A Midfielders Secret Weapon: Revisiting The Nike CTR360

It’s 2009, FC Barcelona was on top of Europe, midfield playmakers are finally getting the credit they deserve, and Nike launches something special to connect the puzzle. 

The launch of a revolutionary line of boots that would shine light on ball control and accurate passing - making it fit right into the grey space that their three silos back then had left out:

• Mercurial: Speed
• T90: Power
• Tiempo: Touch

In comes the CTR360 for Control

Notable Players Who Wore The CTR360 

Now it isn’t a proper boot until you see your favourite stars wearing them. The kings of storytelling didn’t let the world down with their selection of players who would end up endorsing the CTR360. From Nike Football’s key faces, here were three main players who featured in the launch advertisements, and oh boy did they go on to boss the midfield with their new cleats.

Cesc Fàbregas:

Functioning mainly as a playmaker for most of his career, Fabregas had the ability to bring creativity and flair to any football match. His renowned passing range could unlock even the toughest of defences. We could see why Nike loved having him as a key face for the CTR range.

Andres Iniesta: 

Like fellow La Masia graduate Cesc Fàbregas, Iniesta would occupy the playmaker role in the midfield. His balance, ball control and agility in close spaces was great for any fan to watch. Did the raw talent on display influence Nike’s decision to launch a control boot? We think so.  

Jack Wilshere:

Streets will never forget. Wilshere donned the CTR360 during the beginning of his Arsenal senior career, where he would go on to become one of Arsenal's youngest competitive goal scorers, and shortly after, an England call up would be upon him.

Key Tech Specs of the CTR360 Maestri Evolution

Whilst the boot differs from today’s modern control boots in terms of materialisation, weight and stud configuration, these boots remain in Nike’s history as one of the most iconic pairs ever created. Here’s why:

1. Kanga-Lite Upper: The material package of the shoe utilised Nike's Kanga-Lite synthetic material, which offered a lightweight yet soft touch to the boot making it comparable to natural leather, hence improving ball contact.
   
   
2. 3D Control Pads: Strategically placed 3D Control Pads placed on the inside of the upper enhanced touches on the ball and passing. These textured pads offered enhanced grip as well as increased friction with the ball.
   
   
3. Asymmetrical Lacing System: The shoes were designed with an off-centred lacing system, meaning it allowed for a larger striking surface while maintaining a secure fit.
   
   
4. Dampening Pods: The shoes had dampening pods in the sock liner and around the heel area, which aimed to reduce vibration upon impact whilst providing added comfort.
   
   
5. Midfielder Inspired Stud System: designed with the attention of a midfielder's shifting motions with round studs to provide optimal balance while incorporating bladed studs for sharper cuts and turns. A simple, yet intuitive outsole.
   
   

If you loved the CTR as much as us stay tuned for an announcement
coming this Monday. 

Visit us in-store or shop our boot room online today.

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