New Products

Here at Soccer Scene we are devoted to increasing both the range of cutting edge soccer equipment available in this country, and the awareness of these products. This page is devoted to letting you know about some of the more exciting new arrivals we have.

Sells Adhesion Plus Guard $179.95

Guard Your Hands! PALM: Adhesion Plus Latex palm. Tried, tested and approved by Sells endorsees, the outstanding Adhesion Plus Latex provides keepers with the perfect catching surface. The highest quality natural supersoft latex is selected, refined and processed to give a 4mm foam that boasts unsurpassed grip in wet conditions. The foam Backing and unique composition of Adhesion Plus Latex causes it to reform very slowly when compressed, which is ideal for taking the sting out of a striker's shots.. Fleece lined backhand for comfort. Four strong yet flexible spines prevent hyperextension of the fingers. Latex backhand. CLOSURE: Flexifit wrist bandage with Velcro® for excellent support. The unique elastic composition of the wrist strap allows the keeper to bind the wrist, giving support to the lower forearm and most importantly the wrist joint. BEST FOR: Advanced training and match play.

Other features include:

Wrap-over thumb offers the keeper a greater latex surface for catching.

Flat palm with perimeter seaming for traditional fit and large latex-to-ball contact area.

Fleece-backed breathable polyester construction.

Extended 9cm wrist bandage for comfort and support.

Anatomically placed grooves embossed into the backhand latex for traction and control when punching.

Sells Adhesion Plus Wrap $149.95

1. Anatomically placed grooved latex on the backhand provides the perfect surface for punching the ball; traction and protection exactly where you need it. 2. The wrap-over thumb offers the keeper a greater latex surface for catching. 3. Roll Finger cut for optimal latex-to-ball contact. The palm latex envelopes the fingers ensuring that however you handle the ball there will always be latex-to-ball contact. 4. Adhesion Plus Latex palm. Tried, tested and approved by Sells endorsees, the outstanding Adhesion Plus Latex provides keepers with the perfect catching surface. The highest quality natural supersoft latex is selected, refined and processed to give a 4mm foam that boasts unsurpassed grip in wet conditions. The foam backing and unique composition of Adhesion Plus Latex causes it to reform very slowly when compressed; Ideal for taking the sting out of the striker’s rasping shots. 5. Latex wrist strap provides an extra gripping surface when gathering the ball into the chest. Triple Velcro™ fastening for a secure fit. 6. 7cm wrist bandage for comfort and support. 7. Full latex backhand and thumb.

Nike Air Legend SG $299.95

The shoe worn by Manchester United's Paul Scholes and Alan Smith! UPPER: Extremely soft all over kangaroo leather. Contoured Last and External heel counter offer an excellent fit and comfort. Features visible Zoom Air unit in the innersole board along with a hi-tech molded Sockliner for in-boot comfort. OUTSOLE: Glass fiber shank and toe for lightweight rigidity. New stud configuration offers great comfort, traction and ball control. For use on firm, natural surfaces.

Nike Air Legend FG $299.95

The shoe worn by Brazil and Barcelona superstar Ronaldinho! UPPER: Extremely soft all over kangaroo leather. Contoured Last and External heel counter offer an excellent fit and comfort. Features visible Zoom Air unit in the innersole board along with a hi-tech molded Sockliner for in-boot comfort. OUTSOLE: Glass fiber shank and toe for lightweight rigidity. New stud configuration offers great comfort, traction and ball control. For use on firm, natural surfaces.

Lotto Vento Evolution JNR $79.95

UPPER: Water-resistant premium glove-fitting kangaroo leather for optimum fit. Asymmetrical lacing increases ball-contact area. X-Grip inserts on the upper create better shooting accuracy and ball control. Includes anatomically-shaped removable insole with Shock-Absorber insert in the heel for cushioned comfort. OUTSOLE: Mix of traditional and bladed studs for stability and traction. Puntoflex technology lets the boot move with your foot. For use on firm, natural surfaces.

