Nike Mercurial Soles: FG, SG Anti-Clog, and AG Explained
Just over a month ago, Nike launched the new generation of Mercurials, bringing significant updates to both design and functionality. This article focuses
Just over a month ago, Nike launched the new generation of Mercurials, bringing significant updates to both design and functionality. This article focuses on the redesigned outsole and the different sole types Nike now offers for the latest Mercurial models.
FG Sole
Mercurial Superfly 8 Elite FG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
Mercurial Vapor 14 Elite FG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
Mercurial Superfly 8 Pro FG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
Mercurial Vapor 14 Pro FG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
The FG (firm ground) stud pattern is designed for stable, dry ground that is not too slippery. It performs best on modern synthetic pitches that closely mimic natural grass, as well as on well‑maintained natural grass pitches that are not overly muddy.
The key change from the previous generation is a bridge connecting the front and rear plates. This backbone‑like structure provides stability without sacrificing the lightweight feel that defines the Mercurial sole. The stud configuration remains unchanged: four studs on the rear plate and seven on the front. All studs are laminated and arrow‑shaped to improve grip, enabling faster acceleration and more agile direction changes.
SG Anti‑Clog Sole
Mercurial Superfly 8 Elite SG-Pro Anti-Clog Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
Mercurial Vapor 14 Elite SG-Pro Anti-Clog Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
The SG (soft ground) sole is widely used by professionals. It features aluminium studs for better grip on natural grass, where the studs must penetrate the ground to provide stability. The stud layout is the same as on the forefoot, but with a mix of studs: four non‑removable aluminium studs and the rest made of plastic.
Nike’s SG sole is marketed as SG Anti‑Clog. The Anti‑Clog technology prevents dirt from sticking to the boot, keeping it responsive and functional. On many boots with aluminium studs, dirt can build up on the sole plate, flattening it and reducing grip. Nike’s technology eliminates this issue.
AG Sole
Mercurial Superfly 8 Elite AG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
Mercurial Vapor 14 Elite AG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
Mercurial Superfly 8 Academy AG Bright Crimson-Metallic Silver-Indigo Burst
The AG (artificial ground) sole is the least used of the three. Its main differences are a much lower height and a different shape. Nike has returned to a traditional design with round studs that have a small hole in the centre. The AG sole also has more studs — 17 in total — distributed across the entire surface to better distribute weight.
This sole is intended for first‑generation artificial turf pitches, which have high abrasion and limited surface area for support.
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