SPECIALI 98: A BOOT INSPIRED BY A MAGICAL MOMENT

Twenty years ago, an 18-year-old Michael Owen announced himself on the world stage with an iconic goal against Argentina at the World Cup. The young striker was wearing Umbro Speciali boots, as he did throughout his career.

Marking twenty years since that momentous moment in his career, Umbro have unveiled the Speciali 98, a reissue of that iconic model of the boot, alongside a collection of clothing and equipment inspired by that particular moment in time.

The Speciali 98, complete with the famous fold over tongue, is crafted from a super soft, water repellent K-leather crafted in Italy to the same specication as the original boot.

In order to make the leather very thin but extremely strong, a special tanning process is used which results in a lightweight boot with excellent touch and feel on the ball.

On the outsole, the innovative technological touches from the original remain – memory ex grooves in the forefoot mirror the natural movement of the foot, while Wishbone technology in the midfoot aids support.

On the inside, a pre-moulded sockliner provides the supreme comfort and support that the Speciali was known for.

Alongside the boot, a range of clothing inspired by the 1990s and the original boot design has also been released, while Umbro’s iconic Italia backpack and Ceramica ball have also had a Speciali-inspired facelift.

Want to get your hands on something really special? The Speciali 98 collection is available to buy now from umbro.co.za