Lotto Sheva Speed JNR $59.95

UPPER: Water-repellent microfiber with X-Grip inserts for better shooting precision and ball control. Removable insole with Shock-Absorber insert in the heel zone for excellent stud pressure reduction. OUTSOLE: PU with Polyamide reinforced frame and 12 fixed studs. Includes Puntoflex technology for added flexibility.

adidas Pulsado 2 TRX FG $139.00

UPPER: Soft, durable Full-grain leather that conforms to the foot for a great fit and low water absorption. Synthetic underlays in the forefoot mimic Predator® technology. OUTSOLE: TPU Traxion™ for use on firm, natural surfaces. WEIGHT: (10.4 oz.) Imported.

MPH Goal Keeper Gloves

MPH GOALKEEPING PRODUCTS 2005

MPH Goalkeeping equipment is designed by :

Michel Preud' Homme, the Belgium Goalkeeper who was considered to be the best in the world!

The product is manufactured in Portugal from the finest and most advanced material available

The products are covered by a 1 year guarantee against faulty workmanship and material. Owing to the nature and use of GK Gloves this does not cover wear and tear.



ULTIMAX PRO Sizes 8 -10.5 in ½'s

The ULTMAX PRO are professional quality match gloves, with SUPERSOFT* German Latex, 9cm ELASTINE wrist with Velcro fastening wrap. The four fingers have ANATOMICAL Protection AGP Finger support technology CODE : 90091 Match Gloves Recommended for all ground conditions Price: $130 AQUA SOFT EVOLUTION Sizes 8 -10.5 in ½'s Professional Quality Ergonomically designed all Latex Glove, Supersoft* German Latex great performance in all conditions 9cm ELASTINE Wrist with Velcro fastening wrap CODE: 99002 Price: $140

AQUA SOFT PRO Sizes 8 - 10.5 in ½'s Specialist wet weather match gloves, with ASP German SOFTY* latex developed for wet ground conditions, with Thermal protection against cold, 9cm ELASTINE Wrist with Velcro fastening wrap. CODE: 80022 Match Gloves Wet Weather conditions Price: $130

COMFORT GRIP Sizes 8 -10.5 in ½'s Dry weather match glove, with SUPERSOFT* German Latex. Polymesh allows glove to breath and helps prevent sweating. Superbly comfortable glove with 9cm ELASTINE wrist band and Velcro fastening wrap CODE: 90025 Match Gloves Dry weather conditions Price: $130

AIR CONTROL Sizes 8 - 10.5 in ½'s Professional Quality all weather match glove TITANIUM Breathable German performs excellently in wet weather conditions. 9cm ELASTINE wrist with Velcro fastening wrap CODE: 99101 Match Gloves All weather conditions Price: $109.95

FUTSAL Sizes: 8 - 10.5 in ½'s Special Futsal fingerless indoor glove, MIXED* German latex ,extremely hard wearing. 9cm wrist band and Velcro fastening wrap. CODE: 80003 FUTSAL and Indoor glove Price: $59.95

Reusch Goal Keeper Gloves

  • Orthotec $199.95
  • Duopro All weather $159.95
  • Duo Aqua Wet Weather $159.95
  • Bundisliga Negative Cut $149.95
  • Flash Pro $139.95
  • Dynamic Womens Professional Glove $99.95

Adidas F50 X-TRX SG - Powder Blue/Virtual Red $349.00

For elite footballers who want to adjust their boots to their own playing style or to the needs of the match. Speed lace cover secures the fit and TRAXION™ outsole provides grip. Upper: Blown K-leather for protection and good ball feel. High-abrasion textile with low water absorption and sock-like fit. Innovative lace cover for optimal fit and increased kicking area. Slip-in, sock-like construction for an enhanced fit. Lining: Suede Synthetic lining for enhanced fit and comfort. Inlay: Interchangeable FusionFrame insole boards for customized performance. Outsole: New X-TRAXION™ clip-in system for adaptable grip on soft terrain. Split outsole for optimized weight and flexibility.

