The Xtep 160X 8.0 PRO is Xtep’s latest flagship carbon-plated marathon racing shoe, released in August 2026. As the eighth-generation upgrade of this award-winning lineage, it is engineered for elite marathoners targeting a sub-3:30 finish and high-cadence runners. This generation focuses on extreme weight reduction and structural re-engineering — delivering the lightest shoe in the 160X 8.0 family at just 179g (Men’s EU 41).

At a launch event hosted at Key Power Sports’ Marina Square outlet on 4th October 2026, invited guests shared their experience in using the Xtep 160X 8.0 PRO, as well as their knowledge and experience in training.

Guest speakers present at the launch:

(Left) – Chris Timms – Founder of SG Falcons Running Club and experienced ultra runner.

(Right) – Coach Joe Goh – National Schools Track & Field Coach, working with middle-distance and race-walk athletes.

 

– Raeshon Loo – National Decathlete, competing across sprint, jump and throw events.

 

 

 

– Genevieve Ang – Hybrid athlete across trail running, marathons, duathlon and HYROX.

 

 

 

– Adrian Ng – Head Coach Singapore Cycling Federation and of X-Run Singapore, leading the training approach behind our X-Run Training Camp.

 

 

Specification

Upper

Lightweight engineered mesh upper with a women-specific last option, featuring targeted optimizations for bunion relief and drop adjustments for female runners.

Midsole — Dual-Density XTEP ACE Foam

Utilizes a dual-layer supercritical foam setup for the ultimate combination of cushioning and propulsion. The upper layer is softer (38°) for bouncy energy return, while the lower layer is firmer (42°) for structural support and stability at marathon pace. A strategic midsole pressure-relief window disperses impact forces and smooths the heel-to-toe transition.

Carbon Plate — Aerospace-Grade GT700

Features a specially tuned full-length GT700 carbon plate that maximizes forefoot propulsion while providing excellent mid-to-rearfoot stability — a significant upgrade over the guided T700 plate found in the standard 160X 8.0.

Outsole — XTEP DURA CPU Rubber

Upgraded XTEP DURA outsole provides superior wet and dry grip with an exceptional durability lifespan of over 2,000 kilometers — among the best in the elite racing flat category.

160X 8.0 Family Comparison

160X 8.0 ULTRA — Top-tier GT1200 Carbon | ~182g | Premium | Elite athletes chasing absolute PBs
160X 8.0 PRO — Aerospace GT700 Carbon | ~179g (Lightest) | Mid-High | Sub-3:30 marathoners seeking light weight & high cadence
160X 8.0 Standard — Guided T700 Carbon | ~184g | Entry-Race | Advanced runners over 3:30 needing higher forgiveness

Key Specs

Weight: 179g (Men’s US 8 / EU 41) — 17% lighter than predecessor
Stack Height: Dual-density XTEP ACE foam with pressure-relief window
Drop: Optimized for high cadence marathon racing

Xtep’s Norwegian product page lists the stack height and drop as:
Heel: 36.7 mm
Forefoot: 30.5 mm

Key Features

  • Carbon-fiber plate — helps provide strong propulsion and a snappy toe-off.
  • High-performance foam midsole — designed to balance cushioning, responsiveness and energy return.
  • Lightweight construction — built to reduce weight during faster running.
  • Racing-oriented geometry — encourages an efficient forward transition.
  • Road-racing focus — suitable for tempo runs, intervals, long-distance speed sessions and races.
  • Best suited for: experienced runners looking for a fast, performance-focused shoe.

The launch ended with a group photo before heading out for a run around the Marina area.

Participants were given a chance to try out a pair of Xtep shoes for the run.

The whole group gathered for a quick warm up before a short run around the Marina Bay area.