The full Nike Phantom Vision II range

As always, we’ll start with the top-of-the-range model, the Nike Phantom VSN Elite, which brings together the best features and technologies from Nike’s most touch-oriented boot. We’ll then look at how the boots’ features gradually decrease in specification, right down to the entry-level models.

With the second model in this Phantom VSN range, we see a continuation of the existing design, whilst improving several key aspects of Nike’s touch boot. Firstly, the collar has been improved and is now much softer and snugger; the upper has also been redesigned to provide even better grip on the ball, with improved texturing of the Flyknit upper whilst retaining the essence of the Phantom range thanks to the internal mesh fit system known as QuadFit and, of course, the covered laces or Ghost Laces, a hallmark of the Phantom range. The outsole remains unchanged and is exactly the same as in the previous generation – something that will undoubtedly delight fans of the range, as it features a wide, highly responsive plate.

Moving down a notch, we have the Nike Phantom VSN Pro, which, despite the price, deliver truly outstanding performance. The Ghost Laces technology is retained, as the laces are also covered; furthermore, the upper uses a mesh which, whilst not the Flyknit found in the top-of-the-range models, replicates its properties very well. The collar is more streamlined and provides the necessary fit for this type of boot, without being made from premium material. The soleplate replicates the stud pattern and responsiveness of the Phantom VSN Pro, giving us a boot that’s perfect for all types of surfaces. A boot offering incredible value for money.

And now we come to the entry-level range: the Nike Phantom VSN Academy football boots, which, once again and despite their price, retain the essence of the Phantom in every detail. The upper is now constructed from two pieces: an outer layer made of synthetic microfibre that also covers the lacing, and an inner mesh layer that replicates the fit properties of the QuadFit system found in the top-of-the-range models.

The grip isn’t quite as remarkable as it used to be, as it doesn’t have quite such an aggressive texture, but it still retains those touch and strike characteristics typical of the Phantom range. The outsole once again features the same stud configuration and comes in a range of options, with versions featuring mixed studs, multi-ground studs and FG studs – something we love to see in this type of range and now a regular feature on Nike outsoles, as they offer options for all the lads and lasses who choose a Phantom as their new boots.

And that’s the entire Nike Phantom VSN II range – a very, very comprehensive range, as it retains the covered lacing system across all its models and successfully replicates the features of the top-of-the-range models in the entry-level versions. A special mention goes to Nike’s Pro range, which is hitting the mark with almost all its new models, offering unbeatable value for money. Now that you know all the models, all that’s left is for each of us to choose the best one for ourselves.