Air Zoom Total 90 III FG Black/White $360.00

The Nike Air Zoom Total 90 III FG is a soft, supple ultra-lightweight KNG-100 for supreme ball feel and lightweight responsiveness. New asymmetrical and integrated lacing system eliminates internal layers to provide ultimate fit and touch on the ball. Contoured heel and external heel counter mirrors the anatomical Footform last while giving the player stability, providing for ultimate fit and comfort sensation. New and unique Nike injected Phylon midsole provides optimal comfort and great stud pressure reduction. Heel Zoom Air unit provides additional cushioning. High-tech pre-molded sockliner with forefoot and heel Poron inserts for improved protection. New Total 90 FG plate for optimal traction, featuring new circular studs specifically designed to provide perfect stud pressure reduction. Unique and innovative Spinal structural bars provides perfect support, motion control and improved stability.

Nike Air Zoom 90 III FG MNetallic White/Black $220

Nike Air Zoom 90 III FG has a soft, supple lightweight KNG-75 for great ball feel. New asymmetrical and integrated lacing eliminates internal layer to create superior fit. Nike injected Phylon midsole provides comfort and stud pressure reduction. New Total 90 FG plate for optimal traction, featuring circular studs specifically designed to provide stud pressure reduction.

Air Ninety II FG Met White Black/Blue $170.00

Puma Cellerator Zero 5 Gold $279.00

UPPER: Thin, soft and extremely durable microfiber PU. Features Powerframe for in boot stability. Talon support system technologies protects side ligaments. Includes integrated e+Cell in the heel for customizable support. External heel counter for Achilles protection. OUTSOLE: Lightweight, low profile TPU with biomechanically correct Ground Control configuration and DuoFlex technology for cushioning, comfort and stability on firm, natural surfaces. WEIGHT: (10.8 oz.)

Puma Cellerator Zero 5 White $279.00

Lotto Optika Silver/White $139.95

Lotto Vega $79.95

Innovative design providing the essentials for elite players. Uses Shock-Off, an insert of low density polyurethane or EVA, placed in the sole below the heel which aids in cushioning and helps protect the foot by absorbing and dissipating impact traumas. Features PUNTOFLEX, a special technical device placed across the sole in the metatarsal area which allows correct foot flexion and excellent rebound. Water-repellent Premium Plus upper. EVA insole.

Puma Veneno White $99.95

Puma Torceira Metallic White $89.95

Adidas FS E4S Finger Saver Gloves Sizes 8-11 $139.95 4-7 $49.95

The new Adidas Fingersave for 2005 are here at Soccer Scene, and better yet, they are now available in junior sizes!

PALM: E4S foam technology for the highest quality in cushioning protection and feel. E4S combines an extraordinary grip in all weather conditions, durability, softness and cushioning. One-piece backhand for reduced bulk. Fingersave™ technology runs along the back of each finger letting them move forward but preventing them from being bent backwards. ClimaCool® for moisture management in the finger gussets. CLOSURE: Bandage wrist with full-wrap Velcro® strap. BEST FOR: Advanced training and match play.



Review of Adidas Fingersave

The definition of a great glove by smadakcin Pros: Great grip, gives you a strong 'hand' when blocking shots. Cons: Take a while to get used to, need considerable wearing in. The Bottom Line: Superbly built, will last for years, and perform amazingly - really do make a discernable difference to your game. Recommended: Yes

I have worn a number of gloves over the last few years, and they have all had their pros and cons, all exceling in different areas. This is the first glove without a serious weakness in its performance that I have come across.

I am usually fairly sceptical about the 'great new features' advertised on gloves, as I have found from experience that an overly gimmicky glove can let you down in the most basic areas. One good example of this is when I purchased a pair of reusch gloves for £35, and, as I prefer to do, took them to a training sesion to wear them in. The feature advertised on this glove was a 'sticky palm', the idea being that you would peel off a plastic cover on the palm, and underneath the glove would be a sticky surface. This sounded like a great idea, after all, we all would love the ball to stick to our glove most of the time. However, when put into practice, after a few saves, the sticky palm had picked up a ton of grass cuttings, mud and general debris from the surface, leaving no sticky surface, and rendering the glove next to useless, with little or no grip or the ball from then on, as cleaning only lessened the adhesive surface.

