ANTA Steps onto The Running Event Stage with Kenenisa Bekele and Nitrogen-Powered Shoes

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ANTA Steps onto The Running Event Stage with Kenenisa Bekele and Nitrogen-Powered Super Shoes

ANTA is using its debut at The Running Event (TRE) in SAN ANTONIO to signal serious intent in global performance running, unveiling a new lineup built on ANTA Nitrogen Tech and fronted by long‑distance legend Kenenisa Bekele. Founded in 1991, ANTA Sports Products Limited now ranks among the world’s top three sportswear companies and is leaning on high‑tech racing shoes and community‑driven storytelling to support its international expansion.

TRE debuts with nitrogen-powered racers

From December 2–4, 2025, ANTA Running made its first appearance at The Running Event, a key North American trade show for running and outdoor specialty retailers. The brand showcased its professional lineup to a global audience of brands, manufacturers, retailers, and experts, including special colorways designed around runner culture to speak directly to core enthusiasts.

At the centre of the booth was a trio of carbon-plated racing models powered by ANTA Nitrogen Tech: the ANTA C202 7, ANTA C202 G9 2, and ANTA C10 PRO 2. All three shoes are designed to balance high rebound with low weight, offering accessible race‑day performance for a wide range of ability levels.

ANTA ZONE 2 90 and PG7 daily trainers

Also in the spotlight was the “ANTA ZONE 2 90”, recently worn by the first torchbearer of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Equipped with full‑length ANTA Nitrogen 90 Tech, the shoe is positioned as a bridge between daily training and race‑day efforts, giving runners premium rebound in a more versatile package.

For everyday miles, ANTA highlighted its next‑generation cushioning platform: PG7 midsole technology. The ANTA PG7 running shoes, available in multiple color options, use this max‑cushion platform to serve the daily needs of the running community, complementing the more aggressive, carbon‑plated racing line.

“Awaken” color story and lion ceremony

A dedicated Color Story Zone at TRE explored designs rooted in real runner stories and cultural references. Making its global debut at the show, the ANTA C-Series “Awaken” colorway is described as a symbol of good fortune and forward motion for runners.

On December 3, ANTA Brand CEO Samuel Tsui, ANTA Running Ambassador Kenenisa Bekele, and other leaders joined an “Eye‑Dotting Ceremony” to “awaken” the lion, a traditional ritual meant to bless runners with strength, victory, and continual self‑improvement when racing in ANTA’s C-Series footwear. The ceremony drew significant interest, with attendees lining up to try the special‑edition model and engage with the story behind the colorway.

Community building and global rollout

Beyond products, ANTA used its TRE debut to underline its recent community and endorsement plays. The brand has signed NBA stars such as Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson, as well as multiple Olympic champions, as part of its global push. In distance running, Kenenisa Bekele set the masters (40+) marathon world record in the ANTA C10 PRO, giving the shoe strong performance credibility.

In 2025, ANTA launched the “ANTA PG7 Cushion Evolution Global Plan”, activating local running communities in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Boston through group runs and product trials. An upcoming Beverly Hills store in Los Angeles is expected to further expand global access to ANTA products and storytelling around ANTA Nitrogen Tech and PG7 cushioning.

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RETAILBOSS provides well-curated, research-driven news and insights into the trends and business aspects of the rapidly evolving retail industry.