Diadora are back with a new, rather full-flavored release, the first we have seen from the Italian company in a while. There are a lot of visuals behind the Evoluzione K Pro GX 14 and it is a boot that features plenty of Diadora’s key technology. The first release in the series comes in a Black/Yellow Fluo colorway and to get your hands on the heritage release, they retail for $160.

Even though the upper has a pretty futuristic look, it is basically just a K-leather upper with a splash of paint work. The yellow stripes along the front of the boot don’t add to performance, they are simply there to make the boot look pretty! I have always been a fan of Diadora’s uppers, particularly on releases like the Maracana, and this version features a water resistant, ultra soft and lightweight. The boot itself weighs in at 9.6oz, which is just above average weight of a release.

NET Breathing System
Obviously, the NET Breathing System  needs to get it’s own entire section, seeing as it is the latest technological advancement in the footwear industry. Its purpose is to keep your feet dry and cool by allowing maximum breathability through a waterproof soleplate. Once you think about it, the concept of allowing your feet to breath in a waterproof environment seems pretty unattainable. There are several layers involved in making it happen, including a synthetic fiber net and a breathable, waterproof membrane that improve breathability while keeping moisture out. Read more about NET Breathing System on the DD Eleven review.

No stranger to audacious colorways, this latest release in the Diadora DD Eleven range is designed for players who are brimming in confidence and not afraid to have other players laugh at their style! I have to be honest, these things just look plain old funky. Given the fact that the DD Eleven is a solid performer with a very functional soleplate (NET Breathing System), it seems that Diadora are banking on unique looks to grab a section of the market – this version comes in a Silver/Royal/White.

We haven’t seen a new colorway release in the DD Eleven series hit the market in recent times, so I was a little surprised to see this latest version.

The Net Breathing System, which is designed to keep your feet dry and cool by allowing maximum breathability through a waterproof soleplate, is the latest piece of technology released by Diadora. Its effectiveness is up for debate, but from tested the DD Eleven I can tell you that I didn’t notice my feet heating up as much during play. in other words, there were no moments in the game when I thought “dang, my feet are hot right now!”

The upper is a K-leather and because of the inclusion of a touch component along the front of the boot, they fall into the control category. Price wise, they retail for a pretty hefty $200. There is actually plenty of positives about the boot, performance wise, so if you are a Diadora fan and want to try something new they are actually worth considering – that is of course, as long as you like the design!

When it comes to taking on new technology, Diadora is not a company that likes to shy away. Once you get past the absolutely unique visual design of the Diadora Solano GX 14, you will encounter one of the more advanced soleplates currently on the market. The NET Breathing System offers a completely new way for players to play without less concern about foot breathability. And rather than being a generalized boot, the Solano has a streamlined offering that matches the requirements of  specific players. For review, I had the opportunity to test the Olympic Blue/Silver colorway in a size 9US.

Breaking In
I had some reservations going into this review after taking the DD Eleven through testing a few weeks prior. In that review, the inside lining of the shoe was a synthetic material that offered minimal grip and the same material is used on the Solano. It was the same through the first few sessions until I finally felt like they started to move in sync with my stride. Once they were ready, the Solano makes for a decently comfortable boot. The synthetic upper might not be ideal for touch, but it certainly passes the comfort test, easily molding to the ideal shape in a timely fashion! There is also plenty of padding right throughout, ensuring you are protected in the right areas. 

Synthetic Upper and its Design
Obviously, Diadora looked to create a very visually enhanced boot with these. The Olympic Blue/Silver colorway is pretty nuts to say the least! Not only do you get a bunch of funky black lines running from the ankle lining right down through the toes, but the mix of silver through the Olympic Blue TechPro microfiber upper gives a look that won’t be missed on-field. The silver color comes in small diamond shapes and under lights they offer a shimmer effect.

NET Breathing System
Obviously, the NET Breathing System  needs to get it’s own entire section, seeing as it is the latest technological advancement in the footwear industry. Its purpose is to keep your feet dry and cool by allowing maximum breathability through a waterproof soleplate. Once you think about it, the concept of allowing your feet to breath in a waterproof environment seems pretty unattainable. There are several layers involved in making it happen, including a synthetic fiber net and a breathable, waterproof membrane that improve breathability while keeping moisture out. Check out the below image for more in-depth details about how it is pieced together.

