Introduction: In 2015, Xtep sponsored 17 top-tier domestic marathons; in 2016, it sponsored 24 top-tier domestic marathons, making it the brand with the most marathon sponsorships in Greater China. In August 2016, Xtep became the official partner of the Chinese Athletics Association and the China Marathon, working together to promote the development of marathons in China. On March 21, 2016, Xtep established China's first runner's festival—the 321 Running Festival. Members of the Xtep Running Club's special forces team even became a highlight on marathon tracks.

Xtep 2017 Spring New Speed 160 Men's and Women's Running Shoes Professional Marathon Running Shoes Men's Blue and Green

¥499.00

Xtep 2017 Spring New Speed 160 Men's and Women's Running Shoes Professional Marathon Running Shoes Women's Blue and Green

¥499.00

In 2016, Xtep launched the ultra-light running shoe 'Speed 160'. The shoe weighs 160 grams for a single shoe in size 41, hence the name 'Speed 160'. In 2017, Xtep launched the Xiamen Marathon commemorative version of the Speed 160 running shoes at the Xiamen Marathon, and in March, it launched the Chongqing Marathon commemorative version of the Speed 160 running shoes at the Chongqing Marathon. Although marathon commemorative running shoes are common, this is the first time a domestic brand like Xtep has launched city marathon commemorative running shoes. This indicates that Xtep running shoes have been recognized by marathon events and participants.

Next, let me take you through the experience of the Chongqing Marathon commemorative version of the Speed 160 running shoes.

The tongue features the logo of the Chongqing International Marathon, and the landmark patterns of the Chongqing Marathon surround the heel. The mesh upper is dotted with colorful spots, and the lightweight cushioned outsole gives a light and fast feel, fitting the definition of lightweight racing running shoes.

The knitted mesh upper is breathable and soft, with surrounding thermoplastic strips for aesthetic support. The 'X' shaped logo on the shoe waist also provides support.

The tongue is made of synthetic leather, a large single piece that feels as delicate and soft as leather, with small breathable holes. When the laces are tightened, the instep feels the softness and breathability of the tongue, which is the best I've felt so far.

The toe and heel are also very soft, without using hard plastic strips for support, instead using softer mesh fabric. Overall, the entire shoe is very soft.

The forefoot and heel of the outsole are covered with a layer of wear-resistant rubber, and the tread design ensures grip and stability. The midsole cushioning layer has two hard plastic strips embedded to ensure the shoe's stability. The honeycomb design on the side of the midsole cushioning layer is a recent trend, providing energy absorption and release.

The insole is glued too tightly to be removed. The heel-to-toe offset marked on the insole indicates the difference between the front and rear heel, which is 4mm for the Xtep Speed 160. A smaller heel-to-toe offset value means it's easier to land on the forefoot, and 4mm is a relatively standard value for racing running shoes.

I tested a size 43 running shoe, with a single shoe weighing 188 grams. Interestingly, when I put on the shoes, the scale couldn't detect my weight. Does this prove the lightweight nature of the Xtep Speed 160 running shoes?

After putting on the shoes, I stomped in place. The GIF shows some cushioning of the shoes.

Observing the shoes from different angles while running in place, I checked the wrapping and stability of the shoes. From my experience, although the Xtep Speed 160 appears to have a narrow last, the forefoot has plenty of room, and it doesn't feel tight at all. Additionally, due to the material and craftsmanship of the tongue, the instep feels very comfortable, and the overall wrapping is quite good.

These pictures show the stability and support of the shoes. The Xtep Speed 160 has excellent grip, which is very noticeable during uphill tests. The shoes don't deform during turns, indicating good support.

For the first run, I used the shoes for a half marathon. Although I didn't run fast, there was no annoying break-in period. The shoes felt great immediately, and the breathability was excellent, thanks to the design and material of the tongue.

As a racing running shoe, I had to test it at a faster pace. I ran a 10km and a 2km organized by my workplace. If I could maintain the pace shown in the 10km picture for a full marathon, I could finish under 3:30. However, my personal best is 3:45, and I'm currently far from 3:30. The Speed 160 feels light when lifting and landing the foot, and the landing is not harsh. Compared to another ultra-light shoe I tried, the Speed 160 is much more comfortable.

After approximately 70km of road running tests, the outsole wear is negligible. The Speed 160 can also be used as a daily speed training running shoe.

The tongue design of the Xtep Speed 160 running shoes is the best I've seen, directly enhancing breathability and comfort. The outsole's excellent grip improves the shoe's support and stability. Additionally, the shoes perform well in terms of lightweight and cushioning. The 4mm heel-to-toe offset is designed for marathon racing runners. The price of ¥499 is also within the industry average, with the added commemorative significance of the Xiamen Marathon and Chongqing Marathon.

If you're looking for a marathon racing running shoe, consider the Xtep Speed 160 city marathon commemorative version.