Lotto Fuerzapura - White Cyber Yellow Colorway

Even though they don’t compete with the top ranges on the market, lotto continue to produce top class releases that offer optimal performance to professional players. You only need to look at Italy’s Serie A and the number of players wearing Lotto there as an example of their appeal. This latest release, the Lotto Fuerzapura II, falls into the Power category while offering a solid mix of technology, lightness and precision. I picked up a pair of size 9US in the offbeat White/Cyber Yellow/Black colorway for testing.

Breaking In
Similar to the review of the original Fuerzapura, I didn’t experience too many problems with these. You will need to spend some time allowing them to loosen up and mold effectively. One of the key components of Lotto’s success in comfort is the PuntoFlex technology they have mastered. Puntoflex has been one of the constants in Lotto releases over the years, and it is something you can easily feel by flexing the front of the soleplate. I found that the soleplate as a whole is slightly stiff for the first few training sessions, but that is related to the technology included.

The upper consists of a K-leather with the the synthetic Cyber Yellow panels acting to support the midfoot. Transitioning to a K-leather upper is a great move, in my opinion, but the side panels are a little tricky. The concept is that they envelope your foot and allow for a more compact fit, but I found this to cause too much pressure on the arch. It eventually subsided over time but was a concern through the first few wears. If you notice the same thing make sure to give them time as it should improve as you break them in.

Lotto Technology
There is a bag load of technology on this release (as well as most other current Lotto releases). The sole features Twist’nGo, PuntoFlex and ReactiveArch while you also get a Reactive Insole. To save some time, here is the Lotto terminology for each feature:

• Twist’nGo is the first pivoting stud to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.
• Puntoflex is a special technical device in the soleplate which allows the foot to flex correctly and gives an excellent elastic return.
• ReactiveArch is a new sole that flexes and moves in unison with the natural deformation movement of the transversal arch in the forefoot. It favors the subsequent elastic return (energy return) of the forefoot.
• ReactiveInsole offers an exceptional return memory and flexion channels for perfect synergy with the ReactiveArch technology. The ridges positioned on the upper part of the insole provide arch massage which aids circulation and the absorption of lactic acid.

Does Twist’nGo Work?
The most common question I get with Lotto boots surrounds the use of Twist’nGo technology – or the stud that turns at the top of the boot. The concept is that the stud has the ability to spin as it penetrates the surface, which makes sense and there doesn’t seem to be any negatives to its inclusion. In reality, it is tough to tell how effective it is in game and for the most part your turning action will involve both front studs – I don’t normally do ballerina turns!

In Game Performance
For their intended purpose, there is not too much to complain about on the Fuerzapura II. At 10oz, you would expect some lag behind these, but because of two contributing components, they feel like a lightweight boot! First is the configuration of the studs, which has been altered with a tiered step design on each producing a shape that is designed to penetrate the surface with more efficiency. It makes it easy to hit the surface and rebound up with less drag.  Secondly, the side paneling is designed to support your foot and this produces a very snug encompassing fit. At their weight point, they are also considered to be a power boot – but there is no added power elements. Ultimately, this actually plays in the favor of the boot! I found them to be particularly effective when I played as a forward, it was probably mostly psychological but the feel and fit gives the feel they add some extra wallop behind shots!

Synthetic to leather Upper
The initial Fuerzapura release featured a synthetic upper – so the fact that Lotto has switched this design to a K-leather is bold, but very much appreciated! The fact they have managed to drop the weight by 0.8oz in the process adds even more appeal to the boot!

Design
The most unique aspect of this release is obviously the addition of a synthetic panel that acts as additional support through the midfoot. On this version, the Cyber Yellow looks slightly out of place and awkward. Reaction to the release has not been overly positive, although it does offer a completely different look to other boots on the market. I like the concept, and with the right colorway these could look extremely sweet!

How Do They Fit?
Length wise they are very much a true to size boot. In terms of width, I found that as you move from midfoot to forefoot, the boot gradually transitions from a medium to wide fit. The inclusion of the midfoot panels creates a slightly tighter fit – plus everything about them is designed to offer a high level of arch support.

Negatives
To be honest, there might almost be too much technology used in the soleplate – in a sense it makes them seem a little confusing and if you are encountering any discomfort it could be related to several different things! More colorway options are also a necessity!

