Photo Essay: Nike Football Boots
With the World Cup around the corner, take a look back at the history of Nike football boots.
A new book chronicling the design of Nike football boots throughout the years is being published at the perfect time, with the 2026 World Cup only a few months away. The aptly titled Nike Football Boots from Phaidon Press traces the impact of the iconic boots from the first speculative efforts in 1971 through to the present day.
Ask any football fan, and odds are they have a pair of boots they remember, because either they wore them, or more likely, their favourite player did. By using archival imagery and working closely with Nike, the authors have provided an encyclopedia of memorable footballing moments through the lens of footwear.
Nike boots have been involved in some of the most indelible moments in football history. Aston Villa, the first English side signed by Nike, beat European giants Bayern Munich in the 1982 European Cup final wearing the Swoosh. Few fans can forget the likes of Paolo Maldini, Eric Cantona, and the Brazilian maestro Romário sporting the brand new Tiempo at the 1994 World Cup.
This book is a pleasure for football fans, or anyone who is interested in classic design and fashion.
