BEN FELTON | NEW BALANCE LOOK

Published: 05/05/2026 | By: Alex Courbat

If anyone's going to make New Balance look good, it's Ben. And with two kits to work through – one for the long, steady days and one for when he's feeling a bit more fired up – there's plenty to talk about.

Let's start with the everyday look, because this is where most of us actually live when we're running. The shoes are the New Balance 1080v15 , and honestly, they're the kind of shoe that just gets on with it. New Balance have completely reworked what's going on underfoot, so you're getting a smoother, more cushioned ride that still gives a little energy back with every step. They've also had a bit of a visual refresh, so they look as good as they feel – which is always a bonus when you're hauling yourself out the door for a long one.

On top, Ben's wearing the RC Essentials T-Shirt – a lightweight, short-sleeve top that keeps things simple and stays out of your way, which is exactly what you want. Over that, the RC Jacket does a lot of quiet work. It'll pack down small enough to stuff in your pocket, the cuffs are elasticated so it doesn't flap around, and there's a DWR coating that'll see off a light shower without any fuss. Very much a British runner's best friend. The shorts – the RC Athletics 5 – are cut to give you full freedom of movement, sit comfortably at the waist, and don't get in the way. Straightforward, dependable kit for dependable miles.

Now, the fast look. Same runner, different energy entirely. The FuelCell Rebel v5 is the shoe here, and where the 1080 is all about comfort and longevity, the Rebel is built around that feeling of wanting to go a bit quicker. It's lighter, it's bolder, and the foam in the sole has a real spring to it – the kind that makes your legs want to turn over faster without you really thinking about it. It works just as well on an easy jog as it does when you decide to properly push, which makes it a genuinely versatile option.

The rest of the fast kit strips things back nicely. The Performance Running Shorts are quick-drying, move with you rather than against you, and have a built-in liner so there's nothing else to think about. The Race Day Vest is the real statement piece though – sleek, lightweight, and designed to keep you cool without slowing you down. There are even subtle reflective details woven in, so if you're out early or finishing late, you're still visible. It's a kit that means business, without making a big song and dance about it.

Two very different looks, but both very much on brand for New Balance – considered, well-made, and built around actually running rather than just looking like you might.