Ape to Gentleman x New Balance for J.Crew
Photography by Ape to Gentleman
Featuring Chris Beastall, Editor at Ape to Gentleman
New Balance, the legendary footwear brand have had a long-standing partnership with American fashion brand J.Crew for sometime now. The pair have collaborated season after season, releasing some of New Balance’s most popular sneakers in unique J.Crew designed colour-ways. Each shoe has a storied J.Crew angle behind its chosen colour-scheme, offering an exclusive and limited edition offering every time. The partnership makes perfect sense- preppy sneakers, smart-casual in style and easily dressed up or down- which perfectly marries the New Balance and J.Crew ethos.
For Summer 2017 New Balance have taken its collaborative efforts for J.Crew one step further- with the launch of a new sportswear range. Ape to Gentleman’s editor Chris was tasked with putting a part of the collection through its paces.
J.Crew N Transit Quarter Zip
Starting from the top, the J.Crew N Transit Quarter Zip in Safari Heather green boasts an athletic fit with thumbholes for comfort and warmth on chilly morning runs, v-fold binding on the hem and cuff, and a zip pocket.
We found the material to be functionally superb but more impressively the look and feel of the material was masterfully stylish- J.Crew’s influence no doubt. It fit like a glove, a comfortable glove and the Safari Heather green colour was popular with everyone at Ape HQ.
J.Crew SS Heather Tech Tee
Underneath it all Chris wore the J.Crew SS Heather Tech Tee in black- a great workout tee blurring the lines between form and function. It is constructed with ergonomic side seams for an athletic fit, stretch neck tape and rolled forward shoulder seams to help prevent chaffing. Also included are reflective logos and soft NB DRY fabric to keep you feeling fresh and comfortable.
We found the material to be super soft against the skin, cooling to wear and form fitting. Again another popular choice in terms of colour and ‘pattern’ detail.
J.Crew 7 Inch Shift Short
Made with a generous but not too long 7 inch inseam and athletic fit the J.Crew 7 Inch Shift Short in black feature a bonded patch pocket with zipper fastening, notched hem and a stretch woven fabric.
We opted to pair the green N Transit Quarter Zip with the J.Crew 7 Inch Shift Short in classic black- always a stylish colour combination. The shorts were super-lightweight but well built. The material was stretchy, form fitting and well ventilated. A real pleasure to wear and run in.
New Balance 300 Suede Sneakers
To round off the look were opted for the New Balance 300 Suede Sneakers- a court classic suitable for exercise or everyday wear. Built with a suede and mesh upper, rubber outsole and REVlite cushioning for lightweight function.
We went for the sneaker in plain white (with a yellow-hued sole) for a simple and classic look. The shoes were extremely comfortable and fit for purpose. They’ll also make an appearance with a pair of jeans or shorts this summer in a smart-causal outfit. Truly multi-purpose, timeless and notably comfortable for running, tennis (no doubt) and everyday wear.
Conclusion
A victory for both New Balance and J.Crew, again. The collection marries New Balance’s technical expertise in sportswear and sneakers with J.Crew’s technical expertise in clothing, and its unique eye for design and style. If you want to look the part whilst exercising and benefit from perfectly capable technology led sportswear, then look no further.
