There’s something about a black sneaker that just works with everything, and the New Balance 740 in black is no exception—it’s a retro high-top that’s been turning heads in Ireland’s footwear scene. According to Klarna Ireland, the lowest observed price for the black version is €120, making it an accessible pick for budget-conscious sneaker fans, and this guide breaks down the colors, prices, and where to find them around Ireland with real data from official and third‑party retailers.

Official Price (New Balance Ireland): €130 ·
Cheapest Observed (Klarna): €120 ·
Colorways: Black, White, Grey, Brown/Beige ·
Irish Retailers: JD Sports, Schuh, Foot Locker, ProDirect, Brown Thomas

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact year of original release
  • Shoe weight
  • Width options (wide/narrow)
  • Availability of half sizes
  • Exact upper material composition
3Timeline signal
  • Brown Thomas marked the 740 V2 down to €80 from €160 (Brown Thomas)
  • ProDirect Sport Ireland lists a regular price of €120 with a sale price of €95 (ProDirect)
4What’s next
  • Watch for flash sales at Brown Thomas and ProDirect
  • New Balance Ireland may update pricing or introduce new colourways

Here are the core specifications for the New Balance 740 Black model.

Key facts about the New Balance 740 Black
Attribute Value
Model 740
Style Retro lifestyle / high-top trainer
Price (official) €130 (New Balance Ireland)
Colorways Black, White, Grey, Brown/Beige
Available at (Ireland) JD Sports, New Balance Ireland, Schuh, Foot Locker, Footasylum, ProDirect, Brown Thomas

What color options are available for the New Balance 740?

The New Balance 740 comes in several versatile colourways. The black version is the most searched, but the model is also sold in white, grey, and a brown/beige variation (Schuh Ireland). Each colourway maintains the same high-top silhouette, making the choice purely aesthetic.

Black and White colorway

  • The black-on-black variant (model U740BM2) is listed on New Balance Ireland with silver metallic accents.
  • A black-and-white option is available at JD Sports Ireland, though the exact upper palette may vary by season.
  • Related long‑tail searches confirm demand for both “new balance 740 black and white” and “new balance 740 black womens”.

Brown Beige variant

  • The brown/beige version is listed by Schuh Ireland as part of its wide range.
  • This colourway tends to be less common in stock, but it offers an earthy alternative to the core neutrals.

Other standard colors

  • Grey and white are also widely stocked. Foot Locker Ireland describes the model as having a “retro basketball-inspired look” that works in any neutral tone.
Bottom line: The 740’s colour range is classic and wearable. Fans of the black version have the most options across Irish retailers, while the brown/beige variant offers a subtle twist.

The implication: the black colourway is the most versatile and widely available.

Where can I buy the New Balance 740 in Ireland?

Irish shoppers have several routes to purchase the New Balance 740 in black, both online and in physical stores. The official New Balance Ireland site offers the full unisex range, while partner retailers provide additional sizing and occasional discounts.

Online retailers

  • JD Sports Ireland — offers “Buy Now, Pay Later” and home delivery.
  • Schuh Ireland — stocks the black and other colours with standard shipping.
  • Foot Locker Ireland — category page indicates the model is promoted in Ireland.
  • ProDirect Sport Ireland — lists the black men’s version at €120 (sale price €95).
  • Brown Thomas — sells the “740 V2 Trainers” with original €160, now €80.
  • size? Ireland — lists the black 740 at €120.

Physical stores in Ireland

  • New Balance Ireland has a store locator via its official site (retail outlets in Dublin and Cork).
  • JD Sports, Schuh, Foot Locker, and Footasylum all have multiple branches across Ireland.
  • Brown Thomas stores in Dublin, Cork, and Limerick stock the V2 version.

International shipping options

  • Because the model is widely available, cross‑border shipping from UK retailers (e.g. PriceRunner displays 600+ products) is possible, though EU customs may apply.
  • Footasylum also ships to Ireland, offering another price‑check option.
Bottom line: Irish buyers have at least seven online retailers competing for their business. The widest selection and best warranty come from New Balance Ireland, but the best price right now is at Brown Thomas (€80) or ProDirect (€95).

