The new Nike Hi-Vis Merlin Total 90 ball will be the Premier League’s official winter ball for the 2019–20 season. A range entirely inspired by the first version of the Nike Total 90 Aerow Hi-Vis, which made its Premier League debut during the 2004–05 season. With that design, unveiled 15 years ago now, Nike broke with the tradition of sticking to the same design throughout the season and opted for a revolutionary approach that had a huge impact on the world of football. This year’s ball pays tribute to that model and to that moment of innovation from the American brand.
Total 90 Merlin Premier League
As well as bringing back such an iconic ball, the American brand is doing so with a very special edition. This edition will be produced in very limited numbers and will retain the same features and details as the original 2004–05 season model. Its construction includes hand-stitched seams and a combination of 26 panels with a Flash-textured outer finish. These balls will be sold in special commemorative boxes and will be available at Fútbol Emotion from the 7th of November. *600 units
Technical features: Hi-Vis Merlin Total 90
This is a year of celebration for Nike and the Premier League, as they mark 20 years of shared successes and memories. And there’s no better way to celebrate than with touches like this, following in the footsteps of the Geo Merlin 20th Anniversary ball. It is worth noting that the new Nike Merlin is manufactured exclusively for the Premier League. Its distinctive modular design, adorned with vibrant colours, is inspired by the dynamism of the competition and its footballing culture.
At first glance, and as we have already mentioned, it looks like a conventional ball, but nothing could be further from the truth. This is one of the most technologically advanced footballs of recent times. As well as boasting colours that certainly don’t go unnoticed, it features a highly advanced design that incorporates, for the first time, ACC (All Conditions Control) technology. The Urban Grip system has also been added to the outer surface – a technology that improves grip in adverse conditions and takes the ACC concept a step further. Meanwhile, the Nike Aerowtrack grooves help the ball maintain a more stable and consistent flight path. In terms of construction, it features a latex bladder instead of the traditional rubber bladder. The latex is combined with a material patented by Nike that helps maintain a constant air pressure and allows the ball to retain its shape for longer.
One of the most iconic footballs in Premier League history is making a comeback on pitches around the world. What do you think of this design? Let us know your thoughts on our social media or in the comments section of the blog.
