Review: Adidas X 15.1 Leather FG

Back in 2015, Adidas released their new X and Ace series'. Both were released in a synthetic, as well as leather version. I always liked the leather feel, so I picked up a pair of the X 15.1 leathers for myself! Here are my thoughts:

Upper
The upper is a mix of leather and synthetic materials. From the heel up to the toe box is synthetic. It is fairly flexible, but still stiff enough to keep your foot secured. The toe box, on the other hand, is made of kangaroo leather, which is a premium material. Now I went a half size down because I knew that king of leather would really stretch and mold to my foot. Luckily, I was correct. It really stretched out nicely during the breaking in process.

Sole
Adidas started using a new stud configuration on the bottom of the shoe that mixes traditional firm ground studs with artificial ground studs. I have to say, it helps a lot if you play on artificial turf often. Where you really feel the difference is in pivoting; you really feel locked into the ground for ample traction.

Fit
The fit is a little odd. Like a mentioned before, the leather on the toe box stretches nicely for a comfortable fit. However, these cleats do not have the best heel lock. I have noticed the feeling of my heel coming out of the shoe while running. It seems like the back of the shoe does not come hi enough on the achilles to really lock your foot in. That being said, the more you wear them, the less noticeable it becomes.

All in all, it is a nice hybrid cleat if you like some leather, but a lighter shoe that won't stretch too much over time. If the heel problem does not arise with you, than I would recommend them, but definitely make sure you try them on a walk around in them before making the purchase.