Soccer Reviews USA

Next Generation Nike Hypervenom 3

2017-01-16T11:14:00.003-08:00

The next generation of the Nike Hypervenom 3 are on the verge of release, and are bound to make drastic rifts in the market.

The new Nike Hypervenom 3 will feature a full Nike FlyKnit upper, the first time we've seen this on a soccer boot. The Nike technology will look to add flex and support where players need it, and the Hypervenom 3 will provide this.

The boot also features a newly re-designed soleplate, as seen below. This is the main change coming to the Hypervenom line, while the majority of the boot remains standard to its predecessors.

The boot will be dropping late January, and will be worn by the likes of Neymar Jr, Wayne Rooney, and other Nike athletes.

Adidas X 2016

2015-09-10T08:59:00.001-07:00

It seems as if Bayern Munich players are already trying their hand at the new Adidas X 2016, which are set to release next year.

The Bayern Munich striker Thomas Mueller was spotted sporting the prototype boots, with the first pair thought to be made this past summer.

The boots aren't set to be released until next year, and no information is known about improvements and innovations at this point.

Nike Tiempo Legend 6 Spotted in Training

2015-09-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

Dani Carvajal of Real Madrid seems to be the first in line to test out the new Nike Tiempo Legend 6.

With the Nike Tiempo Legend 5 still in hot demand, it almost seems a bit early for the Tiempo 6 to be making an appearance. However, the boots have been spotted on the feet of Carvajal in multiple training sessions. No word yet on what improvements will be made, but it seems that the Tiempo will feature a lower cut design compared to the new collared design Nike has been implementing.

The boot is expected to drop this December.

Wayne Rooney All Time England Goalscorer

2015-09-08T19:02:00.003-07:00

Wayne Rooney scored his 50th goal for England today, surpassing Sir Bobby Charlton as England's all time leading goalscorer.

The English striker scored from the penalty spot in England's 2-0 win over Switzerland. The striker was overjoyed as he ran away from the spot. It's been a long time coming for the Manchester United forward, and it looks as if he won't be stopping anytime soon.

Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly Cristiano Ronaldo Lava (CR7)

2015-09-08T09:15:00.003-07:00

New images of the soon to be released Nike Superfly CR7 Lava boots have been leaked. The boots are expected to drop in October.

The boots feature no design differences from the current Superfly, but will not feature a leather base.

The boot features specks of orange and red over a mainly black design, which gives off the illusion of lava. The boots will be designed specifically for the use of Nike's main man, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Look for these boots dropping in early October!

Just Play Cleats Test Video

2014-03-31T23:42:00.003-07:00

New freekick video featuring the Just Play Cleats soccer cleat!

Champions League Quarter-Finals

2014-03-31T07:49:00.001-07:00

Champions League action returns tomorrow, and the competition is fierce! With only eight teams left in the competition, here are the match ups for this week. (All times are Mountain Time) Note, this is only the first leg match up, and a second leg match up will be held to determine the winner on aggregate.

Tuesday, April 1st
Manchester United vs Bayern Munich
Old Trafford, England
12:45 PM

FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid
Camp Nou, Spain
12:45 PM

Wednesday, April 2nd
Paris SG vs Chelsea
Parc de Princes, France
12:45 PM

Real Madrid vs Dortmund
Santiago Bernabeu
12:45 PM

Just Play Cleats Soccer Cleat Unboxing!

2014-03-17T17:55:00.001-07:00

Here is the second pair of boots we received from Just Play Cleats!

Nike Magista Unveiled

2014-03-07T06:07:00.001-08:00

The new Nike Magista have been officially unveiled, with FC Barcelona's Andres Iniesta leading the charge.

The new boot features a reinvented Flyknit upper, similar to that found on Nike running shoes. The Flyknit is covered in Nikeskin to ensure protection for the player.

The new boot also features a new collar, letting the ankle, foot, and leg work as one single unit in the boot. This ensures that the player has total control while using the Magista.

