The boot: This shoe in the vapor series is constructed with a high quality teijin synthetic upper, a fiberglass soleplate with a double layer throughout the forefoot and heel and a single layer on the toes. The teijin upper is pretty much the main selling point of this vapor, giving it a nice soft touch and feel, yet it still weighs in at 6.8oz. This is Nike's 'speed' boot and is compared to the Adizero F50 and the Puma Evospeed. To see the new Vapor IX's unboxed, click here.
Touch: Like I said before, the upper material provides the vapor with a comfy, soft touch on the ball. This boot does have what you would call a 'barefoot' feel on the ball. Now depending on whether or not you prefer a cushioned feel or a 'barefoot' feel, you will be satisfied with the touch. Especially after wearing an F50, this will feel much more comfy and cushioned.
Comfort: This boot is comfortable, but it's not going to be as comfortable as a Maestri, Predator, T90, or a Tiempo. This is all opinion of course but the materials on those boots provide a lot more cushion and padding. For a 'speed' boot I'd say this is very comfortable, especially compared to the F50, I haven't worn an Evospeed yet so I couldn't give you an accurate comparison between them.
Shooting: Considering the fact that this boot has a 'barefoot' feel, your going to notice that when you shoot you really feel the full impact of the ball on your foot. Personally I like this because I feel like it gives me more control, thus making me more accurate at times. Shooting on this boot depends entirely on whether you like a 'barefoot' feel. Who knows though, it's sort of different so you may want to try it for yourself!
Durability: As you may or may not know, the vapor is not a durable shoe. Just putting it out there right away. They did make a quality change however starting with the retro and orange colorway by adding a piece of rubber around the toebox to prevent ripping. This has helped but mine continue to rip on the edges of the rubber and near the middle of my foot where the soleplate is attached.
Weight: You can't complain about this shoe being heavy, listed at 6.8oz, this is one of the lightest shoes on the market. But, it still doesn't compare to the F50 or GS Concept (only being an ounce heavier). Once a boot gets below the 8oz mark, I consider it to be quite light.
Traction: For a firm ground model, this is the best traction you are going to get. This being said it is HIGHLY recommended that you play on natural grass with the FG version. If you play on AG it will increase the risk of hurting an ankle or damage the cleat. The traction is great but too much traction can cause discomfort.
Touch: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Shooting: 9/10
Durability: 6/10
Weight: 10/10
Traction: 10/10
------------------------
52/60 = 87%
