Has it really been 15 years since the OG R9 sported these on
the pitch? If you know boots then this release is iconic. In 2002, Brasil
forward Ronaldo returned to center stage debuting groundbreaking boot
technology. With a new, sleeker silhouette that looked more track spike than
football shoe, the ‘02 Mercurial Vapor was Nike’s first sub-200 gram boot. It
also featured the company’s first stitch-less upper and was designed using
Nike’s first anatomical last.
Wearing the boot, Ronaldo scored eight times in Japan and
Korea and confirmed his status as the world’s best striker. Ronaldo’s bold
chrome color way stood out as a new icon of football footwear — just as his
1998 boots had done.
To celebrate the heritage of the ‘02 classic, the 2014
Mercurial Vapor IX Fast Forward ’02 Edition provides today’s players with
modern boot technology inspired by the
’02 model. Subtle graphic references, colors and prints combine with
modern materials and innovation to celebrate the boot’s legacy of speed while
commemorating a magical summer tournament for Ronaldo and the Mercurial.
A small heel logo mark identifies the original year of
inspiration, and the sockliner tells the story of key moments in the
Mercurial’s history. However, there is no OG R9 logo which was so iconic about
these boots and more importantly the man that gave birth to the speed boot and
the phrase in today’s boot world “Be Mercurial”.
The Mercurial Vapor IX is engineered for support and touch
and to deliver a combination of speed and skill when it matters most. Nike’s
new texture on the boot’s upper helps provide players with the confidence to
perform at high speed with enhanced friction. The Speed Control texture wraps
around the foot, giving the boot friction when necessary without compromising
on the soft touch players require. The upper also locks down the foot to
prevent unnecessary movement within the boot, while a minimal and soft heel
area maximizes comfort. Its snug, responsive fit is a hallmark of Mercurial
boots.
The Mercurial Vapor IX Fast Forward ’02 Edition is available
at Nike.com.