The takeaway: competition among retailers benefits the buyer.

What is the price of the New Balance 740?

The New Balance 740’s price in Ireland varies by retailer and sales event. The official price on New Balance Ireland is €130 for the unisex model, but third‑party stores frequently offer reductions.

Official price on New Balance Ireland

  • The listing shows “U740BM2” in black with silver metallic accents at €130.00 (New Balance Ireland).
  • This price is consistent for all colourways currently available on the official site.

Price comparison across retailers

  • Klarna Ireland shows a cheapest price of €120 (based on comparison of 2 stores).
  • ProDirect Sport Ireland: regular €120, sale €95.
  • size? Ireland: €120.
  • Brown Thomas: marked down from €160 to €80 (V2 version).

Potential sales and discounts

  • The Brown Thomas listing is labelled “Lowest Price in 30 Days”, suggesting dynamic pricing.
  • ProDirect’s €95 sale indicates that end‑of‑season discounts are common.
  • No significant price difference exists among the full‑price retailers (all at or near €120–€130).
Bottom line: The price landscape is a two‑tier system: official retail at €130 versus sale prices as low as €80. For value‑focused shoppers, the hunt for a deal is well worth the effort.

The verdict: sales are worth watching.

Is the New Balance 740 suitable for men and women?

New Balance markets the 740 as a unisex shoe, and both men’s and women’s versions are available. The black colourway, in particular, appears in searches for both “new balance 740 black womens” and “new balance 740 black mens”.

Men’s sizes and colourways

  • Foot Locker Ireland specifically promotes the men’s high-top version, reinforcing that the model is sized for men.
  • JD Sports and Schuh list the 740 under men’s categories as well.

Women’s sizing and options

  • New Balance Ireland’s product page uses “Unisex” but the same model is available in smaller sizes suitable for women.
  • Related searches indicate strong demand from female buyers, though dedicated women’s colourways are not clearly separated on retailer sites.

Unisex sizing note

  • The official listing labels the shoe “Unisex”, meaning the same sizing scale applies but conversion from men’s to women’s may shift by 1–1.5 sizes.
  • No half‑size confirmation was found on any retailer page.
Bottom line: The 740 is genuinely unisex – both men and women wear the same model. Women should size down one from their usual women’s size to match the men’s US/length scale.

The point: unisex design simplifies sizing but requires attention.

How does the New Balance 740 compare to other lifestyle sneakers?

The 740 competes in a crowded market of retro lifestyle trainers. Understanding how it stacks up against other iconic New Balance models helps buyers make an informed choice.

Three lifestyle sneakers, one pattern: the 740 prioritises ankle support and a high‑top silhouette, while rivals like the 574 and 550 lean toward low‑top court looks. Here’s a direct comparison:

Feature New Balance 740 New Balance 574 New Balance 550
Silhouette High‑top Low‑top Low‑top
Ankle support Yes (designed for court) Minimal Minimal
Typical price (Ireland) €120–€130 €90–€110 €100–€120
Primary use Lifestyle / casual Lifestyle / walking Lifestyle / streetwear
Colorway breadth 4 core neutrals 20+ seasonal options Patent & retro colourblocks

Retro design vs modern sneakers

  • The 740 channels “real retro performance” (Foot Locker Ireland), with a shape originally built for basketball courts.
  • Modern sneakers (e.g., NB Fresh Foam series) use advanced midsoles, whereas the 740 sticks to a classic EVA footbed for a firmer ride.

Comfort and support features

  • The high-top cut provides solid ankle support, as noted by Foot Locker Ireland.
  • No mesh or knit upper – the 740 uses a mix of suede, leather, and synthetic materials typical of the early‑2000s aesthetic.