So, to cut a very long story slightly less long, I was somewhat apprehensive when approaching the 'revoluntionary' fingersave glove. I did, though, buy a pair, for a little under £50. This was comfortably the most expensive pair of gloves I had ever bought, and with previous incarnations lasting only around 6 months on average, I had extensive reservations about my new buy.

I wore the glove in training for several weeks, and found them rather clumsy and inflexible, but after these several hours, they had become everything I could want from a glove. Once I had got used to the vastly different feel of the glove, I realised how superior they were to others I had worn.

They are substancially larger in palm size than any other glove, and the fingers in particular are notably thicker. This is of great help when attempting to hold the ball - the soft material of the palm cushions the impact, and the large build almost naturally smother the ball. i found I had much less to do with my fingers when holding a ball like this. It is also easier to get a strong punch on the ball, although it is not easy to clench the glove into a fist. When I have got a weak hand to shots in the past, the ball may have crept past me into the net, but these gloves do not physically bend backwards, and so, any touch gives a greater likelihood of keeping the ball out.

Personally I like the look of the glove, as well, which may be a very secondary consideration, but is also a factor, especially when buying as new. They are very corfortable to wear on, and I found I did not sweat as much as I might have expected inside such a large glove. The wrist fastening is fairly quick and easy, and it is not to hard to take them off to do up your laces and put them back on again.

Of course, Adidas products come with an excellent reputation, as perhaps the best football manufacturers in the world, and in all areas, these do not disappoint. I have had two pairs in 2 1/2 years, and i can still wear the first pair perfectally fine. They last superbly, and are built like proverbial tanks. Fingersaves are the best designed gloves I have ever worn, and credit must go to the people at Adidas for ther greatest creation since the Predator boot.

Fila Forza Adults $79.95 Junior $59.95

A quality traditional leather soccer shoe great for players of all ages for use on a wide variety of natural surfaces. Leather upper with a rich embroidered logo and contrast collar lining. The contemporary, vibrant colors combine with “FILATECH” soccer material that is cemented and riveted to the outsole enhancing durability. Soccer-stitched reinforced vamp area. Traditional lacing system and fold-over tongue. Lightweight molded polyurethane outsole with stud shape and placement ideal for the widest variety of soccer surfaces.

Kelme Master TRX 2 FG $299.95

Developed by Kelme's premier designer Carmello Navarro, Kelme's Master unites technology with tradition. Kelme, unlike many other companies, has stayed true to its roots and continues to manufacture its products in Europe. Founded in Spain, you can still find Kelme's headquarters in the small city of Alicante. It is in their factory there, that craftsmen hand make every pair of Masters using the finest quality kangaroo leather and keep to the highest quality standards. Kelme does not employ factory workers, the men and women who build the Masters are shoemakers, all of whom have been with the company for at least 10 years ? in fact, the senior shoemaker has been with Kelme since the beginning, almost 30 years ago.

Backed up by this tradition, the Master still represents the future of soccer footwear with its cutting edge technology. Its TRX 2 outsole has a wide-Last format with biomechanically engineered cleat placement. This means that the cleats have been placed based on the structure of the foot where they will provide optimal surface contact and traction. Approved by the Valencian Institute of Biomechanics, one of the leading research institutes in the world, the pressure point comfort and traction on the Master are better than ever!

The Master also features the FLOT System 2.0, with which comfort and shock dispersion are taken to the max! The new Poron™ based FLOT System insole provides shock absorption while the molded Phylon cradle gives the extra support to keep your foot stable under any game condition. Contact-Grip has been strategically placed in the inside vamp area of the Master for improved ball swerve and directional passing while an extended tongue system improves ball touch. The wide-lasted format ensures the Master fits. All of this technology adds up to a solid boot that cushions pressure points while increasing traction!

UPPER: One piece of soft and supple kangaroo leather for an excellent fit and feel. New and improved Contact-Grip® insert creates incredible ball control. Velcro® secured tongue flap and removable FLOT System insole with Poron based shock dispersion. OUTSOLE: TRX2 wide-lasted outsole with midsole shank for torsional rigidity. Flexotex lasting board for proper forefoot flexibility. Stitched and riveted to the upper for durability. For use on firm ground and turf grass. WEIGHT: (10.6 oz.) Made in Spain.

Mizuno Wave Extra $179.95

Features a full grain leather and synthetic combination upper, a compact wave for stability and cushioning in the heel and a lightweight outsole with a combination of six studs and additional traction areas. Suitable for the player looking for a full grain leather boot with the latest outsole technology for soft ground.

Mizuno Objectivo MD $99.95

A comfortable synthetic upper boot with a newly developed 13 stud PU outsole for traction and stability on firm ground.

Adidas F50+ HG $349.00

For elite players who want to adjust their boots to their own playing style or to the needs of the match. New Velcro® lace cover creates easy entry, snug fit and a flat kicking surface. UPPER: Blown K-leather for protection and ball feel. Durable textile with low water absorption and sock-like fit. Suede synthetic lining for enhanced comfort and interchangeable FusionFrame insole boards for customized performance. OUTSOLE: TPU Traxion for use on hard ground. WEIGHT: (11.2 oz.)

Nike Mercurial Talaria II FG $260.00

UPPER: KNG-75 glossy and the sculpted arch provide stability and great in-boot comfort. Anatomically correct Nikeform Last provides contouring in the heel and forefoot area for a natural cushioning system. Peeva Sockliner with Poron inserts mirrors the natural contours of the foot to enhance comfort. OUTSOLE: Contoured glass filled nylon structural plate, NikeFrame, which improves take-off speed and offers stability. For use on firm, natural surfaces. WEIGHT: (7.4 oz.)

Umbro MO10 FG $129.95

UPPER: Soft synthetic with applied PU dots for added ball control. Integrated lacing system creates a clean strike zone. Synthetic Carbon effect heel counter for protection and support. OUTSOLE: TPU with Kontakt for excellent grip and comfort on firm, natural surfaces. WEIGHT: (10.2 oz.) Imported.

Nike Total 90 Wired Goal Keeper Gloves $169.95, Kids $99.95

Features pre-curved coiled wired technology along back of fingers for ultimate comfort and protection and minimal hyperextension. PALM: Superior 4mm contact foam for both wet and dry conditions. Soft perforated iridescent PU backhand provides ultimate comfort, support and ventilation. Contact foam wrapped thumb improves control. CLOSURE: Dri-FIT® elastic wrist with wrap-around adjustable Velcro® and ventilated TPR. BEST FOR: Match play. Imported.

Really Bend it Like Beckham DVD $49.95

David Beckham's official soccer skills DVD! In this two DVD set, Beckham himself shares his knowledge, skills and experience. Never before has a player's technique been dissected so thoroughly! Broken down into easy to use sections, including control, space making skills, passing, turning skills, forward player, crossing, defending, finishing and free kicks - just to name a few! Also includes game highlights, behind the scenes with Beckham, Kid's questions, and much more. Now, you can learn to "really bend it like Beckham." (170 Minutes)

Adidas Predator Pulse 2 HG $279.00

PowerPulse technology redistributes the weight and mass of the shoe moving it towards the forefoot to generate maximum power as the boot strikes the ball. UPPER: Soft and supple kangaroo leather with new Predator® elements for the thinnest, lightest and most effective Predator® vamp ever. Elastic tongue trainer keeps tongue in place and out of the way. Dual-density External heel counter eliminates rubbing. OUTSOLE: Two-piece split TPU with Traxion™ for optimal comfort on firm, natural surfaces. WEIGHT: (10 oz.)

Lotto Optika $149.95 Now in Stock

Lotto's New boot for Euro 2004

UPPER: Water-resistant microfiber with EVA padding. Asymmetrical lacing for clean strike zone. X-Grip inserts for better ball control. Features anatomically-shaped, removable insole with Shock-Absorber insert in the heel for cushioned support. OUTSOLE: PU with polyamide reinforced frame for durable stability. Puntoflex technology for flexibility. 12 PU fixed studs for use on firm, natural surfaces. WEIGHT: (9.8 oz.) Imported.