The big question is does it work? The answer would be a Yes, and having had the opportunity to now test it on two different ranges and in several games on both natural and artificial surfaces, Diadora are on to a winner! I don’t have any scientific evidence to prove it and I didn’t try recording the temperature of my feet after playing. But, I can tell you that I didn’t notice my feet heating up as much during play. in other words, there were no moments in the game when I thought “dang, my feet are hot right now!” It is definitely something I have experienced while wearing other soccer cleats on hot days, so they do serve their intended purpose. For players who are trying to find a solution for the problem of playing on hot surfaces, I definitely recommend giving these a shot.

Performance
Knowing that the Net Breathing System works effectively, how does the rest of the boot shape up? The best way that I can illustrate the performance of the Solano is by comparing it to a Stealth Bomber! When people spot them, they will want to know what the heck they are; they will probably stare for a while; they will want to take a second look.  But, once they move into their working environment, they disappear. I think you can easily determine what that means for the Stealth Bomber (it is doing its intended job) but for the Solano, this means performance is not that noticeable, or they don’t quiet fulfill their intended duty. The upper is advertised as featuring touch control, but I couldn’t find or take advantage of its use, especially when it came to wet conditions – the upper became very slick on the ball. I love the fit, the shape and the overall structure of the boot, but unfortunately, I didn’t find anything special in terms of in-game performance.

Negatives
For me, the synthetic upper doesn’t offer enough in terms of touch on the ball – I needed more to allow for close control. I am also not exactly a fan of the design and colorway, it is pretty wild and sure to appeal to a vast range of players, just not me!

Summary
I give props to Diadora for offering such a bold combo on this release. The colorway is extremely unusual, the technology is pretty advanced and the boot weighs in at an impressive 9.4oz. I can’t see a large number of players splashing out on a pair, but they will fit the requirements of specific players. Most notably, I can see defenders who are looking for a new look wearing a pair, and also players who want a well-constructed, lightweight and very durable option at a great price – they retail at around $115. In terms of the NET Breathing System, I found it to be effective and if you need a solution for playing on extremely hot surfaces, these are well worth taking a risk on!

(*boots supplied for review by Diadora USA)

Finding ways to improve and enhance player performance is always a goal for top companies. Diadora continue the trend with the release of the DD Eleven GX 14, by focusing on producing a more breathable boot. You might not have heard of the NET Breathing System yet, but you will know a lot more about it after checking out these boots. Diadora not only include a new technology, but they fully utilize their ability to produce a comfortable boot, although they had me sweating initially! For testing, Diadora recently sent over the vibrant Fluo Yellow/Black release in a size 9US.

Breaking In
Unlike other Diadora boots, I was actually nervous after putting the DD Eleven on for the first time. The inside lining of the shoe is a synthetic material that offers minimal grip and when I wore them at home, they made the dreaded squeaking noise. When I finally got them out on the field for the first time, the same thing happened. But thankfully, Diadora laces are very long. This allowed me to double wrap around the sole and pull the boot nice and tight to my foot. After 2-3 sessions, I found that I didn’t have to do this anymore as the boots started to mold to my feet and the noise completely stopped. In hindsight, it seems like it is somthing you will only encounter while the boots are new. Once you start to break them in, they shape more efficiently to your feet and the heel sits a lot more snugly. Overall, this release falls right in line with the comfort expectations of a Diadora boot, although they don’t quiet match the quality of the Maracana! The upper is K-leather and mimics your foot shape pretty quickly and through the boot, there is also plenty of padding to keep your feet well protected.

NET Breathing System
Obviously, the NET Breathing System  needs to get it’s own entire section, seeing as it is the latest technological advancement in the footwear industry. Its purpose is to keep your feet dry and cool by allowing maximum breathability through a waterproof soleplate. Once you think about it, the concept of allowing your feet to breath in a waterproof environment seems pretty unattainable. There are several layers involved in making it happen, including a synthetic fiber net and a breathable, waterproof membrane that improve breathability while keeping moisture out. Check out the below image for more in-depth details about how it is pieced together.

The big question is does it work? Well, having worn them in several games and on both natural and artificial surfaces, my answer would be Yes! I don’t have any scientific evidence to prove it and I didn’t try recording the temperature of my feet after playing. But, I can tell you that I didn’t notice my feet heating up as much during play. in other words, there were no moments in the game when I thought “dang, my feet are hot right now!” It is definitely something I have experienced while wearing other soccer cleats on hot days, so they do serve their intended purpose. For players who are trying to find a solution for the problem of playing on hot surfaces, I definitely recommend giving these a shot.