The Skinny Summary
Highlight: A very solid performing power boot that features a lot of technology through the soleplate
Category: Power – there is no additional power technology, but the design and concept of the boot surrounds the ideals of players who want strength in their boots!
Weight: A 10oz power boot sounds about right – a good number for them to be at.
Would I Buy Them: If they were the right colorway, and were available around the $100 mark (they retail for $180) I would put them into consideration for days when I know I will be playing up front.
Player Position: Definitely an ideal choice for any defender or center mid. They offer solid protection and comfort throughout. Forwards who want a run-of-the-mill boot that will provide an extra element of power for shooting should also add them to the list.

A few weeks ago I mentioned that a selection of Lotto boots had arrived in for testing – as pictured above. They are (from left to right) the Futura 100, Stadio Primato, Futura 500 turf and the Fuerzapura. I am currently finalizing a review of the Fuerzapura, which should be posted next week. All of the listed boots are currently available on soccer.com.

In the mean time, I decided to put together a reaction video at training the other night. My goal was to find out from fellow players which boot from the selection had the greatest appeal. Check it out below and then let me know which you would pick and why!

Although they have been on the market for a while now, I finally just got a pair of Lotto Futura 100 for review. They arrived yesterday along with several other pairs of Lotto boots (which I will be highlighting in the next few weeks) and I actually had a chance to start the break-in process with them last night, wearing them through our warm-up at training.

The Dark Mandarin Orange colorway is quite unique and makes for a fascinating looking boot. They have a slightly metallic look so are very easy to spot under night lights. Stay tuned for more details in the next few weeks and a full review!

Anyone had a chance to wear a pair yet?

Lotto’s latest release onto the market is this fully upgraded Fuerzapura II 100. The original Fuerzapura has not been on the market that long, but Lotto has decided to enhance the range by replacing the synthetic upper with a much improved leather. For the initial roll-out, Lotto has introduced a vibrant White/Cyber Yellow/Black colorway, with a rather unique side paneling offering an unmistakable look.

In fact, the Cyber Yellow panels on the side of the boot serve a purpose as they work in unison with the laces to envelop your feet, allowing for a more natural form fit. I am not a huge fan of the color, but I am interested to see what future releases look like. In terms of functionality, it makes complete sense and is a direction we have seen companies like Nike and Lotto drift toward in recent times. The PU Puntoflex soleplate also features a lot technology including Lotto’s innovative Twist’n Go stud and Reactive Arch technology for improved balance and stability.

Even with the transition of a synthetic to leather upper, Lotto have found a way to drop the overall weight from 10.8oz to 10oz – definitely a major plus. Add to that, this design looks far superior and Lotto have definitely achieved their objective of releasing a more effective boot! Price wise, the range has an original list price of $179.99, which seems a little high – you might want to watch out for deals on this one, like $159.99 at WorldSoccerShop, as seen below.

Brought to you by

Lotto Fuerzapura II 100

Check out the latest colorway release in the laceless Lotto Zhero Gravity Ultra range, coming in a pretty sweet Blue Aster/Black. I have to admit, these shoes look extremely appealing, maybe it has something to do with the futuristic design that that runs along the side of the boot matched with no laces. Or maybe my eyes are recovering from the previous Spicy Orange release! I’m not quiet certain but they get the thumbs up from me.

The Zhero Gravity Ultra has many positives, including the fact that they have a water repellant upper, feature Twist N’Go stud technology and of course they have a completely laceless design – the only one on the market. Obviously this is a huge plus for anyone interested in the Lotto range. The biggest problem with the release is ensuring you get the right size. Since you have no laces to tighten or loosen the boots, you need to ensure that you have the right size starting out. Lotto has done a lot of work to create a fit that matches several foot types, but I don’t feel like they have covered (or even can) all bases.

Another unique feature lies along the front of the cleat, where you will notice a symmetrical design. This actually serves an important purpose, as the center of the design folds slightly to give you the best fit along the forefront of your foot.

In my opinion, this is the type of release that will persuade players who are on the fence to splash out on a pair. Again, having had the opportunity to test them out, I actually do recommend trying them out at least once in your career if you get a chance – lets be honest, how many people can say they have worn a laceless soccer cleat?

Available From	Version	List Price
	Blue Aster/Black	$219.99

*all prices are subject to change over time

The latest release from Lotto comes in the form of one their most advanced boots yet – the Lotto Futura 100. Designed to combine style with the latest technology, these boots need to be taken seriously, and I like the direction Lotto have headed with this one. Not only do they look pretty slick, but they are also very reasonably priced at $129.99. In theory, they are the new version of the Fuerzapura – only a lot sleeker and I can bet the overall performance will be far better!!

