Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Vapor XVI Elite FG/MG
Fine-tuned for responsiveness, the next-gen Merc features a cascading wave of traction at the forefoot, which engages more of the Zoom Air unit when your foot meets the ground to generate increased energy return.It’s simple but effective: spreading out the contact area maximizes the effect of Zoom Air and keeps you faster for longer. Plenty of grip too – the biggest of the wave cleats is the same height as Nike’s traditional middle cleats, and you’ve got the evolved chevron and blade cleats working in tandem for quick directional changes.Then there’s the lightweight, minimalist upper, which combines multiple knit technologies in a design that brings you closer to the ball than ever before. It’s the thinnest Merc upper to date, made up of just three layers. Flyknit provides the comfort, Atomknit the support, and Gripknit – that’s right, the Merc has Gripknit now – the control.If you’re not familiar with Gripknit, it’s a sticky, pliable, weather-resistant yarn that enhances cleat-to-ball connection and ensures your touch stays consistent in any situation. When you’re dribbling at high speed, it helps you manipulate the ball with superior accuracy to evade opponents – ideal for Mercurial players.
Cleat Class - Elite
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 with “wave” central forefoot cleats for optimized energy return
• Lightweight Pebax soleplate with tuned flex zones for explosive spring and stability
• Next-gen chevron and bladed traction for speed in every direction
• Three-layer lightweight upper combines stretchy Flyknit, supportive Atomknit, and sticky Gripknit for ultimate comfort and control
• Thinnest Mercurial upper ever brings you closer to the ball
• Cushioned insole
• Firm ground soccer cleats
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.
Firm Ground
Cleats with Firm Ground soleplates are only to be used on natural short-grass surfaces that is firm underfoot but may be slightly wet.
Designed specifically for this playing surface, they offer acceleration, comfort and enhanced traction, dispersing stud pressure evenly across the foot.
FG soleplates are fixed (not removable) and are used worldwide; wetter countries tend to use them spring to autumn.
FG cleats are not to be used on artificial ground (AG) surfaces as the construction is not designed for the extra friction.
FG cleats used on AG surfaces will invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty.