With only a matter of days until the biggest event in the world gets set to kick-off in Brazil, the soccer World Cup, excitement and anticipation is at its peak. Each of the teams have names their final 23-man panels and preparations are being wrapped up before each team heads to the land of Samba. Not only do we get to see the best player in the world take the pitch but we also get to see new kits and a glamorous array of new boots that have been released over the past few weeks. In a world where marketing reigns, brands have been prepping to showcase their signature products in front of millions of watching fans.
Here we have compiled and take detailed look at the entire collection of boots that will be worn in Brazil this summer, by the best players of each country on the world's biggest stage.
Bryan Byrne is the founder of SoccerCleats101. Got a question about boots? Hit up Bryan on Twitter.
RELATED: The 10 Most Exciting World Cup Matchups To Watch For in 2014
RELATED: 10 Soccer Players to Watch for in 2014
RELATED: The 10 Best Soccer Cleats of 2013
Boot: Nike Mercurial Superfly IV
Category: Speed
Key Player: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Released only weeks before the tournament kicks-off, the Superfly IV is still something of an unknown quantity. Expect to see a lot of players wearing the high performance boot that features the same mid-cut collar also seen on the Magista. Mixing lightweight speed with a dynamic fit creates a totally new type of performance for players to exploit. The performance of Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal side will be important to the boots success in Brazil, as Nike focus on their key player through advertising.
1.
Boot: adidas adiZero F50
Category: Speed
Key Player: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
The first thing to note about the F50 boots is that there are two different colorways that will be worn by players in Brazil. Pictured above is the custom pair that only Lionel Messi will wear - for everyone else, adidas has created a 50/50 black only design as part of their Battle Pack. At 6oz, the adiZero F50 is all about speed and acceleration. In order to create the most advanced version to date, adidas has combined a Hybridtouch upper with a Speedfoil material that runs through the heel. This results in a very flexible boot with a very locked in feel, making them one of the most secure fitting boots currently on the market. There will be a wide variety of attacking players wearing them in Brazil, so expect them to get plenty of attention right throughout the tournament.
Boot: Puma evoPOWER 1
Category: Power
Key Player: Mario Balotelli (Italy)
While introducing the evoPOWER to the market, one thing become apparently obvious about Puma - they were smart! Given Nike and adidas decision to step away from the Power category, it left a void that needed to be filled. Puma took control of that with this release and its popularity has flourished over the past few months. In fact, many would consider them to be the best boots currently on the market. With the Tricks colorway in tow, expect to see these boots quite often in Brazil, worn by players all across the pitch. it is their flexibility to be worn by different styles of players that really sets the apart.
Boot: Nike Hypervenom Phantom
Category: Agility
Key Player: Neymar (Brazil)
Built around the characteristics of agile players, expect to see a lot of the Hypervenom floating around pitches in Brazil. The texture NikeSkin upper provides a thin feel yet it allows for the ball to roll along the surface without sticking or sliding off, making them an ideal choice for those that like to get on the ball and dribble toward goal. Because of this, they have become a top choice for attacking players - we all know that boots worn by goalscorers get most attention! Don't be surprised if they are one of the most prominent boots worn in the World Cup final.
2.
Boot: adidas Predator Instinct
Category: Control
Key Player: Mesut Ozil (Germany)
Of every predator boot that has been released to date, this version is the one that has received least attention. There is some confusion over what style of boot the Predator Instinct is, with adidas using several different descriptions through their introduction. Are they a power boot or do they fit the control mold? In reality, they have a mix of both and it has been interesting to see adidas move back to a heavier design with the implementation of a Comfort soleplate. We are less likely to see attacking players wearing these in Brazil, instead it is going to be players in the midfield that will expose the positive attributes they have to offer.
Boot: Nike Magista Obra
Category: Control
Key Player: Andres Iniesta (Spain)
Since their high-profile release, the Magista Opus has been one of the most talked about boots ever released. When Nike announced the idea of a mid-cut collar on a soccer shoe, many wondered exactly what they were trying to achieve. Featured a soft Flyknit upper, the intent is to provide players with an agility based platform to control the game. With that in mind, it makes sense that they would implement a higher cut to create a more dynamic fit. Midfielders will be the players to watch wearing the Obra, particularly those that enjoy getting on the ball to create space and play pin-point passes.
Boot: Nike Magista Opus
Category: Control
Key Player: Thibaut Courtois (Belgium)
Another boot that is somewhat of an unknown quantity since it has only recently been introduced to the market. In fact, we only seen these debuted over the past week by top players with little feedback to report. Visually they look very similar to the premium Magista Obra release, minus the mid-cut collar. The upper of the boot is a Kangalite, so they are going to perform in similar fashion to the CTR360 - the boot they essentially replaced. To date, it is defensive styled players who have taken to the Opus and they have the ideal make-up of a boot that will suit those trawling the backline. If, as expected, a majority of the former CTR360 crew take to wearing these boots, they could be one of the most prominent on display.
