Nike Football Boots, authored by the award-winning Caleb Azumah Nelson alongside respected football historian Thomas Turner, delivers an unprecedented exploration into the artistry and cultural impact of football boots. As the first comprehensive book dedicated solely to the history and influence of Nike football boots, Nelson and Turner unravel the evolution of iconic designs — from the all-black leather boots of the 1970s, which first showcased the world-famous Nike Swoosh, to the modern-day Mercurial and Phantom ranges that grace pitches across the globe. Their meticulous research, embodied in over 500 vivid illustrations and archival images, provides readers with an immersive experience at the intersection of football, fashion, and technological innovation.
Central to Nike Football Boots are the legendary names who have elevated the game while wearing these boots. The book chronicles how superstars such as Brazilian great Ronaldo, Portuguese maestro Cristiano Ronaldo, US Women’s National Team icon Megan Rapinoe, and French sensation Kylian Mbappé left indelible marks on football history. Their stories are woven into the design chronicles of boots like the Tiempo, Total 90, Mercurial, and Phantom, demonstrating how footwear innovation has long mirrored the sport’s dynamic evolution. Nelson’s previous literary successes and Turner’s authoritative works on football history (including notable contributions to other acclaimed soccer books) lend gravitas and authenticity to this essential volume.
The authors delve deep into the Nike DNA, revealing never-before-seen prototypes, sketches, marketing campaigns, and the technological advancements that revolutionised the football boot industry. Claudia Cándano de la Peza’s insightful afterword and Eleanor Watson’s contextual introduction offer unique perspectives, situating Nike’s football design legacy within the wider global tapestry of sport and style. This collector’s item includes a 12-page glossy insert showcasing every significant boot model released since 1971, making it an unrivalled visual and informational resource for enthusiasts and football historians alike.
Published to coincide with the feverish excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nike Football Boots is a must-have edition for anyone passionate about football’s past, present, and future. Nelson and Turner’s collaborative spirit shines through every page, highlighting not only the aesthetic and technical revolutions behind Nike’s boots, but also the enduring cultural significance of the beautiful game. For players, supporters, and collectors, this book encapsulates the essence of football and the storied legacy of innovation that Nike has brought to the pitch.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Publisher Phaidon: Fascinating Selection of Books – A Must See!
Published: April 9, 2026
Price: £34.95
Hardback: 240 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1837291496
