Kai Hoo-Lochrie
After securing his record-extending 8th Ballon d’Or award in December 2022, Lionel Messi was already considered the rightful winner of the 2023 Ballon d’Or. It was a momentous achievement for Messi, solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. To commemorate this milestone, adidas presented Messi with a special pair of boots, the X Crazyfast.1s.
Before we delve into the colorway of the boots, it’s important to note that the Messi ‘El Ocho’ boots feature some unique modifications compared to the retail version. These include Messi’s preferred burrito-styled tongue construction and an upper material that differs from the standard release. However, the boots still sport the familiar laced closure and the snappy Aeroplate-backed Speedframe.
Now, let’s discuss the colorway itself. The boots boast a striking two-tone brownish bronze design, with a darker tone forming a lip on the forefoot and the rest of the boot brightening up with a lighter shade. On the heel, Messi’s wordmark is proudly displayed, while the instep features a repeating pattern of the eight Ballon d’Or balls, symbolizing Messi’s remarkable achievement. Other notable details include a subtle goat head on the forefoot, Messi’s children’s names and birthdays on the quarter, and his iconic No. 10 kit number and national flag on the other side. The sole of the boot lists the eight years in which Messi won the prestigious award.
Overall, adidas has created a truly special pair of boots to celebrate Messi’s unparalleled success. The attention to detail in the design, incorporating significant personal elements of Messi’s life and career, is commendable. These boots are not only a symbol of Messi’s incredible talent but also a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of football.
[Source: ESPN – “Lionel Messi beats Erling Haaland to win record eighth Ballon d’Or award”]
