words // Brandon Richard

We can now say with a certain degree of cautious optimism that there will be a 2011 NFL Football season. When (if) the players do return to the field, here’s one of the newest Nike football cleats you’ll be seeing some of them wear. The Nike Alpha Vapor One is a sleek model with an aerodynamic construction and low-profile cushioning best suited for skill-position players like wide receivers, tailback and defensive back. Key features of the cleat include a dynamic support system and enhanced traction for superior field grip.

The Alpha Vapor One features a one-piece synthetic leather build with a perforated tongue for additional breathability. Flywire technology and a TPU heel clip stabilizer offer a secure, lock-down fit, while full-length Phylon and Zoom Air provide lightweight cushioning. Additional details include injected Vapor outsole bladed cleats at the heel, conical cleats at the forefoot, secondary sub-cleats at the forefoot and a Pebax plate with a carbon fiber insert for additional support.

Perhaps you’ll see this colorway of the Alpha Vapor One being worn by Nike-sponsored Steelers at Heinz Field during the upcoming season. Predominantly gold in color, the cleat is heavily accented with black details. Black works the inner liner, tongue, laces and Swoosh, as well as an Alpha graphic pattern that wraps around the heel throughout the side panels. Finishing off the look below is a black-cleated yellow plate.

You can pick up this colorway of the Nike Alpha Vapor One, and several others, over at Eastbay. Stay tuned to the Eastbay blog for a closer look at each colorway.

Available now: Nike Alpha Vapor One – Black/Gold