The new boot features a "360 degree traction" soleplate, with the goal at delivering maximum control and ease to the players movement.

Unfortunately, the boot will not be available until late April. No word yet on what these will retail for.

Adidas Samba Primeknit

2014-02-26T20:17:00.002-08:00

The new exciting boot from Adidas has finally been announced, the Adidas Samba Primeknit. Liverpool's Luis Suarez is the main ambassador for the new boot, pictured below with the innovative boot.

The boot is a single piece upper, weighing in at 5.8 oz. The boot is advertised to be economically friendly, similar to the Nike Green Speed. The boot is knitted in a way to ensure that the user has no problems with wetness, a concern I had when I first saw the boots. As advertised, the boots will be releasing 2/27/14.

Nike Magista Teaser: The New Nike CTR360 Maestri Replacement

2014-02-26T13:41:00.001-08:00

Nike just dropped a new teaser for their new boot, the Nike Magista. Not a lot is known, but it is assumed they will replace the Nike CTR360 Maestri boot. The teaser features players like Andres Iniesta, Tiago Silva and more! Check out the video here!

Just Play Cleats Soccer Cleat Unboxing- Black, Blue and Yellow Laser

2014-02-25T05:25:00.002-08:00

Feel free to check out Just Play Cleats to see there full inventory of cleats. Stay tuned for a new unboxing in the next couple of days!

Wayne Rooney Extends Manchester United Contract

2014-02-22T07:41:00.000-08:00

Exciting news for all Manchester United fans, as the English striker Wayne Rooney just signed a new four year contract extension. This comes after a lot of speculation that Wayne would leave over the summer transfer window, with interest from clubs like Chelsea on the rise. The United no. 10 will now stay at Old Trafford until June 2019.

Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly IV Spotted in Training

2014-02-19T16:02:00.000-08:00

With the Vapor 10 on the verge of release, it was rumored that there was going to be a new version of Superfly dropping. With confirmations from various sources, it seems that this will in fact happen! Some professional players, like Real Madrid's Jesse (pictured below), have been spotted testing the new Superfly boot. Keep in mind that nothing is official until confirmed by Nike, but it seems that these boots will be coming out in the near future.

Are you guys excited for these new boots? Being a big fan of the Superfly Elite Series, I am very excited about this news! No predictions yet on when they will be released, but hopefully sometime this year!

Nike Mercurial Vapor X Pictures (Video)

2014-02-16T07:21:00.003-08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo Trains in Vapor X (10)

2014-02-13T13:07:00.002-08:00

During a recent training session, Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was spotted training in a mysterious pair of boots. These boots are rumored to be the new Vapor X. The new version of the Vapor will feature a four stud heel, something that Vapor fans have been asking for since the switch to two studs back with the Vapor 8. It is also rumored that a Superfly version of the boot will be available.

It's believed that this boot spotting from Soccer Bible may also be the Vapor X. What do you guys think of the new Vapors? Will you be picking up a pair?

Soccer Cleat Collection Showcase

2014-01-28T16:11:00.005-08:00

Hey guys, just dropped a new video on my YouTube channel! I will have a Nike Hypervenom review up on the YouTube channel in a few days as well, so look forward to that!

New Tiempo XX Pack Available for Purchase!

2014-01-20T07:33:00.000-08:00

The new Tiempo XX pack is not available for purchase at Pro Direct Soccer. Get them while you can, because only 500 pairs are available! Click the link here to purchase your pair!

Nike Tiempo WC Unboxing

2014-01-18T18:46:00.002-08:00

Nike CTR360 Maestri Elite World Cup Edition Unboxing

2013-12-23T08:08:00.001-08:00

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX R9 Special Edition Unboxing Video

2013-09-08T15:51:00.001-07:00

What's up guys! Long time no see! Thought you guys might enjoy this unboxing of the limited edition Nike Mercurial Vapor IX R9 edition. This specific pair is number 398 of 2012 pairs made. It's awesome to know that I own one of 2012 pairs! I hope to later purchase more limited edition boots. Have an awesome day guys, we'll see you later!