Lotto use an anti-abrasion and water repellent microfiber upper that offers great feel and touch on the ball. The colorway employed is absolutely unique and there is no doubt it will stand out on the field. It is officially called Dark Mandarin Orange.

In terms of technology, the soleplate of the Futura 100 is bursting with Lotto’s latest advancements. Punto Flex, a Reactive Arch and Twist ‘N Go are all included. If you are familiar with Lotto releases, you will be familiar with the Punto Flex, which is positioned right along the metatarsal region to allow appropriate flex through your foot. It has always been one aspect of Lotto releases that I have found extremely effective. The reactive arch technology is designed to improve comfort and stability, while the Twist ‘N Go stud allows you to pivot and turn quickly, particularly useful when you need an extra burst of acceleration.

The one thing I am left a little confused with is Lotto’s desire to brand this as a speed boot. Weighing in at 9.8oz, they are definitely no slug – but to me they fall into the adiPure/Tiempo/King bracket rather than the lightweight. I am pretty excited to get a pair for testing as they seem like one of the better Lotto releases in recent times (minus the colorway!)

Available From	Version	List Price
	Futura 100	$129.99
	Futura 500	$59.99

All you need to do is read the official colorway of this Lotto Zhero Gravity Ultra release to get an idea of what this soccer cleat is all about – Spicy Orange/Black. Kudos to Lotto for trying something completely new and for releasing what could be one of the most unusual colorways I have ever seen. It is almost a mix of red and orange, with a touch of neon undertones. You are going to look about as flashy as could be if you wear these on the field!

The Zhero Gravity Ultra was a boot that really caught my attention before I had the opportunity to test it last year. The “no lace” concept is quiet unique and sits in a whole other realm of technologically advanced boots. Add to that, the laceless design actually looks quiet nice, and if you can get the right fit they are pretty effective performance wise. One of the unique features lies along the front of the cleat, where you will notice a symmetrical design. This actually serves an important purpose, as the center of the design folds slightly to give you the best fit along the forefront of your foot.

Going back one step, the real problem with these cleats is ensuring you get the right fit – otherwise comfort is going to be a big issue. Lotto have done a lot of work to create a fit that matches several foot types, but I don’t feel like they have covered (or even can) all bases. My primary problem was that they never felt tight enough around the opening and I continually felt like I needed laces to tighten them up.

Personally, this colorway is just too much for me. Although it doesn’t quiet scream “hit me with all you’ve got Mr. Defender” it does yelp “I like walking through mine fields” (whatever that means!?!). But don’t get me wrong, the colorway is sure to appeal to a particular group of players that like a unique boot not seen very often. I had the opportunity to test them and I actually do recommend trying them out at least once in your career if you get a chance – lets be honest, how many people can say they have worn a laceless soccer cleat?

The Lotto Fuerzapura might be difficult to pronounce and to spell, but this cleat is a simple, well balanced boot designed to perform on the field. In Spanish, Fuerza Pura means Pure Force giving you the impression that Lotto have designed these to be a power cleat, and after testing I would agree that they fall into that category. Recently, I tested the laceless Lotto Zhero Gravity Ultra, which are the upscale version of the Fuerzapura. After testing both, there is no doubting that the latter offers a great alternative especially in terms of value for money. To review, I wore a size 9US in the synthetic Bright White/Metal Blue colorway.

Breaking In
It didn’t take long for the Fuerzapura to mold to my feet and they felt comfortable from the first session. After I spent some time jogging in them I could tell that they would easily be ready and effective to use in a game. One of the keys to Lotto’s success is the PuntoFlex technology they have mastered. Puntoflex has been one of the constants in Lotto releases over the years, and it is something you can easy feel by simply flexing the soleplate. This is one thing that makes them easy to break in. In saying that, I did feel slight discomfort over time in the heel area while playing on turf. This was not an issue on grass, so I would rate these as better suited to natural surfaces than artificial. Overall, I wore them in several training sessions and 3 games without any real problems.

Style
The colors used in the Fuerzapura and the Zhero Gravity are exactly the same bar of the course the front lace system. The same blue stretch rubber runs along the outside of the lacing area, although it is stitched in meaning it does not serve the same purpose as it does on the Zhero Gravity. In terms of style, the Fuerzapura look a little bulky, which I would attribute to how the lacing system runs across the front of the cleat. These are designed in similar style to the Under Armour Create.

