Nike Phantom GX Elite Review: Features, Price, and Comparison

Few football boots divide opinion quite like the Nike Phantom GX Elite. Built for players who demand control above all else, it uses a sticky GripKnit upper and a purpose-built soleplate to deliver precision on firm ground. With a retail price of $275, the question is whether the performance justifies the premium.

Release Year: 2022 ·
MSRP: $275 ·
Upper Material: GripKnit ·
Cleat Type: Firm Ground (FG) ·
Weight (approx.): 240g (size 9 US)

Eight key specs, one takeaway: the Phantom GX Elite is a control-first boot that prioritises touch over weight savings.

What is the Nike Phantom GX Elite?

Overview of the Phantom series

• The Phantom GX Elite is the top-tier control boot from Nike, sitting above the Pro and Academy models in the lineup.
• It replaces the Phantom GT and Phantom VSN series, consolidating Nike’s control-focused offering.

The Phantom name has evolved through several generations, but the GX Elite marks a clear shift toward a pure touch-oriented design. According to FourFourTwo, the GX series combines the best features of past control boots into one package.

Key target audience

• Midfielders and playmakers who value ball control, passing accuracy, and first touch.
• Players who prefer a snug, sock-like fit with a grippy upper.

The GX Elite is not a speed boot. Soccer Reviews For You notes that it is not especially light compared with Nike Mercurials, which reduces its appeal as a pure speed boot.

The implication: the Phantom GX Elite is a specialist tool, not a universal cleat. Players who prioritise touch above all else will find it a natural fit; speed-focused players may look elsewhere.

How does the Phantom GX Elite compare to other Phantom models?

Phantom GX Elite vs Phantom GX Pro

• The Elite uses a full GripKnit upper; the Pro uses a partial GripKnit with synthetic overlays.
• The Elite has a higher price point ($275 vs ~$200) and better materials overall.

Phantom GX Elite vs Phantom GX Academy

• The Academy model uses a synthetic upper with no GripKnit, significantly reducing cost but also performance.
• The soleplate is also lower quality, making it less responsive on firm ground.

Phantom GX Elite vs Phantom GX Elite 2

• The GX 2 introduces an updated soleplate with a modified stud pattern and new colorways.
• Lockhart Boot Blog reports that Nike widened the last on the GX 2, making it more suitable for wider feet.
• The GX 2 upper is reportedly stickier than the original GX, with raised ribs for increased touch.

Three models, two clear splits: the Elite is for max performance, the Pro for a balance of cost and feel, the Academy for budget buyers. The GX 2 refines fit and grip.

The pattern: Nike is iterating on the GX formula, not reinventing it. The GX 2 addresses the biggest complaint about the original (narrow fit) while improving upper stickiness.

What technologies and features does the Phantom GX Elite offer?

GripKnit upper technology

• GripKnit is a knitted textile with a sticky surface coating that enhances ball control.
• Soccer Reviews For You describes it as “a sticky GripKnit material with a soft, sock-like feel and additional grip on the ball.”
• The upper uses raised ribs to increase ball feel, according to Lockhart Boot Blog.

Soleplate and traction pattern

• The soleplate is designed for firm ground pitches, with conical studs for balanced traction.
• An artificial grass (AG) version is also available; Lockhart Boot Blog states the AG soleplate has not changed from the previous generation.
• FourFourTwo notes the soleplate provides good grip even on wet surfaces.

Lacing system and comfort features

• Lace-up closure with an internal tongue for a clean striking surface.
• ProDirectSport describes the fit as true to size and comfortable out of the box.

Three technologies, one theme: everything on the GX Elite is engineered for control. The GripKnit upper is the headline act; the soleplate and lacing system support it.

The catch: GripKnit uppers have become more common across Nike’s lineup. As FourFourTwo points out, the GX 2’s grip is less exceptional relative to the original GX because grip-enhanced uppers are now standard on competing models.

Is the Nike Phantom GX Elite worth the price?

Five competing boots, one comparison: how does the GX Elite stack up against the Adidas Predator Elite and Puma Future Ultimate?

The implication: the Phantom GX Elite is a premium control boot that justifies its price if ball feel is your top priority. Players who value speed or shooting power may find better value in the Predator Elite or a lighter model.

What are the best alternatives to the Phantom GX Elite?

Adidas Predator Elite

• Adidas positions the Predator Elite for players who want precision in striking and passing.
• Features a HybridTouch 2.0 upper with rubber strike zones.

Puma Future Ultimate

• Puma touts the Future Ultimate’s adaptive FUZIONFIT+ upper for a custom fit.
• Often preferred by players who need flexibility and comfort across foot shapes.

New Balance Furon v7 Elite

• New Balance’s speed-focused boot, lighter than the Phantom GX Elite.
• Designed for attackers who prioritise acceleration and agility.

Three alternatives, one pattern: each competitor targets a different strength. The Phantom GX Elite remains the clearest choice for pure control, but the Predator Elite offers more shooting power and the Future Ultimate a more adaptable fit.

For the control-first buyer in the US market, the Phantom GX Elite (especially the GX 2) is the safest pick. For everyone else, the choice is clear: buy the boot that matches your playing style, or buy the GX Elite and adapt your game to its touch.

Expert perspectives on the Phantom GX Elite

“Raise your game in Phantom.”

— Nike official product description

“For tight spaces, grippy touch, sharp turning.”

— ProDirect Soccer description

“Combines the best features of its predecessors.”

— 11teamsports editorial

Three quotes, one take: the Phantom GX Elite is consistently described as a boot for technical, tight-space play. No one calls it a speed boot or a striking boot—it owns the control lane.

Related reading: Nike Phantom GX 2 Elite FG Mad Ready Pack Review · Nike Phantom GX 2 Elite AG Review – A Step Forward for the GX

For additional perspectives on the Nike Phantom GX Elite, see this Nike Phantom GX Elite review from CelebrityWire.

Frequently asked questions