High-speed races. Adrenaline-fuelled rivalries. Skateboards defying gravity and logic in equal measure. SK8 the Infinity is an original anime that blends vibrant action with heartfelt friendships, delivering a sports series as stylish as it is emotional. Whether you’re here for the skateboarding tricks, the over-the-top underground competition, or the colourful cast of personalities, SK8 has a way of pulling you in and refusing to let go.
What is SK8 the Infinity About?
- Demographic: Shōnen
- Genres: Sports, Action, Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
- Theme: Friendship, Rivalry, Passion, Overcoming Challenges, Coming-of-Age
- Episodes: 12
- Total Watch Time: +/- 4 hours
- Type: Series
- Rating: PG-13
- Aired: 2021
- Animation Studio: bones
- English Dub: Yes
- Source: Original
- Kanji: SK∞ エスケーエイト
- Alternative Title: SK∞ (SK Eight)
- Average Platform Rating: 8/10
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, BiliBili
- Official Website
- Official Hashtags: #sk_8 #sk8anime #SK8theInfinity
- Trigger Warnings:
- Mild violence during skateboarding races
- Occasional strong language or competitive aggression
Reki Kyan, a spirited Japanese high school student and skateboarding enthusiast, spends his nights racing in a secret, high-stakes underground circuit known simply as “S.” One night, he invites a classmate, Langa Hasegawa, a quiet, half-Japanese transfer student from Canada who excels at snowboarding, to observe. Initially inexperienced, Langa is soon captivated and becomes Reki’s protégé, adapting his snowboarding skills to skateboarding. With each race, the stakes rise, friendships deepen, rivalries spark, and both boys discover just how far they’re willing to push themselves, for skateboarding and each other.
My thoughts on SK8 the Infinity
SK8 the Infinity is a high-octane, beautifully animated love letter to friendship, youth, and the exhilarating chaos of skateboarding. Created by the powerhouse duo of director Hiroko Utsumi (Free!, Banana Fish) and the renowned animation studio Bones, this original series delivers a visually stunning and emotionally charged ride through the underground skating scene.
At its core, SK8 is a story about connection. Reki Kyan, a passionate skater with a self-made spirit, finds a kindred soul in Langa Hasegawa, a soft-spoken transfer student from Canada with a snowboarding background and a quietly burning desire to rediscover joy. Their friendship blossoms not just through skateboarding but through mutual encouragement, vulnerability, and shared growth. Their dynamic is heartfelt and consistently entertaining, serving as the emotional anchor of the series.
The show’s biggest strength lies in its stylised animation, creative race choreography, and a colourful cast of expressive, unique characters—from the flamboyant and dangerous Adam, to the unexpectedly lovable Shadow. Every race at the infamous underground circuit known as “S” feels fresh and engaging. Exaggerated tricks and over-the-top flair are part of the fun, with each scene leaning into the show’s slightly absurd yet undeniably charming tone.
Visually, SK8 the Infinity is a treat. The kinetic skating sequences are fluid, gripping, and often breathtaking. Studio Bones once again demonstrates their ability to capture motion and emotion with style, delivering high-speed races that are as exciting as they are artistic. The soundtrack matches this energy with upbeat, adrenaline-pumping tracks that elevate each scene.
The heart of the show lies not just in the action, but in its characters. Reki and Langa’s contrasting personalities and evolving friendship provide a strong emotional core. As they push each other to grow, their bond becomes the true highlight of the series. Supporting characters add flavour and depth, each bringing their own quirks and motivations to the skating world. Whether it’s the competitive genius Cherry Blossom, the carefree powerhouse Joe, or the talented prodigy Miya, the ensemble cast ensures the story never drags.
That said, the series isn’t without its stumbles. Some character arcs, particularly in the second half, feel rushed or underdeveloped. The story occasionally flirts with deeper psychological and emotional territory, especially when exploring Adam’s disturbing obsession and the darker undertones of “S”, but it doesn’t always follow through. There are moments when the plot leans on familiar sports anime tropes or shifts tone too suddenly, which may leave some viewers wanting more consistency or closure.
Strengths:
- Stunning animation and exhilarating race sequences
- Well-developed main duo with strong emotional payoff
- Unique, memorable character designs and personalities
- Infectious energy and vibrant tone
- Strong soundtrack that enhances the mood
Weaknesses:
- Some plotlines feel rushed or underexplored
- Antagonist motivations border on over-the-top
- Occasional tonal whiplash between comedy and darker themes
Despite its flaws, SK8 the Infinity shines as a feel-good, adrenaline-fueled series with plenty of heart and personality. It may not reinvent the sports anime genre, but it nails the landing where it matters most: in its entertainment value, emotional resonance, and memorable cast.
Favourite Character Duo: Cherry and Joe
Cherry and Joe have known each other for years, and it shows. Their relationship isn’t built on immediate chemistry; it’s built on time, tension, and trust. Beneath all the insults and teasing is a deep familiarity and mutual respect. They’ve seen each other grow, fall, and get back up. That long-standing connection gives their scenes together an undercurrent of warmth, even when they’re arguing. They clash in just the right way—mentally, emotionally, even stylistically. But their differences don’t divide them. They enhance their dynamic. Where Cherry is cerebral, Joe is emotional. Where Joe is loud, Cherry is cutting. It’s the classic “brains vs. brawn” trope with a fresh, skateboarding twist, and I kinda ship it.
Do I Recommend SK8 the Infinity? For fans of sports anime, character-driven stories, or simply stylish, well-crafted action, SK8 the Infinity is absolutely worth watching. It’s easy to rewatch, hard to forget, and undeniably fun from start to finish.
What do you think about the anime SK8 the Infinity?
Did you fall for Reki and Langa’s friendship? Do you have a favourite “S” racer? Which SK8 race had you on the edge of your seat? Let’s chat in the comments!
My Rating: 8/10
A vibrant, high-energy ride that balances action and heart, even if it occasionally wobbles on the landing.
Rewatched 17 July 2025
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