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New Balance 740: The 2000s Mesh Runner Is Back
The New Balance 740 is one of those silhouettes that no one really expected and which ended up becoming one of the Boston brand's most coveted models. Released discreetly in the early 2010s, forgotten, then re-released in October 2024 in a reworked version. The New Balance 740 ticks all the boxes of the retro-running trend that has dominated feeds for three seasons: airy mesh, metallic overlays, ABZORB cushioning, large TPU "N" logo. At The Last Step, you'll find it in its most sought-after colorways, in stock, shipped within 24 to 48 hours from our stores in Toulouse, Biarritz, and Montpellier.
The History of the New Balance 740, From Discreet Runner to Y2K Icon
The 740 didn't have the trajectory of major heritage silhouettes. Launched in the early 2010s as an everyday running model, it went almost unnoticed. Runners recognized its serious comfort and dog-like reliability, but the market was looking elsewhere.
Everything changed in October 2024. New Balance re-released the model in the wake of the enthusiasm for tech runners and Y2K aesthetics. First release: the 740 "White Marsh Green," on October 16, 2024. The timing was perfect. The 9060 and 2002R had paved the way, the 1906R was a hit, and the 740 completed the trio with a more slender, discreet, and everyday-wearable profile. The CNCPTS x New Balance 740 "Brut" collaboration released in 2025 cemented the model's place among the brand's true retro heavyweights. To place the 740 in its ecosystem, you can also take a look at the complete New Balance collection .
Design and Visual Signature of the New Balance 740
Visually, the 740 is a mix of 2000s running codes and more current finishes. The upper combines a large-mesh mesh, synthetic leather overlays on the toe-box, mid-foot, and heel, as well as metallic accents that catch the light on the sides. The "N" is molded in TPU on the side, more pronounced than on older models.
For the sole, New Balance made a clever choice: the 740 uses the 530's base, which gives it a balanced height and a more modern silhouette than the original. At the heart of the cushioning, you'll find ABZORB foam, already proven on other models of the brand, which absorbs impact while maintaining good energy return. Thinner than the 9060, more structured than the 530, more tech than a 2002R. It has its niche.
New Balance 740 Colorways Available at The Last Step
Our selection covers the colorways that have been most popular since the model's return:
- The pink New Balance 740, which has become one of the most requested colorways on social media. Soft tones, silver accents, a very Y2K look.
- The 740 beige and its sea salt / cream derivatives: the safe bet, easy to wear, that goes with pretty much everything.
- The 740 gray, more sober, perfect for those who want the silhouette without too much visual signal.
- The 740 blue, a more striking statement that works equally well with raw denim or more technical cuts.
- The 740 purple, one of the most buzzing colorways right now. Lavender, silver accents, very wearable despite the bold hue.
Other shades are regularly available: brown, green, orange, black, white. The pace of drops has been steady since late 2024.
How to Wear the New Balance 740: Size and Style Guide
For sizing, the 740 fits true to size. If you wear a 42 in a 530 or 2002R, stick with a 42. Wide feet might consider a half size up, but most feedback we get in-store suggests a faithful fit.
In terms of style, the 740 is one of the most versatile models right now. For streetwear, it works with baggy jeans or loose cargo pants, an oversized hoodie, a cap, and white socks that peek out slightly. For a more understated look, try it with straight chinos, a plain oversized t-shirt, and an open shirt. And for those who want to play with contrast, the 740 surprisingly pairs well with a midi skirt or long shorts and high socks.
Why Buy Your New Balance 740 from The Last Step
The Last Step has three stores (Toulouse, Biarritz, Montpellier), a warehouse that ships within 24 to 48 hours throughout France, and a catalog of over 4000 models. All pairs are 100% authentic, verified before shipping. Click and Collect is available at our three physical addresses, returns are free in France, and customer service responds quickly (really quickly). We don't sell everything that comes out. We curate. That's also why we often have colorways in stock that are already sold out everywhere else. If you're hesitating between two models, you can explore all our sneaker selection to get an idea of the catalog.
FAQ - New Balance 740
Does the New Balance 740 fit true to size?
Yes, the 740 fits true to size. Take your usual shoe size. For wide feet, a half size up may be more comfortable.
What's the difference between the New Balance 740 and the New Balance 530?
The 740 uses the sole of the New Balance 530, so the feel on the ground is similar. The difference lies in the upper: more airy mesh, pronounced metallic overlays, a more prominent TPU logo on the 740. The 530 is more minimalist, more daily.
Is the New Balance 740 a unisex model?
Yes, the 740 is unisex and sold in men's sizes. Women who want their usual size generally need to go down about one to one and a half sizes.
Which New Balance 740 colorways are the most sought after?
Pink and beige are at the top, followed by purple, gray, and blue. For alternatives in the same tech runner family, also look at the New Balance 9060 or the New Balance 2002R.