Nike Tiempos are notorious for being boots that look simplistic, aren’t too complicated in terms of technology and yet do a great job on the pitch. The boots came out at the end of 2015, and have since had vast amounts of positive feedback. With Nike nowadays focusing on their revolutionary collared boot, it is refreshing to see them release a model from the classic range. So here’s what we thought of them.
Name – 8/10
Like the boot itself, the name is simple and of huge contrast to the rather extravagant names of other Nike models and its competitors. The ‘legend’ aspect of it gives the boot a feel of superiority and prowess, without sounding to elaborate. We like it as, along with pretty much every other aspect of the boot, it doesn’t try too hard and yet is still successful at doing what it is supposed to do.
Features – 6/10
The leather material used for the boot does wonders in terms of durability. The longer you wear the boot, the more accustom it becomes to the shape of your foot. This means that over time, the boot will shape to accommodate the specifications of your foot, which will enhance the comfort.
With the exterior made from glass and the interior made from a carbon-fibre-like material, the heel ensures that the boot has a sturdy base at the rear. It gives added support to the calf and makes accelerating into short sprints much easier.
As with the Vapours and the Phinish, the tongue is hidden well when the boot is fitted on. It seems as though there is no tongue when playing, which nullifies the effect that that can have when making contact with the ball.
Look – 6/10
As previously stated, the look of the Legends is modest and simplistic. Yet somehow, its discrete appearance gives it a smart and accomplished look. ‘Tiempo’ is classically printed across the heel giving it the familiar, trademark feel. The three-way colour scheme (orange, white and black originally) does wonders to not spoil the boot’s mundane-like but far from dull appearance. It isn’t too flamboyant but definitely looks smart and dynamic nonetheless.
Feel – 8/10
Due to the foam interior skeleton, the boots have a comfortable structure. The thin exterior of kangaroo leather will stay water tight for the duration of a match, which will prevent any damp-related irritation or discomfort. The leather also gives the top of the boot a softer touch, so controlling the ball will inevitably be easier.
Pro advocates (who has worn them?) – 10/10
If you get these gems on your feet, you will be in great company. Real Madrid’s defensive prodigy Raphael Varane, West Ham’s in-form Andy Carroll and Italian cool-man Andres Pirlo have all been seen wearing the Nike Legends. Francesco Totti is also on that list.
Value for money – 8/10
In the grand scheme of things, football boots nowadays are relatively expensive compared to what they have been in previous years (although you could say that for most things). They are by far the most expensive football accessory, even shirts cost ultimately less. So by value for money, we are talking about in comparison to other boots and what they offer; ignoring the fact that for the price of some boots you can pretty much buy ten footballs, 5,000 pairs of shin pads and fund a quarter of Wayne Rooney’s wages.
You’ll have to pay a reasonable price for these beauties but we think that they provide decent value. Although there’s no real ground-breaking or innovative technology in the Legends, the reliability and general all-around good performance of these boots justify the seemingly hefty price tag. We’ve given it 8 here also because of the fact that these boots are the newest of the range and have only recently been released, and few of similar pedigree are on the market for that much (or little).
Other things of note
This version of the Legends are lighter than previously, weighing around eight ounces. This consequently gives the boot a more versatile feel. It will also help with pace and benefit a player who’s game heavily features close ball control and short-range passing.
In comparison to the previous model, the Tiempo Legend V, the six does not disappoint in terms of improvements. Where the V was criticised for being too tight on the upper part of the boot, the VI feels a lot more comfortable and ensures a seamless feel between material and foot.
Final verdict
Overall, this is the latest in a series of top-class boots. Where some Nike models strive to be revolutionary, this one somewhat plays it safe. Safe, however, corresponds to reliable. Buying them will not instantly or even noticeably improve your game, but what they can guarantee you is long-term stability.
The materials used to make the Legends give them a good lifespan, while also sufficiently protecting your foot and giving you the comfort needed to play a care-free game. They also haven’t tried too hard and potentially ruin the entire feel of the boot by making it stand out massively in terms of appearance. In essence, this is a down-to-earth boot which does a very good job without going about it in a loud or boisterous manner.
Would we buy the Nike Tiempo Legend VIs? Should you buy the Nike Tiempo Legend VIs? Absolutely!