No, you’re not dreaming. This here is the Nike PhantomVNM, wrapped up to look like the iconic 2002 Nike Air Zoom Total 90 II and it drops as the third instalment in the ‘Future DNA’ series, where Nike have been dressing up their boots as classic designs from the past.
Worn by the likes of Luis Figo, Paul Scholes, Roberto Carlos and Francesco Totti in the 2002 World Cup, and later by a young Wayne Rooney, the Nike Air Zoom Total 90 II took on an instantly iconic status thanks to its immediately recognisable design on the feet of some of the world’s best. And so, coming as the third instalment in the ‘Future DNA’ series, following the Phantom VSN ‘Hypervenom’ and the Mercurial Vapor ‘OG Superfly’ drops, the PhantomVNM now pays homage to this absolute classic.
Made for power and accuracy while offering ultimate comfort over the course of 90 minutes, the T90 II share characteristics with the PhantomVNM, but the trademark aesthetic was that unique ‘band’ that ran right through the forefoot, and that's all you're here to see.
A unique look inspired by the white and black Nike Air Zoom Total 90 II that actually dropped a little later in 2003 before the introduction of the T90 II ahead of EURO 2004, the ‘Future DNA’ PhantomVNM adopts the same white and black with striking red applications.
The off-centre, asymmetrical lacing system of the Phantom VNM ties in perfectly with the design of the T90 II, which also featured an asymmetrical lacing system, with the trademark stripe leads from the tongue, through the laces, and right down to the toe box. Seeing as the Phantom VNM replaced the Hypervenom, and the Hypervenom replaced the T90 series, this feels like something of a full circle.
As with the rest of the Nike 'Future DNA' pack, the VNM T90 will drop as a special edition release, so expect restricted numbers and a pretty fast sell-out.
The ‘Future DNA’ series continues to move from strength to strength with an iconic application that fits almost as well as the Total 90 II itself. No pressure for the Tiempo following this then…
Below: Freddie Ljungberg wears the original version in Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Portsmouth in September 2003.
Pick up the Nike PhantomVNM T90 'Future DNA' football boots at prodirectsoccer.com
