This year marks the 17th year aniversary of the adidas Predator series. The first Predator was unveiled in 1994 (see below)
Needless to say the shoe was met to mixed consumer reaction. The look was a bit crazy but the concept started and since then theadidas Predator line has become one of the best selling styles every year. With superstar’s like Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Kaka and Steven Gerard and others sharing their idea’s with adidas product developers over the years the new adidas adiPowerPredator is the lightest version ever!
The new adidas adipower Predator 25% lighter than the previous Predator X. This is thanks to the inclusion of Adidas’ SprintFrame which we know from the AdiZero. The SprintFrame features a redesigned Predator PowerSpine from the Predator X, to allow additional energy transfer directly from the foot into the ball by preventing the foot from over bending while still allowing for comfortable running movements thanks to the flex grooves which keep the element highly flexible in the right direction.
Adidas have recently incorporated a wider boot last and redesigned foot-bed into their boots. A wider fore-foot, sleeker mid-foot and wider heel enables the studs to be positioned closer to the outside of the sole, providing greater stability whilst improving movement, traction and pressure distribution.
The new AdiPower Predator use Taurus calf leather which was first introduced in the Predator X. Taurus leather offers high-end supreme touch leather performance while still being durable and water and abrasion resistant.
The new re-engineered silicon rubber Predator Element is split into two zones. The first zone is an aggressive, structured surface which integrates the Adidas stripes is the ‘Power Zone’. The 3D fins give rebound upon ball impact, generating additional striking power from the boot. The second ‘Swerve Zone’ features a hexagonal pattern. The even and soft surface provides a longer contact time with the ball, resulting in higher friction and ultimately higher swerve.