The adidas Copa Mundial. A name synonymous with football boots, a legend etched in the annals of the beautiful game. For decades, this boot represented the pinnacle of craftsmanship, a testament to simplicity and unparalleled comfort. However, the shift towards technologically advanced boots in the modern era left the Copa Mundial, in its purest form, feeling somewhat antiquated for many professional players. This led adidas to attempt a modernization, first with the Copa 17.1, a boot that, while attempting to bridge the gap between classic design and modern performance, fell somewhat short of expectations. The Copa 18.1, therefore, arrived with a significant weight of expectation, promising a more refined and successful evolution of the iconic Copa line. This article will delve deep into the adidas Copa 18.1 SG Weiß, examining its design, performance, and ultimately, assessing whether it successfully resurrected the spirit of the Copa while embracing modern advancements.
The Predecessor: A Look Back at the Adidas Copa 17.1
The adidas Copa 17.1, released in 2015, marked adidas’ first serious attempt to modernize the Copa legacy. While it retained the classic silhouette and leather upper, it incorporated elements intended to improve performance on the modern pitch. However, the execution was not universally praised. The 17.1 felt like a tentative step, a cautious approach that ultimately didn't capture the essence of what made the Copa Mundial so enduring. The leather, while undeniably supple, lacked the same durability and responsiveness of its predecessor. The soleplate, designed for modern traction, felt somewhat disconnected from the upper, hindering the overall feel and control. The disappointment surrounding the Copa 17.1 stemmed largely from the fact that adidas, a brand renowned for its innovative designs and ability to seamlessly blend tradition with technology, seemingly missed the mark. The comparison to the now-discontinued Adipure series, widely lauded for its comfort, performance, and premium materials, further highlighted the shortcomings of the Copa 17.1. Many felt that adidas had not fully understood the key elements that made the Copa so beloved, focusing more on superficial updates rather than meaningful improvements.
Adidas Copa 18.1: A New Chapter
The adidas Copa 18.1 arrived as a response to the criticisms levied against its predecessor. Adidas clearly learned from its mistakes, and the 18.1 represented a more considered and successful attempt at modernizing the classic Copa design. The key improvements were immediately apparent. The most significant change was in the leather. The Copa 18.1 utilized a premium K-leather upper, noticeably softer and more pliable than the leather used in the 17.1. This resulted in a superior touch on the ball, enhanced comfort, and a more natural feel. The improved leather allowed for a closer interaction with the ball, translating to better control and precision in passing, shooting, and dribbling. The increased suppleness also contributed to a more comfortable fit, adapting more readily to the shape of the foot.
The soleplate also received a significant upgrade. While retaining the overall design philosophy, the studs were redesigned for improved traction and stability on soft ground (SG). The configuration provided excellent grip without compromising agility or maneuverability. The connection between the upper and the soleplate felt more integrated than in the 17.1, resulting in a more responsive and connected feel overall. The subtle changes to the heel counter also enhanced stability and support, crucial for players making quick changes of direction and explosive movements.
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