New Balance Tekela Review: Precision And Control Redefined

History of New Balance Tekela

The New Balance Tekela line has its roots in New Balance’s rich history of innovation and commitment to performance.

Since its inception, the Tekela series has undergone significant transformations, shaping it into the precision-focused cleat we know today.

Early Beginnings (2010s)

New Balance’s entry into the soccer market began with the release of their first cleats in the early 2010s. Although not specifically part of the Tekela line, these early models laid the groundwork for the brand’s future soccer endeavors.

The New Balance Tekela is engineered for players who demand precision, control, and agility on the soccer field.

Known for its innovative design and technology, this cleat is perfect for midfielders and attackers looking to dominate with finesse.

In this review, we explore the key features, performance metrics, comfort, and fit of the Tekela, providing you with everything you need to know before making your purchase.

Key Features

1. Kinetic Stitch Technology
2. • Provides enhanced ball control with strategic stitching that offers extra grip and control during dribbling and passing.
2. Fresh Foam Midsole
3. • Incorporates New Balance’s Fresh Foam cushioning for superior comfort and support, helping players remain comfortable over extended playtimes.
3. Dynamic Kinetic Stitch Upper
4. • This adaptive upper molds to the shape of your foot, offering a precise fit for enhanced performance.
4. Conical Studs
5. • Designed for agility, the conical stud configuration allows for quick turns and fast directional changes on the pitch.
5. Lightweight Construction
6. • At approximately 200g, the Tekela is built to be lightweight, allowing players to move freely and swiftly across the field.

Performance Metrics

• Control: 9/10
• • The Kinetic Stitch technology provides an exceptional level of control, making this cleat ideal for players focused on ball handling.
• Precision: 8.5/10
• • The dynamic fit of the upper allows for precise movements, giving players confidence in tight spaces.
• Agility: 9/10
• • Conical studs and lightweight construction combine to make rapid turns and swift changes in direction effortless.
• Speed: 8/10
• • While focused on control and precision, the Tekela’s lightweight design ensures players maintain speed throughout the game.
• Traction: 8.5/10
• • The stud configuration offers excellent grip, particularly on firm ground surfaces, allowing for quick movements without sacrificing stability.

Game Situation Analysis

The New Balance Tekela shines in various game situations, thanks to its precision-focused design. Here’s how it performs in key scenarios:

• Tight Spaces: The Tekela’s Kinetic Stitch technology and Dynamic Kinetic Stitch Upper provide exceptional ball control, allowing players to navigate congested areas with confidence. The conical studs enable quick turns and changes of direction, making it ideal for one-on-one situations.
• Long Passes: The cleat’s precision-focused design ensures accurate and controlled passing. The Fresh Foam midsole provides a stable platform for striking the ball, while the upper’s strategic stitching helps maintain ball contact.
• Sprinting: The Tekela’s lightweight construction (approximately 200g) and responsive materials enable rapid acceleration and deceleration. The conical studs provide excellent traction, allowing players to maintain speed and stability during high-intensity sprints.
• Dribbling: The Tekela’s adaptive fit and Kinetic Stitch technology facilitate precise ball control, making it easier to beat opponents in one-on-one situations.
• Set Pieces: The cleat’s stability and traction features enable players to generate power and accuracy on free kicks and corners.
• Fast Breaks: The Tekela’s agility-focused design allows players to quickly change direction and accelerate during counter-attacks.

In critical game situations, the Tekela’s performance-driven design helps players:

• Maintain possession in tight spaces
• Deliver accurate long passes
• Accelerate rapidly
• Control the ball during dribbling
• Generate power on set pieces
• Capitalize on fast breaks

Comfort and Fit

1. Adaptive Dynamic Kinetic Stitch Upper
2. • The adaptive fit of the upper ensures a snug yet flexible feel, which is essential for players who rely on precision and control.
2. Fresh Foam Midsole
3. • Provides exceptional cushioning, reducing pressure on the foot during high-impact movements and offering long-lasting comfort during matches.
3. Ortholite Insole
4. • Keeps the foot dry and comfortable, even during intense games, with moisture-wicking properties.
4. Weight
5. • At just 200g (size 9), the Tekela remains lightweight without compromising on comfort or support.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional Control and Precision: Perfect for players who prioritize ball handling and accuracy.
• Innovative Kinetic Stitch Technology: Enhances touch and control with every movement.
• Adaptive Fit and Comfort: The dynamic upper and Fresh Foam midsole provide a customized, comfortable fit.
• Excellent Agility: The conical stud configuration allows for quick, sharp movements.

Cons:

• Limited Color Options: The Tekela has fewer colorway choices compared to other high-end cleats.
• Higher Price Point: With a price range of $200-$250, it’s on the premium end, which may deter budget-conscious players.
• Break-in Time: Some players might find that the Tekela requires a short break-in period before reaching optimal comfort.

Player Position Analysis

The New Balance Tekela is tailored for midfielders and attackers who prioritize precision, control, and agility.

Here’s how the cleat suits different positions:

• Midfielders: The Tekela’s balance of control, agility, and comfort makes it ideal for midfielders who cover a lot of ground. Its Kinetic Stitch technology and conical studs enable precise passing and quick turns.
• Attackers: Forwards and wingers will appreciate the Tekela’s speed, agility, and ball control. The cleat’s lightweight design and Fresh Foam midsole allow for rapid movements and explosive acceleration.
• Defenders: While the Tekela isn’t specifically designed for defenders, its agility and traction features can benefit full-backs who support counter-attacks. However, defenders prioritizing stability and power may prefer alternative cleats.

Cleat Maintenance

• Cleaning and Drying: “Consider investing in a soft-bristle shoe brush to gently remove mud and dirt without scratching the material. Never put your cleats in the washing machine; it can damage the material and break down adhesives.”
• Avoiding Smell: “Sprinkling baking soda inside your cleats can help absorb any unwanted odor. Alternatively, use a shoe deodorizer spray after each game or practice.”
• Avoid Heat Damage: “Always keep cleats away from direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers. High heat can warp the material and lead to early degradation.”

Conclusion

The New Balance Tekela excels in precision, control, and agility, making it an excellent choice for midfielders and attackers who rely on tight ball handling and sharp movements.

While it has a higher price point and limited color options, its innovative technology and performance make it worth the investment for serious players.

If control and comfort are top priorities, the Tekela delivers on both fronts.