Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly

When Nike released the most successful cleat of 2008, the Mercurial Vapor IV, they released with it the Mercurial SL. The SL was the Super Light version of the Mercurial IV, weighing quite a few grams less, and with the immenent release of the Mercurial Vapor V in April, Nike plan to release with it the Superfly.

Lace Cover:

The Soccer Equipment Reviews team has been told, and as you can see from the pictures, that the Superfly will have no lace cover, which has grown to be popular with many players. The Nike SL did not have a lace cover either, however many cleats released in the past couple years have featured a lace cover, and many players have grown accustomed to playing with one. The question is whether or not players will buy these cleats without a lace cover, and if not, stick with the Mercurial Vapor V?

Debut & Release:

While the debut date is still unclear, there have been reports that the Superfly will be debuted on the world stage, most likely in a Champions League match in March. The expected athlete to debut the cleat is Cristiano Ronaldo, recently crowned World Player of the Year. Ronaldo will probably unveil the cleat for the first time against Inter Milan in mid-March. Other players expected to debut and wear the cleat include Franck Ribery, Robinho, and Didier Drogba. Then the expected release is April 1st, the same date as the Mercurial Vapor V. The Superfly will probably be sold at retail price for approximately $320 USD.