New Balance 740 infrared

Here’s a look at the New Balance 740 “Infrared”—a dynamic retro-inspired sneaker that brings 2000s runner aesthetics into today’s fashion.

Overview of the New Balance 740

The 740 model, originally released in the early 2010s, made a comeback in October 2024, updated mainly for lifestyle wear while preserving its running heritage Hibbett Sports. The sneaker features a two-tone mesh upper with angled synthetic overlays, a segmented ABZORB midsole for cushioning, reflective accents, and a molded TPU “N” logo JD Sports MalaysiaHibbett Sports.

Designed as a blend of retro aesthetic and modern comfort, the 740 offers a sleek, streamlined silhouette—lightweight yet visually substantial

Performance & Fit

Cushioning & Support

• Equipped with ABZORB cushioning in the heel, which absorbed impact effectively in lab testing—scoring 103 SA versus the average of 87 SA #1 Athletic Shoe Review Site.

• Runner’s World describes it as a “fast-feeling stability shoe” with good support and a roomy toe-box, though some testers found the toebox too open Runner’s World.

Fit Insights

• Most users report the 740 fits true to size, but those with wider feet may want to size up or go for a wide variant (2E) SneakerLensHibbett Sports.

• On Reddit, several users noted that going half a size down can produce a better fit—especially if their usual size felt a bit large Reddit+1.

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Lifestyle, Running & Daily Use

• Though rooted in running shoe design, the reissued 740 is more of a lifestyle sneaker, excellently suited for daily wear, sidewalks, the gym, and casual outfits LOS40JD Sports MalaysiaThe Last Fashion Bible.

• It offers a versatile aesthetic that works with joggers, sneakers, and even more structured or tailored looks SneakerLensThe Last Fashion Bible.

• Experts and user reviews find it lightweight, flexible, and comfortable right out of the box—no break-in period needed SneakerLensJD Sports MalaysiaDMV ShoesNo Ordinary Homestead.

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What the Community Thinks

Running / Functionality

“They’re not going to be good for running. They’re a runner-inspired lifestyle shoe…”
– A Redditor noting the 740’s appeal is more aesthetic than performance—true modern running shoes offer more advanced tech Reddit.

Fit Opinions

• “Yes on the 740 it is better to take half a size smaller…”
  – Multiple users echo this sizing tip for a better fit Reddit.

• Some users with wide feet noted they needed to go down in size to get a snug fit Reddit.

Style & Comparisons

• The 740 is often compared to other NB models like the 530 in comfort and silhouette, though opinions on aesthetic vary Reddit+1.

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Quick Summary Table