A Closer Look on the Adidas Kakari X Kevlar Rugby Boot

Fans of Saracens' Lock Maro Itoje or Harlequins Tighthead Prop Kyle Sinckler would surely be interested to know that a common denominator between the two is the boots they are wearing and those are the Adidas Kakaris. If you are an aspiring forward hoping to emulate the style of play of either player, then you'll need to know why their boot choice is the Kakari Z.0.

Integration of Synthetic Leather Overlay

The use of a synthetic leather overlay provides the latest Kakari a sleeker and simpler solution to meet both the demand for a durable yet mobile rugby boot. The synthetic layer is thin to make sure the upper flexes well while at the same time providing structure to the boot to make it responsive. On that note the Kakari Z.0 is a success. And as a bonus, the instep up to the medial side is filled with oblong-shaped micro texturing to provide the Kakari a certain degree of ball grip (though the Predators are still the first choice when it comes to such consideration).

Textile Mesh Base Upper

What really propels the change in this new model is the textile mesh base upper which the overlay attaches to. The mesh structure and textile material not only reduces weight but also allows a certain degree of breathability, providing you a cooling sensation during sprints. It also enables the upper's pliability which most wearers would feel comfortable with. Overall, it does a good job in providing the wearer a snug, sock-like feel and fit.

Reinforced Lockdown

Another welcome introduction to the new Kakari is the lockdown-reinforcing strap. The strap runs diagonally on the rear part of the boot and mostly sits within the synthetic overlay, with only the part near the tongue and laces being visible. The critical part is the one that goes under the tongue which acts as a seatbelt once you set your foot in. A padded internal liner goes against the heel which makes the strap more effective and also provides a comfortable cushioning to the rear of your foot.

Soft Ground Outsole

Another reason why the Kakari Z.0 is the lightest Kakari yet is the split sole construction. The soleplate houses a traditional 6x2 screw-in stud pattern, pushed near the edges, gives one of the best traction available from a rugby boot. An additional moulded blade stud right in the middle of the soleplate's forefoot digs the boot further down during scrums. The heel raise not only reduces strain on your lower limbs but also gives you a headstart be it in sprints, tackles, or breakdowns. No complaints about the new SG plate.

Final Thoughts

All the abovementioned details make the Adidas Kakari Z.0 rank high among the top forward boots list and are worth considering when deciding to get one for yourself. Also do take note that the significant presence of the boot itself among forwards in elite levels speak for itself. The boot is comfortably tight and does not bog you down. And though it may not be as light as the other knitted adidas rugby boots because of the synthetic leather overlay, it is still nonetheless a great option for a forward boot who would want to retain a certain amount of mobility.