Performance and Twist’n Go
In terms of performance, these are another run of the mill boot that offers great quality for the price. They perform equally as well as their big brother and to be honest, I prefer having laces available to tighten. Lotto again use their patented Twist’n Go technology, designed to help increase speed out of tight turns. A pivoting stud positioned in the area of the first metatarsal allows for the boot to follow the rotational movement by the athlete, making the change in direction more harmonious and natural. I spent some time testing this to see if I could notice any difference. All in all, it is tough to say if it really does improve your speed, but having spent some serious time testing these against other boots without the technology, I can tell you that it certainly feels easier to swivel when on the front of your foot.

Comparing
Fuerzapura L vs Fuerzapura KL
The KL uses K-leather, while the L uses a water-repellent microfiber. Price wise, this means the L is cheaper.

Fuerzapura vs Zhero Gravity Ultra
The Lotto Zhero Gravity and the L are created using the same water-repellent microfiber. The Zhero Gravity uses laceless technology and weighs in a full 1oz lighter than the L. This means you will pay considerably more for the Zhero Gravity Ultra.

Negatives
These are a little bulkier than other cleats I have seen from Lotto. There is no doubt that these are intended for the power category, but although they weigh in at an impressive 10.2oz I still feel like they look over-sized. Another important point to note is that these scuff really easily. You will need to ensure that you clean them after each use in order to keep them looking fresh and new, particularly if you use them on turf.

Summary
If you decide that the Fuerzapura is the choice for you, you will be satisfied when you wear them. In terms of value, there is no doubting that they offer a great option for their price, but I do feel like there are better options out there. Overall, they offer a great alternative for those who can’t splash out on the Zhero Gravity Ultra. In terms of positions and who they suit, I think these are a great option for a front player who likes to turn and shoot. They are also a great option for defenders as they offer good support up front. Lotto will be keen to have players wearing their boots at this summers World Cup in South Africa and these will be one of the top selections for their sponsored players. Watch out for them!

(*boots supplied for review by soccer.com)

The Lotto Zhero Gravity Ultra is a very unique soccer cleat. In fact, the Lotto Zhero range is the first line of laceless soccer cleats to be released by a big company. To create something in this design takes a lot of research and development, and you have to know that end product offers the right balance for soccer players. My initial concern at the beginning of testing was comfort, and how these were going to fit to my feet. The concept of a laceless cleat is very appealing, but in reality there are challenges in perfecting the comfort and performance. Before reading this review, I think it is important to note that these cleats will fit different for each player. I wore a size US9 in Bright White/Metal Blue for testing, the latest colorway on the market comes in a Blue Aster.

Laceless Design
I can start off by telling you that these are a really sweet looking boot. Lotto use a great color pattern that draws your attention, with navy and gold detailing on a primary white. The white also has a reflective look to it when in sunlight, kind of like a rippling water effect that runs across the entire boot. The laceless design is obviously very unique and something that draws a lot of attention. I can tell you that most of my teammates were eager to check them out when I put them on for the first training session.  Lotto use a rubber type compound in place of the laces and also on the heel of the boot. There is some elasticity in this compound, allowing you a little flexibility when getting your foot in and out of the boot. Along the front of the cleat is a symmetrical design that actually serves an important purpose. The center of the design folds slightly, giving you the best fit along the forefront of your foot. All in all, I would say that the style and design of these is top class!

Breaking In
Next up with any boot is breaking them in slowly. I took these through 2 early morning jogging sessions with no problems before deciding to break them out for a proper training. But that is where things started to get a little iffy. First off, the soles of my feet started cramping. This is probably related to the shape of my feet compared to the boot, and does not mean it will happen to every player. But what it does signal for me is the fact that they take a little longer than other boots to mold to your feet. After 2 or 3 more training sessions they started to feel a little more comfortable, but having said that I had the boots for a good 2-3 weeks before deciding to use them in a game. Overall, I found them to be difficult to break in.

Comfort and Fit
Next problem is the fit. It was quiet evident that these were not going to work for me when they started making a squelching noise on every step that I took while wearing them. Lotto have done a lot of work to create a fit that matches several foot types, but I don’t feel like they have covered (or even can) all bases. My primary problem was that they never felt tight enough around the opening and I continually felt like I needed laces to tighten them up. Length wise, they fit my feet pretty well, so I don’t think going down a full size would have been the answer. In saying that, I would be interested to see what difference a half a size would have made.

