Comparing All Four Top Models of the Next-Gen Adidas Ace 16

2016 has only just started, but one of the most-awaited football boot launches of the year is already behind us. The revolutionary, laceless Adidas Ace 16+ PureControl soccer cleats were launched this week, but Adidas still has lots of other models of the next-gen Adidas Ace cleats to release.

Adidas will soon unveil the Adidas Ace 16.1 synthetic, leather and Primeknit versions, which are all boots that warrant to be called 'top model' without a doubt. But how do they compare to the Adidas Ace PureControl? Let's find out.

Adidas Ace 16+ PureControl

The all-new Adidas Ace 16+ PureControl is the most exquisite variant of the second generation of the Adidas Ace. It costs an estimated 300 Euro and brings a laceless concept to Adidas' football boot lineup for the first time in years. Tech features concerned, the laceless Adidas Ace cleats boast a Primeknit upper, while the sole plate is identical to all three other top models.

All in all, the Adidas Ace 16+ PureControl is the most exciting boot of the bunch, featuring both an unparalleled level of innovation and a unique overall design.

Adidas Ace 16+ Primeknit

Retailing at 250 Euro is the Adidas Ace 16+ Primeknit, which combines the Primeknit upper with traditional lacing. Other than the current Adidas Ace 15 Primeknit boots, the upcoming Adidas Ace 16+ Primeknit soccer cleats will be available a SG stud configuration.

Please note that the images of the Adidas Ace 16+ Primeknit in our dedicated article are showing the youth version of the boot, which boasts the same sole plate as the lower-tier Ace 16.2. The standard Adidas Ace 16 Primeknit cleats include the same plate and stud configuration as the other 16.1s, as well as the standout external heel counter.

Adidas Ace 16.1

The standard, synthetic Adidas Ace 16.1 is the closest to the boots first generation. Combining a new three-layer synthetic upper with a redesigned sole plate, it's available as FG (firm ground), SG (soft ground) and AG (artificial grass). It's the first time that the Adidas Ace will be available in a dedicated AG variant after the previous generation only included AG support in the FG/AG mix edition.

Adidas Ace 16.1 Leather

A kangaroo leather coating is added to the silhouette for the Adidas Ace 16.1 Leather soccer cleat. Parallel stitching in the forefoot area is designed to keep the material moldable, while the sole plate is the same on the previous three variants discussed in this overview.

Adidas Ace 16+ PureControl vs Adidas Ace 16+ Primeknit vs Adidas Ace 16.1 vs Adidas Ace 16.1 Leather

VersionAce 16+ PureControlAce 16+ PrimeknitAce 16.1Ace 16.1 Leather
UpperPrimeknitPrimeknitThree-layer engineered syntheticKangaroo leather
LacelessXXX
OutsoleNew, ultralight outsoleNew, ultralight outsoleNew, ultralight outsoleNew, ultralight outsole
Heel counter
TypesFGFG

SG

FG

SG

AG

FG

SG

Price300 Euro250 Euro210 Euro210 Euro

The first Adidas Ace 16 football boots will be released February 1 in striking "Solar Green / Shock Pink / Black" coating, while regular color updates will follow throughout the year.

Which of the four Adidas Ace 16 top models is the best one in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below.