Nike T90 Laser Football Boots
With the release of the new Nike T90 Laser III, the SoccerBible has been taking a retrospective look at some of the predecessors in the T90 series. So before we go all Electric Green, we've got time to squeeze in the original Laser fresh from the SoccerBible's Boot Vault.
After the success of the AZT series, Nike really upped the game with the release of the first in the iconic Laser range - so without further delay we present the Nike Total 90 Laser...
Nike really took the power category by the scruff of the neck with the launch of the Laser series. Released in the summer of 2007, Nike created a stir with a series of viral videos enlisting the help of Wales' finest, the Dirty Sanchez boys. Memorable clips include Wayne Rooney smashing a camera and then a cameraman whilst promoting the new boots. But enough about the adverts, let's talk about the boots...
Nike looked on the Laser as the boot that would take your accuracy to a new level, with a completely re-designed boot and upper. This was nothing like any of the AZT cleats that had come before and not just in colour options! The original launch edition was this vibrant yellow/black option, supported by a more sedate White/Red/Black edition.
We all know now about the technological differences that enhanced the Laser, most notably the precision rings and eVent fabric. However the Laser didn't ignore its roots completely as it featured a modified Air Zoom heel unit for improved cushioning and impact protection, one of the hallmarks of the AZT series. Also utilised were and offset lacing system, which left a huge kicking area and allowed the introduction of the precision ring vamps.
Specificially sectioned to allow for power and swerve, the rings were claimed to aid in keeping the ball down when shooting and adding extra swerve and height when the player needed it. Nike showed us that they had spent countless dollars and time on the research of these rings, applying their understandings and research from other sports like tennis and golf to aid the final design of the Laser's target area.
In a ironic nod to the problems the AZT series had encountered publicly before, the sole plate of the Laser featured a foot skeleton graphic which Nike claimed showed the added protection the Laser offered the player over previous versions. Again, the soft ground sole plate featured 6 removeable studs whilst the firm ground edition did not see much change from the AZTIII''s layout. During an 12 month spell 8 colourways of the Laser were released, including K-Leather and synthetic versions.
The T90 Laser gained many admirers and became one of the most iconic boots of the recent years, thanks to its massive on pitch visibility and superb comfort. We say Nike certainly hit the right note with the release of this football boot as it not only created a bigger interest in power and accuracy boots, it helped to convert a lot of players out of their World Cups and Tiempos.
Stay tuned to the SoccerBible as we reveal more soccer cleats from the Boot Vault, showcasing the best retro, classic and once forgotten boots and bringing them back to life!
