Designed for elite football players who demand explosive speed and precise control on soft ground, the Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Vapor XVI Elite SG Pro offers a significant advantage with its responsive Zoom Air cushioning and innovative Gripknit upper. While delivering unparalleled performance on challenging pitches, users should be mindful of the specific care and maintenance required for its adjustable metal studs.
Zoom Air Unit: Integrated into the forefoot, this cushioning system provides responsive energy return, helping you accelerate faster and sustain speed longer.
Gripknit Upper: A revolutionary sticky, pliable, and weather-resistant yarn that enhances ball-to-boot connection, ensuring consistent touch and superior control in any condition.
Bladed Traction System: Evolved bladed studs work in tandem with wave studs to offer aggressive grip, facilitating quick directional changes and explosive push-offs on soft ground.
Lightweight 3-Layer Upper: Comprising stretchy Flyknit for comfort, supportive Atomknit, and the control-enhancing Gripknit, this is Nike's thinnest Mercurial upper, bringing you closer to the ball.
Pebax Soleplate: A lightweight soleplate with tuned flex zones engineered for maximum stability and an explosive spring off the ground.
Soft Ground (SG-Pro) Specialization: Equipped with durable, adjustable metal studs designed specifically for optimal performance on wet and muddy natural grass pitches.
Explosive acceleration and sustained speed due to Zoom Air energy return.
Superior ball control and consistent touch in all weather conditions with Gripknit.
Exceptional grip and agility for quick directional changes on soft ground.
Lightweight design provides a close, comfortable, and responsive fit.
Enhanced stability during high-speed movements and push-offs.
Endorsed by top professional athletes, signifying elite performance.
Performance is optimized for soft ground only; not suitable for other surfaces.
Adjustable metal studs require maintenance and spares are not included.
Thinnest upper may offer less foot protection compared to thicker designs.
Requires a break-in period for optimal comfort and fit.
Explosive acceleration and sustained speed due to Zoom Air energy return.
Superior ball control and consistent touch in all weather conditions with Gripknit.
Exceptional grip and agility for quick directional changes on soft ground.
Lightweight design provides a close, comfortable, and responsive fit.
Enhanced stability during high-speed movements and push-offs.
Endorsed by top professional athletes, signifying elite performance.
Performance is optimized for soft ground only; not suitable for other surfaces.
Adjustable metal studs require maintenance and spares are not included.
Thinnest upper may offer less foot protection compared to thicker designs.
Requires a break-in period for optimal comfort and fit.
These boots are engineered for players whose game revolves around speed, agility, and precision on soft, natural grass pitches. The Zoom Air unit at the forefoot is strategically placed to maximize energy return as your foot pushes off the ground, translating directly into quicker sprints and sustained pace throughout the match. Imagine bursting past defenders with an immediate spring in your step, reducing fatigue over 90 minutes.
When dribbling at high speeds, the innovative Gripknit upper truly shines. Its sticky texture allows for a highly accurate and controlled manipulation of the ball, enabling you to weave through opponents with confidence, even in adverse weather conditions. This means your first touch and close control remain consistent, giving you the edge in tight spaces.
The bladed traction system, combined with the lightweight Pebax soleplate, provides an aggressive bite into the soft ground. This is crucial for making sharp cuts, sudden changes of direction, and powerful pivots without slipping. Players will find enhanced stability and the ability to dictate play with precise movements, making them untouchable on the pitch. Whether you're making a darting run into the box or turning quickly to defend, these boots provide the foundation for explosive and stable performance.
Lacing: Ensure boots are laced securely but comfortably. The Flyknit component of the upper provides an adaptive fit, but proper lacing helps lock your foot in place.
Stud Adjustment: These boots feature durable, adjustable metal studs. Before first use and periodically thereafter, check that all studs are securely tightened. A specialized stud wrench (not included) is typically required for adjustment or replacement. Ensure studs are appropriate for the specific ground conditions you are playing on.
Playing Surface: These boots are exclusively designed for soft ground (SG-Pro) natural grass pitches. This includes wet, muddy, or heavily watered grass surfaces. Using them on firm ground, artificial turf, or indoor surfaces can cause damage to the studs and reduce their effectiveness.
Fit: The lightweight, three-layer upper is designed for a snug, sock-like fit. Allow for a short break-in period for the materials to adapt to your foot's unique shape.
Cleaning: After each use, remove loose mud and debris using a soft brush or damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the Gripknit material.
Drying: Allow the boots to air dry naturally at room temperature. Do not expose them to direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight, as this can cause the materials to crack or stiffen.
Stud Inspection: Regularly inspect the metal studs for wear, damage, or looseness. Replace worn studs as necessary (replacement studs and wrench are sold separately).
Storage: Store boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consider using a boot bag to protect them during transport.