Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Vapor XVI Academy IC
Fine-tuned for responsiveness, the next-gen Merc engages the Zoom Air unit every time your foot meets the ground to generate increased energy return.
It’s simple but effective, maximizing the effect of Zoom Air and keeping you faster for longer. Plenty of grip too – this indoor edition features low-profile, hybrid tread to keep you stable and enable quick directional changes.
Then there’s the lightweight, minimalist upper, which is made from a pliable NIKESKIN synthetic. Wrapping the foot for unrivaled comfort and support, it’s engineered to bring you closer to the ball than ever before. For control, there’s texturing in the Mercurial’s trademark pattern, helping you dribble with precision to evade opponents.
Cleat Class - Team
Mercurial Vapor
If you’re new to the Mercurial, here’s the vital thing to know: there are now two main variations. The Vapor, which is a low-cut cleat, and the Superfly, which has an ankle collar. Some players prefer the more traditional, streamlined fit of the Vapor, while others appreciate the additional support and sock-like feel provided by the Superfly. It’s a personal choice.
Nike tend to debut their most cutting-edge tech in the Merc, so whichever you choose, if you want the fastest cleats with a Swoosh that money can buy, you’re in the right place.
Nike
Starting with “The Nike” back in 1970, the Swoosh’s designs have always led the way when it comes to combining style and performance.
Their modern range includes the ever-popular Mercurial for speed, as worn by the legend that is Cristiano Ronaldo, along with the touch-focused Phantom GT. Or, if you prefer a classic cleat, the more traditional Tiempo and Premier are your go-to options.
Nike offer cleats for all types of surface and levels of play, including their exclusive Anti-Clog editions with soleplates designed specifically for wet, muddy pitches.
Features
• Mercurial range endorsed by Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Cristiano Ronaldo, Sam Kerr, and Ada Hegerberg
• Zoom Air cushioning for optimized energy return
• Low-profile rubber outsole
• Lightweight NIKESKIN upper with chevron texturing for ultimate comfort and control
• Cushioned insole
• Indoor/Court soccer shoes
Ground Type Guide
Selecting the correct sole plate for the surface you are playing on is crucial, not only for the performance and longevity of your cleats, but also to avoid the risk of injury.
Using an outsole that isn't designed specifically for the surface on which you are playing may cause premature wear and/or damage that will not be deemed as a fault of manufacture and will prevent the retailer accepting them for a refund or exchange.
Indoor
Indoor surfaces are used for small-sided games such as 5-a-side and Futsal and are usually flat, extremely hard and unforgiving. Indoor outsoles (sometimes known as IN, IT – Indoor Trainer or IC – Indoor Court or Indoor Competition) use non-marking materials such as moulded gum rubber (can be clear or coloured) and provide cushioning, traction, flexibility and durability.
Indoor shoes use pivot points, flex grooves and herringbone patterns for optimum movement and traction.