Performance
Knowing that the Net Breathing System works effectively, how does the rest of the boot shape up? Well, the first think I can tell is that these boots are probably the best I have ever worn for striking shots. And that is saying a lot – let me explain. Along the front of the boot, Diadora has placed a touch control on top of a series of honeycomb panels (as seen above.) The honeycomb panels are created by the form of anti-stretch stitching used, yet they serve as an ideal platform for striking. The region acts as additional padding and when you strike the ball, the touch control aids in creating anti-spin on the ball. Basically, the combination comes together nicely and makes it feel right!

Design
Diadora are definitely not looking to be reserved with this release! The Fluo Yellow colorway is bright and I received many comments while wearing them, most of which were on the positive side. You of course get the signature Diadora logo on the side of the boot, and plenty of advertising for the NET Breathing System (located in 3 different spots!) In terms of the soleplate, it is pretty wild with pieces cut out of the outsole to allow for breathability. On top of the laces lies a very average looking lace cover, that is there more-so for aesthetics than anything else. Overall, they are a decent looking boot – but you need to be confident enough to wear the outlandish vibrant colorway!

Negatives
The DD Eleven weighs in at 10oz, yet they feel like a bulkier boot for their weight. Diadora do advertise the boot as being lightweight, but I think they fall into the power category more than anything else. Another negative is the lace cover, which at times does not sit down in place. The velcro is not effective and it is just an unnecessary addition in my opinion. I ended up placing them under the laces when I tied them.

Summary
This is a pretty tidy new release from Diadora that, in my opinion, offers a step forward for the company. Working on introducing a new wave of technology can only increase their value, and I like how they focus on something that is different to other major brands. Barring the initial concerns over comfort there is not a whole lot to complain about on the DD Eleven. Designed to be more of a power boot, I can see strikers really benefiting from these, especially when it comes to taken shots. Again, they were the best boots I have worn for striking shots, which says a lot. Defenders will also enjoy what they have to offer. Price-wise, they are a little higher than I would expect from a Diadora release – but I guess that comes with the inclusion of new technology, right?

(*boots supplied for review by Diadora USA)

Arriving on the market several seasons ago, the Diadora Maracana RTX 12 has proven its worth by sticking around and earning a reputation for being one of the most solid performing mid-range boots on the market. This review was actually the second opportunity I had to test a pair, and the conclusion of both reviews is very similar. The only difference is this time I have a broader understanding of the market to give an even better comparison of how they test against similar boots. Diadora sent over a pair of size 9US in the new Black/Fluo Yellow colorway for review.

Breaking In
Knowing these are Diadora boots, I don’t think a play-by-play is necessary on how they break-in! Like every other Diadora boot out there, the Maracana is built around comfort. From the first time you take them out of the box, they just feel right. The K-leather upper feels soft and the soleplate offers plenty of flexibility – what more do you need? After the first training session, where I went straight into using them while cutting and turning, I came to the conclusion that they were game ready. A few days later, I wore them in-game with no problems. Also worth noting is that the leather upper features an anti-stretch lining, allowing the boot to keep its shape for an extended period of time.

What Technology is included?
If you rely on “technology”, then look away now as the Maracana is designed with a minimal interface. There is nothing fancy about these boots. Diadora has ensured you get a comfortable fit and a durable boot at an affordable price – including additional technology would leave these boots somewhat off balance. You do get touch control around the front of the boot, that almost has a slightly sticky feel. There is nothing overly dramatic about the region, with its inclusion covering a minimal region of the strike zone. Add to that an anti-stretch and water resistant K-leather upper, combined with a flexible soleplate and you get all around decent package.

Performance
For what these boots have to offer, performance is as good as you could expect, although the basic design does leave you wanting more! They are comfortable, offer decent support, traction is there, the touch control region is effective on the ball, durability is top class – but they just lack that little extra oomph that most players want. As a guide for what to expect, they almost have the performance of something like the Adidas Copa Mundial or the Mizuno Morelia – it is there, but not quiet the same as boots at the top of the market. In terms of how they feel on the ball, again everything is effective. I had no problems striking shots with them, they feel protected so your foot is not taking the full impact of the ball.