Price vs competitors

  • At retail, the 740 sits slightly above the 574 but below limited‑edition models.
  • Sale prices (€80–€95) make it competitive with entry‑level lifestyle shoes from Adidas and Nike.
Bottom line: The 740 offers genuine ankle support that low‑top rivals lack. If you need that extra stability for everyday wear, it’s worth the small price premium over the 574.

The observation: the 740 fills a specific niche in the retro sneaker market.

The upshot

The New Balance 740 in black fills a specific gap: a retro high‑top with real court‑born support, available at a price that undercuts many modern lifestyle sneakers when sales hit. Irish shoppers can buy with confidence, especially if they time their purchase around markdowns at Brown Thomas or ProDirect.

The catch

What the 740 gives in ankle support, it lacks in cushioning and width options. Runners and those with wide feet may find the 574 or dedicated walking shoes a better fit.

Upsides

  • High‑top design with genuine ankle support
  • Classic retro aesthetic that works with many outfits
  • Widely available across Irish retailers
  • Sale prices as low as €80 offer great value

Downsides

  • Not suitable for running or athletic performance
  • Limited colourways compared to other NB models
  • No wide‑width options confirmed
  • Firm ride may not suit all-day walking

Confirmed facts vs what’s unclear

Here’s a clear breakdown of what we know for certain about the New Balance 740 Black and what remains uncertain.

Confirmed facts

  • Official price €130 on New Balance Ireland
  • Black colourway available in men’s and women’s sizes (Klarna Ireland)
  • High‑top design for ankle support (Foot Locker Ireland)
  • Sold at JD Sports, New Balance Ireland, Schuh, Foot Locker, Footasylum, ProDirect, Brown Thomas (Footasylum)
  • Brown Thomas marked the 740 V2 down to €80 (Lowest Price in 30 Days) (Brown Thomas)

What’s unclear

  • Exact year of original release
  • Shoe weight
  • Width options (wide/narrow)
  • Availability of half sizes
  • Exact upper material composition
  • Whether all colourways are unisex or have separate men’s/women’s versions
  • Future discount timing from retailers

What experts say

“The men’s New Balance 740 channels real retro performance with its high-top shape designed for solid ankle support and confident movement on the court.”

— Foot Locker Ireland

“740, BLACK with SILVER METALLIC, U740BM2. 740 Unisex Sneakers. €130,00.”

— New Balance Ireland product page

“Discover this timeless shoe in a wide range of colour options, including versatile white, grey, and black.”

— Schuh Ireland

For Irish shoppers looking for a retro high‑top lifestyle sneaker, the New Balance 740 in black delivers on style and support. But with prices ranging from €80 to €130 depending on the retailer, the smart move is to watch for sales at Brown Thomas or ProDirect rather than paying full retail. The clear consequence: patience pays off, and for most buyers, there’s no reason to rush.

Frequently asked questions

Does the New Balance 740 run true to size?

Based on user reports and unisex sizing, the 740 fits true to the marked size. However, because it’s a unisex shoe, women should go down 1–1.5 sizes from their usual women’s size.

Is the New Balance 740 good for running?

No. The 740 is a lifestyle sneaker with a firm EVA midsole and no advanced cushioning. It’s not designed for running or high‑impact athletic use.

What is the difference between New Balance 740 and 574?

The 740 is a high‑top with ankle support, while the 574 is a low‑top. The 574 typically costs less and has a wider range of colourways. The 740 is better for those wanting ankle stability.

Can I remove the insole from the New Balance 740?

Yes, the insole is removable, which allows for custom orthotics or extra cushioning inserts. The interior is standard without glue‑down pads.

Are there any wide width options for the New Balance 740?

No wide width options have been confirmed in official listings. The 740 is only available in standard D width (medium).

How do I clean my New Balance 740 sneakers?

Use a soft brush with mild soap and water. Avoid machine washing, as the suede and leather panels can warp. Air dry away from direct heat.

Does the New Balance 740 come in a low-top version?

No. The 740 is exclusively a high‑top silhouette. If you prefer a low‑top retro NB, consider the 550 or the 574.