In Detail: Nike Tiempo Legend 8 Tech & Feature Updates - Quadfit Mesh, Flyknit Arch & More
Nike unveiled the Tiempo 8 a few days ago. Debuted in two colorways, the latest generation of the iconic Tiempo football boot line introduces a number of key changes. Let's take a closer look at what they are.
What stands out immediately is the new quilted leather in the forefoot, while the two other main differences are hidden below the surface: the Flyknit tunnel and the Quadfit mesh, something that we already saw on the Phantom Vision last year.
- Nike Sport Research Lab data indicates that Flyknit hugging a boot's arch makes a player feel more secure, so a new Flyknit Fit Tunnel was created for the Tiempo Legend 8 that provides a supportive, snug fit around the midfoot.
- This is complemented by Quadfit mesh in the forefoot that stretches in four directions to accommodate any foot shape, while simultaneously preventing overstretching of the outer leather layer.
- A stitchless quilted diamond pattern on the upper helps keep water and mud from seeping in, and avoids the tiny perforations to the leather that would occur in traditional stitching.
On the other hand, the kangaroo-leather upper material and Hyperstability sole plate haven't undergone any changes from the previous generation.
With the Flyknit arch, Nike aims to provide more support while also providing a more secure fit. It's directly connected to the collar and rear, where it's more exposed, but doesn't reach the very forefoot part in order to provide a cleaner touch in those areas.
Meanwhile, the Quadfit mesh, a technology Nike debuted on the Phantom VSN line last summer, is present in all areas where there's leather on the upper, placed directly below it. Here, the goal is for it to prevent the leather from moving around too much, while allowing a certain level of movement due to its four-way stretch features. It wraps the entirety of the foot and is connected to the laces on the top, which allows for an easy adjustment of tightness and fit - in a way it's similar to the former Flywire tech, which was present on the Tiempo from gen IV and VII.
There is no glue between those layers, which reduces weight and prevents stiffness in between the leather, Quadfit and Flyknit.
All of this has not resulted in an increase in price. Available in two colorways ('Under the Radar' and 'Nouveau White'), the Nike Tiempo Legend 8 Elite boots retail at USD 230 (EUR 220, GBP 190), the same as the 7.
Are you a fan of the changes Nike has made on the Tiempo this year? Comment below.
