The New Balance 740 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The New Balance 740 is a versatile retro sneaker designed for casual wear. It is ideal for those seeking a lightweight option, as evidenced by its notable flexibility in lab tests. While it may not excel in comfort or support, its sufficient performance makes it practical for day-to-day activities.

With a weight that contributes to its agility, the New Balance 740 offers a stable platform suitable for casual users. Additionally, the availability of over a dozen color options caters to diverse style preferences.

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Lighter than average
  • Impressive durability
  • Great impact protection
  • Decent lateral stability
  • Flexible and forgiving
  • Reliable grip for urban surfaces
  • True-to-size fit

Cons

  • Not as breathable as expected
  • Not a cushy one

Key Features

  • Rubber sole: Provides excellent traction and durability on various surfaces.
  • Leather overlays: Enhance the sneaker's visual appeal while adding stability.
  • Cushioned collar and tongue: Offer additional comfort for extended wear.
  • Removable insole: Allows for customization in fit and support depending on your preferences.
  • Round toe: Ensures ample room for your toes, enhancing overall comfort during wear.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Inner material: Mesh

New Balance 740 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance 740 New Balance 2002R New Balance 1906R New Balance 997H
Price $110 $145 $150 $90
Style Dad Classic Classic Dad
Breathability Moderate Warm Breathable Warm
Weight lab 11.3 oz / 319g 13.5 oz / 383g 14.1 oz / 401g 12.8 oz / 364g
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Firm Firm Firm Firm
Material Mesh Mesh Mesh Mesh
Season Spring Spring Spring Spring
Inspired from Running Running Running Running
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Leather/suede quality Fake leather Real suede Real suede Real suede
Toebox durability Good Decent Decent Good
Heel padding durability Decent Decent Bad Good
Outsole durability Decent Good Good Good
Heel stack lab 31.7 mm 35.4 mm 37.1 mm 27.7 mm
Stiffness Flexible Stiff Moderate Flexible
Tongue padding Average Average Average Average
Drop lab 10.2 mm 11.1 mm 11.5 mm 9.9 mm
Forefoot 21.5 mm 24.3 mm 25.6 mm 17.8 mm
Removable insole
Heel tab None None Extended heel collar None
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Stiff
Reflective elements
Closure Laces Laces Laces Laces
Top Low top Low top Low top Low top
Ranking Bottom 16% Bottom 30% Top 18% Bottom 46%
Popularity Top 12% Top 10% Top 15% Bottom 41%