Nike launches Air Max-inspired boot worn by Kylian Mbappé

16 January 2024 , 15:37

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Kylian Mbappé with the new boot and the shoe it's based on (Image: Kylian Mbappé Instagram)

With the news that adidas have unleashed their new version of the iconic Predator boot, Nike aren't one to be left behind and have released their new boot - inspired by their Air Max brand.

Mining the 1990s for inspiration is in vogue right now with adidas breathing life back into their legendary boot once worn by such greats as Zidane and David Beckham, but now refitted and redesigned to be worn by the likes of Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Now Nike have done the same, however they've taken their cue, not from a classic boot, but from a much loved trainer.

Nike have combined the Air Max Plus with one of football's most recognisable boots, the Nike Mercurial Superfly. The first thing that jumps out about Nike's latest boot is the colourway. This unique blend of colours is actually a homage to 1998’s ‘Voltage Purple’ drop.

Kylian Mbappe runs with the ball during a Paris Saint-Germain training session (PSG via Getty Images)

With a new generation of superstars leading the way for boot manufacturers, Nike have once again enlisted their A-lister, Kylian Mbappé. The PSG and French superstar has already been spotted wearing the new boot in training and has posed with them on his Instagram account. The Nike Air Max Plus has been a much sought after shoe for years and it celebrated its 25th Anniversary in 2023 with some special drops including the F.C. Barcelona x Patta Culers del Món collaboration.

The new collection merges the famed design of the Air Max with the silhouette of the Nike Mercurial Superfly and coats the boot in that unique purple and black colourway. A notable and curious alteration for the Superfly sees the Tn from the shoe replaced on the boot with a Zm.

Mbappe misses two penalties and open goal in one minute before going off injured

The trainer the new boot is based on - the Air Max Plus OG (Nike)

However, despite the excitement around the boot it seems some fans have struggled to get a hold of them. Sizes have been selling out fast since the drop but in response to the Nike Football account on X, formerly Twitter, fans have been lamenting their failure to get a pair. One poster, @usua1990s, said: "Dont (sic) see anything on nike app", while some fans were angry over pairs being snapped up to then be sold on for profit.

X user @SaulForbes said: "On eBay already for a profit….ridiculous" while @SFG_soccer replied saying: "Over 300 pairs on eBay already". A poster with the username @mini_nino11 simply asked: "Where????". However, despite the rush to secure a pair they are available in most adult sizes on Pro:Direct Soccer in various versions. You can get the new boot here.

Chris Burns