adidas Predator

The Predator was invented by former Liverpool player Craig Johnston and launched by adidas in 1994. His idea was simple and radical: cover the strike zone of the boot in rubber so the ball grips the upper, generating more swerve, more power and more control. Beckham, Zidane, Ballack, Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso all built careers in them. After a hiatus, adidas brought the name back in 2024 with the Predator Elite and its Strikeskin — a 3D-moulded rubber zone across the forefoot — alongside the option of a laceless upper. It remains the boot for players whose game is passing, striking and set pieces.