Nike Mercurial Superfly Heritage iD – Icon Reborn

Released date - 2016

Nike ID Superfly IV Heritage 1998 in AG sole plate

Introduction:

In May 2016, Nike launched the Mercurial Superfly Heritage iD pack – a rare collector’s dream that revived the most iconic Mercurial designs from football history and fused them with the cutting-edge tech of the Superfly IV. The spotlight model? The legendary 1998 R9 Mercurial, reimagined for a new era.

Nike Superfly IV Heritage Carbon Fibre Sole Plate

Design Throwback: The 1998 R9

Originally worn by Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima during the 1998 World Cup, the original Mercurial R9 was a game-changer. Draped in a futuristic chrome upper with bold blue and yellow accents, it captured the spirit of a player — and a boot — that was unlike anything seen before. This was the first-ever boot to prioritise explosive speed, and the design screamed it.

The 2016 Heritage iD re-release paid homage by staying true to that original visual language — with the shimmering metallic silver upper, trademark swoosh, and electric detailing. It wasn’t a straight-up copy — it was a reinvention, bringing together history and innovation in one premium package.

The Tech: Superfly IV Performance

Beneath the nostalgic skin was Nike’s Superfly IV chassis — at the time, the pinnacle of performance design:

• Flyknit upper for adaptive fit and sock-like feel

• Dynamic Fit Collar to lock the ankle into the boot for a second-skin experience

• Brio Cables (Flywire tech) integrated through the upper for enhanced lockdown

• Carbon fibre soleplate offering explosive traction and lightweight responsiveness

This meant you weren’t just wearing a tribute — you were lacing up elite performance built for the highest level of play.

Original Price & Availability

Released exclusively via NikeiD (Nike By You), these boots came with a premium RRP of £260–£275, depending on region and configuration. Availability was extremely limited and custom-only, meaning each pair was made to order — a rarity in today’s football boot market.

Today, the Heritage iD pack is one of the most sought-after Nike Mercurial releases, especially the R9 tribute. Prices on the secondary market often exceed £400–£500, particularly in unused or collector condition.

The OG Nike Vapor for R9

Bootsfinder’s Take

This was a masterclass in how to do a legacy boot right. The Heritage iD wasn’t just a retro drop — it was Nike’s way of reminding us why the Mercurial line became legendary. The 1998 colourway in particular still holds a mythical status, and this modern homage didn’t disappoint.

From performance to design to collectability, the Superfly Heritage iD range deserves its place among the greats. For those lucky enough to own a pair — you're holding onto football boot royalty.

Keywords

Nike Mercurial Superfly Heritage iD, 1998 R9 remake, Ronaldo Mercurial, Superfly IV, Mercurial retro boots, collector football boots, carbon fibre soleplate boots, NikeiD Mercurial, Mercurial tribute pack