Design and Fit
Diadora keep things simple with the Maracana range, choosing pretty basic colorways. This Black/Fluo Yellow is probably one of the more out there, with the Fluo Yellow detailing really popping on the primary Black upper. I really like this version and feedback from readers has offered a similar outlook. Other options include a very bright Yellow Fluo/Silver and a unusual White/Lime Green/Black. Diadora also include a tongue that acts as a lace cover. It works really well as the elastic underfoot band sits in place without allowing the tongue to move.

In terms of fit, these boots are true to size in length – about as true to size as you can get. Around the forefoot, you get a very comfortable wide fit that offers some additional give once you factor in the leather upper. Word of warning, they are not exactly a great option for players looking for something narrow.

Negatives
Not too many negatives to report. You simply have to know what you are going into before buying a pair. There is nothing unique about the Maracana, they are simply an effective boot that offer great value for their price range.

Summary
At 9.4oz, the Maracana falls into the hybrid range, just between lightweight and heritage. You get the added benefit of a solid heel counter, making them more of a heritage release in my opinion. I enjoyed everything about these boots, and they are without a doubt one of the more low-key, consistent boots you will find on the market. In terms of player position, pretty much every position could sport a pair without any problems. As a winger, I found they were effective, again nothing special about them, they simply do the job! Another very competitive release from Diadora.

(*boots supplied for review by Diadora USA)

Both releases feature the all new NET Breathing System that is designed to let your feet breath by expelling excess heat through the sole surface. It is a very interesting concept and I am eager to find out how or if it works effectively. You can easily see where it is used by turning over to the boots, with the soleplate seemingly broken up to allow access to a mesh type material. A lot of technology included on these ones!

Including the Maracana, there are currently 3 pairs of very colorful Diadora soccer cleats in review right now. Stay tuned for more details on all 3 reviews.

Available From	Version	List Price
	DD Eleven – Yellow/Black	$199.99
	Solano – Olympic Blue/Silver	$109.99

*all prices are subject to change over time

Earlier today, a pair of Diadora Maracana RTX 12 arrived at my unexpectedly. If there is one that Diadora do well, it is produce consistent performing boots and I already know that these are no different. In fact, back when I started the website, one of my first pairs of boots to review was actually the Maracana.

Two years on, and a little wiser, I will give this Black/Yellow Fluo colorway a more efficient and updated review.

I am sure there are many readers who have owned or have considered buying a pair at some point, especially since they come in at a pretty decent price ($94.99) and feature a very durable K-leather upper. If you have had the opportunity to test a pair, leave your thoughts on how they performed below.

Diadora are a company who are synonymous for delivering consistent performing, low-tech soccer cleats. Well their latest release, the Diadora Eleven GX 14, looks to rectify the technical side while still maintaining the same performance properties using a new soleplate that dramatically improves foot breathability. The addition of a brand new NET Breathing System is designed to let feet breath by expelling excess heat through the sole surface. Sounds fancy, right?

So what else does this latest release have to offer? Diadora use a super soft K-Leather upper that has a front touch control region that allows the ball to sit closer to your foot as you dribble. You also get off centered lacing and a lace cover that creates a larger strike zone. The initial release comes in a bright Fluo Yellow/Black colorway with the standard detailing we see on Diadora releases. I absolutely expect everything about this boot to perform at a solid level. Every Diadora boot I have tested, including the recently released Kobra K, has been effective and consistent in game.

I have spent some time reading up about the new NET Breathability System and how it works. It makes for interesting reading and offers some serious advancements in how soleplates could be designed going forward. The big question lies in whether or not it works. If it does, it is something I would have jumped on while in college, when we trained at 2pm in very hot conditions. My feet used to burn and the idea of a cooling system within the boot would have been ideal.

I’m currently looking into getting a pair for testing, stay tuned for more details. If anyone is interested in picking up a pair, they currently retail for $179.99 at soccer.com (with Goal Club).

The first Indoor Soccer Shoe review is going to be a shoe I have been wearing for the past two years – the Diadora Maracana in the Black/Black colorway. Prior to the last month, I haven’t really played much indoor, but when I have, the Maracana has been my indoor shoe of choice. Needless to say, they have been well worn in that time and as you can see from the pictures they have lived a good life – you could almost say they are the Hugh Hefners of my collection (old and worn but ready for action)! The highlight of this shoe lies in their comfort, especially when you factor in their impressive level of durability. For this review, I wore a size 9US, the same as I would wear in soccer cleats.

