With the release of the new Nike T90 Laser IV just around the corner, SoccerBible has been taking a look at some of the predecessors in the T90 series. Anticipation has been building for some time around the release of the Laser IV after Wesley Sneijder has been spotted on numerous occasions wearing a 'mystery' Nike boot. To prepare ourselves for the imminent release let's take a look back at the T90 Laser range, plucked straight out of the SoccerBible Boot Vault!
The release of the first Nike T90 Laser revolutionised the accuracy football boot market, becoming a popular sight on elite football pitches all over the world. Nike focused the emphasis of the boot on taking your accuracy to a new level, with a completely re-designed boot and upper to the previous AZT series.
The technological differences were immense and unmissable, most noticeably the precision rings and eVent fabric allowing the foot to remain comfortable. The Laser featured the tried and tested Air Zoom heel for improved cushioning and impact protection whilst the offset lacing allowed for a substantial kicking area to maximise control, ball spin and trajectory.
Debuted in a vibrant yellow/black colorway, Nike went on to release a further 7 color designs in a 12 month spell. The T90 Laser gained numerous admirers throughout professionals and amateurs looking to give their shooting and passing skills a tactical advantage.
After the success of the T90 Laser, Nike returned in 2008 with a second edition of the boot. Players such as Sneijder, Rooney and Torres became the headline T90 Laser II stars, with the latter scoring the winning goal in the Euro 2008 final in his metallic white/red versions to kick-start Spain's world dominance!
The Laser II introduced the unique ShotShield technology, offering players the perfect striking surface to increase shooting and passing accuracy. The Nike T90 Laser II became one of the most iconic football boots in recent years, with players being influenced by the power and accuracy assets the boot had to offer.
Further evolutions of the Nike T90 Laser II football boots included the traction sole plate and twin lacing system allowing the entire fore-foot area to become the striking zone. Professional footballers feedback resulted in the stud configuration and shape receiving a complete re-design to offer increased stability and traction.
By the time the third edition hit the market, the T90 Laser was considered to be another established and pioneering Nike soccer shoe. The release of the Laser III unveiled a uniquely styled boot, taking a different design from it's two elder brothers. Packed with a host of performance enhancing technologies, the Laser III had evolved. The new swerve fin and instep pods were added as well as shape correction foam, a lighter material and new lacing system.
The Nike T90 Laser III marked a memorable 09/10 season for Wayne Rooney, as the Manchester United striker found the back of the net 34 times in his first full campaign wearing the Laser III, a boot which he continues to wear today. The T90 Laser III brought us standard and elite versions in a staggering 15 colorways, some stunning, some vibrant, some classy and some, well, not to everybody’s taste! We're sure we speak for everyone when we say the arrival of the Nike T90 Laser IV is eagerly awaited...
History lesson over! Stay tuned to SoccerBible as your online destination for the next chapter in the epic Nike T90 Laser story.... The Nike T90 Laser IV. Have you got a favourite from the T90 Laser series? Share your thoughts with the SoccerBible community online, on Twitter and on Facebook.
