One thing is for sure, Wiley has created an absolutely unique design that I am not sure you will see on many other soccer cleats! The original V1.10 version comes in a yellow color, so this version is the exact oposite coming in a primarily black color. The floral pattern across the front signifies African culture, with a blend of yellow, white and black. One of the main images seems to look like a peacock. Another interesting note is that Puma have placed a black outline of the African continent on the solePuma V1.10 Kehinde above of the cleat. The number on the tongue of the cleat signifies the what number the specific pair is in the range. Take a trip back to the release of the Puma V1.815 Ferrari earlier this year and you will see how quickly these boots are going to sell out! I still have people writing to ask where they can get those cleats, trouble being they sold out in less than 5 days. With the World Cup coming up, and being that it is the first to take place on the African continent, these cleats are sure to become hot collector items.

And you won’t have to wait long to see these interesting cleats in action. They will debut during  the December 9th round of Champions League fixtures, followed by league matches through December 19th-20th. Players such as Samuel Eto’o Emanuel Eboue and John Mensah will be on the list of stars to watch out for during that period. The cleats will then be signed and auctioned off at next years World Cup.

Some vital info on the Puma V1.10 range:

  • Weigh-in at an ever-impressive 8.2oz.
  • Front panel is created using a soft, abrasion-resistant microfiber, lightly covered by a grip-like texture
  • A front lace cover that is loose enough to pull away from the laces when tying
  • A lightweight Pebax frame, that is see-through (just take out the inserts!)
  • Pointed stud configuration designed to enhance ground traction

The only place in the US to get your hands on a pair is over at soccer.com, priced right now at $224.99.

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Posted in: Puma.
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Black Friday Soccer Deals

Nov 25th, 2009
by bryan.
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Best of the Best Soccer Deals to help you save on Black Friday.

Soccer.com
Without a doubt the No.1 place to get the best deals, and on offer this Black Friday is an amazing 20% off everything. My advice, go take a look at the current sale prices and minus another 20% – this equals probably the easiest deal you will get on a new pair of cleats! And if you are really smart, you will join the Goal Club, to add even more savings!
And as an example of what I am talking about, a pair of Nike Tiempo III’s = $86. Regular price $164.99,  Black Friday Price $86 (Goal Club price is $107.99, – 20% off).

adidas
On 11/25 and 11/26 you can get 2 great deals at adidas; 25% of Running and Training apparel, footwear, and accessories (no minimum) plus free shipping or you can go with free or $5 off shipping for orders over $5. It’s a great time to order adidas sneakers in preparation for working off all the turkey and desserts.

Reebok
Reebok have a great 20% offer that runs from Black Friday through the weekend. This offer also has free shopping. Another great deal that they have is on Cardio equipment, and $200 off is a pretty awesome discount. Either way, it is a great chance to save on workout equipment before xmas.

Sketchers
Not the place to go looking for soccer cleats, but Sketchers have a good selection of sneakers and business casual shoes. Rather than offering a percentage off, Sketchers are offering $20 off $100 spent or $10 off $50 spent.

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Posted in: Great Deals.
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MLS Rookie Life: D.C United’s Chris Pontius

Nov 20th, 2009
by bryan.
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Hot off the heals of being picked for the Adidas Generation squad, I had an opportunity to talk withChris Pontius Chris Pontius about MLS rookie life. Pontius is a close buddy of mine from college, we played together at UCSB for 2 seasons (05-06). We won the 2006 NCAA title, and Pontius played a huge, huge part throughout that season. Funny thing is, during the 2006 Championship season Pontius covered me playing right half, but at D.C United he has been a staple attacking player. There is no doubt that he is Mr. Versatility! In his rookie season he scored eight goals and six assists in 40 total appearances (31 starts) in all competitions, and was a finalist for the Gatorade Rookie of the year award. On top of that, he won the D.C United Fan’s choice for player of the year. Here is what Pontius had to say:

“My rookie year was amazing and I am so blessed to have been given this opportunity to play professional soccer. Being a rookie is not easy, it is like being a freshman in college all over again except you have guys 10 years older than you on your team. They experience and knowledge of the game is amazing and I found myself taking tips from them every practice and game. I am pumped to have the opportunity to head to South Africa, there are a few guys I played college with at UCSB going (Avila, O’Brien) and it is sure to be a life experience aswell as an opportunity to see where the World Cup will take place next year.

I currently wear the F50 tunits from adidas in white. I really like the cleats because they fit my foot well and are comfortable. For me, the right cleat is always the one that fits the best and allows you to play your best soccer. We played on a number of different surfaces this season, and in different environments, which means I am constantly changing from hard grounds to soft grounds. The weather is the biggest factor for this along with the condition of the field. 95% of the time when its raining, I am wearing soft grounds.”

Personally, I think Pontius should have won Rookie of the year for his goals alone! Thanks Chris for taking the time to talk to us and hopefully the trip to South Africa is an opportunity for you to prepare for a USMT call up between now and the World Cup! There is another Q&A available over on the official D.C United Blog (Behind the Badge) that is well worth checking out: Q&A: Pontius and Wallace on South Africa trip.

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Posted in: Adidas, Interviews.
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