Breaking In/Comfort
Like most Diadora releases, the Maracana broke in with relative ease. I actually started out wearing these while playing squash, so my first experience with them was not soccer related. But they were very smooth to break in and the transition to soccer worked out really well. There is solid protection around the heal, with the boot featuring ergonomic support. And there is enough room around the toe region to ensure you should not suffer any discomfort/blisters. I never encountered any serious issues with the Maracana in terms of comfort and they are still a solid performer.

The one concern I had was with the tongue. It is not actually designed to with any feature to keep it down. I actually tied the laces over it to keep it in place. When it was loose. it tended to flop and left an undesirable feel after striking the ball (the tongue would shoot up towards my ankles.) Once it was tucked under the laces it worked out fine. Another option would be to actually cut it off just at the ankle line.

Traction
I found that the Maracana did offer a high level of grip in game, although there were some moments where I had my doubts. One of my concerns is how flat the overall feel of the sole is. There are many grooves, but overall there is no texture that would allow for optimal grip (as I have seen on other indoor shoes.) The outsole is made of gum rubber, ensuring it won’t mark indoor surfaces.

Performance
The Maracana includes Diadora’s revolutionary Axeler technology that is designed to facilitate the natural movement of the foot. Basically, a thread-like frame made of Tech Alloy (a specialized steel wire that is flexible) is inserted into the outsole, increasing forefoot flexibility whiles ensuring maximum stability along the sole and heel area. Running felt good and I never encountered any in game issues. They weigh in at 10.5oz, which I am currently finding out is a pretty decent weight for an indoor shoe! The suede toe cap is ideally positioned and really helps keep the shoe in shape – a feature I really like to see on indoor shoes.

Touch and Control
The Maracana upper features a soft K-Leather that is water resistant (something I hope you will not need while playing indoor!) and features an anti-stretch lining. You will also find a unique touch material on the upper, designed and strategically positioned to allow for optimum touch on the ball. I found the material to be useful as it does have a grippy feel and you can keep the ball close to your foot at all times. The one issue I encountered was that Diadora have stitched each of the touch panels into the upper, leaving the boot feeling thin around the strike zone. For me, this became an issue when striking the ball, and there were moments when I desired more protection.

Negatives
The design of the tongue turned out to be the only major negative of the shoe. It flops around and really adds no value to the boot, including the actual look of the boot. One other issue, unrelated to shoe performance, is the price. I do realize that Diadora have worked diligently to produce a high quality indoor shoe, but it just seems that an original list price of $93 is high when you factor in some of the top performing Adidas and Nike releases hit $60. Paying up will be worth it if the Maracana suits your playing style.

Summary
There is no doubting that the Diadora Maracana is the Rolls Royce of the indoor shoe world. You are not getting a boot from one of the major players in the market, but you are getting a highly developed shoe that delivers in every aspect. And in terms of looks, you are not getting a Ferrari or Porche – rather a simple design that screams out “wear ME if you want consistency!” Sometimes, that is exactly what you need while playing indoor, and since they have been my chosen shoe for the past two years, you know that Diadora are offering something that performs at a high level. Once you find out exactly what you want to do with the tongue, you will be in good shape with these!

Now, here is a pretty unusual new color release from a company we have not heard much about in a while. This Camine Red/Azure Blue color in the Diadora Kobra K Pro series is sure to grab some attention. Ultimately, I am not sure if it will be for the right or wrong reason! The color is a little bold/in your face and not something I would necessarily wear myself. But to be honest, I like the fact that Diadora are stepping out of their element with this one – I can’t remember the last crazy colorful release we have seen in any of their ranges!

I am going to let all of you decide what you think about the colorway, but I can tell you from testing the Kobra K that they are a pretty decent boot to wear. If you are in the market for a speed boot, these are not what you are looking for. Diadora emphasize comfort and performance over speed and weight. From reader feedback, I know there are a lot of you out there who swear by Diadora boots and the positive attributes they bring to your game.

In terms of who they suit, I can see more defenders benefiting from their comfort and protection more than a striker who might need something lighter and a little less bulky. And of course, if you had forgotten Diadora was the boot of choice for Roy Keane!