Kyrie Irving’s First Time Beating His Dad 1-on-1 Inspires the Newest Anta Kai Shoe
Anta has released a new family-focused colorway of the Kai 1 Speed, one of the brand’s court-ready shoes under NBA star Kyrie Irving’s signature range.
The latest iteration of the Kai 1 Speed is “Pass the Torch,” a look Anta described as being inspired by the athlete’s “pivotal moment of triumph over his father, Dred, in a one-on-one game.” What’s more, Anta stated the “Pass the Torch” shoe “symbolizes the passing of the torch from one generation to the next, celebrating hard work, perseverance and the unbreakable bond of family.”
“This drop isn’t just about the shoe — it’s about the moments that define us and the people who shape us,” Irving said in a statement. “‘Pass the Torch’ is a tribute to my father and all the lessons he’s passed down. It’s an honor to share this story with the world through the Kai 1.”
To execute this theme, Anta created gray speckled uppers, which the brand said is a nod to “the textured pavement of the Irving family’s driveway.” Also, the shoe features hits of red, yellow and orange throughout, according to Anta, to “evoke the image of a torch’s flame, embodying the fiery passion, energy and competitive spirit that have fueled Kyrie’s journey.” What’s more, the brand stated the colors also reflect “the theme of passing the torch, representing the transmission of wisdom, perseverance and inspiration from one generation to the next.”
In terms of tech, the Kai 1 Speed is built with breathable mesh uppers, anti-slip rubber outsoles, padded mesh heel counters, the brand’s responsive full-palm nitrogen midsoles and lateral TPU support.
The Anta Kai 1 Speed “Pass the Torch” is available via Anta.com and Footlocker.com, as well as Foot Locker stores in the U.S., Europe and Canada. Retail price is $125.
After weeks of speculation, Anta confirmed in July 2023 that it had signed Irving, who was previously a Nike signature athlete. At the time of the announcement, Anta stated Irving would not only have a signature product line, but the athlete would also serve as its chief creative officer of basketball.
About the Author
Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.