Xtep Announces Global Launch of 160X 8.0 Marathon Shoe Series

Xtep, identified as China’s leading professional sportswear brand, will roll out its flagship marathon running shoe series, the 160X 8.0, to the global market on 21 August 2026. The top‑tier model in the series, the 160X 8.0 Ultra, incorporates a newly developed GT1200 premium carbon plate, marking the first use of high‑grade carbon‑fiber technology in performance footwear.

Technical Innovation and Partnership

The GT1200 carbon plate was created through a joint research and development collaboration between Xtep and Zhongfu Shenying, a leading Chinese carbon‑fiber manufacturer. The partnership began in October 2025, focusing on adapting aerospace‑grade GT1200 material—previously used in deep‑space exploration, aviation manufacturing, and high‑end medical devices—for athletic applications. The plate consists of 12 K carbon‑fiber filaments that are finer than a human hair, delivering ten times the strength of steel while weighing only one‑quarter as much. An outer layer of PI‑fiber gold protective coating is applied to cushion impact, prevent fiber breakage, and enhance overall stability and durability.

Performance Benefits

According to Xtep, the GT1200‑powered Ultra provides comprehensive upgrades across three core performance dimensions: ultra‑lightweight construction, superior support, and high‑energy rebound. These attributes are intended to meet the high‑intensity demands of professional marathon runners, offering explosive propulsion and efficient energy return.

Historical Achievements of the 160X Series

Since its inception, the 160X series has been used by more than 140 runners who together have secured over 620 race titles in major marathon events worldwide, establishing the line’s reputation among elite athletes.

X‑RUN Community Programme

Xtep also highlights its X‑RUN programme, designed to serve runners across the spectrum—from elite professionals to recreational enthusiasts—through four core pillars:

  • Elite Runner Program: Provides top global runners with full professional racing gear, guaranteed entry, and accommodation for premier Chinese marathons; registration is currently open for the Taiyuan Marathon and Shenyang Marathon.
  • 10KM Time Trial: Offers a competitive platform for serious runners, featuring limited‑edition professional gear and a high‑level 10 km race environment.
  • PB Master Program: Incentivises the broader marathon community by sponsoring footwear and apparel and awarding cash prizes for new personal‑best performances.
  • X‑RUN Camp: Targets first‑time marathon participants and athletes seeking performance breakthroughs, delivering professional coaching and systematic training programs.

The programme operates on a “retail channels + community operations + digital communication” model, converting Xtep’s offline stores into runner hubs, partnering with regional running communities, and fostering localized brand engagement.

Strategic Outlook

Xtep’s dual‑track development strategy combines deepening in‑house R&D of professional running shoes—leveraging China’s mature high‑end materials supply chain—to narrow the technology gap with leading international sportswear brands, while simultaneously nurturing elite athlete support and grassroots running culture through the X‑RUN programme. The company aims to position the 160X 8.0 Ultra as a benchmark for Chinese‑made racing footwear on global marathon courses.

Executive Quote

"Ten years of relentless innovation have shaped Xtep's technology ecosystem," said Alex, Senior Director of Xtep X‑Lab. "We hope to empower every runner to go faster and farther through the power of science."

Contact and Distribution

The press release was distributed by PRNewswire on 14 August 2026. Interested runners can follow Xtep’s overseas social channels on Instagram (@xtepofficial) and Facebook (@Xtep) for event details and registration information.