Boot Review: Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite
The Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite represents a return to the roots of the Tiempo series, combining classic leather feel with modern innovations. In this review, we'll discuss the design, aesthetics, performance, comfort, durability, and what other reviewers have to say about this soccer boot. Let’s dive in.
Design and Aesthetics
The Tiempo Legend 9 Elite features a soft leather upper covering the forefoot and midfoot, while a synthetic material forms the Swoosh and a soft fabric covers the rest of the boot. Stitching is minimal, found only around the boot's perimeter where the upper connects to the rest of the boot's body. This simplified design provides a clean and smooth surface for enhanced touch and reduced water seepage.
Additionally, the boot includes embossed padding around the forefoot and instep areas, providing a cushioned touch. The tongue is made from a basic textile fabric, which some reviewers have noted as feeling slightly cheap. Despite this, the overall design remains sleek and visually appealing, staying true to the classic leather boot aesthetic. The boot's overall appearance is reminiscent of the Nike CTR 360, particularly when comparing the shapes and touch pod placements of both models. The Nike CTR 360 were one of the brand's most beloved boots and therefore it is easy to understand why people are so enthusiastic about the Tiempo Legend 9. Nonetheless, the Tiempo Legend 9 doesn't feel like the CTR 360 to the touch. The leather is softer, and the "grip" dots on the boot don't resemble the more tactile rubberized zones found on the CTR 360.
Instead, it feels more like a direct successor to Nike's last "genuine" leather boot, the Tiempo Legend 6. The Legend 6 was loved for its simplicity, soft yet thin touch on the ball, attractive design, and superb lockdown. Many of these qualities are present in the current Tiempo Legend 9.
Performance
The Tiempo Legend 9 Elite delivers an excellent leather boot experience, with the right amount of padding and density to appeal to most leather boot lovers. Reviewers have praised the boot's soft padded touch on the ball and the exquisite feathered touch provided by the embossed pads. However, the tiny dots do not add much in the way of grip.
About traction, the AG (artificial ground) version of the boot that we tested , offered solid grip without sticking to the ground too much, allowing for smooth twists and turns.
Comfort and Fit
The boot fits true to size and provides just the right amount of padding and a comfortable suede heel lining. However, some reviewers have reported heel slippage issues, recommending going half a size down and wearing grip socks with grip zones around the heel to counteract this problem.
Durability
The Tiempo Legend 9 Elite is built with high-quality materials, ensuring it can withstand extensive use on the field. The AG version, in particular, is designed for excellent performance on artificial ground surfaces.
What Other Reviewers Are Saying
Overall, reviewers have been impressed with the Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite, praising its design, performance, comfort, and durability. Many have noted the boot's excellent touch and control, as well as its comfortable fit and stylish look. In addition to the previously mentioned praises and concerns, reviewers have also commented on the boot's simplicity, which is seen as a positive aspect. They appreciate the clean, smooth surface of the leather upper and the overall good looks of the Tiempo Legend 9 Elite. Some reviewers have even described the boot as "one of the loveliest" they've reviewed in years.
Boot History
The Tiempo line has a long history, dating back to 1985, with the Nike Tiempo Legend series emerging in 2005. Over the years, the line has evolved to incorporate cutting-edge technology while maintaining its classic aesthetic. The Tiempo Legend 9 Elite marks a return to a more traditional leather boot design, reminiscent of earlier models in the series.
Pro Players
Virgil van Dijk wearing Tiempo Legend 9 Elite
Several professional players have been spotted wearing the Tiempo Legend 9 Elite, including Virgil van Dijk, Gerard Piqué, and Aymeric Laporte.
The Bottom Line
The Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite is a top-tier soccer boot that delivers a classic leather boot experience while incorporating modern performance features. Its sleek design, excellent touch, and impressive comfort make it a strong choice for players seeking a high-quality, classic leather boot. With its return to a more traditional leather design and the improvements made to the AG sole, the Tiempo Legend 9 Elite is a solid option for players at all levels.
Pros:
Excellent touch and control
Comfortable, true-to-size fit
Classic leather boot feel
Improved AG sole for artificial ground
Simplified design and good looks
Cons:
Heel slippage issue (can be mitigated with sizing adjustments and grip socks)
Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite FG Firm Ground Soccer Cleat Black/Dark Smoke Grey/Summit Whi... [More]
