Core Insights - The rising demand for specialized running shoes among teenagers is driven by the need to improve physical fitness test scores for middle school entrance exams [1][2][3] - The market for youth running shoes is evolving into more segmented categories, including "test shoes," "arch support shoes," and "campus daily shoes" [1][5][6] - Major sports brands are responding to this trend by developing products specifically designed for the youth segment, focusing on performance and functionality [7][8] Market Trends - The popularity of carbon plate running shoes has surged among middle and primary school students, leading to a phenomenon of "equipment competition" in schools [2][3] - Brands like Anta, FILA, and Li Ning are launching products tailored for physical tests, with Anta's Maher series being a notable example, achieving sales of 500 million yuan in 2024 [3][8] - The youth sports market is projected to grow significantly, with a forecasted compound annual growth rate of 10.47% from 2024 to 2030, reaching a market size of 98.91 billion yuan in China by 2024 [8] Product Development - Brands are shifting their focus from lightweight, everyday training shoes to functional running shoes that enhance speed and cater to specific scenarios [7][8] - There is a lack of dedicated youth product lines among major brands, as they often rely on adult and children's lines to meet the needs of the adolescent demographic [4][8] - Future product strategies will likely include professional validation of functionality, age-specific designs, and integrated product systems that combine shoes with protective gear and training apps [8]