The next generation of Nike Mercurial is not just an update, it is a complete reinvention. Based on exclusive leaks, Footy Headlines can now provide a full breakdown comparing the current Mercurial (Superfly 10/Vapor 16) with the radical Next-Gen 2026 Mercurial (Superfly 11/Vapor 17).
Nike is discarding elements that have defined the silo for over a decade. Here is the full technical analysis.
Nike Mercurial 2024-25 vs Next-gen 2026 (Superfly 11 / Vapor 17)
Since the Vapor 12 and Superfly 6 in 2018, the two boots have been identical in terms of features and soleplates, with the only difference being the Dynamic Fit collar. That ends in 2026. The Superfly 11 and Vapor 17 will feature different upper materials, different technologies, and even different soleplates.
The End of an Era: Goodbye Flyknit & Dynamic Fit
For the first time since 2014, Flyknit is gone. The technology that defined the Mercurial for 12 years has been replaced by advanced textile tech borrowed from Nike's elite running division.
- Superfly 11: Uses FlyWeave Ultra.
- Vapor 17: Uses Atomknit.
Furthermore, the Superfly 11 returns to a low-cut design. This marks the end of the high-cut "Dynamic Fit" collar era that revolutionized football boots in 2014.
If we look at the overall design, the Vapor 17 appears to be an upper upgrade over the Vapor 16, while the outsole of the Superfly 11 seems to be an upgraded version of the Superfly 10’s outsole. Meanwhile, the outsole of the Vapor 17 and the upper of the Superfly 11 are completely new developments from Nike.
Model Breakdown: Superfly 11 vs. Vapor 17
Since they are no longer clones, we must analyze them separately.
Upper
- Superfly 11: The FlyWeave Ultra upper is designed for a snug, sock-like fit while remaining incredibly lightweight. It is a completely new direction for the Superfly upper.
- Vapor 17: Uses Atomknit. This material is drastically lighter and thinner than Flyknit, offering a barefoot feel while maintaining structure. Visually, the upper looks like a direct upgrade of the current Vapor 16.
Soleplate
- Superfly 11: The soleplate appears to be an evolution of the current Air Zoom generation. It is built on the Air Zoom foundation but upgraded with three additional studs for better traction during explosive movements. It incorporates a ZoomX foam liner (used in the Alphafly running shoes) for higher energy return with every step.
- Vapor 17: This is where the Vapor diverges. It uses an all-new FlyLight plate. It is thinner, more rigid, and features rounded V-studs optimized for quick cuts and direction changes.
Thanks to Atomknit and the FlyLight plate, the Vapor 17 is approximately 20% lighter than the Vapor 16. We expect it to weigh in at around 160 grams.
Summary of Changes
| Feature | Current Gen (2024–25) | Next-Gen (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship | Identical Tech | Completely Different Boots |
| Material | Flyknit | FlyWeave Ultra (Superfly) / Atomknit (Vapor) |
| Collar | Dynamic Fit (Superfly) | Low Cut (Both) |
| Soleplate | Air Zoom (Shared) | ZoomX Enhanced (Superfly) / FlyLight (Vapor) |
Nike is clearly pushing the boundaries of weight reduction and energy return, adapting successful running technology for the pitch.
Which concept excites you more: The ultra-light Atomknit Vapor 17 or the energy-returning Superfly 11? Let us know in the comments below.