News Sports Soccer FIFA World Cup: A look at the Boots on the ground

FIFA World Cup: A look at the Boots on the ground

Portland, Ore: Nike, adidas, Puma and other shoemakers are all trotting out new and innovative looks for this summer's World Cup. Gone are the old-school black boots like the fabled Puma Kings worn by Pele. 



SHOES OR SOCKS? Nike's statement for the World Cup is its new Magista and Mercurial soccer boots that use the company's fly-knit technology, which basically looks like cleats attached to a pair of socks. Cristiano Ronaldo is going to be wearing the Mercurial Superfly, a high-top version with a cool name. "The way we think about product innovation is really about serving athletes and really about how we can help people reach their true potential," said Phil McCartney, vice president of global soccer for Nike. "I think the product we're going to have on the pitch in the World Cup is a really good example of that. It's a four-year journey we've taken to really help our athletes reach their potential in what will be the biggest moment of their careers and lives."