Off the Ground

One of the most premium and well performing football cleats for ages, Adidas’ Copa series of football cleats have been winning accolades and praises from professional and amateur players alike for years. However, in an age when most players are returning back to their old, tried, and tested tools for that familiar touch and feel, Adidas had their work cut out when they were developing the Copa 19 series.

So, when we got our hands on the Copa 19.1, we were excited. I mean really, really excited. The kind of technology that was used is fit for man’s next mission to Mars. For starters, the kangaroo leather or K Leather as Adidas calls it, has been implemented in a very unusual manner. The fusion skin technology features a seamless and less permeable skin. This, combined with varied textures around the ankle and front of the cleats means more grip when kicking the ball and hence, a better control. Furthermore, the laminated leather treatment, also known as the X Ray Vamp helps the cleat maintain its shape, without adding any bulk and weight to. At the same time, it gives the cleats even more texture and grip.

Read FHM India in the digital libraryEvery issue, every shoot, on TCG Media.

As for the design of the outsoles, Adidas has gone for a new exoframe, which incorporates circular and semicircular studs. This new designs feels great on the grass, providing adequate grip, without hindering any abrupt movement, speed or agility. This makes it great for all positions, be it that of a striker, or defender. However, during our testing, we felt that the cleat was more suited for players who will need more precision, along with greater speed and striking force.

As for the shape and fit of these new cleats, they exemplify what makes Adidas the natural choice for so many professional players. The fit was subliminal. At times, it felt as if the feet had grown an outer layer of protection, that we were not wearing the shoe. Also, because it is extremely lightweight, the movement of the foot is swift, controlled and precise. Add to the fact that the version without the laces, the Copa 19+ has a fat surface, controlling the ball is nothing short of heavenly.

We have just one tiny complaint, and that too with the Copa 19.1. We felt that the laces could be a little longer, but again, that is because of the peculiar Indian habit of looping the lace around the feet and then tying it. Other than that, we did not find anything to complain about. It will be interesting to see if apart from Paulo Dybala, any other professional takes it up.

The new Copa 19+ series from Adidas are a pair of cleats that can massively improve your game. Just don’t expect to rival the likes of Messi and Ronaldo.

From the April-May 2019 issue of FHM India.