Canterbury Phoenix Genesis Team Boots: A Solid Performer for the Dedicated Player

Okay, let’s talk boots. As someone who’s spent a fair few years getting muddy on the rugby pitch – and whose knees are starting to feel every minute of it – I’m always on the lookout for decent gear. Canterbury’s a name I trust, so I was keen to see if their Phoenix Genesis Team Boots could deliver.

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Right off the bat, these boots look the part. You’ve got that modern vibe with the faux leather up front mixed with the knitted upper. Slipping them on, the standard fit felt good straight away. Plus, I like the ankle height – gives you that support without feeling like you’re stuck in concrete.

So, what are they like when you’re actually running around? Well, I’ve put them through a few training sessions and even a couple of friendly matches, and I’ve gotta say, they’ve held their own. The outsole’s got these cams that really grip the hard ground – no slipping and sliding when you’re trying to make a quick move.

Now, that synthetic leather at the front? It’s a bit stiff when you first get them. I’m not gonna lie, it took a couple of sessions before they really started to feel like they were molded to my feet. But once they’re broken in, that leather gives you a solid feel when you’re kicking or going in for a tackle. And that knitted upper, with the TPU Vaposkin stuff, seems tough enough to handle whatever the game throws at you.

One thing I really appreciated was the support. Having rolled my ankle a few times back in the day, I’m all about stability. These boots definitely deliver. The internal heel support keeps your foot snug, so you’re not sliding around inside.

So, who are these boots good for?

Honestly, I reckon they’re a solid choice for anyone who wants a dependable pair of boots that can handle pretty much anything. They’re tough, they grip well, so they’d work for all sorts of players, especially the guys in the pack or those versatile players who need to be able to do a bit of everything. If you’re a loose forward who likes a traditional fit but still needs some speed, these could be right up your street.

Any downsides?

Just that initial stiffness of the leather. But hey, a bit of breaking-in never hurt anyone, right?

The bottom line?

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The Canterbury Phoenix Genesis Team Boots are a great pick if you’re after boots that’ll last, feel good, and give you the support you need. They’re not the flashiest boots out there, but they do the job, and they do it well. Definitely worth a look!