Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit Football Cleats

Built for Speed/agility players who want a lightweight, sock-like cleat for quick cuts.

Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit Football Cleats
Cleats Hub Score
7.7
/10
Good
Confidence: medium · 5 reviews
5 critic · 0 owner · Critic 7.7 · Owner · we don't sell or test products.
See the full breakdown ↓

A lightweight, low‑cut speed cleat with strong traction and a second‑skin fit, but limited underfoot support for bigger players.

Very strong field tractionClose, sock‑like fitLightweight at 266 gResponsive Flyknit wrap

Key specs

QUICK DATA
Released2020BrandNike
ModelVapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit Football CleatsTypeAmerican Football · Cleat
Upper360-degree Flyknit upper with a NikeSkin overlaySoleplateSeparated internal plate with independent traction pods / split propulsion chassis and wide stud placement for quick cuts
SurfaceNatural grass (firm ground) — built for American football field play (firm ground)Who it's forSpeed/agility players who want a lightweight, sock-like cleat for quick cuts
Weight266 gFitSecure, sock‑like fit (second‑skin); generally described as a close fit — reviewers/retail
MSRP$200

The verdict

01 / REVIEW

Synthesised from 5 independent reviews, every claim traces to a quote in the breakdown. We don't test products ourselves.

The Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit is a low‑cut speed cleat for American football that uses a knitted upper wrapped all the way around the foot and a split sole structure to keep the shoe light and give a sock‑like fit. Reviewers agree the cleat is very light and grips the field well. They also agree the close, second‑skin fit and thin insole make it a poor choice for bigger players who need more padding underfoot.

Design and build

Released in 2020, the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit is a low‑cut speed cleat built with a knitted upper that wraps the whole foot and a thin synthetic overlay called NikeSkin to thin the material while keeping it smooth.

The sole has a separated internal plate with small, independent traction pods that sit under the forefoot and heel. The plate is split between forefoot and heel to aid propulsion when you push off. The studs are spaced widely to help quick cuts on firm natural grass.

Named items mentioned by Nike and reviewers include the 360° Flyknit knit upper, the NikeSkin overlay, a split propulsion chassis that separates forefoot and heel, independent traction pods, a Ghost toggle-style lacing system, and a thin insole.

Weight is 266 g per shoe (around 9.4 oz). The model targets speed and agility players. It debuted at retail in 2020, and a follow-up model, the Vapor Edge Elite 360 2, arrived in 2024. The cleat is intended for firm natural grass play and had an MSRP of 200.

On the field
On the field

Who it's for

This is a speed or sprint cleat aimed at skill players such as wide receivers, cornerbacks, running backs and safeties who want low weight, quick cuts and a close, locked feel on firm grass. Players who need more ankle padding or extra underfoot cushioning, including many linebackers, tight ends and bigger safeties, may prefer a mid‑cut cleat with more padding. Offensive and defensive linemen should choose high‑cut, reinforced platforms instead.

Foot width matters. Because the cleat fits like a close second skin, players with wide feet should try them on and consider sizing up. These cleats are designed for firm‑ground natural grass rather than turf machines.

Traction

Reviewers rate traction as the cleat's main strength. The wide stud layout and the small, independent traction pods on the split propulsion plate are repeatedly credited with strong bite and multi‑directional grip on firm grass (CleatsReport; I Know Football; Cleats Hub).

In practice this means the soleplate helps with quick cuts and getting up to speed. Outlets call the plate among the best for on‑field traction and say it helps with sharp direction changes without slipping (Footballrs; CleatsReport).

this is my favorite traction plate on the market, hands down, 10 out of 10.. Footballrs

Fit

Reviewers agree the cleat fits snugly and feels like a second skin. Multiple outlets say the close fit feels secure and helps stability during play (CleatsReport; Footballrs).

There is a small split on sizing. One reviewer said they are true to size (I Know Football). Most reviewers note the sock‑like fit and recommend players with wider feet try them on or go up a size.

The snug fit adds to the overall comfort and stability, ensuring that the cleats remain securely on your feet throughout the game.. CleatsReport

Durability

Durability ratings are above average among reviewers. Outlets describe the construction as capable of handling football field use, with one calling the model "super durable" (CleatsReport; I Know Football).

Durability is not presented as perfect. Ratings for durability sit below traction and weight, which suggests reasonable longevity but not exceptional toughness in every case.

These cleats are built to withstand the demands of the football field, ensuring durability and longevity.. CleatsReport
Outsole & studs
Outsole & studs

Support

Support comes from the Flyknit upper that molds to the foot and the internal split plate. Reviewers say the internal plate adds flexibility while giving enough support for quick moves, and a molded heel counter helps lock the heel in place (CleatsReport; I Know Football; Cleats Hub).

However, reviewers also point out the insole is relatively thin. That means the cleat supports speed players well, but larger players who want more cushioning underfoot may find the support lacking (Cleats Hub).

The internal plate in the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 2 cleats gives you the flexibility and support necessary for executing lightning-quick moves.. CleatsReport

Weight

Weight is a defining spec: 266 g per shoe (around 9.4 oz). Reviewers tie this low weight to a fast, lightweight feel on the field and say it comes from the split forefoot/heel plate and the thin NikeSkin overlay (CleatsReport; I Know Football).

Players who prioritize acceleration and minimal bulk consistently cite the cleat's low weight as a benefit.

These cleats weigh in at 9.4 oz, which is super duper light for a football cleat.. Footballrs

Comfort

Comfort scores are solid across reviewers. The Flyknit upper and NikeSkin overlay are described as molding to the foot and creating a comfortable wrap during play (CleatsReport; I Know Football; Footballrs).

