In 2013, Nike released the first version of the Phantom cleats, the Hypervenom Phantom. 11 years later they have become one of the most popular soccer shoes in the world.
Nike Hypervenom Phantom & Nike Hypervenom Phantom II
The release of the Phantoms featured a new upper called NIKESKIN, a soft mesh with a thin synthetic resin film. The Nike All Conditions Control technology was used in this new cleat to ensure players could have the same control over the ball no matter what conditions they are in. It was groundbreaking and hugely successful, and in the years since has cemented its status as a cult classic with boot enthusiasts. It was designed to suit players like Neymar, who were quick, agile and skillful.
The second generation of the Hypervenom Phantoms that was released ahead of Euro 2016 did not see many changes. A dynamic fit collar around the ankle was the biggest change, something new at the time, but is found on most cleats nowadays. This version of the boot introduced an updated NIKESKIN, with a variable density mesh designed to harden when shooting and dampen when controlling the ball.
Nike Hypervenom Phantom III
As the Phantoms continued to grow in popularity, Nike believed this was a finisher’s cleat. In the third generation Nike made changes like a flyknit upper and a new soleplate. These changes were to enhance the speed, agility and shot-taking of strikers and attacking midfielders.
Nike Phantom Venom & Vision
Nike switched from the Phantom Hypervenom to the Phantom Venom in 2019 but had similar features from the Hypervenom. As it was designed for strikers, Nike increased the size of the strike zone by 30%. A bigger strike zone gave the player the opportunity to have a cleaner shot. The lower half of the laces was covered by another layer of flyknit, giving the boot that larger sweet spot for shots.
The Phantom Vision came with more comfort and control technologies. An internal quadfit mesh, a Nike technology that brings the ultimate amount of comfortability, keeping the foot in place. Players could also tuck their laces away behind the upper, allowing them to strike the ball on a clean and smooth surface.
Nike Phantom GT & Nike Phantom GT II
In 2020, the Phantom Venom and Phantom Vision were combined into one boot, the Phantom GT. This new cleat focused on accuracy and explosiveness. The GT had flyknit and the Generative Texture, a new technology Nike produced that gave players extra grip and produced better control on the ball.
The GT became very popular as players like Phil Foden, Kevin de Bruyne and Robert Lewandowski could be seen wearing them on the field.
The GT II did not have many changes as the GT was already very successful. New lines highlighted the tweaked upper with different colorways.
Nike Phantom GX
The Phantom GX featured Gripknit. An incredible, innovative new technology which is made by combining exclusive yarn with melted down thermoplastic polyurethane which creates a grippy, flexible and durable upper.
The Gripknit technology also protects the cleat in sloppy weather conditions while giving the player better ball control.
Nike Phantom Luna
The Phantom Luna was born to help female players be more successful, but was still a good option for men. This boot has more features offered to women than any other Nike cleat.
The Cyclone 360 soleplate allows players to have better agility and make quick and precise cuts and turns. This soleplate is designed to help prevent ACL injuries, which occur more commonly in female players. The ASYMFIT is an angled collar based on the body’s ankle. With increased midfoot adjustability, the boot shapes to conform to your foot. The high collar increases lockdown which prevents the knee from rotating as much and takes some of the pressure off the knee when pivoting.
The Phantom Luna has increased comfortability and less break-in time. The Gripknit technology seen on other boots is also featured. A raised ribbed texture on the upper can be found which allows players to have a better grip on the ball.
Nike Phantom Luna II & Nike Phantom GX II
The newest versions of Nike Phantom’s are ultimately the same. The only real difference between the Luna’s and GX’s are the higher collar on the Luna.
The Gripknit technology, ribbed texture and 360 soleplate can be found on both options to ensure that players have better agility, movement, control and confidence on the ball. The Gripknit technology continues to cover the strike zone which allows the player to have a clean strike.
Many soccer superstars can be seen wearing Nike Phantoms while playing. Which Nike Phantoms will we see you on the field with?
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