Adidas Predator Pulse SG Blue Euro 2004 $300.00

These incredible boots are now in stock! Predator Pulses in Navy/Silver/Red The world's top football boot with refined Predator® engineering and new Powerpulse technology to redefine control, swerve and power. Specially made for Euro 2004. Upper - K leather for excellent ball feel and fit, Predator technology for more power, swerve and ball control. Revolutionary Powerpulse technology for increased shooting power. Lining - Synthetic. Inlay - Moulded EVA insole for anatomical comfort. Outsole - New X TRAXION® clip-in system for adaptable grip on soft terrain. Split outsole for optimised weight and flexibility. External heel counter for heel comfort and stability. Colour: Dark indigo/silver/predator red





Reebok Baleni Strike Zone $149.95

Wide Range of Womens Boots Now Available

  • Umbro Fifty/50's $129.95
  • Reebok Halfs $149.95
  • Adidas Volea $139.95
  • Puma Hamati $139.95

Huge Range of New Boots! Over 100 Different Styles in Stock!

Umbro Turismo KTK FG $249.00

Umbro 50/50 Junior White $59.95

Look like Beckham for just $59.95 Only available in Junior Sizes

Puma Torceira GCI FG Snow White $99.95

Puma Attaccante GC R HG Ribbon Red $99.95

Puma King SL GC White $249.00

Puma Kings SL FC Silver $249.00

Tourada Jnr $99.95

Puma Attacente GC FG $99.95

Reebok Incendio $159.95

Adidas SuperNova Gold FG $249.00

The Supernova is a top quality professionial football boot worn by the best players all around the world. The boot is made from top quality k-leather and has loop lacing system for better ball contact. This boot is for firm ground only and has a external heel counter for comfort and stability, and the boot is also lightweight and very comfortable. Worn by: Patrick Viera, Joe Cole

MPH Goal Keeping Gloves

MPH Goalkeeping equipment is designed by :

Michel Preud' Homme, the Belgium Goalkeeper who was considered to be the best in the world!

The product is manufactured in Portugal from the finest and most advanced material available

The products are covered by a 1 year guarantee against faulty workmanship and material. Owing to the nature and use of GK Gloves this does not cover wear and tear.

The Aqua Pro is the best glove available for playing in wet weather, fairly suitable to NZ conditions...

ULTIMAX PRO Sizes 8 -10.5 in ½'s

The ULTMAX PRO are professional quality match gloves, with SUPERSOFT* German Latex, 9cm ELASTINE wrist with Velcro fastening wrap. The four fingers have ANATOMICAL Protection AGP Finger support technology CODE : 90091 Match Gloves Recommended for all ground conditions l $139.95

AQUA SOFT PRO Sizes 8 - 10.5 in ½'s Specialist wet weather match gloves, with ASP German SOFTY* latex developed for wet ground conditions, 9cm ELASTINE Wrist with Velcro fastening wrap. CODE: 80022 Match Gloves Wet Weather conditions $130.00

Air 90 FG Blue/Grey $170.00

Total 90 II VT FG Silver $129.95

Nike Total 90 Expand JNR Blue $99.95

The Revolutionary new total 90 expands grow with the feet of your children.

Lotto Ego $119.95 Available in White/Flame and Black/Silver

Lotto Ego JNR White Blue $69.95

Lotto Wyton Rufer Jnr $49.95

Umbro Fifty/Fifties $129.95

At last an excellent boot for those players with slender feet, especially suits women players.

Nike Mercurial Vapor II $350

Upper: NikeSkin is a super lightweight, ultra thin upper material that conforms to the natural curvatures of the foot and has a super soft hand. The sculpted arch provides stability and great in shoe comfort. The external Heel Counter mirrors the anatomical Footform Last while giving the player stability and a supreme heel fit.

Mide\sole: A PEEVA fitform sockliner with Poron TM inserts mirrors the natural contours of the Footform Last to enhance in shoe comfort and cushioning.

Outsole: The contoured Nikeframe creates stability and enhances immediate take off as the platform springs immediately back to its original characterisitics. A unique innovative interlocking system, Mike frame allows the player to quickly change the length of his magnesium studs in a matter of seconds. This revoluntionary speed snap system is %50 lighter than the conventional system and reduces stud pressure.

