07 June 2023 , 13:20
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With less than two months to go before the 2023 Women's World Cup kicks off in Australia and New Zealand, Nike have unveiled the new Phantom Luna boot, the most innovative and researched women’s-led boot in their history.
The process to research, trial, design and style the product has taken over two years and comes just in time for this summer's showpiece Down Under. Nike say the new women’s-led boot features a new, breakthrough circular stud pattern near the toes to find the right mix of traction.
Named Nike Cyclone 360, this traction pattern allows players to move with agility, precision, and confidence on the pitch. The boot has a more snug fit around the ankle, which was implemented based on feedback from female footballers.
Given women also, on average, have smaller feet, the boot required a bigger touch zone to allow for control and accuracy in passing. In order to achieve this, Nike applied its latest football innovation, Nike Gripknit, for optimal boot-to-ball connection.
The coating gives a “tacky” feeling and is integrated into the material, so the boot stays soft and pliable. “Phantom Luna is a direct reflection of Nike’s focus on being her biggest champion,” says Dr. Elysia Davis, Principal Researcher in the Nike Sport Research Lab.
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“From research to testing to design, we put her at the centre of the process. With Phantom Luna, we’re offering a boot that is thoughtfully designed for her with a new circular stud pattern and fit, helping athletes to move with precision and confidence on the pitch.”
Nike’s new Phantom Luna boot is the most innovative and researched women’s-led boot in the retailer's history (Nike)At a time where serious injuries in female football stars is a huge, ongoing conversation - innovative designs led by women is a huge step in the right direction. Several big names are currently sidelined with ACL injuries, including Arsenal's Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema.
Barcelona and Spain star Alexia Putellas has also only recently returned from a long-term ACL injury. Football clubs announcing a player will be out for an extended period of time due to the injury is unfortunately extremely common.
Nike Phantom Luna Elite and Phantom Luna will be available starting late June 2023 at nike.com and select retailers.