Sir Alex Ferguson Retires

2013-05-08T01:34:00.000-07:00

After a long successful run, Manchester United have announced the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson.

After 27 years, Sir Alex has officially announced his retirement.

“The decision to retire is one that I have thought a great deal about and one that I have not taken lightly. It is the right time."

Sir Alex had won 13 premiership trophies and 2 European cups while at United, and had won almost every trophy that was obtainable.

No news yet on who will replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford.

Nike CTR360 Maestri III FG ACC – Review

2013-03-09T18:50:00.003-08:00

Nike first unveiled their famous CTR360 line in 2010, which brought about further modernization to a rapidly changing footy boot world. This was the first boot in which Nike specifically had a position in mind when constructing – the playmaker. I will have an article in the near future discussing the evolution of the CTR360 Maestri line (I, II, III), so for now I will just get straight into the review.

By Ricky Patel

Sizing

I heard from various sources that the new Maestri III run a little smaller than the previous models. For that reason, I got a half-size larger than I normally do (a size 9.5 US rather than my usual size 9 US) – and I am glad I did! The fit is just about perfect – I imagine if I went with my size 9, my feet would have been way too cramped – so I am happy with the size I got. You don’t have to worry about any overstretching as the Kanga-Lite is a synthetic that gives very little stretch – so what you start out with is pretty much going to be the fit for the boots entire life.

Comfort

If there is one thing the Nike CTR360 Maestri series is known for, it’s the exceptional comfort it provides. Straight out of the box (given you have the right size), these are like pillows on your feet – no exaggeration! As mentioned in the Sizing section, the upper is made of Nike’s Kanga-Lite synthetic leather, which is extremely soft and has some cushioning that rests nicely on your feet. A large portion of the heel section is lined with a very soft suede material, similar to the Tiempo Legend IV (but in the Maestri III, the suede material covers a bit more space). The soleplate is thick enough, so you will not experience any stud pressure or discomfort on artificial grounds (turf) or natural surfaces (grass fields).

Performance

The Maestri III is almost a completely different boot from both its predecessors. The Maestri III has been stripped down of almost all its technology that made the Maestri series such a player-favorite in the boot community. This was, I think, to reduce the weight and compete with the demands for lighter weight boots for players (which I personally do not agree with). The first thing that stood out was the absence of the dampening pods on the outside of the forefoot. I was a huge fan of these on the previous release, as it created a slight cushioning effect when receiving the ball in that area of the boot. Now with the Maestri III, that area is covered with a sort of golf ball dimpling on the bare upper, which in my experience has no effect at all on the touch or performance of the boot – I am not saying that this is a bad thing, but it did leave me slightly disappointed. Next, is the revolution of the pass pad- this new one covers a lot more space than the previous model. This area does nothing more than create the feeling that you made a solid pass or shot with your instep – as it provides an ever so slight grippy feeling – this will in no way improve your accuracy in passing or finesse shooting (and no technology will, for that matter!). The upper is also slightly thinner and lighter than the previous models, but does offer a little bit more cushioning (a plushy sort of feel) – which I really like! The Kanga-Lite 2.0 is super soft, and arguably the best synthetic out on the market – the touch you get on these truly feel similar to that of a high quality leather. Moving back into the weight aspect, the Maestri III falls into the category of what I call the “perfect weight range” for soccer shoes (between 7.5-9.5 oz). They have a listed weight of 9.2 oz; however, when I weighed these on the scale they read 8.5oz. They feel extremely light on feet! With regards to traction, the stud pattern is completely redesigned and reminiscent of the Tiempo Legend IV layout. With this, they offer solid performance on both turf and natural grass fields.

