Kyrie Infinity ‘CNY’: Hit or Miss?

In recent times, Kyrie Irving has become one of the league’s most enigmatic and controversial players. Yet, his sneaker line continues to assure us of its quality and performance. Cue the Nike Kyrie Infinity, also known as the Kyrie 8s.

Released in January 2022, the Kyrie Infinity comes in about 6 confirmed colourways. In this review, we take a good look at the Kyrie Infinity ‘CNY’.

First off, let’s examine the aesthetics, shall we? Kyries are known for having some of the most psychedelic colourways in the basketball sneaker game, and this pair is no exception. In fact, we would even consider it to be one of the tamer ones!

As one of the most adored players in East Asia, the Brooklyn Nets guard has chosen to adopt that very same Eastern influence in his sneakers. The Kyrie Infinity boasts strong jade and orange accents from along the spine, tongue and heel, before introducing cloud-like patterns on the swoosh and also the tongue branding. Familiar Irving brand logos take their usual spots on the heel and outsole, with the outsole donning a vibrant mint green with harsh splashes of teal and orange, matching the shoe blades.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Kyrie sneaker without the personal touches he seamlessly works into every one. The names of his mother and daughter, Elizabeth and Azurie, followed by their birthdays in Roman numerals, are subtly inscribed along the forefoot clip of each shoe.

Looks aside, let’s talk about performance. As with the rest of the shoes from the Kyrie lineup, the traction on this shoe holds up decently. Wearers can expect to gain a good grip of both indoor and outdoor courts, which perfectly accommodates Uncle Drew’s shifty and agile playing style.

What’s so special about the Kyrie Infinity, you may ask? Well, Nike has implemented their Zoom Strobel technology on the forefoot and heel of the sneaker, helping to provide excellent cushioning and comfort. At the risk of sounding too technical, Zoom Strobel uses pressurised air and tightly stretched fibres to absorb impact and then snap back for explosive movement, reducing stress on the muscles and tendons. Simply put, it makes you feel like you’ve got tiny trampolines in your shoes.

With regards to the material and manufacturing, users have reviewed it to be thin and breathable, and more comfortable as compared to previous Kyrie models. As for the lacing, the setup does a great job of providing support, security and lockdown for those quick changes of direction. Fit-wise, they are true to size although they can be on the slightly narrower side.

The only fault we can seem to find with this shoe (and that’s if you’re REALLY being picky) is that the rubber sole might not hold up the best on outdoor courts. However, the Kyrie’s were never explicitly advertised as an outdoor shoe, and thus would inevitably present issues with durability outside of hardwood flooring.

Lastly, the price tag on this pair might be a little steep, checking in at $219 SGD. Notwithstanding, the Kyrie Infinity is a great shoe to have whether for basketball or lifestyle, and an even better first pair for those of you just starting out!

Overall, this is a solid pair of sneakers, designed for all players, from bigs in the post to sharpshooters on the perimeter and everyone in between.

Our verdict? The Kyrie Infinity is a certified HIT!