Introducing the Li-Ning FEIDIAN 5 Ultra, Elite, and Challenger: Carbon-Plated Performance for Every Runner
- SportPlus Review
- Jun 5
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 12
The FEIDIAN 5 Series Boasts a Race-Day Ready Lineup from Li-Ning Tailored for Elites, Everyday Runners, and Newcomers Alike
In the ever-evolving world of running shoes, the carbon-plated revolution has gone from elite-only tech to everyday gear for the determined.
And while other conventional global sportswear giants have dominated the conversation, Li-Ning is making bold, confident strides with the launch of its FEIDIAN 5 Series — a trio of high-performance shoes designed to meet the needs of marathon veterans, serious amateurs, and aspiring first-timers alike.
The FEIDIAN 5 line-up includes three carbon-plated models, each tuned for a specific type of runner: the FEIDIAN 5 Ultra, aimed at sub-3-hour marathoners and podium chasers; the FEIDIAN 5 Elite, dubbed “the Vaporfly of Li-Ning” by fans for its speed and energy return; and the FEIDIAN 5 Challenger, a more accessible super trainer built for everyday runners and tempo work.
Together, they signal a new era of carbon-plated inclusivity — where elite tech is available for every pace and purpose.
FEIDIAN 5 Ultra: Built for the Bold
The FEIDIAN 5 Ultra is Li-Ning’s top-tier racing weapon — a no-compromise, high-performance shoe engineered for runners chasing personal bests under 3 hours. The Ultra is lightweight yet loaded with propulsion, thanks to its Boom Fiber™ upper coupled with dual-layer SUPER BOOM and full-length Aerospace-grade T1000 carbon plate.
With a 39.5mm heel and 31.5mm forefoot stack, the shoe rides close to World Athletics’ legal limit, delivering maximum energy return and explosive toe-offs. The ultra-light upper wraps the foot like a glove, reducing drag and dialing in precision fit for those with efficient running mechanics and aggressive race goals.
This shoe is for the most experienced runners — those who treat the marathon not as a milestone, but as a battlefield. If you’re chasing the front pack or shaving minutes off an already fast time, the FEIDIAN 5 Ultra is built for you.
Shoe Tech Highlights
SUPER BOOM: A revolutionary PEBAX-based midsole material with a density as low as 0.07g/cm3.
Carbon Plate: Full-length Aerospace-grade T1000 Carbon Plate
JIANG: An innovative shock absorption and resilience technology by combining structural shock absorption with material shock absorption, it can quickly feedback the stored energy through compression and deformation of the structure during movement, so as to make the movement rebound faster and more significant, and effectively reduce the risk of knee and ankle injuries.
Ground Control Unit (GCU): An advanced outsole technology utilising a series of specialised materials. Through different molecular structures, it resolves the conflict between slip resistance and wear resistance of traditional rubbers, achieving simultaneous improvements in both grip and durability.
Dual Stage Assist Curves: Dual-Stage Assist Curves, a structure technology deriving from the first and second assist curves, achieves a dual-stage assistance effect in the forefoot and midfoot, significantly improving the endurance of running energy.
FEIDIAN 5 Elite: Vaporfly Vibes, Everyday Accessibility
Not every runner chasing a fast marathon is ready for the harsh rigidity of a top-end racer. Enter the FEIDIAN 5 Elite, a model that balances speed with versatility, making it ideal for competitive runners aiming between 3 to 4 hour marathon finishes.
Weighing just slightly more than the Ultra, the Elite still features a full-length Aerospace-grade T1000 carbon plate and a single-layer SUPER BOOM midsole that offers responsive cushioning and excellent bounce. With a 40mm heel and 32mm forefoot stack, it meets the needs of long-distance road racers who want to go fast but still crave a touch of comfort over 42 kilometres.
“The FEIDIAN 5 Elite are meant for pure race day efforts and I think a lot of that comes down to how light and springy the Elite felt underfoot,” says Haw Jiaxuan, a 25-year-old amateur marathoner from Singapore. “It gave me the speed of a Vaporfly but with better stability. I didn’t feel beat up at the end.”
That stability comes from its wider base and well-balanced geometry, giving runners more margin for error over longer efforts. If you’ve been racing in plated shoes before and are looking for a reliable upgrade, the FEIDIAN 5 Elite hits the sweet spot between performance and control.
