It's that soggy, perpetual twilight time of year we're all a bit weary of, isn't it? But never you mind, your steady football fix is here to keep your spirits afloat. We're now into the third act of the FA Cup drama this week.
And to ensure none of the footy action unfolding on our pitches across the nation is lost to you, the good folks at Mitre have pulled the cloak off their 23/24 Fluo Ultimax official match ball. Despite Mother Nature's surprising choice of constant rain over snow this year, the high-visibility balls have comfortably found their groove in the UK's winter fixtures.
Staying true to this trend, Mitre has launched the latest Fluo iteration of the Ultimax Pro - the honcho amongst official FA Cup match balls. Keen-eyed observers will notice that while the design is of the same lineage as last season's, the 23/24 version sports a nifty grey block panel nestled underneath the brand's signature chevrons, which this year are bedecked in fiery red, a bold shift from last season's understated grey/black combo.
Underneath its stylish exterior lies a thermally bonded four-panel structure. The ball employs the Dual Hyperfoam technology, supplying ample power behind each strike. Its debossed Hyperflow surface cleverly alters airflow, lending more precision to shots and passes. And thanks to the Hyperseam technology, the ball enjoys the dual perks of both stitching and bonding - essential for keeping water uptake at bay amidst England's famously damp weather.
Topping it all, this ball has received FIFA Quality Pro approval and boasts an impressive durability rate that's now 32 percent higher. Eagerly awaiting its maiden voyage, the ball is set to jazz up tonight's game, showcasing its skills while Crystal Palace plays host to Everton.
Mitre isn't just stopping at the pinnacle level Ultimax Pro. They're going all out and have crafted two striking interpretations of the FA Cup ‘Match’ ball and the FA Cup ‘Train’ ball. Dazzling in warm similarities to the visuals of the Ultimax, they each bear a simplified yet intentional design, representative of technology made attainable.
Elevate your game by purchasing the eagerly anticipated Mitre Ultimax 23/24 ball. Follow on, love.