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Nike has released a new boot that connects two of Brazil’s greatest ever soccer stars; Ronaldo and Neymar Jnr. Nike’s new Mercurial Puro Fenomeno boots borrow aesthetic cues from the Superfly II that Neymar wore on his debut for the Brasil National Team and pays paying homage to Ronaldo’s original Mercurial boots.
Ronaldo, also known as “O Fenômeno,” debuted the first Nike Mercurial almost twenty years ago. Those boots, unlike anything that had come before them, changed the game and were the first boots to garner a true cult hero status. They also made an impression on a young Neymar Jr. growing up in Santos, Brasil. “Those were the boots everybody wanted, I wanted them too,” he said.
Available for $255 today at soccer.com.
Design Cues On The Mercurial Puro Fenomeno
The lateral side of the Puro Fenomeno features the iconic chrome and blue color scheme of the ’98 Mercurial, with the speed ribs of the current Mercurial altered to mimic the original’s wavy lines. The black tips of the cleat studs are also a nod to the ’98 version.
The medial side of the boot features the bold graphic of the Mercurial Superfly II that Neymar Jr. wore as he burst onto the international stage. “Ousadia” and “Alegria” also appear on the medial side of the boots, consistent with the daring and joyful style of play he is known for. Additionally, Neymar Jr.’s personal logo is emblazoned on the heels.
Find the entire Mercurial Puro Fenomeno line-up currently available at soccer.com.
