adidas boot range guide | Predator vs. F50 vs. Copa
Football and adidas have a long-standing love affair. And that’s exactly why pros and grassroots players alike, trust adidas football boots when it comes to taking their game to another level.
The German giants now have a wide offering to suit every type of player, which means it can be confusing when you come to pick up a brand-spanking new pair, ready for your upcoming fixtures.
They’ve been in this game for over 70 years, which means they know a thing or two about producing quality boots. That’s why their latest silos offer advanced lightweight tech and the exact tools for you to perform.
We’re here to discuss every current adidas release, and guide you into making the best decision for your game and your pocket.
Buckle up, because we’re helping you to earn your (three) stripes today…
What Boots Do adidas Make?
Images from Pro Direct. Top left Predator, top right F50, bottom left Copa, bottom right Copa Mundial
The adidas boot range is simple. They have their F50 model aimed at speed players, the adidas Predator model aimed at power or precision players, the adidas Copa aimed at touch players and then the adidas Classics aimed at the traditionalist market.
There have been several popular models come and go over the years, including a few of Lionel Messi’s favourites in the form of the X, Ace and Nemeziz designs.
The long history of the adidas Predator is full of innovation and since their revival in 2017, the boot has gone from strength to strength with the Mutator, Freak, Edge and Accuracy releases.
The adidas X has moved back to it's original F50 form, after going through the X Ghosted, X Speedflow and the X Speedportal.
The Copa Mundial is a standalone, stone-cold classic but its modern sister, the adidas Copa Pure, evolved from the earlier Copa 17 to 20 models and in between, the Copa Gloro and Copa Sense.
As we’ve come to expect, adidas models come in a range of flamboyant and popular packs with an option for every taste, surface and budget.
Without further ado, let’s tuck in and which are the best adidas football boots for you…
adidas Predator
Image from Pro Direct
What is adidas Predator?
This is a boot which has only been around since 1994, but it feels like a helluva lot longer than that. A go-to for many top players since the ‘90s, the adidas Predator is an icon in its own right.
Since John Collins scored the first professional goal wearing this silo, players of a, shall we say “higher calibre” (sorry, John), have been trusting them to do the business on the pitch.
The boot itself has gone through a massive number of iterations (which you can find in our complete history of the Predator), but disappeared briefly between 2014-2017.
The design team at adidas returned with a complete overhaul, releasing the 17 in, erm, 2017 obviously. It proved popular with players, and subsequently evolved through the Mutator (2020), the Freak (2021), the Edge (2022) and then the Accuracy (2023).
adidas Predator Technology
The latest adidas Predator boots, in their elite form, are a tech-packed masterpiece designed for players who crave control and precision.
With a HybridTouch upper that feels snug and responsive, they’re equipped with Strikeskin rubber fins to give you extra grip and spin when pinging a pass or bending a free-kick.
The slightly larger tongue enhances the fit, making every strike feel more natural, while pronounced touch grooves ensure you stay sharp in tight spaces. The upgraded ControlFrame 2.0 soleplate delivers multidirectional traction to keep you agile on any surface.
Returning to their roots as a goal-scorer’s dream, these boots blend finesse with deadly accuracy, making them perfect for players who demand precision in every play.
Who Wears adidas Predator?
A raft of footballing greats have worn the Predator, including Paul Gascoigne, David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane and many more.
Nowadays, it’s still an extremely healthy list, a snapshot of which includes players such as Jude Bellingham, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alessia Russo.
Predator Models Available
As we’ve mentioned, the latest version of this model is the classic adidas Predator. The top tier is available in a laceless version, as well as laced with or without a tongue.
If you’re not looking for elite boots right now, that’s fine! Hey, we’re not all Premier League level. You can pick up Club, Pro, and League versions at lower prices. You can even grab deals on the older Freak and Edge models too.
Predators are often included in our best boots of the year list and are available for every surface type, so wherever you’re playing, you’ll be able to pick up this amazing creation.
adidas F50
Image from Pro Direct
What is adidas F50?
The adidas F50 makes a triumphant return, replacing the adidas X range and doing so in spectacular fashion.
Originally dominating the pitch from 2004 to 2014, the F50 was succeeded by the X range, designed for speed-focused players. Now, the F50 is reclaiming its spot in the adidas lineup, packed with cutting-edge technology to set a new standard.
Engineered for unrivalled speed and acceleration, this lightweight boot is built for players who are serious about fast-paced, high-intensity gameplay.
adidas F50 Technology
The adidas F50 boots are the ultimate combination of style and speed, designed to keep you flying on the pitch. Whether you prefer the sleek laceless version or the classic laced option, these boots have you covered.
Packed with the latest lightweight tech, they’re off the charts for acceleration, thanks to the Sprintframe 360 soleplate with rounded midfoot studs that let you make quick, sharp cuts like a pro.
The Fibertouch upper ensures a streamlined feel, while the Sprintweb 3D texturing enhances your touch for dribbling at top speeds.
