The next-generation Nike Mercurial 2021 football boots were released this month. They introduce a fresh and modern new design with various key features - we compare them to the last-gen Nike Mercurial 2019 football boots to find out how big the changes made to the boots.
Next-Gen Nike Mercurial Superfly 8 & Vapor 14 'Dragonfly' Boots Revealed
the silo's regular names remain the same
The launch edition of the next-gen Nike Mercurial 2021 soccer cleats is officially called "Dragonfly", but the silo's regular names remain the same - Mercurial Superfly 8 (high-cut) and Mercurial Vapor 14 (low-cut).
Nike Mercurial Superfly 7 & Vapor 13 vs Mercurial Superfly 8 & Vapor 14 Soccer Cleats
The Nike Mercurial 2021 football boot is again released as low-cut and high-cut version. Both of the versions (Superfly & Vapor) are identical except the construction around the ankle.
Natural structures were one of the main sources of inspiration
“Natural structures were one of the main sources of inspiration. We sought to create that same lightweight expression with strategically placed materials for the new Mercurial. We think this is the future of speed and the kind of feel players have been asking for.” Jeongwoo Lee, Nike Soccer Footwear Designer.
Collar
The collar of the next-gen Nike Mercurial Superfly is similar to the previous gen, with slight differences. The end of it in the front area is straight, and the collar is a bit higher.
For the Vapor version, the differences are bigger - there is an extra (orange) pull tab / element at the heel.
Upper
The main change of the next-gen Nike Mercurial 2021 soccer cleats is the upper. In contrast to the previous Mercurial, the next-gen Nike Mercurial 2021 boots have a stripped-down version of the Flyknit upper. Minimal materials leave only what is truly needed while reducing its weight in the process.
The upper was designed for maximum efficiency with no excess materials
Like a dragonfly’s wings, the new Mercurial 2021 was designed for maximum efficiency with no excess materials.
Sole Plate
The second big change of the 2021 Mercurial boot can be found on the bottom. In contrast to the two plate construction of the last generation, the Nike 2021 Mercurial boots have a single Nike Aerotrak plate for ultimate speed. The studs appear to be a bit thicker.
The two plate construction caused some major problems when introduced in 2018
Derdiyok's Near Horror Injury Caused By New Nike Mercurial Superfly 360 Boots?
In 2018, the all-new two plate construction of the Nike Mercurial 360 2018 boots already caused controversy after the cleats of Eren Derdiyok were extremely bent, causing nearly a horror injury.
Nike Mercurial 2021 vs Nike Mercurial 2021 Football Boots - Overall
It can be said that the next-generation Nike 2021 Mercurial boots are not a revolution, but a big update for the silo. The main differences are the upper and the sole plate, which have been both revamped. The silo's claim remains the same - to be THE boot silo for fast players.
The next-generation Nike 2021 Mercurial boots are not a revolution, but a big update
The Nike Mercurial Superfly 8 2021 football boots are available for 275 USD, the same price as the previous-gen Nike Mercurial 2021. The Vapor version retails at 250 USD.
Are you a fan of the next-generation Nike Mercurial Superfly 8 & Vapor 14 2021 football boots? Which launch colorway do you prefer? Share your thoughts in the comments below.