Closer Look | Adidas Primeknit Prototypes
Oct 27, 2015, by Pat
The newest Adidas Ace and X Primeknit boots were a pleasant surprise when they got released last month, convincing as a well-fitting alternative to the conventional synthetic versions as well as Nike's Flyknit cleats.
But Adidas didn't get there in one day, as previous Primeknit football boot launches have shown. A few days ago, Unisport has had the chance to have a closer look at some of Adidas' Primeknit prototype soccer boots leading up to the release of the cutting-edge Adidas Ace and X Primeknit.
Adidas Primeknit Prototypes
Ranging from the well-documented Adidas Primeknit 'Footy Sock' monstrosity to more practicable creations, it's always immensely interesting to follow the long path up to the creation of a memorable and meaningful cleat through prototypes.
Especially the red-and-blue Adidas Primeknit Samba cleats have got Unisport's attention, offering a much less stiff upper than what was actually released in 2014 - the current two Adidas Primeknit cleats have reverted to a more soft and comfortable construction, of course.
It's definitely encouraging how far Adidas has come since it unveiled its first knitted football boot in March 2014, and we are incredibly curious to see where this road will take us.
Would you love to get your hands on some of these one-of-a-kind Adidas Primeknit prototypes? Let us know in the comments below.
Special Detail on the FA Community Shield Sleeve Patch
The sleeve patch worn during recent 2026 FA Community Shield match featured a unique, customized touch: the ribbon running across the shield was split into red and sky blue, representing the primary colors of Arsenal and Manchester City.
This bespoke ribbon colorway tradition first debuted at the 2015 FA Community Shield in the clash between Arsenal and Chelsea.
The only exceptions to this colored-ribbon tradition occurred in 2020 (Arsenal vs. Liverpool) and 2025 (Crystal Palace vs. Liverpool), where the ribbons on the patch were rendered in neutral white. This adjustment is believed to be the FA's standard protocol to maintain visual balance when both competing clubs share the same primary kit color (red).
Another unique scenario took place in 2021. Even though Manchester City wore their away kit against Leicester City, the patch still featured both clubs' traditional home colors. This was possible because City’s sky blue and Leicester’s royal blue possess distinguishable shades.
Big thanks to @jerseystory_vn for spotting this detail and creating the collage.
Gianluigi Donnarumma Prefers Replica Kits
During the 2026 FA Community Shield, Gianluigi Donnarumma was once again spotted wearing a replica jersey on the pitch rather than an authentic player-issue shirt. Details such as the embroidered crest and the standard dryCELL branding confirmed his kit choice.
This marks the second consecutive season since joining Manchester City that the Italian goalkeeper has opted for the replica version. The reason stems from Puma's player-issue shirts featuring a tighter, more athletic cut, whereas Donnarumma prefers a looser, roomier fit for maximum comfort and freedom of movement.
Big thanks to @jerseystory_vn for spotting this detail and creating the comparison graphic.
Rodri to Wear Number 16 at FC Barcelona
Incoming FC Barcelona signing Rodri is set to wear his trademark number 16 jersey following his big-money switch from Manchester City. The Spanish international midfielder has built an iconic association with the number throughout his career at club level with Manchester City and on the international stage with Spain.
The number 16 shirt had previously belonged to young midfielder Fermín López. Following direct conversations between the players, Fermín has agreed to vacate the number and switch to the number 7 shirt, allowing Rodri to take his favored jersey ahead of the 26-27 season.
Real Zaragoza 26-27 Away Kit Released
The new Real Zaragoza 26-27 away kit was officially launched, bringing back the club's traditional "tomate" (tomato) red look for the upcoming season.
Manufactured by Adidas, the Real Zaragoza 2026-27 away jersey features a vibrant red base complemented by a vertical blue and white stripe running down the left chest behind the club crest. White Adidas Three Stripes sit on the shoulders, while the round collar and sleeve cuffs feature subtle white and blue trim details. Caravan Fragancias returns as the main front-of-shirt sponsor.
Matching red shorts and socks with white accents and "RZ" detailing complete the full Real Zaragoza 26-27 away strip.
