The Evolution Of All Evolutions
The English football league wasn’t always called the Premier League. It was previously called the Football League up until 1992. The previous system had run into multiple problems. From administrative to management issues, the beautiful game had gotten muddy. The rise of hooliganism and clubs facing financial difficulties made a new system inevitable. Thus, came the emergence of the Premier League in 1992.
The new system was implemented to help clubs remain financially profitable. That meant creating a spectacle like no other and making it accessible to everyone. To achieve the former, the game required nothing but the best – this included soccer balls. From the traditional scrappy-leather bond spheres to the current complex-paneled structure, it’s come a long way.
Let’s take a closer look at the evolution of Premier League balls and how it impacted the world of football.
Premier League Balls
Since the past 3 decades, the match ball of the greatest league has developed significantly. From improving its aerodynamics to rebound and durability, each version has taken a closer step to perfection. Moreover, it’s not only seen a change in design but brands as well. The initial iterations were produced by Mitre. However, at the start of the 21st century, Nike took center stage.
Here’s a chronological order of evolution of the Premier League soccer ball.
- Mitre Pro Max (1992 – 95)
The first ball to be introduced in this new era was the Mitre Pro Max that lasted for 3 years. Though compared to present day versions, this seems outdated. Its modest design and benign color will make little impression on people today. The white structure with an orange ‘V’ at the center lacks the robustness required today. Having said that, it paved the way for future iterations. Helping kickstart a long-line of extravagance and brilliance.
- Mitre Ultimax (1995-2000)
The last product of Mitre for the English League was the longest serving one in its history. Lasting for around 5 years, it became a staple of the best league in the world. It had improved on the lackings of the previous version. The embellished new design looked attractive and sported the new logo of the league. The red and blue colors painted over a ‘V’ design become synonymous with the league itself. Furthermore, its enhanced performance bettered the quality of the matches too. Making it one of the best types of balls released over the years.
- Nike Geo Merlin and Geo Merlin Vapor (2000 – 02)
This version had the most drastic change of any successor in the history of the competition. The Mitre ‘V’ was replaced by the iconic Nike logo. However, the most stark difference was the change in technology in producing them. At the time, it was called the “roundest ball ever”. The new technology employed pumped it out in a circular shape whereas previous versions used leather paneling. This greatly improved its performance during matches.
- Nike Total 90 Aerow I (2004 – 06)
As Adidas developed a new design for the 2004 Euros, Nike realized the need for a change. Hence, came the initiation of the Total 90 brand. This ‘T90’ was an allusion to the ball keeping its integrity for the entire 90 minutes of the match. Furthermore, this was a time when national sides would have squad numbers in circles in front of their shirts.
The ring around this soccer ball was a huge hit at the time. It quickly influenced every aspect of the professional game. Though visually appealing, Nike stated the reasoning was to allow players to see the spin in real time. Hence, enhancing their performance during the game.
- Nike Total 90 Aerow II (2006 – 08)
This version employed much of the same structure as the previous iteration. However, one notable difference was the change in design. It now sported an asymmetrical outline. This made it more visible to the player when airborne. Initially blue, its color was changed to red in the following season.
- Nike Total 90 Omni (2008 – 09)
The new structure used a six-layering casing to elevate its performance. The effort bore fruit as it was labeled the greatest accuracy of the brand’s product yet. Additionally, the arched plane enabled a more even distribution across the sphere.
- Nike Total 90 Ascent (2009 – 10)
Arguably the most futuristic ball by Nike, it enjoyed a complex outline. Using micro-texture and RaDar technology, it sported a busy, modern outlook. The busy look was a staple of the era. However, Nike pulled back on the business next year with a much more simpler design.
- Nike Total 90 Tracer (2010 – 11), Seitiro (2011-12), Maxim (2012 – 13)
These 3 balls can be defined in the same instance due to their similarity. The 90 Tracer used much of the same technology as its previous version. However, the only difference was that it sported a more basic look.
Then, the Seitero came onto the scene next year. It started using the 9-layers of casing as opposed to 6. The vibrant and colorful ball looked attractive and was easy to track on screen.
The Maxim was an upgrade to 10-layers of casing. Furthermore, it was the first Nike product to use a ‘fractualated’ glass look for a distinct look. It took aspects from the two prior matchballs to make it appealing.
- Nike Incyte (2013 – 14)
This was the first version where Nike toyed with the concept of more colorful products. For years, more basic elements were incorporated to play it safe. Then, the Incyte kicked the doors open for more radiant versions to come.
- Nike Ordem Era (2014 – 18)
The 2014 to 2018 era was marked by the presence of the Ordems. During this period, 4 matchballs were utilized in the Premier League. Yet, the most revolutionary aspect of theirs was the fluorescent structure. The grooves of the ball, some of them welded, sported a unique, bright look. All of them used a Hexagon structure with different color combinations and works.
- Nike Merlins (2018 – 2020)
Named after the famous wizard, this magical delight was donned with a unique look. It replaced the caged hexagons with an equalizer pattern whilst still using fluorescent colors. The subsequent iteration was much the same as the previous one apart from its “Tunnel Vision” look.
- Nike Flight (2020 – 24)
The next era belonged to the Flight matchballs. Inspired by “in-flight instrumentation”, this was the most detailed product to come out for years. Each aspect of it was a representation of the Premier League’s identity as the best league.
Furthermore, it enhanced the performance of the previous iterations as well. The decrease in drag and improvement in flight made it a delight to watch. Helping players play and fans enjoy the beautiful game.
The Conclusion
At the end of the day, each major league soccer ball sports a distinct look. However, none compares to the extravagance that is the English Premier League balls. They have become the most widely selling products in the world today and they show no signs of stopping.
Having said that, TX Football is here to make a statement. The Voyager, Pluto, Planador, and Golazo can compete with any ball around the world. Furthermore, TX’s Climate Ball is a representation of our commitment to the planet. Ensuring not only today, but people can enjoy the beautiful game for years to come.