Football boot review: Mizuno Supersonic Wave MD

RRP: £100 Surface: Firm Ground Weight: 215g Colour: Pearl/Black/Gold In a market that is rapidly polarizing with the need for speed and lightness at one end and an emphasis on comfort and touch at the other, the Mizuno Supersonic Wave MD football boots offer something of a compromise for all those unsure as to which direction they should be heading. At 215g per boot, the Supersonic Waves are relatively obese creatures when compared to the latest in speed technology, with the Adidas F50 adiZero (165g) and Puma v1.10 (150g) the unrivalled lean machines. But they regain an ounce (or 30g) of dignity when placed in the heritage category with the Nike Tiempo Legend weighing in at 245g. And this refusal to conform to contemporary categorisation is indicative of the boots' lack of or, more positively, unique identity. An identity that it is rather proud of and eager to show off. Installed with 'Feather Touch' technology and a low profile memory foam, Mizuno's aim is to aid ball control while travelling at speed and provide comfort when quickly changing direction. At first glance the Waves are crisp, clean and classy. The classic white and black colour scheme has been wrenched into the 21st century with subtle hints of gold, providing an elegant finish in a world of garish greens and putrid pinks. Having worn aforementioned heavyweights, the Nike Tiempo Legend, for the previous four seasons without complaint, the decision to throw the Waves into the deep end for a Saturday morning fixture was a bold one and one taken not without careful consideration. The initial impressions were good. A combination of Kangaroo leather and suede collar lining make for a comfortable and luxurious first impression. 90 minutes later and completely blister free, a smooth and faultless transition had taken place. On a customary rain deprived early season surface, this is all the more impressive and owes much to the 'Tiger Claw' stud configuration that takes its inspiration from Mizuno’s vast offering of comfort focused running shoes. While not expecting the boots to turn this lumbering centre half into a speeding gazelle, their lightness was noticeable without compromising on stability and solidity when striking the ball. Mizuno and football lack synonymy (Rivaldo aside) with Adidas and Nike comfortable in their cosy leadership coalition. But, in the case of Mizuno’s Supersonic Wave, one seeking a high performance all-rounder could do a lot worse than buck this trend. In terms of price, objective and classification, these boots are undoubtedly middle of the road. In terms of aesthetics, performance and comfort, they are cruising in the fast lane and showing mediocrity a clean, but well cushioned set of heels.

Source: DSG