UPDATE SEPTEMBER 12, 2024: The ANTA KAI 1 “Twin Flame” edition will be available exclusively for purchase at ANTA.com, Foot Locker, and Dicks Sporting Goods on September 28th, 2024.
Technical Features and Performance Innovation courtesy of Anta:
The ANTA KAI 1 “Twin Flame” edition goes beyond its meaningful design, featuring cutting-edge performance technology developed to meet the demands of high-level athletes like Kyrie:
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Lightweight, High-Strength Engineered Mesh: The shoe is crafted with high-strength, lightweight engineered mesh that enhances agility for quicker movement on the court, while providing exceptional durability for enduring high-level play.
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Heat-Pressed Reinforcements: Strategic heat-pressed reinforcements deliver targeted support where athletes need it most, especially during lateral movements and quick directional changes.
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Midfoot Webbing for Support: The midfoot webbing keeps the foot securely locked in place, providing additional stability during aggressive cuts and explosive drives, essential for Kyrie’s fast-paced playing style.
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Feather Blade TPU for Lateral Stability: A Feather Blade TPU piece enhances lateral stability, helping to secure the foot during sharp, fast movements, ensuring control and precision on the court.
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Nitro-Edge Full-Length Cushioning: The shoe features ANTA’s advanced Nitro-Edge technology for responsive cushioning throughout the full length of the midsole. This ensures maximum comfort and energy return with every step, helping athletes stay competitive for the full duration of the game.
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Forefoot Rubber Outsole: Designed to handle Kyrie’s signature moves, including planting, banking, and sudden stops, the forefoot rubber outsole provides unparalleled grip. The tribal-inspired “Enlightened Warrior” traction pattern ensures multi-directional control for explosive and smooth gameplay.
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Toe Spring and Breathable Upper: The sleek toe spring enhances the athlete’s connection to the court, offering a natural, controlled feel during play. The breathable mesh upper, combined with 3D neoprene pillows inside, provides optimal comfort while preventing heel slippage, and a padded heel counter adds extra ventilation and support.
Kyrie Irving’s return to Boston for the NBA Finals is one of the biggest basketball storylines of the NBA Finals. The Dallas Maverick’s star has downplayed it and expressed appreciation for his time with the Celtics. In addition to the growth that took place due to his up and down time in Boston, Irving has shared the personal connection he and his family have to the city. His father, Dred, and his late mother, Elizabeth, met at Boston University, where they were both student-athletes. The bond between his parents will be honored on new Anta KAI 1 Speed signature sneakers that Irvinng debuts during Game 1. The “Twin Flame” colorway honors his parent’s relationship and their beginnings in Boston. The Anta KAI 1 Speed is a follow-up to his debut KAI 1 sneaker that has quickly gained popularity amongst sneakerheads and basketball players since debuting earlier this year.
The KAI 1 Speed maintains the overall shape of the KAI 1, with the most noticeable difference being the absence of the mid-foot strap. The “Twin Flame” colorway uses purple to represent Dred, Orange to symbolize Elizabeth, and pink to showcase the combined energy and love that created Kyrie. The toe box embroidery honors Kyrie and Elizabeth’s Native American roots, a theme common in the Anta x Kyrie line. Release information for the KAI 1 Speed has not been disclosed.