The SoccerBible opens up our Boot Vault to showcase classic football boots from seasons past. Continuing this weekend's Pele celebrations, we have a very special pair of Puma v1.06 football boots, signed by the Brazilian legend himself.
Check out the retro football boots in all their glory here on the SoccerBible!
The Puma v1.06 football boots were originally revealed at the tail end of 2005, but these impressive Unseen Green colourways made their debut in the 2006 World Cup in Germany. On pitch, their camouflage styling actually made them stand out, thanks to the crisp white Puma form stripe running down the outstep.
These particular football boots were signed by Brazilian legend Pele, who worked as a Puma ambassador during the 2006 World Cup. He was involved in the "Wilkommen Zum Fussball" campaign, where these boots formed part of the evidence for Pele's interogation. Classic stuff.
The lightest Puma product at the time was billed for serving one decisive purpose -
To get players to the ball faster. Hitting the sub-200g mark at a slim 190g, it is easy to see why players of the time like Eto'o, Ljungberg and Robert Pires accelerated away in these feather light v1.06 boots.
The extremely thin Scholler ConTec upper material, the v1.06 was a
lightweight revolution yet didn't sacrifice on comfort. Despite the sleek lines and thin-to-touch skin feel, the v1.06 is still one of the comfiest football boots available thanks to an engineered last and fit.
A 0.6mm carbon fiber plate reduced the weight of the outsole even further, which was a first at the time, way before other companies decided to head down the carbon fibre route. The v1.06 benefited from much better pressure distribution and forefoot flex as a result, something which catapulted Puma right to the front of the speed boot race.
Other innovations included the fine tuned pointed AptoLast and PUMA Lace Wrap System, which gave the v1.06 upper the perfect opportunity to mould to the shape of your foot whilst keeping snug and stable.
Combine this with a low profile outsole which featured an anatomically proven stud positioning the v1.06 football boots offered supreme grip, maneuverability and excellent rear foot stability.
These Puma v1.06 football boots would have originally set you back around £120 GBP back in 2006, but we wouldn't like to speculate what they could be picked up for today! The v1.06 series is still a favourite with top pro's, as any regulars to our Boot Spotting section will be able to testify.
Stay tuned to the SoccerBible as we reveal even more soccer cleats from
the Boot
Vault, showcasing the best retro, classic and once forgotten boots
and bringing them back to life!