Nike Cryoshot: Classic Boots, Street-Ready

Like Captain America from the cryostasis chamber, the R10 Tiempo and R9 Mercurial are re-emerging in force. These iconic boots are part of Nike’s new drops, and continue the viral #bootsonlysummer.

For those unfamiliar, the TikTok-originating #bootsonlysummer trend showcases your best soccer boots as the feature item in an off-the-pitch 'fit, taking the spikes to the streets and adding a whole new dimension to sportswear. Both the R10 Tiempo and R9 Mercurial were fan favourites back in the day, and they're the first to receive the new treatment.

These Cryoshot drops can be understood as a project similar to the Air Jordan Reimagined line. The new program sees Nike rethink on-pitch silhouettes and transform them into street-legal models. As the name suggests, the series takes inspiration from cryogenics – the scientific study of materials' long exposure to low temperatures, and its DNA-preserving effects.

In the case of the R10 Tiempo and R9 Mercurial, their time has come – rising from the ice and hitting the streets. The uppers of both boots honour their classic construction and look from 1998, while the soles are repurposed for modern use. The cleat studs are encased in a clear or crystallised, road-ready midsole.

While no release details have thawed yet, Nike have confirmed that this new program is official, and a release is forthcoming in the months ahead. Stay tuned for updates.