Nike Mercurial Vapor 17 Academy

As soon as I opened the box, I knew right away I needed to size up. My guess would be at least a half size if not a full as I couldn’t even get this boot on (I ordered my true size). This boot is extremely narrow so if you have a wider foot or prefer some space on the sides, steer clear of this one. The design and colors of the this model are great for the price point. The fit is just not for me. Unfortunately I couldn’t try this out further due to sizing but seems like a solid option in this price point. Definitely try on first!

I have worn the same outdoor cleats off and on for the last 20 years, consisting of probably 10-12 seasons. They were a thicker, heavier, leather upper with a familiar fit that has molded to my foot. I’ve been afraid to get new ones because I didn’t want my feet to hurt while playing. As it turns out, I should have a long time ago. The mercurial 17’s have been great. It isn’t in season right now but I’ve had the chance to wear them to kick the ball around and run with my kids and they’ve been great. The Nikeskin upper is so thin and feels like it grip the ball so well when kicking. With the Nikeskin upper and the lightweight footplate, I’d be shocked if they didn’t weigh 1/2 of my old shoes but I haven’t weighed them. For me, they have fit true to size. I have a flatter foot, that tends to be a little wider (although I don’t require “wide” shoes) and these shoes fit very evenly across my entire foot. They cupped the ankle well, held against the sides and toe box snug, without producing any hot spots or uncomfortable rubbing. I’d highly recommend these shoes for a mid level soccer cleat that is perfect for most people.

The cleats have a very snug fit and tight feeling in my true size. If a more roomy feel is preferred I recommend going up half a size. The break in period for me was about 30 minutes, after the cleats felt like Mercurials and were more comfortable. I like the design of the tongue attach to the sides of the upper to prevent movement when playing.The black and green color way is one of my favorites in the new Mercurials! The materials use for the upper and outsole still make it feel like a Mercurial in that it still provides the aggressive grip and tight fit when changing direction or striking the ball. What I like most of this pair is the feel on the ball, I like how it feels to control or strike the ball. It still has the signature mercurial feel even in the beginner pair! Something I would change in this pair is the material use for the inner lining of the cleats. It feels different than the rest of the cleat, is something minor but noticeable when playing in wet conditions.