The laceless edition steps up the comfort game with an integrated Primeknit collar for a snug, sock-like fit. Plus, adidas gives you options right out of the box, including two sockliners: stick with the SL for pure speed or switch to the Comfort liner for added cushioning.
Who Wears adidas F50?
The adidas F50 is the go-to choice for adidas’ speed-focused stars, including the legendary Lionel Messi, the dynamic Son Heung-min, and the rising sensation Lamine Yamal.
F50 Models Available
The latest F50 boots are available in a premium elite model, offered in both laced and laceless versions.
For those seeking more budget-friendly options, adidas provides Pro, League, and Club editions of the F50, similar to the Predator range.
If you’re a fan of the previous X models, they’re still available at reduced prices. Plus, all the boots we’ve mentioned are designed for every surface type, so you’re covered no matter where you play. No fuss, no problem!
adidas Copa (Pure)
Image from Pro Direct
What is adidas Copa?
Since the release of the legendary Copa Mundial in 1979, there hasn’t been a modernised version created, until fairly recently that is. The adidas Copa Pure model is exactly that, a modernised version of the greatest ‘touch’ boot of all time.
This design is for those silky players who enjoy the true feel of the football at their feet, caressing it around the park, willy-nilly. Cushioned leather comfort is the Copa’s mantra.
Its cushioned exterior is a flashback to the stitched uppers of the Mundial, and the upgraded soleplate allows players to keep up with the sharper pace of today’s game.
adidas Copa Technology
Built from the finest calf leather, the elite version of the Copa Pure is incredibly supple and will mould perfectly to the feet after a few wears. They’re durable too.
Wrapped with quilted Fusionskin in a seamless 3D haptic print, this boot cushions your touch alongside ultimate ball feel, delivering a first touch as killer as prime Xavi’s. Plus, the Ortholite sockliner increases the connection between your foot and the ball.
Primeknit material works well on the collars to deliver stability and comfort by the boatload. It's even lightweight too. Luxurious stuff.
Who Wears adidas Copa?
Some of the world’s finest have sported the Copa Pure, including this non-exhaustive list of João Félix, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Declan Rice, Pau Torres, Mary Earps, Ilkay Gündogan, Pedri, Paulo Dybala, Melanie Leupolz, Fikayo Tomori, Jurrien Timber, and Manuel Neuer.
Copa Models Available
As with all adidas models we’ve mentioned, the upper echelons of the Copa range are only reserved for the high-level tech of the elite laced and laceless options.
If you’re happy to lose a tiny bit of tech, e.g. calf leather downgraded to standard leather, or even synthetic materials in the lower end, then the Pro, League, and cheapest Club styles are your friends.
In some cases, you can still get the slightly older Copa Sense models, which in our opinion, is still a quality boot. Adidas offers the Copa in every surface type too, meaning you can be silky on just about any pitch you choose.
adidas Classics
Image from Pro Direct
What are adidas Classics?
Ah, the classics. You’ve seen them, and you undoubtedly adore them. The adidas Classics are a collection of iconic black boot models from yesteryear, still in circulation today.
The Classics collection includes the Copa Mundial, the World Cup and the Kaiser 5. Three legendary designs which have stood the test of time, now mostly worn by people who remark, “football was better back in my day”.
The Classics are a simple bunch. Only available in black with three solid white stripes. And their durability is the stuff of legend. It's difficult to compare the Copa Mundial and Kaiser 5, but we've had a go on our blog.
adidas Classics Technology
If it’s durability and comfort you’re after, the premium kangaroo leather uppers of the Copa Mundial and World Cup will look after you, even the full-grain leather of the Kaiser 5 is not to be sniffed at.
The folded tongue is something of a relic, but in our opinion it wouldn’t hurt to see a modern boot bring this feature back to life. These boots are a bit on the weighty side, but they aren’t built for speed, they’re built for pure finesse.
The Mundial FG uses a PU outsole for durability, whilst the Kaiser 5 FG uses a triple-density nylon. Both the World Cup and Kaiser 5 soft ground versions use a classic 6-stud formation.
Who Wears adidas Classics?
The better question is, who wore adidas Classics? The Copa Mundial and World Cup don’t often feature in the modern game, but they were notably worn during the ‘80s and ‘90s by iconic players such as Maradona, Beckenbauer, Pelé, Cruyff and even a young Zinedine Zidane.
Classic adidas Models Available
The models available now, are the same as they’ve ever been. The Copa Mundial and cheaper Kaiser 5 edition are available in FG and TF options. Black only, obviously.
The World Cup is the SG version of the Copa Mundial, and you can also grab the Kaiser 5 for soft ground too.
There are no alternatives and there are no replacements for these classic boot designs, the only thing you can do is compare and find the cheapest price online with us.
And there you have it—your ultimate guide to navigating the world of adidas football boots!
Whether you’re chasing speed with the F50, embracing precision with the Predator, or keeping it classy with the Copa Pure, there’s a boot for every style and every player.
So, lace up (or go laceless!), pick your favourite boot, and get ready to boss the pitch. Remember, the right boots won’t just make you look good—they’ll have you playing like a pro.
Now go out there and make some magic happen!
