740
The New Balance 740 is a running shoe from the early 2000s that got a second life as a lifestyle sneaker in the form of the 740v2. With its mesh, silver overlays and layered sole, it belongs to the wave of 2000s runners that are widely worn again today. Women and men often choose the 740 as a slightly lesser-known alternative to the big names in that category.
The history of the New Balance 740
The original 740 was an everyday trainer from New Balance dating from the early 2000s. It was known as solid and durable: a shoe for high mileage, without any fuss. After a few years it disappeared from the range, like many runners of that era.
Years later the model returned in an updated v2 version, the 740v2, after which more and more colours followed. The Canadian label JJJJound also released its own version. Today you will find both retro versions named 740 and the updated 740v2.
Design and technology
The upper consists of open mesh with synthetic overlays, often in silver or a metallic tone, and a large N logo on the side. Slim lines along the side give the shoe a fast, technical appearance.
For the 740v2, New Balance borrowed the ABZORB sole of the New Balance 530, in a modernised form. As a result, the 740 sits a little higher than many low retro sneakers and feels soft when you walk for a long time. The layered, cut-away midsole completes the 2000s look.
Popular New Balance 740 colorways
From white with silver to deep purple: the 740 comes in a wide variety of colours. These versions are currently the most popular on WOOVIN:
- 740 ‘Rich Oak’: white with warm brown tones.
- 740v2 ‘Concord Grape’: dark purple with white and grey.
- 740v2 ‘White & Silver’: white mesh with silver and grey accents, the most classic runner look.
- 740 ‘Pink Granite’: soft pink with grey and green details.
- 740v2 ‘Sea Salt Earth Shadow’: off-white with dark earth tones.
What is the difference between the New Balance 740 and the 530?
The 740v2 sits on the same sole as the 530, so the feel underfoot is similar. The difference lies mainly in the upper: the 740 has slimmer lines and less bulk around the collar, while the 530 looks rounder and fuller. If you are after an even more technical silhouette with more metallic, also take a look at the 1906R. If you want something flatter instead, the 204L is an option.
How does the New Balance 740 fit?
According to retailers and wearers, the New Balance 740 fits true to size, so you can stick with your regular New Balance size. The mesh gives a little, so the shoe stays comfortable even with a slightly wider forefoot. If you have really wide feet, go half a size up; with narrow feet, stay with your own size.
Buy the New Balance 740 at WOOVIN
On WOOVIN you will find both the 740 and the 740v2, for women and men. Go for white with silver if you want the typical runner look, and choose purple, pink or brown if you want to wear the 740 as a striking accent. Check the product name to see whether it is a 740 or a 740v2 and filter by your size.
