Review Summary
On match day, you do not want something big and heavy wrapped around your shin, feeling like it is weighing you down. You do still want something protecting you, but it would be preferable if that something is light weight. This is exactly what Nike have created with the Mercurial Lite Shinguard.
Boy, all the different shinguards I have played with and how they’ve changed. It is amazing how technology has come so far in so few years. Back in the day, I remember wearing massive shinguards stretching from just above my ankle and almost up to my knee, not to mention the huge angle protector. Those times are gone now (for some) and a new shinguard revolution has arrived. Could Nike have made the greatest yet affordable shinguard that is not made out of carbon fiber with the Mercurial Lite? It’s time to find out, so see how the Nike Mercurial Vapor Lite Shinguards did in our in-depth SER Review.
Design:
These are definitely one of the nicest or the nicest shinguard designs I have seen coming on a shinpad. Both colorways look great and the Mercurial Superfly design inspiration makes these shinguards look ‘fast’. When you put on the Dri-FIT sleeve, I think they might even look better as they have a sleeker look to to. Not that it matters all that much though, seeing as they’ll be covered at all times!
Performance:
These shinguards are great. Nike have done an absolutely fantastic job in this department. They are extremely light and you can hardly tell that they’re there when wearing them. Not only are they light but these have to be one of the stronger shinguards I have worn. They are a solid pair of protectors. The sleeve that Nike provide with these shinguards is also fantastic; goodbye annoying straps that itch and stick to your socks. This sleeve is great as it is comfortable, plus it keeps your shinguards in place eliminating the need for tape. If I could change something about these shinguards, it would be to have an option to make the sleeve tighter as the shinguards would sometimes move out of place.
Conclusion:
The Mercurial Lite Shinguards are extremely light yet very protective and comfortable. The Dri-FIT sleeve is also a great extra that more or less keeps the pads from shifting. There is no point in spending $100 on shinguards when, these are nearly as good (personal opinion). At only $18, why not buy these top quality shinguards? For a great creation, Nike have earned another SER RECOMMENDATION.
