Nike have released their most innovative and researched women’s-led boot design ever in the run-up to the Women’s World Cup this summer.

The Nike Phantom Luna obsesses traction, fit and feel – serving the future of the game like no other boot in the Swoosh’s herstory.

Trialed by the likes of Debinha, Crystal Dunn and Grace Geyoro, Nike have taken their most holistic approach to a women’s-led design by listening to the needs of some of the game’s best players.

After conducting their two-year study, Nike’s Sport Research Lab discovered playing style in the women’s game leans more towards attacking as a team, which means a lot of touch passes are needed along with a high level of accuracy when moving up the pitch. With this in mind – along with the understanding players’ feet in the women’s game are smaller compared to those participating in the men’s – Nike implemented bigger touch zones in the Phantom Luna to support with control.

As a result of Nike’s latest Gripknit technology, the Phantom Luna’s coating also provides a ‘tacky’ feeling to produce optimal boot-to-ball connection whilst still ensuring the boot remains soft and pliable. To support with high arches and flat feet – as there’s a wider variation between the two amongst women – Nike paid special attention to the placement of laces, ensuring greater adjustability across the midfoot.

One of Nike’s most significant findings was: a player’s need for a snug fit, with many suggesting they preferred their boots to feel like an extension of their body. By creating AsymFit, a fine-tuned and crafted high collar fit, players will now feel ‘locked in’ whilst on the pitch. Whilst the boot’s anatomically designed top-line shape and high cuff heel seam helps to reduce break-in time and irritation of the Achilles.

However, the most innovative design element of the Phantom Luna has to be the introduction of the Cyclone 360 – a new, breakthrough circular stud pattern near the toes that hits the sweet spot of traction. This traction pattern allows players to move with agility, precision, and confidence on the pitch – perfect for those who run up to 11km in a single 90 minute game.

Arriving in a clean white, iridescent colourway with a bright orange sole plate, the Nike Phantom Luna Elite and Phantom Luna will be available in July 2023 at nike.com and select retailers.

Take a closer look at the release below.