Predator LZ Preview:

Decades ago and 11 boots/generations later Adidas is set to release one of the most unique Predators ever to hit the field. I am sure you have seen the random teaser images floating around the net of the soon to be adidas Predator LZ.

Throughout the release of the 12th Predator adidas itself has teased Footy fans with teaser images of the LZ. Along the way adidas has highlighted each teaser with a component/fact about the boot which I thought was very creative/unique.

The new Predator LZ is designed with five distinctive ‘lethal zones’ to deliver an all around performance on the pitch. The LZ will have a control look and feel to the boot. Many OG Predator fans are unsure what to think about this upcoming release. Rather then preach power. Many consumers have heard the words control, accuracy and touch to describe the Predator LZ.

Many Footy fans are thinking what in the world is Adidas doing with this Predator. But since the release of the CTR360 from Nike, Adidas has had no answer for the boot. Simply with this boot Adidas is competing with Nike in the popular emerging control category that Nike has owned.

Furthermore, the eye-catching LZ features five zones of technology for ball control, touch, accuracy and power. That being said, only time will tell about how well the zones workout or if they actually help. In addition, unlike the CTR360 the LZ will come in at around 7.9 oz. Which from the sounds of it the LZ might be a mixture of speed and control which could be a point of difference in the market place. At 7.9 oz the LZ sounds like a hybrid of speed and control/comfort. The LZ utilizes the sprint frame outsole and a microfiber upper that helps reduce the weight of the boot. But as a boot nerd I am not concerned about the weight. I am rather focussed on the fit and comfort of the boot. The fit and comfort for a control boot is a must because at the end of the day the boot gimmicks known as pass pads and control zones do not matter. What matters is the fit/comfort of the boot and how long it will last.

However, it has been shown within the market place that within the control silo that weight does not necessarily matter. At 10.5 oz the CTR360 is not light by any means but the reason so many consumers are attracted to the boot is due to it's comfort and durability. Furthermore, at 7.9 oz I am wondering how durable the Predator LZ will be compared to the CTR360.

Specs/details of the Predator LZ:

The five zones of the LZ have been highlighted in Adidas teaser campaign and have been designed to help the consumer control the ball within all areas of their Footy game.

The First Touch zone has recessed Predator SL rubber on the forefoot  area of the boot, which acts as a cushioning platform on the synthetic upper to give immediate ball contact. 

The Drive zone has a raised and thicker 3-D shape on the inside vamp of the boot, which follows the natural shape o the instep to create a rebound effect for greater distance an power. 

The Sweet Spot zone has a smaller surface area which has raised ribs on the medial side of the bot with the purpose of generating greater spin and pace.

The Pass Zone is the fourth Lethal Zone and is on the instep o the bots. The memory foam on the medial side of the boot ensures consistancy of passing, and a 3-D sticky print with large surface area increases ball contact time for more precise passing.

The ‘Dribble’ zone is a continuation of the SL rubber from the forefoot, to provide optimum grip on the ball for controlled dribbling. The ribs of the rubber are positioned on the lateral side of the boot and are designed to provide a small contact surface area with the ball which allow for a large number of quick ball contacts, spaced out to ensure optimum grip.

LZ Upper: Another point of difference;
Unlike past Predators the LZ will feature a microfiber upper called hybrid-touch. The hybrid-touch has the properties/feel of a leather boot. But also has the the properties/benefits you get from a synthetic boot; lightweight, water resistant and form fitting.

Overall, I am excited for the boots to release. I think the LZ will be something completely new and fresh for Footy fans to try. The new LZ will hit the pitch this weekend around the world in the superman color way seen above. Boots officially drop June 1st, so those of you that are in Portland stop by the Far Post Soccer Supply and try them on.