First designed specifically for Brazilian striker Ronaldo in
1998, the Mercurial was produced to meet the needs of the world's
fastest footballers and has been making an impact ever since. In
the last six seasons, the top scorer in the English Premier League
has worn Mercurial Vapor boots.
For the Mercurial Vapor IV, Nike called on Premier League
forwards such as Didier Drogba, Cristiano Ronaldo and Theo Walcott
for direct input into the design process. As a result, Nike has
developed a series of technological innovations that maximize speed
with and without the ball .
Speed
Plate
The Mercurial Vapor IV features Nike's innovative Speed Plate
technology designed to give players instant acceleration and make
them fastest to the ball. Additionally, a re-engineered upper has
been crafted not just to make players faster, but faster while
dribbling and shooting.
Tactile
Coating
In order to aid dribbling with the ball at speed, just one seam
exists in the shoe's upper material, while a new stitched stretch
lace cover creates a cleaner ball contact area. The boot is also
wrapped in a clear tactile coating that creates a gripped surface
for all playing conditions.
Vapor Traction
System
The Mercurial Vapor IV's Vapor Traction System broadens the
scope of player fit; heel pods have been expanded laterally for
more cushioning and extra protection. Stabilizing the foot, a
form-fitting insert cradles the heel, while a Glass Fiber heel wrap
provides lightweight stability with minimal slippage. All told, the
comfortable ride of the Mercurial Vapor allows for sustained play
at speed, keeping the ball where it should be: on your feet or in
the net.