That comfort has a caveat: the underfoot padding is not thick, so how comfortable the cleat feels depends on how much cushioning a player prefers.

they are the most comfortable cleats I have worn in a very long time.. Footballrs
Planting to cut
Planting to cut

Lockdown

Lockdown benefits from the molded parts of the upper and a firm heel counter. Reviewers report good heel lock when the lacing is tightened properly (CleatsReport; I Know Football; Footballrs).

The Ghost toggle lacing system and the Flyknit wrap work together to keep the foot stable during quick direction changes, according to reviewers.

revamped upper features molded elements and texture for reinforced support around the heel, ensuring that you stay secure and stable during every play.. CleatsReport

Cushion

The Flyknit upper gives a soft, conforming feel around the foot that reviewers call responsive and comfortable (Cleats Hub).

That soft wrap adds to perceived comfort, but multiple reviewers note the insole is thin, so cushion underfoot is a relative strength rather than an absolute one.

Made of Flyknit, the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 is soft and able to conform to the foot's unique shape. This results in a pretty responsive and comfortable wraparound.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)
Accelerating downfield
Accelerating downfield

Materials

The cleat uses Flyknit material and a thin NikeSkin overlay to keep weight down while giving a close wrap. Reviewers say these materials create the light running feel and the snug upper (Cleats Hub; CleatsReport).

The materials are chosen for lightness and a close fit rather than heavy abrasion resistance found in bulkier, reinforced cleats.

These shoes are super lightweight, so running in them is such a breeze.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)

Value

The cleat had an MSRP of 200 and reviewer opinion on value is split. One outlet points to the high price versus alternatives. Another defends the cost based on the cleat's performance and features (CleatsReport; Footballrs).

Buyers should decide how much they need the cleat's main strengths, traction, low weight and a second‑skin fit, before paying that price.

Higher price point compared to other cleats on the market. CleatsReport

Frequently asked questions

Do they run true to size?

Most reviewers describe the fit as snug and close to the foot. One outlet said they fit true to size (I Know Football). If you have wide feet, try them on or size up before buying.

Are they for grass or turf?

The cleat is made for natural grass (firm ground). The soleplate uses separate traction pods and widely spaced studs designed for firm‑ground cuts rather than turf machines.

Molded or detachable studs?

The soleplate combines a separated internal plate and independent traction pods in a molded design. The studs are integrated into that plate and are not removable.

How durable are they?

Reviewers put durability above average but not flawless. Outlets call them durable enough for field use (CleatsReport, I Know Football), but durability scores are lower than traction and weight.

What position are the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit Football Cleats best for?

They suit skill and speed positions: wide receivers, cornerbacks, running backs and safeties. That recommendation is based on the low cut, light weight (266 g) and the traction layout that helps quick cuts and acceleration.

Bottom line, A lightweight, low‑cut speed cleat with strong traction and a second‑skin fit, but limited underfoot support for bigger players.

The breakdown

02 / RATINGS
9.0
CushionStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
Cleats Hub editorial (2022)9.0
Made of Flyknit, the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 is soft and able to conform to the foot's unique shape. This results in a pretty responsive and comfortable wraparound.
8.5
TractionStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport9.0
The wide stud placements on the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 2 cleats provide you with unrivaled traction on the field.
I Know Football8.0
they use the perpendicular studs that are going to give you traction again in all directions
8.4
FitStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport8.0
The snug fit adds to the overall comfort and stability, ensuring that the cleats remain securely on your feet throughout the game.
I Know Football6.0
of course yes they do fit true to size
8.0
MaterialsStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
Cleats Hub editorial (2022)8.0
These shoes are super lightweight, so running in them is such a breeze.
8.0
WeightStrong consensus · 3 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport8.0
The NikeSkin overlay of the Vapor Edge Elite 360 2 cleats creates a lightweight and fast feel
I Know Football7.0
they've separated both the forefoot and the heel to cut down on a little bit of weight
7.8
LockdownStrong consensus · 3 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport8.0
revamped upper features molded elements and texture for reinforced support around the heel, ensuring that you stay secure and stable during every play.
I Know Football7.0
I did try these so I know that they have great heel lock in and lock down as long as you pull the string super tight
7.8
ComfortStrong consensus · 3 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport8.0
The NikeSkin overlay creates a second-skin feel, preventing any discomfort or distractions during intense plays.
I Know Football7.0
it's really going to mold your foot
7.2
SupportStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport8.0
The internal plate in the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 2 cleats gives you the flexibility and support necessary for executing lightning-quick moves.
I Know Football7.0
you're still going to have absolutely great lock in because of the thickness in the heel counter
7.1
DurabilityStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport7.0
These cleats are built to withstand the demands of the football field, ensuring durability and longevity.
I Know Football8.0
this latest iteration of flying it is also super durable
4.8
ValueStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
CleatsReport4.0
Higher price point compared to other cleats on the market
Footballrs7.0
If there's ever a cleat worth $200, it's this cleat.

The sources

03 / EVIDENCE

The Cleats Hub Score is a weighted aggregate of these independent reviews, normalised to 0–10 and weighted by source authority, recency and sample size. We don't sell or physically test products. Read the full methodology.

The verdict, split

04 / PROS & CONS

◤ What reviewers love

  • +Very strong field traction
  • +Close, sock‑like fit
  • +Lightweight at 266 g
  • +Responsive Flyknit wrap

◢ Where it falls short

  • Close, second‑skin fit
  • Relatively thin insole/support
  • Higher price point

How it stacks up

05 / COMPARE

Put the Nike Vapor Edge Elite 360 Flyknit Football Cleats head-to-head against another cleat on every aggregated characteristic.

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