Released in 1998, the adidas Predator Accelerator was the fourth incarnation of the Predator series, and is the next boot in the SoccerBible's Predator countdown ahead of the launch of the new Predator X boot.
Released to coincide with the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, the adidas Predator Accelerator football boots had an outstanding tournament through key wearer Zinedine Zidane, who gave the boot global recognition by scoring two goals in the final.
The adidas Predator Accelerator was the first Predator boot to include asymmetrical loop lacing. This new system provided a larger, cleaner kicking
surface, and by tucking the laces away improved the striking area on the top of the boots. The new lacing system combined with redesigned rubber vamps, which were less pronounced so more boot surface area came into contact with the ball.
As the outsole of the Predator Accelerator suggests, this newer version was more anatomically sound. This was achieved by developers working extensively alongside professional footballers, so the new boot held the foot more firmly and was able to improve a players movement.
The adidas Predator Accelerator was also the first visually striking Predator boot, with a bold and radical design that incorporated more of the Predator red colour and used the adi three stripes in an unconventional design.
Join the SoccerBible as we continue our weekly countdown of
every adidas Predator football boots incarnation, culminating in
the official unveiling of the brand new Predator X football boots!