Adidas has unveiled its brand-new Predator 20 Mutator boot – and it's nothing like any boot the Suth African footballing community has seen before. The new boot features 'Demonskin', a new technology designed to increase grip and spin on the ball. The Demonskin spikes are wrapped around the side and front of the boot, allowing players greater control and touch.
The boot was unveiled to local media and footballers this week at an event in Mount Edgecombe, KZN, with players like Daniel Cardoso and Phumlani Ntshangase trying out their ability to curve the ball with the new footwear.
"We knew we had to create something completely different for 2020 to deliver a new innovation, something that would intimidate opponents. Demonskin is at the heart of this," said adidas SA's Bob Maphosa Sports Marketing Manager. "It truly is a breakthough innovation for us at adidas football – something brand-new with tangible benefits to gameplay. This has been evidenced in player testing, where many spoke of the immediate difference they felt with the ball at their feet."
The original Predator was introduced in 1994 and was worn on the pitch by stars such as David Beckham and Steven Gerrard. The Predator 20 Mutator will be promoted by a new generation of international stars, including Paul Pogba, Becky Sauerbrunn, Marc-André ter Stegen and Tessa Wullaert. Locally the boot will be worn by the likes of Thulani Hlatshwayo and Ronwen Williams.
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Demonskin is made up of a textured spike layer on the Predator 20 Mutator upper, and is the result of years of data-based research and testing to create an entirely new interface between boot and ball. The spikes have been deliberately crafted to wrap around the front and side of the boot in a way that aligns to key contact points with the ball, combining to give players enhanced control and touch on the ball, whilst also promoting spin when striking.
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The boot has an outsole with enhancing control zones, a two-plate stud configuration and a Sockfit collar that adjusts to the contours of the wearer's foot. The shoe has a high collar and a low front for a streamlined appearance.
Demonskin is also set to feature on goalkeeper gloves, giving players increased control and enhanced power on punched clearances.
Predator 20 Mutator will be available to buy instore and online at adidas.com, and select retailers, starting 28th January 2020.
For further information please visit adidas.com/football or follow @adidasfootball on Instagram or twitter to join the conversation.