Boot: Nike Mercurial Vapor IX
Category: Speed
Key Player: Eden Hazard (Belgium)
Over the past decade, the Vapor series has easily been the most highly sought after by boot fans. This time around, the Superfly IV has stolen the spotlight but that doesn't mean the Vapor can't win it back! Built for players who seek explosive speed, this latest version features an ultra-thin microfiber upper and a tongue-less design. Yes, there is no defined tongue on this one, instead it is connected to the seemless upper.The end result is a boot that provides a glove like fit thanks to a fully enclosed design. To date, Nike hasn't "officially" released these boots, so expect to see some sort of large publicity event before the World Cup kicks off. Depending on the final list of players set to wear them, they could make a huge splash.
Boot: Puma evoSPEED 1.2
Category: Speed
Key Player: Sergio Aguero (Argentina)
With the perfect blend of lightweight materials and balanced stud traction, the evoSPEED has quickly become one of the leading speed boots on the market. When it comes to wingers and pacey forwards, they are a popular choice and this means you will see a lot of the "Tricks" design. Featuring one Pink boot and one Sky Blue, the dual colorway design is absolutely unmistakable on the pitch and Puma has made a statement of intent with their introduction. The possible return to action of Radamel Falcao before the World Cup starts would be a big boost to the boots success.
Boot: Mizuno Morelia Neo
Category: Speed
Key Player: Park-Chu Young (South Korea)
Outside of the "Big 3" (adidas, Nike and Puma). this is the boot you are most likely to see worn in Brazil. The Morelia Neo has been something of a revelation since their release several months ago and they bring a new type of performance to the market. Combining a lightweight leather upper with sold touch and a great secure soleplate, players from several countries will be wearing these boots. South Korean players, in particular, have taken to the range in large numbers with 6 of the 23 man roster wearing the same boot. Mizuno has released this Brazilian inspired colorway prior to Brazil, so they are one to watch out for.
3.
Boot: adidas Nitrocharge 1.0
Category: Agility
Key Player: Dani Alves (Brazil)
Designed specifically for players that fit the "Engine" mold, everything about the Nitrocharge 1.0 is geared towards energy. What makes them extremely unique to the market is the Energy Sling that sits right across the forefoot of the boot. The band of rubber compound is strategically positioned to improve lateral movements and help retain, as you might expect, energy! Another boot that sits outside the spotlight because of their non-attacking style marketing, the Nitrocharge has the opportunity to be seen thanks to its likeness to the rest of the boots in the Battle Pack collection. There is an air of intrigue into differentiating the extremely similar designs, so if someone like Dani Alves can be creative while wearing them, fans will be watching.
4.
Boot: adidas adiPure 11Pro
Category: Comfort
Key Player: Philipp Lahm (Germany)
There are not many boots on the market that you can immediately associate with defensive players, the adiPure 11Pro is one of those that ticks all the correct boxes. There is an air of simplicity about the overall design and structure of the boot. The upper is a very durable Taurus leather, while adidas use a Comfort Frame soleplate to create a very balanced feel. On this latest Battle Pack version that will be worn in Brazil, the stitching has been altered to create a dynamic, streamlined appearance to the forefoot. There will be plenty of defensive players wearing these boots come kick-off time and that is where you are most likely to see them in action.
Boot: Nike Tiempo Legend V
Category: Comfort
Key Player: Andrea Pirlo (Italy)
Nike made the decision to take the Tiempo Legend series back down a more traditional route with this fifth edition. The K-leather upper and cross stitching along the forefoot has come over very well and the range has garnered a fresh, new breath of life. Created in the same vein as the Ronaldinho Dois released in 2008, it is the type of design fans have been craving and the wild Lime Green colorway that will be worn in Brazil is very unmistakable. Sitting on the feet of players like Pirlo, David de Gea, Gerard Pique they are not seen to be an ideal attackers choice but they do offer extreme comfort and a platform for players to stabilize a 90-minute game.
Boot: Warrior Skreamer II
Category: Power
Key Player: Vincent Kompany (Belgium)
A boot with so much potential, the Warrior Skreamer might not get the exposure that the brand had been hoping for. With only 1 key player wearing them in Brazil, Kompany, there is huge importance on how the centerback plays after a highly influential season for his domestic club. The Skreamer is all about power, with a new S-Lite used across the upper, constructed from a premium microfiber. Across the front of the boot, you will notice Warrior modified the strikezone technology found on the original Skreamer. The breakthrough micro-injected Arrowhead Vamp with rebound technology helps the player to pinpoint the optimal strike zone.
5.
Boot: Nike CTR360 Maestri III
Category: Control
Key Player: Jermaine Jones (USA)
The good old Nike CTR360 Maestri range is set for retirement and plenty of loyal players have already jumped ship to other silos. But, don't be surprised to see a host of players still sporting the highly regarded boot before they exit stage left. Built to be the perfect playmaker's control boot, many are disappointed to see the end of the CTR360 Legacy. Featuring a soft Kanga-Lite upper and a extremely comfortable dual fold across the forefoot, everything about the boot screams give me the ball.
