Matt Varga Updated October 21st, 2024: ANTA has officially announced the KAI 1 Speed “Tribe,” confirming it as an US-exclusive release. While these shots confirm the colorway we first reported, the Chinese brand shares select details about its inspiration; the “distinctive tribe pattern [connects] the shoe to Kyrie’s cultural roots,” while the full profile provides a “cohesive… representation of family, heritage and unity.”
The ANTA KAI 1 Speed “Tribute” releases on October 26th in men’s ($125) and grade school sizing ($100) via ANTA.com and Foot Locker. Check out the new official images included ahead.
WHERE TO BUY
ANTA KAI 1 Speed "Tribe"
US 10/26/2024 Saturday
| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| DICK'S | Standard | Check Site |
| Foot Locker | Standard | Check Site |
On a shortlist of “most unexpected sneaker headlines,” Kyrie Irving made serious waves by granting his father, Drederick Irving, his own signature line. Announced during the height of the NBA Finals, the younger Irving would sport the ANTA KAI 1 Speed on-court later that same day, but it took until the end September for the model to get a public release. As the ANTA KAI franchise continues growing in terms of silhouettes and demographics, the ANTA KAI 1 Speed nabs a “Tribe” colorway that branches out on both ends.
Now that the shoe has landed at stores, it’s easier to parse exactly what the Speed brings to the table. Intended to be an outdoor foil to the KAI 1 proper, the multi-direction traction pattern underfoot is crafted with durable rubber able to stand up to the wear & tear of cement surfaces. That’s partially the reason for the homage to Dred; the model draws from the father-son duo’s driveway battles in Kyrie’s adolescence.
The first edition of the Speed to grace Grade School sizing, this “Tribe” colorway mints a new nocturnal base on the upper, a shockingly rare conservative formula given the KAI’s typical colorful leanings. The next point of innovation is the triangular pattern that takes up the mesh towards the forefoot, blending a dazzling kaleidoscope that almost resembles the “Mother’s Day” colorway from back in May.
The ANTA KAI 1 Speed “Tribe” releases on October 26th. While retailers have only listed grade school sizing ($100), a launch in men’s will likely come alongside.