Durability

The CTR360 Maestri II was one of the most durable and well-constructed boots I have ever worn. While the Maestri III doesn’t feel as sturdy as its predecessor, I can say that these have held up quite well so far. After about 2 months of use (including uses on both turf and grass fields), these still look great – keep in mind that I clean my boots after every, or every other wear. For those of you wondering, the “Pass Pad” feels almost cemented on, so there are no worries about the fins falling off. All in all, I can see these lasting the average player a season, maybe even two, without any problems. However, I honestly cannot see the Maestri III lasting over 2 seasons. They just aren’t built with the steel of the Maestri II.

Negatives

There are two things I was slightly disappointed with on this boot. The loss of the memory foam dampening pods is one- but this I admit is unjustified as I should be judging the Nike CTR360 Maestri III as an individual boot, not as a comparison to its predecessor. The other thing is not related to the performance: the upper scuffs fairly easily on the lighter color ways, and it is extremely difficult to get them off. I know this only applies to some of us, but I like my boots looking spic and span! Other than those two small things, this boot is fantastic.

Conclusion

The Nike CTR360 Maestri III is an excellent all around boot. In fact, it is right up there in my favorite boots to play in!

Comfort: 10/10

Durability: 8.5/10

Performance: 9/10

Value: 9/10

Overall: 9/10

Nike Tiempo Legend IV ACC Review

2013-03-01T22:35:00.000-08:00

Arguably Nike’s most reputable boot series, the “Legend” is known to deliver exceptional comfort and solid, all-around performance for those no-nonsense players. As we have seen through the evolution of the initial Air Legend I release to the latest Tiempo Legend IV, not a whole lot has changed – for the simple reason that this formula works! A super-soft kangaroo leather upper accompanied by an excellent fit, allows the player to match up to his/her maximum potential, without any gimmicky technology between their foot and the ball.
by Ricky Patel

Sizing

I wore my normal size 9 US with this boot and the fit is fantastic. If you are interested in purchasing the Tiempo Legend IV, I highly recommend getting your normal size; the initial fit is quite tight, but after a few uses the k-leather upper softens and molds nicely to the shape of your foot.

Comfort

This is the most important aspect when choosing your next footy boots – and with the Tiempo Legend IV, that is exactly what you get! As I mentioned in the “Sizing” section, the fit right out of the box can be quite stressful on your feet. Nike had a purpose for this – so the soft k-leather upper would stretch perfectly and mold to the shape of your foot. So if you are finding that the initial fit is extremely tight, do not worry as you will need a solid 3-4 uses to get the leather loosened up and stretched out. After the break in period (about 5 uses/5 hours), these are easily one of the most comfortable boots you are likely to wear. The heel is lined with a suede material, which hugs your foot like a pillow. The soleplate is thick enough to avoid any stud pressure on firm ground or artificial/turf surfaces (for the FG stud pattern) – with the exception of hard ground, you might find some slight discomfort on these sorts of fields. The front half of the boot is kangaroo leather, which is soft and hugs your forefoot very well, and the back half is made up of Nike’s KangaLite material, which their “synthetic kangaroo leather” where it is supposed to mimic the qualities of leather, but retain less water and be more durable. The kangalite portion feels sturdy in the mid-foot and allows for great arch support and protection.

Durability

There is always the fear of durability issues with a predominantly leather upper, but the Tiempo Legend IV is honestly an extremely well-built boot. If you use these on its intended grounds (firm ground on natural surfaces, etc, etc.) you should have no problem with these lasting a season, maybe even two depending on how well you maintain them. Wearing these on artificial grounds is a huge toss up, as the turf pellets can easily find their way into the spaces where the upper meets the soleplate – however, after about 10 uses with them on turf, they have still held up quite well – but I think I just got lucky!

