The Complete adidas Predator Timeline

A year after launching the first-ever Predator, adidas set the stage for what a Predator would be known for over the next two decades with the Predator Rapier. The Rapier featured the iconic fold-over tongue for the first time, along with rubber elements similar to those found on the 1994 Predator.

The Predator Touch represented the next iteration of the Predator line and introduced directional Traxion studs for the first time. Alongside this innovation, the Touch featured a slight update to the fold-over tongue, aiming to provide a cleaner strike zone and further solidify the classic Predator aesthetic.

The 1998 World Cup in France introduced a new, wavier version of the Pred known as the Accelerator. Zinedine Zidane sported these boots on the way to winning the Cup in his home nation. The boots laces were relocated to an asymmetric loop, creating a wider and purer striking surface on the top of the shoe. Additionally, the Three Stripes underwent alterations, curving more prominently to complement the newly added transparent red outer sole along the boot's bottom lining. The fin system on the toe box was also further lowered, transitioning into a grid-like structure to enhance control.

Adidas introduced the Precision in conjunction with Euro 2000. Notably, replaceable Traxion studs were incorporated, enabling players to customise their boots based on specific pitch conditions. The updated fold-over tongue was equipped with Velcro for enhanced stability. The fins, initially protruding vertically in Craig Johnston’s prototype, were reconfigured into segmented groupings of thin lines. An intriguing design feature involved the three stripes tapering thinner towards the rear of the heel.

The Mania made its debut around the time of the 2002 World Cup in Japan and Korea, drawing inspiration from Far Eastern stylistic elements. Departing from the original Predator's teeth-like design, the Mania featured a straightforward Kangaroo leather construction around the toe area. Additionally, the Velcro closure was substituted with a string band that wrapped around the sole of the shoe, ensuring the tongue remained positioned over the laces. Moreover, a new structure was implemented to enhance heel protection.

The Pulse introduced the adidas Power Pulse System, incorporating a PowerPulse sock liner that repositioned the boot’s center of gravity closer to the striking impact. Coloured accents were integrated adjacent to the lace loop, accompanied by a ribbed midsole design that extended the adidas three stripes under the boot.

The 2006 World Cup, hosted in Germany, the birthplace of adidas, heralded a new edition of the company’s iconic boot, the Predator Absolute. This iteration introduced changeable PowerPulse sockliners and incorporated ‘liquid elements’ into the boot's design and structure for the first time. A special gold and white version was crafted to commemorate the illustrious career of one of adidas’ beloved athletes, Zinedine Zidane. Interestingly, these were the boots he wore during the infamous headbutt incident involving Marco Materazzi, resulting in a red card the world will never forget, in his final game.

This edition marked the first incorporation of Smartfoam in the Predator series. The concept behind this innovation was that the foam material facilitated longer and enhanced striking contact with the ball, resulting in increased bend and power. An interesting tidbit: Zinedine Zidane collaborated extensively with the adidas innovation team, burning the midnight oil to contribute to the development of the boot. Notable free-kick specialists such as David Beckham and Steven Gerrard made effective use of Zidane's contributions. The PowerSwerve was released in an impressive array of 20 different colourways.

The X revisited the roots, integrating fundamental design elements from the first-ever Predator boot. It bid farewell to the fold-over tongue and reintroduced the original styling of the three stripes along the shoe's side. Additionally, it introduced Powerspine technology and utilized a new Taurus leather upper. The remainder of the boot consisted of a rubber-silicon mix that enhanced contact time with the ball.

The adidas Predator LZ epitomized a harmonious fusion of speed, power, and control, key elements embedded in the Predator line over the years. The acronym ‘LZ’ denoted Lethal Zone, expanding on the zoning concept by dividing the boot into five Lethal Zones dedicated to ball control and striking prowess. Notably, this edition marked the introduction of a synthetic leather upper and the integration of the adidas miCoach system, a first for the Predator series.

The adidas Predator LZ II catered to players seeking a nimble, lightweight boots designed for optimal ball control. It incorporated Predator technology across five zones, enhancing precision and accuracy. The synthetic HybridTouch upper construction of the adidas Predator LZ II offered a soft, lightweight feel, ensuring comfort during gameplay. Complemented by a pre-molded EVA-sockliner, this model also included an anti-slip EVA insert on the heel, securing the foot during swift movements. To complete the design, a supportive SprintFrame chassis maintains proximity to the ground, while the Traxion 2.0 stud configuration of the adidas Predator LZ II allowed it to deliver grip on firm, natural surfaces.

Over a span of 20 years, the Predator boot underwent continuous evolution. With the Instinct, adidas initiated a shift in touch zones based on insights gleaned from top-level professionals. Players were provided with white shoes and markers, tasked with pinpointing the crucial points of ball contact. This exercise birthed the "lethal zones" concept, delineating 5 zones on the upper, including areas for power, dribbling, passing, trapping (incorporating a welded gel pack), and touch. A pivotal addition to this concept was the extension of contact zones onto the boots outsole via the Control Frame, a soccer-specific TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) enhancing control and traction off the boots themselves, particularly around the forefoot area.

In late 2017, adidas heralded the return of the Predator, proclaiming it to be better than ever. Following three iterations of the ACE series and a considerable hiatus from the Predator line, adidas revived the most iconic boot in football history. This latest Predator model combines modern technology with the core DNA of adidas Predator, delivering the epitome of boots for controlling and dominating the game. Featuring a laceless design, ControlSkin grip elements, a Primeknit sock-fit collar, and a ControlFrame outsole, this edition offers players a comprehensive blend of innovation and performance.

Towards the end of 2018, adidas introduced a subtle upgrade to the Predator 18, unveiling the Predator 19. Sporting a softer knit material/pattern, a bladed external heel cap, and colour accents on the control zones, the Predator 19 joined the extensive Predator family. Embraced by contemporary midfield maestros at the time like Paul Pogba and Ivan Rakitić, the Predator 19 remained at the forefront, setting the benchmark for control-oriented boots.

In 2020, adidas unveiled the Predator 20+ Mutator, continuing the legacy of innovation within the Predator series. This latest iteration introduced a radical transformation with its Demonskin technology, featuring a textured rubber spike-like design covering the upper for enhanced ball control and swerve. The Predator 20+ Mutator redefined the concept of control boots, embracing a futuristic design that propelled players' mastery of the ball to new heights. Worn by top athletes worldwide, the Predator 20+ Mutator maintained the series' reputation for pushing boundaries and setting new standards in football performance. 

In 2021, adidas introduced the Predator Freak+, marking a significant evolution in the iconic Predator line. Building upon its predecessors, the Predator Freak+ showcased a reimagined Demonskin technology, featuring an even more aggressive and optimised spike texture across the upper for unparalleled ball control and manipulation. This edition continued the Predator legacy of innovation, offering players an advanced tool for dominating the game with enhanced precision and power. Embraced by elite footballers worldwide, the Predator Freak+ cemented its place as a symbol of cutting-edge design and performance in the football world.