XTEP 160X 7.0 vs Xtep 260X 2.0
Buy the 160X 7.0 if you race or run marathon-paced workouts and want the stiffer, more propulsive carbon-plate ride. Buy the 260X 2.0 if you want a carbon-plated trainer for daily and long miles at a lower price. The 160X 7.0 is $143.00 at KICKSOWN as of the listing date; the 260X 2.0 is $130.00 at Novelship as of the listing date, so the 260X 2.0 costs $13 less.
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XTEP 160X 7.0
Choose the 160X 7.0 if your training is race-focused and you want a firmer, more aggressive plate underfoot for tempo runs and race day.
Pros
- Race-oriented carbon-plate platform built for marathon training and racing
- Clear men's size range from US 6.5 to 12
- Clean white and green colorway
- Lowest-priced entry in the 160X line
Cons
- Cushioning, stack height, drop and weight are not published
- Plate grade and foam are not specified
- Firmer race build suits fewer easy days
- Fewer stability features than the 260X 2.0
What separates them
| XTEP 160X 7.0 | Xtep 260X 2.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $143.00 at KICKSOWN as of the listing date | $130.00 at Novelship as of the listing date |
| Carbon plate | Carbon plate, grade not specified | T400 carbon fiber plate |
| Midsole | Not specified | XTEPace foam, rebound energy over 85% |
| Stability features | Not specified | Hollowed-out midfoot with a midfoot shank |
| Water resistance | Not specified | Water repellent |
| Intended use | Marathon training, long distance and racing | Marathon and long-distance running |
| Sizing | Men's US 6.5 to 12 | Not specified |
| Colorway |
Price history
- XTEP 160X 7.0: lowest $230.00 on Oct 29.
- Xtep 260X 2.0: lowest $130.00 on Oct 29.
Specs compared
| Spec | XTEP 160X 7.0 | Xtep 260X 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon plate | — | T400 carbon fiber plate |
| Midfoot design | — | hollowed-out design and a midfoot shank |
| Sole material | — | Rubber |
| Outer material | — | Synthetic |
| Inner material | — | Synthetic |
| Closure type | — | Lace-Up |
| Rebound energy | — | over 85% |
| Water resistance | — | Water Repellent |
| Heel type | — | Flat |
| Sport type | — | Running |
What reviewers say
Xtep 260X 2.0
The 260X line is well regarded among runners as a value carbon-plated racer, with the plate and foam praised for pace work. Feedback on the 2.0 specifically is thinner, so treat claims as line-level rather than model-specific.
Pros
- Noticeable forward roll and pop from the plate
- Holds pace over long distances without feeling harsh
- Price undercuts major-brand plated racers
Cons
- Firm underfoot feel on easy paces
- Fit runs narrow for wider feet
- Upper runs warm in hot weather
Questions and answers
- Which is better for race day?
- The 160X 7.0. It is built around racing and marathon-paced sessions, while the 260X 2.0 is positioned as a marathon trainer with a more forgiving build.
- Which is better for daily training?
- The 260X 2.0. Its XTEPace foam, midfoot shank and water-repellent upper make it the more versatile everyday option.
- Is the 160X 7.0 worth the extra $13?
- Only if you race. The 260X 2.0 has the more detailed spec sheet and the lower price; the 160X 7.0 charges a small premium for a race-first platform.
- Which lasts longer?
- The 260X 2.0 is the safer bet. It lists a rubber outsole and water repellency; the 160X 7.0 does not publish outsole material or durability figures.
- Do both have a carbon plate?
- Yes. The 160X 7.0 lists a carbon plate without a grade; the 260X 2.0 specifies a T400 carbon fiber plate.
- Which has more sizes?
- The 160X 7.0, which lists men's US 6.5 to 12. The 260X 2.0 does not publish a size range, so check availability before ordering.