Product Review: Adidas Originals World Cup '66 - Beautiful Game [shoe]

Soccer fans finally have a shoe they can wear to the office. The all-new Adidas Originals World Cup '66 - Beautiful Game cleatless boot is a fancy way to display suaveness in a formal setting while remaining true to the soccer fan inside.

The shoe is a direct reproduction of the shoe originally introduced for the 1966 World Cup in England. It was arguably the boot of choice.

Yet, it's possible to see why players wouldn't want to wear this particular shoe. Its main problem: its arch support. It has little or none and, aside from the insoles provided by Adidas Originals, additional arch support purchases (such as those ugly green or blue inserts) offer little or no help. Perhaps the flat-footed players could get by without kicking a toe ball.

Still, these are some darn shiny shoes; fancy indeed. With patent leather outsoles in black and cream (Adidas calls it ‘legacy') colourways, these shoes are subtle yet distinct. The signature Adidas stripes provide for the only contrasting detail on the upper part of the shoe, although they are the same color as the rest of the shoe, minus the rubber outsole.

Probably the coolest thing about the shoes is their bottoms. There are miniature cleats in plain colors on the bottom of the shoes. Don't worry, though-they won't clop loudly across hard surfaces.

Another cool thing about the Adidas Originals World Cup '66 - Beautiful Game shoes is its pull-tab located on the heel. This pull tab sports a miniature ‘66' in gold, as well as a utilitarian purpose-preventing the ‘mashing' of the heel, which ensures long use without potential for ankle-gouging.

Adidas Originals World Cup '66 - Beautiful Game is a shoe that will prove to be rare in the near future, as well. Despite its high price (nearly $130 on zappos.com), this particular style is flying out the door. Check them out for yourself and you'll understand why they're so popular: gold trim, restrained style, and conservative appeal.