Umbro GT Pro
Review:
Since being taken over by Nike, Umbro have made a splash in the soccer boot market in recent months with boots such as the reinvented Umbro Speciali and the Stealth Pro after being left in the dark for what seemed like decades. However, Umbro have come out with their newest boot, the GT Pro that I have been testing the past four months. In addition, these boots are the lightest that Umbro have ever made at 8.3 oz. and some of the features that they boast are a Teijin Microfiber upper which reduces the overall weight of the boot. Along with the ‘A Frame Cradle’ technology that acts as a support system, similar to Flywire connecting the soleplate up along either side of the boot to the laces, so that you have more support and it brings the boot closer to your foot.
When I first received these boots I was a little skeptical, but after testing them I admit I am now a huge fan. The boots were stylish, easy to break in and extremely effective on the field. With this boot, Umbro have done all of the little things right. The technology, style, comfort and price of this boot make it one of the most under rated speed boots on the market in my opinion. All around, the combination of the light Teijin Microfiber upper, cradle technology, along with the narrow last makes the Umbro GT Pro the ideal lightweight performance product built for speed.
In the end, the GT Pro is a blend of the classic Umbro look injected with Nike’s bold color ways and newest footwear technology. Since being bought by Nike the Umbro releases have improved in style/technology and in my opinion the GT Pro is another building block for the brand. Furthermore, I believe the GT Pro will offer a point of difference in soccer specialty and help Nike Soccer gain edge over Adidas.
Changes in performance/profitability:
Put this boot in soccer specialty stores, throughout North America.
Come out with more bold/flashy color ways to get consumers interested. Would be cool in an England or Ireland color way.
Product placement: Put this boot on more professional players.
Change in upper for different ball feel; kanga-lite or k-leather maybe.
Carbon fiber outsole to decrease weight of boot even more.
Make a hybrid version of the GT Pro and Super Fly. An elite combination of Umbro and Nike Football.