Technology
The laceless design is obviously the most noticeable advancements on this cleat, but there are also other developed technologies that Lotto use on this boot. If you turn the boot over you will notice the use of Lotto’s patented Twist n’Go stud at the front of the cleat. The idea of Twist n’Go is to enhance turning speed and acceleration when you look to turn. The stud basically rotates 360 degrees, so as you turn the stud turns with you.  Is it noticeable? I will say the same thing that I did when testing the Lotto Zhero Evolution, it is all down to the person wearing them. For me, it had more of a psychological effect than anything else. Next up is the reactive arch (Lotto advertise by printing it on several areas of the cleat) that has been designed to essentially move more dynamically with your foot. The effect is more cushioning and protection on impact while running.

Negatives
As discussed in the comfort and fit section, you really have to be sure that you want these. I can imagine that getting the right fit is going to be an issue for many players. Weight wise, these run around 9.4oz, which isn’t bad, yet I feel that Lotto could trim that down to really ensure they fit in the speed bracket. One other issue I had was scuffing, and these boots will easily scuff. In order to avoid this and to add life to the boots you will have to keep them clean after each time you wear them.

Summary
If you buy these, you are going to be extremely pleased when they arrive at your door. Lotto have put together a great looking boot that comes with 2 additional inserts, a shoe horn to help you get your feet in and a small carry bag. They also have shape inserts in them when they arrive, making them seem classy. But my advice revolves around the issue of being sure that these are the boots that you want. Granted Lotto have brought the price of these down to $200, but it still a lot of money to invest and these won’t suit every player.

(*boots supplied for review by soccer.com)

First Thoughts
Lotto have stuck with a relaxed look for this version. Unlike many current releases on the market, the Stadio is very low key, black on black! I am a fan of shape, as I can already tell they are a medium fit, and this is particularly important in the mid-sole region. The K-leather feels great, and I have no doubt over time the leather will only get softer.

Breaking In
These cleats were super smooth breaking in. They fit just right, and because they are K-leather, from the first game they start to mold to the shape of your feet. I have wore these in several training sessions and also had the opportunity to wear them in two games. I initial fear I had with these cleats was the sole plate. They seem to feel pretty stiff but thankfully they didn’t cause any issues. Finally, one of the games I got to wear these in it rained, and these boots stood the test. The water helped in terms of touch, again aided by the fat that the upper is K-leather, rather than a synthetic.

Technology
Well, other than offering an amazingly soft kangaroo leather, these boots do have a few key Lotto features. First is Shock Off, a shock absorbing insert made of low density polyurethane located near the heal of the cleat. And the other feature is Punto-Flex, Lotto’s own technology that allows for the sole to bounce back, thus allowing your foot to flex in the right way. Another bonus about Lotto’s cleats is the fact that the upper is stitched to the sole, increasing the life span of the cleat.

Size and Weight
I wear a size 9US and that’s what I had for this review. Size wise they fit true to size and I would say medium in all respects. I have  medium to wide foot and these fit great. Weight wise, the Lotto Stadio weighs in at 9.6oz, which is a pretty optimal weight. After wearing these in wet weather, they held up really well and didn’t feel any heavier.

Negatives
The only real negative I have is the tongue. It is designed in an old-school fashion, so it just flaps over. At first it was fine because the tongue is stiff. But over the past few weeks, it has softened up resulting in the tongue sitting straight up. As a result, the only real way to keep it down is to tie the laces over the tongue. Another option, which I have seen some people doing, is to place the tongue in under the actual lacing. This definitely makes for a different look!

Conclusion
Theses cleats actually outperformed my expectations! I probably would not have purchased a pair of these before testing them. I have to admit, I am surprised that Lotto have not attacked the US market more but instead they have stuck to the European market. If they were to merge into the US space, I think they could really hit a niche market with these. The Lotto Stadio Primato sit in the same category as the Adidas adiPURE and the Umbro Speciali’s, but at the current price of $89.99. they might be one of the preferred choices for anyone looking for a cleat that offers performance and durability without the fancy specs of the more advanced ranges.

If you want to find out more, head over to Soccer.com. (currently priced at $89.99)

(boots supplied for review by soccer.com)