While acknowledging the all-in-one knitted boot/sock hybrid is a concept model, Adidas is currently working with top players around the world to finalize development of the product and plans to release the Primeknit FS later this year. Adidas claims the hybrid design provides a bespoke lightweight barefoot-like second-skin with vastly improved “feel” and a perfect fit from toe to calf.

Though the world’s first purpose made football boots were custom made for Henry VIII (being cataloged in the royal wardrobe of 1526), humans have been kicking a ball in organized sports for thousands of years. Games similar to soccer were played in South America 3200 years ago and in China 2200 years ago, as well as in ancient Greece and pre-colonial Australia, and though England likes to call itself the home of football, a strikingly similar game was introduced to the British Isles by the Romans 2000 years ago. In all such ancient games, the footwear of choice was bare feet.