Boot: Warrior Gambler II
Category: Control
Key Player: Marouane Fellaini (Belgium)
The latest release from Warrior comes in the form of the Gambler II. Everything about these boots is geared toward control, with an ergonomic Ace Plate on the instep providing more aggressive grip and control to gain the split seconds required to leave opponents chasing shadows. These are another boot on the list that are an unknown quantity, although Warrior seem to have their ideal man wearing them in Marouane Fellaini. Even though he had a shaky domestic season, the Belgian midfielder is strong, commanding and a proven leader for the national team.
Boot: Umbro UX-1
Category: Power
Key Player: Joe Hart (England)
After an extended period of silence, Umbro is back with a new release in the form of the dominant UX-1. After the company slip from former owner Nike, they spent time reevaluating their market position and the end result is this boot. Built to be strong and durable, the UX-1 is all about power and providing players with a platform to control the game. The one-piece textile upper is made from light, breathable mesh materials and they are tough enough for you to withstand tackles, soft enough to retain crucial feel for the ball. There is no doubt the double diamond will be happy to see Joe Hart debuting the boots at the World Cup.
Boot: Umbro Geometra Pro II
Category: Control
Key Player: Yasuhito Endo (Japan)
One of the longest standing boots on the market to be worn in Brazil will be the Umgro Geometra II. There is an air of Nike about these, seeing as they were released when the Swoosh owned the Double Diamond brand. It is the gel cushion pads that sit on the instep that gave these such a positive reputation while they were heavily available on the market. We are unlikely to see a great deal of the boots in Brazil, unless Japan's Endo can pull off some truly magnificent performances.
Boot: Diadora DD-NA
Category: Speed
Key Player: Antonio Cassano (Italy)
At 6.4oz, the DD-NA is one of the lightest boots currently on the market and it is a release that falls right outside the norms of Diadora as a brand. Renowned for their ability to provide durable and extremely comfortable boots, this speed release is new for them. Yet, they have pulled off the package real well and we will get to see them in action in Brazil. Being that they are an Italian brand, it is no surprise that they are going to be worn by Italian players and that is has the potential to see them in the spotlight through the tournament.
Boot: Lotto Solista
Category: Speed
Key Player: Christian Maggio (Italy)
Designed to reflect flashes of light, the Solista is definitely one of the most interesting boots that will be on show come kick-off in Brazil. Lotto has gone with a single piece of microfiber for the upper. It is actually quite soft considering the fact it features a reflective smear. Although I don't expect we will see much of these boots through the tournament, if they do grab some attention fans definitely won't be able to miss them! Again, an Italian player - Christian Maggio - will be the one showcasing these Italian boots.
Boot: Lotto Stadio Potenza
Category: Comfort
Key Player: Andrea Ranocchia (Italy)
Italian players love their Italian boots and again we will see several smaller brands being worn by players of the Azzurri. Of the boots on show, the one that could get most of the spotlight is the Lotto Stadio Potenza. The classic, elegant style of they offer is very much in line with what we expect from Lotto. They are well built, extremely comfortable and not too splashy from a design perspective. A final list of players that will wear the Lotto brand has not yet been released, but we anticipate their could be a few last minute changes to these boots from players who are currently undecided.
Boot: Mizuno Wave Ignitus 3
Category: Power
Key Player: Keisuke Honda (Japan)
One of the leading power boots on the market, the Wave Ignitus is a very popular options for players right across the globe. We in the US have only gained direct access to the boots in the past few months and they have found their way on to pitches right across the country. Rather than just having the extremely reknowned Mukaiten panel, Mizuno has upped the power of the strike zone by adding 2 new regions. The Tatekaiten and the Yokokaiten each provide a different type of shooting characteristic to the boot. This Purple colorway will be worn by pretty much every Wave Ignitus wearer bar one - Keisuke Honda. Mizuno's star man will be wearing a custom gold pair, elevating him and the boots further into the spotlight!
Boot: Mizuno Supersonic Wave 3
Category: Control
Key Player: Shinji Okazaki (Japan)
Another clean boot that falls into the heritage mold and will get a brief run out in Brazil is the Mizuno Supersonic Wave. Built for maximizing flexibility, stability and traction, the ultra-technical design is combined with the highest grade kangaroo leather and a suede collar lining to create the perfect fit. Added to that is a classic design that should ultimately be a key component of any potential goals coming from Japanese striker Shinji Okazaki.
Boot: Mizuno Morelia
Category: Comfort
Key Player: Thiago Motta (Italy)
One of the most iconic boots on the market, the Morelia is a classic mix of comfort and high performance. Each of the players wearing this silo in Brazil will be wearing the MIJ (Made in Japan) model. The MIJ models leather quality is even better than several prominent boots on the market and softer rivaling other handmade brands such as Ryal and Cinquestelle. Having Thiago Motta wearing them is a real bonus,with several other Japanese stars choosing to wear them also.
Boot: Concord Estilo
Category: Control
Key Player: Carlos Pena (Mexico)
The only boot on the list that we know little about is the Concord Estilo. Concord are a Mexican brand who have in the past produced some fantastic boots. Right now, they don't offer much info on their boots, although we do know they have a high number of colorways available in Central America. Carlos Pena is the single player who is planning to wear the range, and over the past few months he has worn several different styles. Definitely one to keep an eye on if you are a keen boot watcher!
