Nike Tiempo Legend V Q&A With Nike Football Product Team
Nike Tiempo Legend V Q A
We speak to the design team behind the new Tiempo Legend V.
Following the launch of the Nike Tiempo V we sat down with the Nike Football team behind the brand's fifth generation Tiempo Legend - Shawn Hoy, Footwear Product Director, Aik Leong Lim, Product Line Manager, and Karl Seamarks, Designer - to talk all things Tiempo and the story behind the Legend V.
Incorporating new technology and concepts the new Tiempo Legend V lands as Nike's most advanced heritage boot yet. Almost 20 years since the first ever model, the Nike Tiempo Legend V takes the same spirit that existed in '94 and delivers on over two decades of performance football innovation. 
How did the product team approach this boot? What were the main goals in terms of evolving Legend IV?
It was by no means an easy task. We have a very popular and successful Tiempo Legend IV and our goal was to improve on all the 3 key performance aspect of the existing Tiempo: fit, touch and traction.
We also knew that we had to respect the heritage and identity of the Tiempo silo, but, at the same time, bring in new innovations, methods of making and a contemporary aesthetic to deliver a modern classic.
How many variations in design and aesthetics do you typically go through before deciding on the final model?
WR: Countless! We strive for perfection and are tweaking until the very last second.
What inspiration did you take from the Ronaldinho Dois and why did you use this boot as a reference point?
The R10 Dois was certainly an inspiration. Players still reference it as one of the best Tiempo's ever. It was very luxurious, crafted, comfortable striking visually. We certainly challenged ourselves to build upon that boot in terms of the aesthetic and the benefits.
What response did you get from players throughout the testing phase?
They love the new fit, the more contemporary design and most importantly, the great touch and comfort. They also commented positively on the innovations that we have been able to introduce to the Tiempo Legend V, while still maintaining the classic look.
The positive response says a lot, as many players told us that the Tiempo IV was perfect. We set ourselves high standards for the Tiempo Legend V and it's great to hear from the players that they believe it is better than the IV. 
Can you detail the changes made to the fit and touch of the boot?
We used a new anatomical foot last to deliver an incredible fit, bringing the foot closer to the ball and lower to the ground. We then developed an upper package that works with the last to provide a longer lasting snug fit.
The upper is made with 2 layers of materials - waterproof k-leather and low wicking mesh. This upper package gives reduced water absorption and an increased rate of drying. We reduced the layers of upper materials by 50%, allowing us to get the foot closer to the ball. This enables the players to have an exceptional touch and feel of the ball.
How did you set about improving the plate?
We worked with some of the world s top podiatrists and our NIKE SPORTS RESEARCH LAB to engineer a plate that moves with the foot, echoing the natural motion design ethos that exists within the Nike Free Technology to deliver unrivaled comfort. The studs design and configuration allows the plate to provide optimal stability and traction, with zero distraction.
You've taken a bold approach to the aesthetics and style - can you talk us through this?
When we speak to the players and consumers, we heard a few things. The game has changed (faster, lesser space and more movements), the players needed to change to excel in the modern game (better technique, cover greater distance, quicker both physically and mentally).
The consumers have changed too. They don t just want a basic black leather boot. They want the touch and comfort of leather, with modern innovations, and a more contemporary aesthetic. Those are the insights that have led us to redesign and update the Tiempo.
Has the launch of the Premier given you license to be more experimental and expressive with the Tiempo design?
In a way yes, but we are mindful to do so within the limits. We constantly engage with players and consumers to get their insights and feedback so that we know what they like and want. Tiempo is the heritage of Nike Football. While we will always innovate to deliver a modern interpretation of the silo, we will always respect its identity and the deliver the best product for consumers.
When you compare the new Tiempo Legend V to the original '94 boot, what similarities do the two boots share? Is the focus still the same?
I see a lot of similarities, actually. Both boots deliver the ultimate touch and comfort for the players, and are probably the most innovative and modern leather boot of its time. The message and focus of the Tiempo remains: We are committed to deliver the most premium, crafted and innovative leather boot in the world.
It's a strong way to sign off from 2013. How excited are you for next year and what products Nike have lined up for the World Cup?
We are always looking for new and innovative ways to provide our players with the best products to help them perform at the highest level on the biggest stage. The stage doesn't get any bigger than the World Cup. This journey started with the Hypervenom back in June and now we have the Tiempo V. I can't reveal the details of what is coming. What I can say is that Nike will revolutionize the game of football in the coming months and when that revolution is over football will never be the same.
The new Desert Sand/Black/Orange Nike Tiempo Legend V football boots are available from selected stockists including Pro-Direct Soccer.
