Adidas 2008 adiStar Ultra Road Cycling Shoe - Virtual Red/White - 863284

Developed with and winning on Alexandre Vinokourov, Thor Hushovd and Eric Zabel. Prolite Full-Carbon Outsole. Anatomical Energy Frame. Fast strap SL system. SL micro ratchet, 2-position adjustment (replaceable). Duralite Composite Mesh. Assymetrical tongue. Bi-density molded sockliner. GeoFit heel cushioning/ 3D carbon heel counter. TPU toe cap. Delivered with recommended length screws for Prolite Full Carbon outside. Weight: 315g (size 9 US).

Adidas Predator Absolute cleats are definitely an outstanding soccer shoes, like all Predators. They are well build with lots of elements making them very comfortable. And thats the most important aspect of soccer cleats: comfort. And they are.

The question is:

Is the Adidas Predator Absolute better than its prior version - Predator Pulse?

I am not sure. Actually I dont think there is a huge improvement. Of course, in order to release a new version, Adidas had to add or change something, besides the name.

So it did by:

1. Adding another insole without 40g weight (Power Pulse) that you can exchange with Power Pulse insole and convert your soccer cleats into Predators withoutPower Pulse (but much lighter). In a sense youll convert Predator Absolute intoPredator Mania (variant before Predator Pulse).
   Is that better than just have Predators with permanent Power Pulse technology? I guessbut I am not convinced.
2. Changing or re-engineering, if you like, the Predator technology. I dont care how and where they placed those rubber (or liquid rubber) elements on the shoe, it simply wont make you a player with super star quality. Sure the Predator technology might help a little but dont count on scoring goals from free kicks like Beckham or Zidane just because you have cleats with Predator elements. In order to do it all you need to do is practice, practice and once more practice.
3. Changing design of the heel counter. Its smaller (which is good more comfort) but hopefully itll provide you with as much stability and protection as the old version.
   

So, why I think the Adidas Predator Absolute is not so much better than Predator Pulse?

Its because, in my opinion, these changes (improvements?) dont make Predator Absolute more comfortable than Predator Pulse (which was already very comfortable anyway). Maybe the smaller external heel counter makes a little difference butjust a little. Also I am sure that your skill level or your game, shot, pass etc. wont improve just because you wear Predator Absolute with re-engineered predator elements.

What I am trying to suggest to you is that if the money is an issue or you dont necessarily must have every new model of Adidas soccer cleats right away, take an advantage of prices revolution in Adidas cleats market (it always happens when a new model comes out) and get yourself a high quality soccer cleats for much less.

The old Predators Pulse are still the same awesome shoes that they were few months ago butmuch cheaper now (about 40%).

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About the Author:Adrian Gumowski has been involved in soccer for thirty years. As a former player and now as a parent of two youth soccer players Adrian shares his knowledge on Youth Soccer Equipment and other soccer related topics at my-youth-soccer-guide.com.

UEFA Euro 2008