nike mercurial vapor ix cr fg in dark obsidian with pink and white

One of
Details about Nike Mercurial Victory IV vibrant yellow lime 555613-703 Mens US size 9

One of the most sought after releases this summer seems to be the Nike Tiempo Legend IV. To be honest, I have been astounded at the amount of attention and positive vibes this release has received. Nike has updated the range and added some unique features to ensure it stays ahead of the game. Where the CTR360 Maestri has been specifically developed to suit the needs of playmakers, the Tiempo is designed in similar fashion but for players who simply want a consistent boot with great touch on the ball. I had an opportunity to test out a pair in the Black/White/Total Orange colorway with the following results.

In terms of retail, the Tiempo Legend comes in at $144, with new colorways currently available.

Breaking In
The Tiempo IV starts out like a well oiled machine, producing a comfortable fit from day 1. It is important to note that I went up a half size starting out to suit my specific fit (more about this below), so those that choose a true to size fit might have a different experience. Right through the first session, the boots seemed to transition to my my exact specifications, with the molded sockliner offering optimal comfort. I did encounter some stud pressure along the outside of the boot through testing. It wasn’t a huge issue and didn’t cause noticeable discomfort, but it is something worth noting. The soleplate also has plenty of flexibility, allowing for great feel right through your stride, something I really like about the regular release, compared to the Elites. You also get a synthetic suede ankle lining that seems to grip and keep your ankle in place – a welcome addition to any boot as it helps reduce the opportunities for blisters to occur.

Choosing a Size
This is an area where debate arises! For testing, I started out with a size 9US but felt they were too tight so, I swapped them out and tested the range in a size 9.5US. Technically, I could have worn the 9US but in order to ensure they were comfortable I went a half size up. I would compare the sizing as a tight true to size. If you find that you have some room in your current size, expect the Tiempo IV to fit tighter. If your size is already tight, my advice is to go up a half size like I did!

Performance
In game, the Tiempo IV offer many positives, particularly for players who want a high performing passing boot. They are the ideal addition to compliment players who like to get plenty of touches on the ball, while controlling the tempo of the game. I found that you get a great feel on the ball, particularly as you dribble. The upper is padded in such a way that it keeps you well protected without taking away from your natural touch. The quilted stitch pattern featured on the upper also allows the leather to move more naturally or in sync with the movements of your feet. A trend with Nike releases is technology in the upper, but I really like the simplicity of this release, which focuses on making the most of a soft leather upper.

In terms of traction, the sole features a combo of conical and bladed studs. Two of the studs along the outside forefront have a very unique oval shape. They were the ones that seemed to cause some pressure as I played. Overall, they offer great traction on grass. I also tested them on an artificial surface without any problems.

Heel Counter
Another addition to this release is an internal TPU heel counter, designed to secure your foot in place while adding some additional protection. On the regular version, you will spot there are ridges around the heel – this is the heel counter. I regularly get tackled from behind in games, and I can confirm from experience that it works effectively!

Other Detailing and Notes
There are a few other notes I wanted to add about this release. First off, Nike has introduced a new redesigned tongue that really allows it to hug your ankle. Basically, the tongue has been split in two parts, with 1/3rd on the inside and 2/3rd on the outside. I like how it allows the tongue to sit in place, it actually looks pretty sweet in my opinion! There is also an added layer of padding that runs down the tongue toward your toes. This gives you some added protection.

Two other pieces of detailing to note include a new visually enhanced design on the heel and some small spikes that sit on the very front/along the back of the soleplate. I can only think that these spikes have been added to allow for some additional traction, as you pivot out of awkward situations. They almost seem like an additional weapon to be used in game – just in case your opponent manages to nutmeg you! (of course this is not recommended)

Compared to the Tiempo IV Elite
The differences between the Regular and Elite Tiempo lies in the technology Nike include. Of course, for the full experience you will want to get the Elite version, since it features Nike Flywire and a Carbon Fiber soleplate. By including this technology, Nike has the ability to offer a lighter boot while using different materials in the upper. The Elite features a super soft natural K-Leather and weighs in at 9.4oz, while the Regular version comes in a mixed Kanga-Lite/K leather that has a weight of 9.6oz. The Elite is the lightest Tiempo to date, and what I like about them is that Nike have stuck to delivering a solid, well built boot rather than focusing on make them super light. In my opinion, the Tiempo range is not meant to be fall into the lightweight category – so well played Nike!

Negatives
I don’t really have negatives, per se, for this release as they seem to check all the right boxes. One thing to note it that for some reason (probably because of the colorway) they feel and look slightly long even though they fit perfectly, and at times this resulted in a slightly clumsy feel while wearing them. There is nothing else specific to note right now.

Summary
Nike has done a great job with this latest Nike Tiempo release, and they turn out to be an ideal package for players who want a boot crafted for touch and control. I can see most players on the pitch wearing this release, although they are more suited for players in the middle of the park. This release looks pretty sharp, they break in easily and the upper offers a super soft touch – all-in-all a great release. One of the benefits for players that are interested in a pair is the price range, with Nike keeping this release at a decent mid-range level. You won’t have to break the bank in order to get your hands on a pair!

(*boots supplied for review by WeGotSoccer)