Play Test | adidas F50 adizero
Play Test | adidas F50 adizero
We lace up to put the new generation F50 through its paces. 
With the speed boot market more competitive than ever, each new challenger has a lot to live up to. With that in mind we decided to put the latest adidas F50 adizero through its paces to see what it has to offer. When it comes to reducing weight the adizero weighs an impressive 150g compared to its big rival the Nike Vapor IX, which tips the scales at 187g.
When designing a speed boot every gram counts. To push the boundaries adidas have utilised new technologies, most significantly their new Speedfoil material - a super lightweight, semi transparent material which really flexes to the contours of your foot to provide a durable, secure fit. 
FIT | One of the most important things to consider when you purchase a pair of boots is the fit. What good is a boot that looks great if it doesn t feel great? Speed boots are generally not renowned for their comfort, they're more in the category of a finely tuned racing car and comfort usually takes a back seat.
However the adizero s fit and comfort is extremely impressive. Straight out of the box the Hybridtouch upper feels soft and just moulds around your foot. You get the choice between the lightweight insole and a comfort option which provides a slightly thicker base. During our testing we didn t find the comfort insole necessary, but for those of you who prefer a plusher ride it s a useful option to have. 
Those with wide feet may find the adizero a little narrow, just like many other speed boots. The Hybridtouch will certainly stretch though and our play test didn t produce any rubbing or stud pressure. Overall we can not fault the adizero on fit, providing that rare balance between performance and comfort in a boot that very much fits true to size.
PERFORMANCE | adidas have really worked to innovate the performance on this boot with the introduction of three main technologies, Speedfoil, Hybridtouch with Dribbletex and a resigned designed sole plate. So, do they make a difference?
For the first time the F50 has a split material upper, the rear of the boot is made up of the new Speedfoil material. As we mentioned above, this new material, inspired by racing sail boats, is used with durability and weight in mind. The heel of your foot feels very stable and helps provide a responsive upper, the adizero certainly won t let you down when it comes to movement. 
With the front part of the boot we find the supple Hybridtouch material and see the introduction of a new Dribbletex texture in key parts of the foot. After analysing the performance of some of their finest dribblers such as Robben and Messi, adidas has added this material to improve the friction between the boot and ball on the most used parts of the upper.
The adizero allows you to feel closer to the ball and put you in control of the situation - you can t be blaming your choice of footwear for slicing the ball out for a throw-in when one on one with the keeper. Our play test was on a wet pitch and we found the F50 to provide a great touch despite the conditions. The contrast of materials on the upper works well not only looks wise, but when it comes to performance.
If you're not lucky enough to play on a pitch that's well groomed and maintained then you will know what it s like come winter, the pitches are either frozen or so waterlogged you might need a lifeguard present. With the new stud configuration on the adizero you have a great chance of surviving. Despite an extremely soft testing surface the FG plate came into its own, the increased surface area on the redesigned stud plate was great at providing acceleration and keeping you on your feet.
The positioning of the studs allows you to quickly change direction with confidence and is certainly a big step forward from the previous design. The pressure on the sole of the foot is nicely balanced providing a smooth, if not minimal ride.
Overall you can't help but be impressed by the latest adizero. It s a boot that looks great on the pitch and also stands out for its performance. It s easy to see why the adizero is so popular with the professionals and is used by the likes of Bale, Benzema and Messi. If you are looking for a speed boot you certainly should not be overlooking this option.
Got a pair of the latest generation adidas adizero F50's? 
