Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Superfly 11 Elite FG Shadow Pack

The first thing you notice about the Superfly 11 is what's missing. For the first time since 2014, the iconic collar is gone. The boot that defined the modern speed silhouette has been stripped back, and the Shadow Pack colourway, black on black with subtle Illusion Green accents, is the perfect delivery system for a boot that has nothing to hide.

What's Changed

Superfly 11 is a reset, not an update. Nike has moved the story from the ankle to underfoot. The high-cut collar that defined the silo for over a decade has been replaced by a low-cut design that frees the ankle and allows a more natural range of motion at full speed. For players who grew up on the sock-like fit of previous Superfly models, this is a significant shift, but one that pays off once you're on the move.

The Speed System

The underfoot story is the headline. A visible, externalised Air Zoom unit sits in the forefoot, paired with a full-length ZoomX sockliner. This is the first time Nike has used either technology in a football boot. The Air Zoom provides a springy, responsive feel with every step, returning energy when you load the forefoot during sprinting. The ZoomX foam, Nike's highest energy-return foam, adds an extra layer of propulsion. Together, they create a sensation that fires you forward with every stride, keeping you faster for longer, even in the final minutes of a game.

Lockdown Without the Collar

The upper is FlyWeave Ultra, a two-zone woven material designed for containment rather than barefoot feel. Unlike the Gripknit on the Superfly 10, which provided immediate stickiness, FlyWeave is more structured and focused on keeping the foot centred over the platform. The natural texture of the woven textile creates friction against the ball for excellent touch and control, enhanced by the thinness of the material and the snug, streamlined fit. The result is a boot that feels locked-in without restricting movement. The low-cut collar is snug and supportive, familiar for players who prefer a traditional speed boot feel.

Traction and Durability

The chevron stud pattern is classic Mercurial: V-shaped studs designed for explosive acceleration, rapid changes of direction, and confident traction on firm natural grass. The lightweight soleplate is built around a "marathon mindset," allowing players to maintain top speed even in the latter stages of the game. ACC (All Conditions Control) treatment is integrated into the upper, ensuring consistent touch in wet or dry conditions without wearing away over time.

Fit and Feel

The Superfly 11 fits snugly, with the FlyWeave Ultra upper holding the foot in a narrow, race-inspired last. Best suited to narrow to standard feet. Players with wider feet may want to consider sizing up or looking elsewhere. The 167.7g weight (JP260) puts it in the lightweight tier without sacrificing the structure needed for hard cuts and repeated sprints.

The Verdict

This is a proper reset. The collar era gave the Superfly its look. This version gives it an engine. For players who rely on explosive acceleration, straight-line speed, and the ability to sustain it deep into a game, the Superfly 11 is a significant step forward. The Shadow Pack gives it the kind of understated confidence that matches its performance, a boot that doesn't need to scream for attention because it does the talking on the pitch.

Key Details:

  • Colourway: Black/Illusion Green/Black

  • Style Code: IF8507-001

  • Weight: ~168g (JP260)

  • Price: £265

  • Surface: Firm Ground (FG)

  • Players: Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., Ronaldo