Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta MIJ Boot Breakdown
Speed meets craftsmanship.
The Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta MIJ
The Mizuno Morelia Neo series has long been a benchmark for players looking for the best quality leather football boots. With the Morelia Neo IV Beta Made In Japan, Mizuno continues its philosophy of incremental improvements, refining what already made this boot a standout choice. The latest version introduces a stiffer soleplate, an improved knit upper, and a reshaped heel counter, all designed to further improve fit and responsiveness without straying from the classic Morelia DNA.
Built for players who value close ball control, lightweight agility, and premium craftsmanship, the Neo IV Beta is a strong option that remains favourable among wingers, attacking midfielders, and fullbacks reliant on sharp movements and quick feet.
Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta MIJ Key Information
Handcrafted in Japan with truly superior materials, the Morelia Neo IV Beta MIJ sits well in the highest reaches of the football boot market. It features two different fits: Firm Ground (FG) and Soft Ground (SG), depending on the surface. The more affordable Elite (£185-£195) is also available, retaining many similarities at a lower price point.
For players on tighter budgets, though, the Morelia Neo IV Pro (£110-£125) offers a leather-focused counterpart with slightly lesser premium materials used, while entry-level Morelia Neo IV Club (£50-£70) offers a budget take on the series so that Mizuno's signature fit and comfort feel accessible at any level of the game.
Who Wears the Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta MIJ?
Although Mizuno doesn't hold the lion's share of the European market, the Neo IV Beta series is widely accepted among professional players in Japan's J-League and players from different national teams. It is perfectly fitted for agile, technical players since it is equipped with a leather forefoot combined with a snug, speed-focused fit. The lightweight construction and natural touch on the ball make it an attractive option for wingers, playmakers, and fullbacks alike.
Upper Material & Fit
The boot features a premium K-leather upper combined with a BareFoot Knit midfoot, creating a hybrid between a traditional leather boot and a modern speed boot. The leather in the forefoot is exceptionally soft, providing a natural, barefoot-like touch on the football, while the knit midfoot offers a more locked-in fit.
The redesigned heel counter provides improved lockdown, though it requires a short break-in period. The boot fits snugly across the entire foot, offering excellent arch support and eliminating pressure points. The deep lacing system ensures a secure fit for different foot shapes, though it remains best suited for those who prefer a closer, second-skin feel.
Soleplate & Stud Configuration
Mizuno has refined the midfoot stiffness in the soleplate to improve stability and responsiveness. The conical stud configuration allows great rotational movement and versatility on both natural and artificial grass surfaces. Some may wish for a more aggressive traction pattern, but as it is, the setup preserves the reputation of the boot being comfortable and adaptable.
Weight & Performance
The Morelia Neo IV Beta isn’t just light—it’s one of the lightest leather football boots in the game. Speed boot energy, leather boot touch. Every movement feels sharper, every touch more connected. And while it’s featherlight, Mizuno’s craftsmanship means it’s more dependable than most football boots out there.
Comfort & Protection
Locked in, built to move. The Morelia Neo IV Beta Japan delivers comfort where you need it, featuring a faux suede heel liner for cushioning and improved heel lockdown for a secure fit. The thin insole keeps you close to the pitch, and while the leather upper adds some natural protection, this boot is all about speed, agility, and control.
Alternatives & Comparison
The Morelia Neo IV Beta Japan belongs to an exclusive class of its own, combining all the classiness of old leather boots and lacing up for some great speed. Compared with the Morelia Neo IV Beta Elite, this Japan version provides a slightly higher material class with excellent craftsmanship, but the Elite is a bit softer straight out of the box and more affordable.
Why pick between speed and touch when you can have both? The Morelia Neo IV Beta Japan takes the explosive pace of a Mercurial, the agility of an F50, and the smooth leather feel of a Copa, making it one of the best all-round boots in the game.
Final Verdict – Is the Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta MIJ Worth It?
Elegance in motion. The Morelia Neo IV Beta Japan pairs elite leather with modern speed, giving you featherlight touch, pure comfort, and effortless control—the way football should feel.