Performance

The Legend series is known for its use of no technology and just using a plain surface so the players can have maximum exposure between his/her foot and the ball. Typically, these are categorized for those no-nonsense players, and to an extent, I agree with that claim – because there are no useless gimmicks anywhere on the boot, but rather just a clean surface to play. The soft, padded k-leather upper offers an exceptional touch on the ball as well as clean striking surface. The kangalite in the mid-foot holds up very well when making sharp turns and playing passes with your instep. At 9.4oz, these are not too heavy to the point where it feels like they are weighing you down, but not super light where you feel instability and your feet feel vulnerable. In my opinion, they are actually in that perfect weight range (7.5-9.5oz). The mix of conical and, sort of, semi-bladed studs allow for optimal traction.

Negatives

There really are no negatives to the latest release of the Legend series, the Nike Tiempo Legend IV. If I had one thing to complain on, it would be the break in period. The fit out of the box is slightly painful and it is extremely tight – almost to the point where it feels I needed to get a half size bigger. But in the end, it was worth the slight pain, as the fit after break in was inch perfect!

ACC

It's honestly hard to tell any difference between the ACC and non-ACC Tiempos. The difference may be subtle to notice, but I'd like to think it helps!

Treatment

I highly recommend you invest in some leather food, not just for Tiempo Legend IV, but for any leather upper boots. These are amazing when it comes to prolonging the life of your upper. I apply it every 4-5 uses just to maintain the softness and strength of the leather. Recommended brand: Chelsea Leather Food – can be found at soccer.com for around $10, and each tub will last you quite some time.

Conclusion

This has now become my all-time favorite boot. Its performance is suitable for any player who wants to take his/her game seriously, and the comfort after break-in is second to none.

Comfort: 9/10

Durability: 9/10

Performance: 9/10

Value: 9/10

Overall: 9/10

Pele Sports Armador Review

2013-02-25T20:57:00.003-08:00

The Pele Sports Armador is a casual shoe made for those that love the game. These shoes combine style and comfort, and offer up an affordable price that is hard to turn down.

This is my first casual shoe review, so the formatting may be a bit different than normal boot reviews.

Comfort
At first glance, these shoes appeared to be slightly uncomfortable due to the sole, which slightly resembled that of a indoor shoe, but flat (no arch). This worried me, but I found that these shoes were extremely comfortable over time. The flat sole proved to not be a problem, and I found that it flexed well when I was walking. The upper is very soft and provides for a good feel. I'm not sure if these would be suitable for indoor soccer, but I could see them serving that double purpose role for some. These shoes fit true to size, and are a little wide, giving your foot a lot of room to breath. I really enjoyed that aspect of the shoe. Overall though, these are one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes I've ever owned, and this quality continues to build upon the excellence Pele Sports has put out.

Style/Design
This has been an aspect that I've always been impressed with by Pele Sports. For example, their Trinity 3E still stands as one of the most simple yet stylish looking releases I've seen. The Armador wasn't as profound, but still impressed me with its simple color scheme and unique designs. The print on the sole is very unique and different (pictured above), considering most shoes don't feature any design on the sole. The colors work well together, but I think Pele Sports could have been slightly more creative with this release. Don't get me wrong, the colors work well together, but I was slightly disappointed with the lack of creativity.

Performance
This category may be slightly vague, due to the fact that these shoes served no other purpose than everyday shoes. That being said, they were a great pair of everyday shoes! I thoroughly enjoyed wearing them, and they provided a great amount of comfort, support, and style. These definitely aren't meant for trekking through snow/rain however, as I found they got wet very easily. But I'm sure one can use common sense and see that these are primarily meant for indoor wear, so I don't take anything away from them because of that. Of course, as with any shoe, you are going to experience your normal wear and tear, and the Armador held up just like any other high quality shoe.Overall, these shoes performed very well, and I was extremley satisfied.

Pros: Great comfort, style and overall performance
Cons: Slightly bland colorway. Nothing else really!

Verdict
Pele Sports have once again satisfied with a great release. The Armador is a great combo of style, comfort and fit, and I would HIGHLY recommend these to anyone who is looking for a great pair of everyday shoes. If you are interested in picking up a pair, go check them out at Pele Sports website by clicking here.

See ya guys later!