Review: I have just begun wearing this shoe, and several teammates of mine have been wearing it for some time now. Make no mistake about it, the Mercurial 2 SG is a very serious pair of shoes.

With a six-stud injection molded aluminum tipped outsole, KNG-100 synthetic upper, and Nike's patented Dri-FIT lining, the Mercurial 2 SG is one of the most advanced shoes you can buy. And at around $140, they should be pretty advanced, and they had better play well too. What's the scoop? Let's start with the basics.

First of all, this shoe is categorized by most soccer stores, catalogues, and on-line retailers as a "replaceable", "detachable", or "screw-in" cleat. This is not the case. The six studs on the bottom of this shoe are not replaceable screw-ins like you would find on an Adidas World Cup. They are molded directly into the bottom of the shoe and they ain't going nowhere. The reason they find themselves in this category is because they have a six-studded sole, meant for play on soft or wet fields for extra traction. And, traditionally, most six-studded shoes could be screwed in or out and replaced when they wore down. But that's old-school. Not having the screw in mechanism makes these cleats safer, lighter, and more ground-hugging than older screw-in designs.

How does this sole perform? Exceptionally well. Because the studs are set very wide and they are blade shaped, not round, they are much more stable than traditional round screw-ins. Your weight is spread out over a wider area, without sacrificing dig into the ground. You are able to cut better, without as much risk of injury to you or to opponents. Just be sure never to wear these boots on pavement in the parking lot. If the aluminum gets scratched up, it can become sharp and cause severe cuts. You may be saying, that would be kind of cool! Not when an opponent ends up in an ambulance with a sliced open leg, the ref checks your cleats, finds a sharp edge, and red cards you. (This happened to a teammate.)

The upper is made of Nike's synthetic material. There is no leather on this shoe whatsoever. For the most part, this is a good thing. They will hold their shape and give consistent support, unlike leather which will stretch out over time and during a match. They also won't absorb water the way leather does in a wet game, so they will stay light and comfortable (overall the shoe is in the ultra-light category). KNG-100 gives very good touch on the ball, especially if you take good care of the shiny surfaces that are coated with Nike's special first-touch coating. The only down-side to a synthetic shoe is that because it doesn't stretch like leather, you will have a longer break-in time and you will need to be very careful to get the right size. If you have a really wide foot, you'll want to try these on before you buy. If they aren't wide enough to begin with, they are not going to stretch out.

Like Nike's Dir-FIT line of clothes, the Dri-FIT sock liner keeps your foot dry and cool by wicking moisture away from your skin and socks.

Traditionally, many players have opted to wear molded 12-studded cleats (like Copas) for most conditions, only breaking out the screw-ins for those few games each year that are played in downpours. But, you may have noticed that many pros wear screw-ins almost all the time. This is because when you are playing at a very high level, moving and cutting very hard, molded shoes don't give enough bite into the ground. The Mercurial 2 SG is the perfect compromise between these two extremes. I use this as my regular shoe for almost all conditions, including dry grass fields. The only time I break out the Copas is when the field is extremely dry and rock hard. As long as there is some good grass, the Mercurial's sole gives the right amount of traction and never hurts my foot the way old-school screw-ins would.

The only question that remains to be seen is how durable they are. I haven't had them long enough to tell yet. They don't seem to need as much care as real leather shoes do. No polishing or brushing. Just wipe off dirt with a wet cloth. However, you don't want to scratch the aluminum tips on pavement, and you don't want to drag your toe because the synthetic coating will wear out and loose its touch on the ball.

Overall, this shoe gets a strong recommendation from me for the advanced and expert player. It is light, comfortable, supportive, and gives great traction. And, I'm betting they will last as long or longer than leather boots.

Nike Mercurial Talaria II FG $260.00 Now Available

Joma Boots

The Top selling Spanish Boots are now available in New Zealand for the first time, exclusively from Soccer Scene. Full Range Available see Boots page for details.

All prices and product availablity subject to change without notice.
Prices are in New Zealand Dollars and include G.S.T