Anta Kai SPEED 2 - Black Warrior
The all-black upper is paired with a gradient green/blue-purple TPU coating that has a metallic sheen. This design breaks the monotony of pure black, continuing the “Black Warrior”'s dirt-resistant attribute while enhancing visual depth through color accents. The low-top design, combined with a widened forefoot and spherical outsole contour, optimizes the fluidity during directional changes and breakthroughs, perfectly matching Irving's signature quick start-and-stop playing style.
The side elastic straps and the U-shaped memory foam at the heel form a dual-system fit, addressing the issue of a loose forefoot in the previous generation. Even users with narrow feet can enjoy a snug fit, while also avoiding heel lift. Core performance:
Midsole Technology
The full-length nitrogen midsole, made from supercritical foaming material, provides a “soft yet supportive” feel. The energy return rate is 23% higher than that of ordinary EVA. It offers noticeable assistance during takeoff and effectively cushions impacts upon landing. After continuous jumping, there is no significant soreness in the knees.
The midsole height is reduced, retaining 70% of the cushioning performance while enhancing the ground feel by 30%. The feedback from pushing off the ground during breakthroughs is more direct, making it suitable for lightweight players who rely on quick moves.
Torsion and Support
The half-length carbon fiber plate in the midfoot balances torsion resistance and flexibility, preventing arch collapse during directional changes without sacrificing the forefoot's bending freedom.
The extended anti-rollover design on the outer side of the forefoot and the encircling TPU at the heel form a protective loop. During intense directional changes, ankle stability is significantly improved, reducing the risk of ankle sprains.
Traction and Durability
The outsole features a wave pattern combined with radial lines, inspired by racing tires, and is paired with a highly durable rubber compound. Even when the indoor wooden floor is dusty, it can still achieve an 85° sharp turn without slipping. On outdoor rubber courts, the friction sound is clearly audible.
After three months of outdoor testing, the full-length thick rubber outsole has only worn down by 15%. Its durability is superior to that of conventional XDR outsoles, making it an ideal choice for playing on concrete courts.
On-Court Experience: The Perfect Balance of Flexibility and Protection
Directional Changes and Breakthroughs
The forefoot's supercritical nitrogen foaming material has a rebound rate of 75%, combined with a 6mm curved rolling design. This ensures quick and agile starts without any sluggishness. The ground feedback is highly responsive during crossover moves.
The composite outsole pattern firmly grips the ground, preventing slipping even when the indoor court is dusty. The “squeaking” sound of the sole during sudden stops boosts confidence in breakthroughs.
Jumping and Landing
The rearfoot nitrogen technology + ETPU cushioning module ensures that a 70kg player feels no knee impact during continuous jumping for rebounds. The soft yet supportive feel balances ground contact and protection.
The dual-system fit (side straps + heel memory foam) locks the foot securely during takeoff and sudden stops. After two hours of intense play, there is no heel lift.
Suitable Scenarios
Directional Change Master: The spherical outsole and widened forefoot design significantly enhance the fluidity of in&out and crossover moves.
Shooting Enthusiast: The improved energy return rate of the midsole increases jump height by 1-2cm, making quick jump shots easier.
Outdoor Players: The durable rubber outsole and water-resistant design make it suitable for complex environments like concrete courts and rainy days.
Fashion Players: The all-black upper with subtle accents can easily be paired with tracksuits or tapered pants, achieving a seamless transition from the “court to the street.”
Brand: Anta
Name: Anta Kai SPEED 2-Black Warrior
SKU: 912541114S-1
Main color: Black
Release date: September 22, 2025
Upper material: Fabric, synthetic leather
Sole materials: Rubber,EVA,TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)
Toe style: Round toe
Heel type: Thick sole
Upper height: Low upper
Functionality: Shock absorption, anti-slip, wear-resistant
Style: Practical Combat
Applicable seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter
Closing method: Lacing