A Close-Up Look at a Dallas Cowboys’ Cleat

Here’s a close-up look at the cleat he has worn for every single game as a pro.

The Model

Nike Mercurial Vapor IV, issued to him by Oklahoma State after joining the team as a walk-on, in 2007. Bailey scored two backup pairs of the same model off eBay and is always on the lookout for more, just in case.

1. Smells surprisingly fresh for a shoe worn during 100-plus games.

2. Warped from the impact of the pigskin.

3. Scuffed from sweeping against rubber pellets embedded in the turf.

4. Matching left shoe bit the dust when the outer-rear cleat ripped off right before a preseason game in August.

5. Layers of glue reinforce the outsole and the glass fiber interior.