Shoe Tech Highlights
SUPER BOOM: A revolutionary PEBAX-based midsole material with a density as low as 0.07g/cm3.
Carbon Plate: Full-length Aerospace-grade T1000 Carbon Plate
APEX PROPULSION: Capable of assisting runners when pushing off with their forefoot enabled by the bionic design of the pillow-shaped shafts under the metatarsus and in combination with the bending stiffness of the built-in support plate in the bottom material. Thus, with the help of the lever principle, it can greatly improve running efficiency and performance.
Ground Control Unit (GCU): An advanced outsole technology utilising a series of specialised materials. Through different molecular structures, it resolves the conflict between slip resistance and wear resistance of traditional rubbers, achieving simultaneous improvements in both grip and durability.
Dual Stage Assist Curves: Dual-Stage Assist Curves, a structure technology deriving from the first and second assist curves, achieves a dual-stage assistance effect in the forefoot and midfoot, significantly improving the endurance of running energy.
FEIDIAN 5 Challenger: Carbon for the People
For runners just beginning their journey or those looking to bring super shoe tech into their everyday training, the FEIDIAN 5 Challenger is a breakthrough. It offers a full-length Aerospace-grade T700 carbon plate encased in SUPER BOOM + BOOM midsole foam but in a more forgiving, cushioned package.
At approximately 230 grams, it’s slightly heavier than its elite siblings, but that extra weight brings with it durability and comfort. With a stack height of 36mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot, the Challenger offers a soft but responsive feel that works great for tempo runs, long intervals, or even race day for beginners.
“I’ve been wearing my FEIDIAN 5 Challenger for both up tempo and training runs and they've been both comfortable and versatile,” shares Keafy, a 28-year-old marketing professional. “I like that you don't have to break the bank to invest in a pair of carbon plated shoes, and feel that this is a good pair for entry level runners who would like to experience what it's like to wear a pair plated shoes.”
For new runners intimidated by the aggressive nature of most super shoes, the Challenger provides an inviting entry point. It’s not just a training shoe — it’s a bridge to your next breakthrough.
Shoe Tech Highlights
SUPER BOOM + BOOM Midsole: A revolutionary PEBAX-based midsole material with a density as low as 0.07g/cm3. Carbon Plate: Full-length Aerospace-grade T700 Carbon Plate
Ground Control Unit (GCU): An advanced outsole technology utilising a series of specialised materials. Through different molecular structures, it resolves the conflict between slip resistance and wear resistance of traditional rubbers, achieving simultaneous improvements in both grip and durability.
Dual Stage Assist Curves: Dual-Stage Assist Curves, a structure technology deriving from the first and second assist curves, achieves a dual-stage assistance effect in the forefoot and midfoot, significantly improving the endurance of running energy.
Which FEIDIAN 5 Series Shoe is Right for You?
Choosing the right shoe from the FEIDIAN 5 Series depends largely on your experience level, racing goals, and running style. Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your decision:
Model | Best For | Race Type | Fit & Feel | Key Benefit |
Ultra | Sub-3-hour marathoners, elite-level racers | Marathon, Half Marathon | Aggressive, race-tuned | Max propulsion & elite performance |
Elite | 3-4 hourmarathoners, experienced racers | Marathon, Half, 10K | Snappy, lightweight, responsive | Top-tier speed & balance |
Challenger | New runners, tempo trainers, first-timers | 10K, Half Marathon, training | Cushioned, stable, versatile | Accessible carbon performance |
The Road Ahead with Li-Ning
With the FEIDIAN 5 Series, Li-Ning signals its intent to be more than just a regional player in the running world.
By offering a tiered approach to carbon-plated footwear — without compromising innovation — the brand invites runners of every level to experience the magic of elite tech.
From the precision-tuned Ultra, to the versatile Elite, and the confidence-inspiring Challenger, there's a FEIDIAN for every pace, purpose, and personal record.
As James puts it, “I used to think super shoes were only for the pros. But with Li-Ning, I feel like one — even if I’m just racing against myself.”
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Para mim do Brasil, faltam apenas falar o peso quando citam o drop e altura da entressola. A análise é objetiva e muito boa, só falta isso realmente. Devo trocar meu asics edge Tokyo pelo ultra. A leveza é otima do asics, mas falta estabilidade e rigidez excessiva é um grande problema para corredor intermediário como eu.