As is the case across all categories of sports equipment – whether it’s running gear, basketball kit, goalkeeper gloves, football boots, or even here, with Nike futsal shoes – absolutely every model approved by engineers and authorised staff is not chosen purely for aesthetic reasons, as many of us might assume. The more models there are, the more it shows that someone believes a particular foot type, weight or gait deserves a chance on the market. Fortunately, we’re not all the same, and Nike knows this very well, creating a type of futsal boot for a specific style of play, the player’s weight, or even their foot width.
We’ll explain it in the simplest way possible, so that all you need to worry about is your size when visiting any of our Fútbol Emotion shops or shopping via our website. We’ll divide them into two ranges:
• Nike Futsal GATO range (React, Lunar 2 and the recent Street)
• Nike Futsal TIEMPO range (Premier Sala 2 and Legend IX)
Nike GATO futsal shoes
In this case, as many of you will know, the GATO family comprises three of the best futsal shoes currently available on the market: the Nike Lunar Gato 2, the Nike React Gato and the Nike Street Gato. One thing these three boots have in common is that they are designed for the skilful player, the ‘maverick’ of the pitch; yet, within these parameters, they have enough differences to make them three completely distinct models.
Differences in the upper
As we shall see, Nike Futsal has very cleverly decided to incorporate all existing materials into all its boots, as we’ll look at later: Flyknit, natural leather, and suede (so classic in the world of futsal).
On the one hand, we have the Lunar Gato with an upper made from extremely soft and adaptable natural leather, which provides perfect contact with the ball, ready for shooting or for keeping the ball close to the foot.
In contrast, the React Gato is designed to withstand abrasion from the side panels and impacts, whilst also providing better ball contact. The soft feel you experience from the moment you touch these trainers is down to their extremely soft Flyknit upper, finished with TPU. One of the most comfortable models available today.
And for the more urban players, we have the Nike Street Gato, featuring a suede upper that’s synonymous with comfort and durability – a fantastic choice if you’re looking for an equal balance of comfort and durability. This upper is slightly stiffer than that of its sister models, so don’t be surprised if it takes three or four wears before it breaks in completely.
So, if you’re a traditional player who’s always been used to natural leather, the Lunar Gato 2 is the shoe for you. If, on the other hand, you like to try new things, join the new generation of ‘Flyknit’ and experience that feel that’s different from leather, the React Gato is the one for you. The third option is mainly for a sturdier build and, above all, for those of you who play five-a-side football on the street.
Requirements: Flyknit, genuine leather or urban style?
Differences in cushioning
This is the real key point: cushioning. It’s what sets these three models apart and will likely be the deciding factor in which shoe you choose to buy. Here we have three completely different styles: the React model offers maximum cushioning, the Lunarloon provides a more traditional cushioning experience, and the Nike Street model features the most durable—or firmest—cushioning, thanks to its EVA midsole.
The technology in the Lunar Gato II features a soft foam core injected into a lightweight structure called Lunarloon, which comes directly from Nike’s running shoes. This means that all the impacts we experience on the courts are distributed evenly across the entire sole, so our heels and forefoot—the areas that usually suffer the most—will be under much less strain.
On the other hand, the React Gato, as its name suggests, uses React technology. We can feel this technology at work, and although it feels pleasant to the touch and is comfortable to wear, I do have some reservations about it. It is true that, in an inevitable comparison, this React looks much more compact and sturdy than the running or basketball versions. We mustn’t overlook the fact that this sole features the famous pods either, so if you like to push off the ball, this is perhaps a key point.
Last but not least, the Street Gato, featuring EVA cushioning – a classic feature in futsal shoes– which provides a more pronounced and noticeable cushioning effect. You might find it feels slightly firmer than its counterparts, but this gives it greater impact resistance and durability.
As a tip: if you’re a player weighing over 80kg, the stability offered by Lunarlon or EVA might be a better fit for you. Conversely, if you’re on the lighter side or of average weight, React will provide the necessary responsiveness when it counts.
Key consideration: Focus on the type of cushioning your body needs most.
With this two-part rule: UPPER MATERIAL + CUSHIONING = YOUR SHOE
Nike TIEMPO futsal shoes
In this case, as many of you will know, the Tiempo range comprises two of the most iconic shoes currently available on the market: the Nike Tiempo Premier Sala II and the Nike React Tiempo Legend IX. Or perhaps they aren’t quite so iconic after all? The Tiempo range is naturally associated with the traditional player, but on this occasion, it’s worth taking a closer look at the options available.
Differences in the upper
In both cases, natural leather takes centre stage, but with one notable difference: in the Nike Premier Sala II, the use of suede is undoubtedly the most striking feature. To prevent the leather from stretching or expanding, we have exactly the same stitching as on the outdoor model, a feature that sets this shoe apart from the rest; firstly, its exceptional adaptability, and secondly, the breathability provided by the mesh.
A TRULY CLASSIC SHOE.
On the other hand, we have the classic/modern Nike React Tiempo Legend IX, which, as is now customary, is an adaptation of the Nike Tiempo Legend 9 football boot. The shoe retains all the original details, featuring high-quality natural leather, as well as foam inserts taken directly from the football boot, which provide that extra touch in all passing, control and shooting situations.
A CLASSIC LOOK BUT CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
Differences in cushioning
The same applies here as we mentioned regarding the GATO range. On the one hand, we have the Nike Tiempo Premier Sala II with Lunarlon cushioning and, naturally, the Nike React Tiempo Legend IX with React.
Just to be on the safe side, let’s reiterate: if you’re a player weighing over 80kg or with a body type that requires stability, Lunarlon may be the best choice for you. Conversely, if you’re a player who needs responsiveness on the court, React will provide the necessary bounce in key moments.
Key point: Focus on the cushioning that your body needs MOST.
Conclusion
Firstly, what type of shoe do you want? (CLASSIC OR MODERN)
Secondly, what type of cushioning do we need? (LUNARLON, REACT or EVA)
Thirdly, which material do we prefer? (GENUINE LEATHER OR FLYKNIT in the case of GATO)
Examples;
-I’m a traditional player; I need plenty of responsiveness and I like to be innovative = Nike React Tiempo Legend IX.
-I’m a modern player and I need something with good stability = Nike Lunar Gato 2
-I’m a player who’s always playing on the street = Nike Street Gato
We hope this has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us via our social media channels.
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