TV personality and BBC Radio 1 DJ Jamie Laing has just completed an incredible 150-mile ultramarathon from London to Salford, raising over £2 million for Comic Relief. The challenge, known as “Radio 1’s Ultra Marathon Man,” saw Laing running an ultra-marathon distance (over 26 miles) every day for five consecutive days—a feat of endurance, resilience, and pure determination.
The Shoes That Carried Him: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
For this grueling challenge, Laing relied on the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5—a max-cushioned running shoe designed for comfort and long-distance performance. This choice was crucial in helping him absorb impact, reduce strain on his legs, and push through the hundreds of thousands of steps required to complete the journey.
The Fresh Foam X More v5 is known for:
✅ Maximum Cushioning – Ideal for reducing fatigue over long distances
✅ Smooth Transitions – Rocker geometry for a fluid, effortless stride
✅ Breathable & Supportive Upper – Keeping feet cool and comfortable
✅ Durability – Built to withstand miles of pounding on roads and pavement
With his feet enduring constant stress, choosing the right shoe made a huge difference in his ability to push through the pain and fatigue.
The Struggles: Pain, Fatigue, and Mental Battles.
Ultramarathons push runners beyond their physical limits, and Laing was no exception. By day four, he admitted to severely underestimating the challenge, revealing he was in agonizing pain and even feared he had broken his foot.
“I didn’t realize how painful it would be. It’s very painful, and I have huge respect for everyone who has done something like this.” – Jamie Laing
Beyond the physical pain, the mental battle of pushing through exhaustion was just as intense. Support from friends, family, and fellow BBC Radio 1 DJs, including Greg James, helped keep his spirits high. His wife, Sophie Habboo, also surprised him mid-run, giving him an extra boost to power through the final stretch.
The Impact: Over £2 Million Raised for Charity
Laing’s extraordinary effort wasn’t just about personal achievement—it was about making a real difference. The money raised will go towards Comic Relief projects, supporting causes like:
• Mental health support
• Tackling homelessness
• Helping families in crisis
• Aid for children affected by conflict
What We Can Learn From Jamie Laing’s Challenge
Whether you’re an ultra-runner, a weekend jogger, or just starting out, Laing’s story is a powerful reminder of:
✔️ The importance of the right running shoes – The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 played a crucial role in keeping him moving.
✔️ The power of mental resilience – Running isn’t just about physical ability; it’s about pushing past self-doubt and discomfort.
✔️ The impact of community and support – Having people cheer you on makes a difference, whether you’re running for charity or personal goals.
Get Ready for Your Own Running Challenge
Inspired by Jamie Laing? Whether you’re training for your first race or looking to upgrade your running gear, we’ve got everything you need—from running shoes to performance apparel and essential accessories.
Check out our New Balance running collection and find the right shoes to help you go the distance!