Beijing – September 07, 2026 -- Chinese outdoor footwear brand CGX has unveiled two new obstacle racing shoes, the R1010 and R1020, debuting them on the opening day of the UIPM 2026 Obstacle World Championships in Beijing, running September 2-6. The Chinese Modern Pentathlon Obstacle Race Team wore the shoes in international competition for the first time as part of the event.
The championships, part of UIPM's Race Across China series, feature athletes racing 100m, 400m and 3km formats plus relay and team events. Obstacle Racing is set to debut as an Olympic sport within the reimagined Modern Pentathlon at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
Each shoe targets a different race distance
The R1020 is built for the explosive demands of the 100m format, prioritizing fast starts, grip and quick transitions between obstacles. The R1010 is designed for 400m and 3km racing, balancing obstacle handling with cushioning and propulsion for longer efforts.
Nearly 20 athletes shaped the design over multiple prototypes
CGX CEO Nan Liu, who has more than 20 years in footwear and apparel, said he started the project after noticing no footwear existed specifically for obstacle racing. "Athletes need to run, climb, jump, land and change direction at speed," Liu said, adding that the goal was equipment suited to real course demands. Development involved feedback from nearly 20 professional athletes and more than ten mould concepts.
Five technical systems address grip, stability and containment
Both shoes use a Vibram rubber outsole with Megagrip compound and Traction Lug technology for push-off, braking, climbing and landing. A Dual-Zone Stability Midsole combines firmer support material with softer cushioning, reinforced by a stabilising plate. A Dual-Structure Heel Stability System with internal Achilles stabilisers and a U-shaped heel-lock secures the foot during starts and landings. The R1020 additionally adds Lateral Wrap Support on the upper for side-to-side control, while both models use a woven upper for containment and breathability.
Retail launch follows the championship debut
The R1010 and R1020 go on sale in China on September 7, 2026, at an introductory price of RMB 1,099 per pair. They will be available through CGX's flagship stores on Tmall, Douyin and Xiaohongshu, as well as retail locations including M Gate at West Bund Dream Center and Hongqiao Qianwan INCITY in Shanghai, Shanghai Xinjia Center, and Wushang Dream Plaza in Wuhan. CGX said it will keep refining the range using athlete feedback from ongoing training and competition.